Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English
On 10 February 2025, some 80 years after the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration and extermination camp, President Karin Keller-Sutter welcomed around 60 survivors of the Holocaust and Nazi oppression who made Switzerland their new home to a lunch at the Bernerhof in Bern. The liberation of Auschwitz symbolises the liberation of all the other concentration camps.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission recognises that the EU steel sector is currently facing a challenging situation, given the contraction in EU demand for steel and growing global overcapacity.
Against this background, the Commission has initiated a review of the EU steel safeguard measure on 17 December 2024, following a request from 13 Member States.
The investigation will assess whether adjustments to the safeguard would be appropriate to bring short-term relief to EU steel industry in the current market reality. Any decision resulting from this investigation may become applicable as of 1 April 2025, at the start of a new quota quarter.
The Commission will indeed consider various options for adjusting the measure. The precise adjustments that would be most effective in addressing specific challenges will be determined during the investigation.
The steel safeguards will expire in mid-2026. The Commission is reflecting, together with stakeholders, on a follow-up solution to provide the necessary protection to the EU’s steel industry.
As announced in the political guidelines 2024-2029[1] and in the Competitiveness Compass[2], the Commission will adopt a Steel and Metals Action Plan, outlining actions on several policy areas, including trade related, which would also help improve the competitiveness of the EU steel industry.
Source: European Parliament
1. As the Commission noted in its reply to Question E-003117/2023[1], ‘the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and national authorities evaluate data on reported events in EudraVigilance[2] to determine if there is any signal indicating causality and take action as appropriate’. EMA and national authorities closely monitor emerging data and will take regulatory action if new evidence indicates any causal relationship.
2. The Commission relies on EMA to continuously monitor the COVID-19 vaccine safety assessing all available data, including EudraVigilance reports, scientific literature, and studies[3]. EMA has reviewed the study mentioned in the Honourable Member’s letter and concluded that, given the methodological limitations of the study- which was withdrawn from a scientific journal because of serious concerns about its quality- considers no action necessary at this stage.
3. The Commission considers safety a core requirement for all vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines used in the EU have undergone EMA’s rigorous scientific assessment. Information on risks, including rare side effects, are publicly available in resources such as product information[4], the European Public Assessment Reports[5], and periodic safety update reports (PSURs)[6], which are regularly updated to keep healthcare professionals and patients informed. When necessary to ensure vaccine safety regulatory actions are taken in accordance with the applicable legislation.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission recognises that many EU citizens seek medical and dental treatments abroad, driven by cost differences or limited public coverage of costs in their home countries.
To monitor this trend, the Commission collects annual data on patient mobility within EU/ European Economic Area (EEA) countries.
It is important to note that data from non-EU countries are not included in these reports. The data are broadly categorised into planned and unplanned treatments; however, they do not provide specific disaggregation for dental treatments. For further details, the last available report is accessible online[1].
Cross-border healthcare within the EU is governed by Directive 2011/24/EU[2] and the Social Security Coordination Regulations[3]. These legislative frameworks address key aspects such as treatment, reimbursement, patient safety, and liability issues.
However, they do not apply to healthcare services outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland, except for the United Kingdom, where social security provisions similar to the regulations apply thanks to the Withdrawal Agreement and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
The Commission has no legal framework for healthcare services accessed outside the EU or EEA countries, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Citizens are strongly advised to consult their respective National Contact Points (NCPs) designated at the national level in accordance with Directive 2011/24/EU[4].
The NCPs can provide information to the patients about their rights to cross-border healthcare, including conditions for reimbursement and procedural requirements, such as the authorisation process for planned treatments and applicable tariffs, among others.
Source: European Parliament
A decades-long farm consolidation is part of a deeper trend observed in major market-based economies, including the EU, driven by a combination of factors, such as economies of scale, technological advancements, access to capital, as well as demographic trends.
The Guardian article grossly overestimates the amounts received by the largest Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) recipients. The Eurostat Farm Structure Survey shows that the average physical farm size of Portuguese farms increased from 12.6 ha in 2007 to 13.7 ha in 2020 (+8.2%), while the EU-27 average farm size increased from 11.6 ha to 17.1 ha over the same period (+ 47.5%).
Regarding distribution of direct payments in Portugal, in 2022, the 20% largest beneficiaries (by the amount of payment) received 80% of direct payments.
However, these 20% largest beneficiaries were farming 87% of the land. Yet in 2015, the 20% largest beneficiaries received 84% of direct payments and farmed 86% of land.
Thus, the concentration of direct payments slightly decreased between 2015 and 2022, despite the fact that the concentration of land has increased.
This shows the first results of the current redistribution mechanisms, including a redistributive payment (CRISS) and an increase of the payment under the Small Farmers Scheme (SFS). Under the current CAP, Portugal allocated a total of EUR 348.6 million to CRISS. A total of EUR 319.5 million was allocated to SFS.
Lastly, the Commission recently proposed to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain, both via the common market Organisation and the new Unfair Trading Practices cross border enforcement regulations.
The CAP post-2027 will further consider how to better target the distribution of the CAP funds.
Source: European Parliament
1. The competent authority may only authorise a landfill site if strict environmental and health requirements of the Landfill Directive[1] are complied with. T he characteristics of the site, or the corrective measures to be taken, shall indicate that the landfill does not pose a serious environmental risk[2]. The location of the landfill must take into consideration requirements relating to e.g. distance to residential and recreation areas, waterways, water bodies, agricultural or urban sites; the existence of groundwater, coastal water or nature protection zones in the area; the geological and hydrogeological conditions in the area; and the risk of flooding, subsidence, landslides or avalanches on the site[3]. Regional waste policy and measures to improve environmentally sound waste management are set out in the Calabria Region’s waste management plan of March 2024 established under the Waste Framework Directive[4].
2. As a result of the recently revised Industrial Emissions Directive[5], Best Available Techniques reference documents will be developed for landfills, starting mid-2025.
3. Member States have a primary responsibility to monitor the application of the relevant legal provisions and to take the necessary steps for enforcement. In its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission monitors the situation and may decide to take appropriate action. The Commission aims to swiftly follow up on systemic issues involving the application of EU law in EU countries. However, one-off instances of this are better dealt with at national level, as long as there are available remedies, including judicial ones. In these cases, it is up to the national courts to apply and enforce rights under EU law[6].
Source: European Parliament
The Commission proposal on a digital euro[1] takes the possible impact on financial stability and individual freedoms very seriously and proposes effective safeguards.
The proposal aims to preserve financial stability in normal and crisis times. The digital euro is envisaged primarily as a means of payment rather than a store of value.
Accordingly, the European Central Bank (ECB) would be required to develop tools to limit the digital euro’s store of value function, i.e. via limits on individual digital euro holdings, which the ECB could adapt over time to evolving circumstances.
These holding limits together with the zero interest rates and the payment function without actual holdings in digital euro (so called reverse waterfall mechanism) would limit the shift of commercial bank deposits to digital euro and thus mitigate the risk of bank disintermediation, protecting financial stability and the provision of credit by commercial banks.
The proposal also clearly and transparently limits and frames the processing of personal data related to the digital euro. This ensures full respect of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)[2], including the principles of data minimisation and purpose limitation[3]. A user would be identified in line with EU anti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing rules[4].
The ECB would not have access to a user’s identity. The pseudonymisation foreseen in the proposal aims to ensure that users cannot be identifiable based on data patterns.
The proposal ensures that neither the ECB nor payment service providers would have access to data related to offline transactions as these would be settled directly between users. Offline transactions would therefore give users a level of privacy comparable to cash.
Source: European Parliament
1. The Commission has been informed by the competent national authorities of the signature on 29 November 2024 of the cohesion agreement between the Italian Government and the Apulia. Given that the agreement concerns exclusively national and regional authorities and refers to national programmes (Development and Cohesion Fund programmes) and national financing instruments (Development and Cohesion Fund), the Member State is solely competent to manage and control the implementation of these initiatives, with reference to the consistency with the national legal framework.
2. The integration and complementarity of nationally funded activities with EU regional programmes is ensured by the managing authority of the Apulia regional programme, as indicated in the programme approved by EU decision. The management and control system set up by the regional authorities is adequate to avoid any risk of overlapping and double funding.
3. The Commission considers that the current EU cohesion policy regulatory framework is sufficient to ensure consistency between European and national programmes.
Source: European Parliament
The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU enshrines the fundamental right to the freedom of the arts. According to its Article 13(1), ‘the arts and scientific research shall be free of constraint’[1].
The Charter also safeguards the freedom of expression (Article 11) and cultural diversity (Articles 11 and 22), which are integral to artistic freedom.
Freedom of expression, which includes freedom of artistic expression, is a core EU value and crucial for democratic societies. The Commission attaches great importance to it.
Responsibility for cultural policy and legislation lies with the Member States. Nonetheless, the Commission works closely with them to facilitate mutual learning and cooperation, share best policy and practice, and address common challenges in this field.
The Commission works with Member States in addressing threats to cultural diversity and artistic freedoms, through such initiatives as the Creative Europe programme[2], which offers funding and support to cultural institutions and initiatives that promote cultural diversity, inclusion, and freedom of expression; the EU Work Plan for Culture 2023-2026[3], which recognises artistic freedom as a fundamental part of cultural work, and the protection of artistic freedom as an essential element for strengthening the link between culture and democracy.
Source: European Parliament
1. The Commission adopted on 21 October 2024 its proposal RESTORE — Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction[1].
It provides flexibilities with regards to cohesion policy resources to support Member States affected by unprecedented climate-related disasters.
Member States affected by natural disasters that have occurred since 1 January 2024 will be able to allocate an amount not exceeding 10% of their European Social Fund Plus and European Regional Development Fund national allocations to support reconstruction and repair measures and to alleviate the negative consequences of such disasters. Member States will benefit from additional pre-financing and high EU co-financing rate. The co-legislators reached an agreement and the amending act entered into force on 24 December 2024.
It will be up to Austria to decide how best to make use of the flexibilities and how much funding to redirect to tackle the effects of the floods. The EU Solidarity Fund can also be activated at the request of Austria within 12 weeks as from when the first damage occurred.
2. + 3. The President of the Commission made a public announcement on 19 September 2024 in Wroclaw informing that around EUR 10 billion cohesion policy resources could be mobilised with higher pre-financing and 100% co-financing for the regions affected by the floods.
Source: European Parliament
1. The EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) is a post-disaster instrument which provides financial assistance to EU countries facing severe natural disasters according to the specific rules set out in Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002[1]. The EUSF financial assistance is intended to supplement the country’s public expenditure to finance essential emergency and recovery operations. It is not a rapid response instrument. The disbursement of financial assistance requires per application the prior mobilisation of the fund by the European Parliament and the Council, which can take several months.
2. Recognising the challenge, the Commission proposed a substantial financial reinforcement of the EUSF in the mid-term revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)[2]. The budgetary authority decided to increase the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve by EUR 1.5 billion for the years 2024-2027.
The EUSF now has an annual budget of EUR 1 016 million[3] (in 2018 prices).
The EUSF aid calculation methodology was established in 2003 and accepted by the European Parliament and the Council. Changes to the methodology would need to be aligned to the available budgetary resources of the Fund.
In the preparation of the next MFF, the Commission will carefully assess the operation of the EUSF and reflect how to best deliver on the EUSF’s objectives in the future.
Source: European Parliament
Protecting democratic processes and values, including the right to stand for public office, is a priority for the Commission.
In addition, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act[1], prohibits certain manipulative or deceptive uses of AI technologies that are likely to cause significant harm[2].
It also imposes transparency obligations on providers and deployers of AI systems generating deep fake contents[3]. Violations are sanctioned by administrative fines.
However, deepfakes are not criminalised as such by the AI Act, which is a product safety legislation.
The Commission Recommendation on inclusive and resilient elections (EU) 2023/2829, adopted as part of the 2023 Defence of Democracy package, highlights the highest democratic standards in elections.
This recommendation also addresses different challenges to the election information environment, including so called ‘deep fakes’, as a vector of disinformation.
It also encourages political parties and campaign organisations to adopt campaign pledges and codes of conduct on election integrity and fair campaigning.
In these, political parties and campaigning organisations should commit to refrain from producing, using or disseminating falsified, fabricated, doxed or stolen data or material, including deep fakes generated by artificial intelligence systems.
Source: European Parliament
Following the Digital Fairness Fitness Check report[1] published on 3 October 2024, the Commission will develop a Digital Fairness Act to address the identified consumer protection issues in the online environment, such as termination of subscription contracts, automatic renewal of subscriptions and conversion of free trials into paid subscriptions.
The specific options will be developed and assessed in an impact assessment. The Commission services are currently preparing a public consultation and impact assessment, to be conducted in 2025, ahead of a possible legislative proposal.
The Commission is also committed to improving awareness and understanding of the rights of European consumers through several initiatives.
The ConsumerPro[2] initiative is a capacity-building project with training programmes covering a wide range of topics, aimed at making consumer organisations and other actors in consumer policy better-equipped to protect and assist consumers.
The Consumer Education Hub[3] website is a repository of hundreds of educational materials and resources collected during two research studies carried out by the Commission in 2021-2022.
They can be used by all actors working in consumer education/advice and awareness raising. In 2024, the Commission launched a call for proposals[4] to provide financial support to initiatives and projects aimed at improving consumer education and awareness raising. Proposals selected for EU funding will be announced in Q1 2025.
Source: European Parliament
The availability of COVID-19 protein-based vaccines is primarily determined by clinical development priorities of vaccine developers. Neither the Commission nor the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have control over this aspect.
EU regulators, including EMA, assess the scientific evidence submitted by developers in the context of a marketing authorisation application.
While they can provide guidance on vaccines development, the actual production of such products ultimately depends on the companies developing them.
As regards COVID-19 vaccines, Comirnaty and Spikevax (mRNA-based) and Nuvaxovid and Bimervax (protein-based) are authorised in the EU.
For the autumn 2024 COVID-19 vaccination campaigns, EMA issued a statement[1] and the Commission authorised adapted mRNA vaccines (Comirnaty JN.1, Comirnaty KP.2 and Spikevax JN.1) and an adapted protein-based vaccine (Nuvaxovid JN.1).
EMA is currently assessing an adapted Bimervax vaccine (JN.1). Overall, these vaccines are expected to also cover the emerging XEC variant.
In principle, the Commission supports the availability of any type of COVID-19 vaccine following EMA’s recommendation on approval[2]. Vaccination policy is a national competence, and the Commission supports EU countries in coordinating their policies and programmes.
In July 2024, the Commission and 15 countries launched a call for tender for the supply of protein-based COVID-19 vaccines under the Joint Procurement Agreement[3], offering an alternative option to citizens who cannot or do not want to receive a mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.
This call for tender targets producers of protein-based COVID-19 vaccines authorised for use in the EU. More information will be available after the closure of the procedure.
Source: United Nations – Geneva
The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women was this afternoon briefed by representatives of non-governmental organizations on the situation of women’s rights in Sri Lanka, the report of which the Committee will review this week.
The Committee will also review the reports of Belize, Congo and Liechtenstein this week, but there were no non-governmental organizations speaking on those countries.
Non-governmental organizations speaking on Sri Lanka raised concerns relating to discriminatory legislation, gender-based violence, and the treatment of sex workers, among other issues.
The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Sri Lanka: Women and Media Collective and Social Scientists Association; Women and Media Collective;
Suriya Women’s Development Centre; Centre for Equality and Justice; Sex Workers and Allies South Asia; Women’s Action Network; and Global Campaign for Equality in Family Law, Equality Now.
The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s ninetieth session is being held from 3 to 21 February. All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage. Meeting summary releases can be found here. The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.
The Committee will next meet in public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 11 February to consider the fifth to ninth periodic report of Belize (CEDAW/C/BLZ/5-9).
Statement by Committee Chair
NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, said this was the second opportunity during the present session for non-governmental organizations to provide information on States parties whose reports were being considered during the second week of the session, namely Belize, Congo, Sri Lanka and Liechtenstein. It was regretful that non-governmental organizations from Belize, Congo and Liechtenstein were not present, but the presence of representatives from Sri Lanka was greatly appreciated. The Committee greatly appreciated that they had travelled all the way to Geneva, as the information they provided was crucial.
Statements by Non-Governmental Organizations from Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Speakers on Sri Lanka said the economic crisis which had engulfed the country since 2020 had exacerbated the economic rights of women there, compounding labour market inequalities, unpaid care work, the lack of comprehensive and inclusive social protection, and rural economic challenges. Women’s labour force participation remained low at 32.1 per cent, with many employed in low-wage, insecure jobs in the informal sector as well as in the formal sector. The gender pay gap remained high, with women earning 27 per cent less than men on average. Proposed labour law reforms promoting part-time and ‘flexible’ work risked further job insecurity for women. In the plantation sector, Malaiyaha Tamil women continued to experience intense labour exploitation and wage discrimination
A speaker said that Sri Lanka must urgently abolish the centralised power in the office of the Executive President and enable a judicial review of legislation. Despite international treaty obligations, several discriminatory laws persisted. The Penal Code continued to criminalise consensual same sex relations and abortion. Statutory rape of married girls between the ages of 12 and 16 by their husbands was exempt. Urgent legal reforms were therefore a priority.
The Economic Transformation Act and the policy to create new economic zones without adequate protections for labour, land and local economic development was a serious concern. The weak national action plan on women peace and security 2023-2027 needed to be revised. The independent National Commission on Women needed to be established without delay. Increasing women in decision making required urgent attention and the low representation of women in the new Cabinet was concerning.
Gender based violence continued with impunity. Protections, support services and judicial sensitivities under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act needed to be strengthened. Technology-facilitated sexual and gender-based violence, a continuum of offline violence, was a fast-evolving form of violence against women. It was imperative that specific laws on technology-facilitated sexual and gender-based violence were included. Women sentenced to death faced intersectional discrimination. As of 2024, 23 women were on death row. It was vital that Sri Lanka regularly published disaggregated data regarding people charged with capital crimes.
While sex work was not criminalised, sex workers were arbitrarily arrested and subjected to violence under the vagrants and brothels ordinances. Police violence and systemic discrimination against sex workers persisted, including through the vagrants ordinance. In custody, sex workers were subjected to sexual bribery, forced sexually transmitted disease testing, physical violence, and prolonged detention. The practice of sexual bribery against sex workers continued with no consequence for the perpetrators. A speaker urged the State to fulfil the Committee’s recommendation to repeal the vagrants ordinance and other provisions criminalising sex workers.
In 2024, exam results of 70 advanced level Muslim students were withheld by the Department of Examinations because the girls’ hijabs covered their ears in violation of examination rules. Muslim women and girls were deprived of State protection under the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act which had no minimum age of marriage, prevented women from signing marriage contracts, excluded Muslim women from becoming judges, prohibited two Muslims marrying under the general marriage registration ordinance, and allowed unconditional polygamy and non-registration of marriage. It also contained unequal divorce provisions. The bill which addressed these concerns needed to be enacted without delay. In 2024, a study conducted across nine districts indicated that almost 50 per cent of Muslim women reported being victims of female genital mutilation, or knowing someone who was. Victims of female genital mutilation in Sri Lanka were newborn girls after seven days, nine days, 15 days, 40 days and some at six to eight years.
A speaker said the Penal Code only criminalised marital rape in the context of a married woman raped by her husband if she was judicially separated from him. The Code needed to be amended to include marital rape in all circumstances. Several provisions in the personal laws discriminated against women, for example, the Thesawalamai law restricted Tamil women from disposing of separate property. Women faced severe obstacles in accessing justice in family law: litigation costs were high; legal aid was limited; and there was a lack of gender-sensitivity among personnel in the justice sector.
Comprehensive reform towards an effective and efficient family court system was imperative. In the plantation communities, there was a lack of Tamil-speaking personnel in law enforcement. Lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons were unable to access police as same-sex conduct was criminalised. The State must ensure prompt, effective and adequate measures for access to justice for women, including from minorities and vulnerable groups.
Questions by Committee Experts
A Committee Expert asked about the national action plan on women, peace and security which needed to be revised; what kind of revision was required? What was the status of the Truth, Reconciliation and Non-Repetition Commission? How was conflict-related sexual violence being addressed in this context? What was the status of abortion, including data and access to safe abortion?
Another Expert asked for the main factors which hindered women’s access to justice? Could more information be provided on how to improve the impact of the National Women’s Council, the Human Rights Ministry, and other bodies? How could they improve their relationship with civil society organizations?
A Committee Expert asked about the economic reform, in view of women’s participation in the labour market?
An Expert asked about women’s representation in political institutions. Had quotas and their enforcement been successful? Was technology-facilitated abuse prevalent for women in decision-making positions and did it act as a deterrence for their participation?
Another Committee Expert asked about difficulties women experienced in transferring their citizenship to their children? What measures were in place to ensure migrant women could regularise their position, and obtain identification documents?
An Expert asked if there was information available about the changes in the Penal Code concerning the explicit clarification of marital rape? Were positive changes implemented concerning the law on domestic violence?
Responses by Non-Governmental Organizations
Sri Lanka
Responding to questions on Sri Lanka, a speaker said access to justice was a difficult and lengthy process for victims of gender-based violence, particularly those in the Tamil area. This was due to stigma around reporting, and the lack of police officers near the plantation sector who could speak in the Tamil language. Typically, the average court procedure took 17 years to complete one case, while the victims faced repeated victimisation.
The reforms suggested aimed to increase women’s workforce participation through part-time and flexible work. However, there were concerns that the current leave provisions and other benefits would not be included.
Abortion was considered illegal in Sri Lanka unless the life of the mother was at risk. However, despite rules that any woman could seek post-abortion care, stigma prevented many women from accessing this option, and many women instead accessed abortion in unsafe and back-alley settings.
There was no family court system in Sri Lanka and privacy of proceedings was not always guaranteed, nor was the best interest of the child.
Obtaining identification documents remained challenging for sex workers. Many sex workers did not possess identity documents or birth certificates, and were reluctant to seek assistance due to police harassment. Not having these documents meant these women could not obtain legal documents which impacted their access to education.
Women in politics were among the primary victim survivors of technology-assisted gender-based violence, in the form of hate speech and degrading memes and images shared online. This was seen in the most recent election, with female candidates’ being targeted for their education, the way they dressed, and the way they spoke. Women politicians who supported family law reforms faced social media attacks, and this included Sri Lanka’s female Prime Minister who was recently elected. Social media companies such as Meta had not taken down harmful content.
A private members bill had been raised in the previous government regarding the amendment for allowing same sex marriage. However, after a second reading the bill was not passed. The Government was then dissolved, and a new Government was elected. There had been no updates to the amendment to the Penal Code regarding marital rape since March 2024.
The last parliamentary elections in 2024 doubled the number of women in parliament without a quota. However, a quota came into effect in 2018 for local authority elections. Political parties were legally mandated now to ensure 25 per cent of women were represented in politics; however, no political party had nominated more than 10 per cent of women in seats. It was hoped the State would move to parity and not stop at a limit of 35 per cent in relation to quotas.
Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.
CEDAW25.006E
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Dragon boat challenge stages in Dubai to promote Hong Kong culture and heritage (with photos)
Dragon boat challenge stages in Dubai to promote Hong Kong culture and heritage (with photos)
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The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai (Dubai ETO) sponsored the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Challenge 2025, which took place in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on February 8 and 9 (Dubai time), to promote Hong Kong’s unique culture and heritage. Held at the Dubai Creek, this year’s races attracted more than 40 teams per day with a total of about 1 400 competitors during the two-day event. Among them was a team formed by the Dubai ETO, consisting of members of the Hong Kong community living in the UAE. Other than competitive races in various categories, the Dubai ETO also set up a promotional booth at the venue over the weekend to promote Hong Kong and provide information on her latest developments. Speaking at the award presentation ceremony, the Acting Director-General of the Dubai ETO, Mr Leo Poon, highlighted that the Dubai ETO has brought the dragon boat racing to Dubai for the third year not just to share the fun of dragon boat racing with the local community, but also to strengthen cultural ties and social connections between the two communities of Hong Kong and Dubai. “Hong Kong is not just an international trade hub and financial centre, we are also a dynamic city where East meets West, and home to a multitude of mega events. With the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park set for grand opening next month, Hong Kong will be hosting more international sports and cultural events, showcasing our city’s remarkable charm,” he added. The Dubai ETO will continue to organise various events in the member states of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf with the aim of deepening exchanges and promoting closer co-operation.
Ends/Tuesday, February 11, 2025Issued at HKT 2:35
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Source: Government of India
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:44PM by PIB Delhi
The Fourth India-UK Energy Dialogue, co-chaired by Shri Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs of India, and Mr. Ed Miliband, Secretary for Energy Security and Net Zero for United Kingdom, was held today in New Delhi.
The dialogue focused on reviewing progress made in the energy sectors of both nations, including power and renewable energy, and reaffirming the commitment to a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive energy future. The Ministers underscored the importance of ensuring that the energy transition and economic growth proceed together, while maintaining affordable and clean energy access for all.
The Ministers underscored the importance of ensuring energy security and sustainable development and emphasized expanding the cooperation in the areas of power distribution, sector reforms, industrial energy efficiency and de-carbonization, and electric mobility while exploring new opportunities in the emerging fields such as energy storage, green data centers, and offshore wind, with an increased focus on MSMEs.
The Ministers were pleased to announce the launch of Phase-2 of the India-UK bilateral Accelerating Smart Power & Renewable Energy in India (ASPIRE) programme. This phase will aim to provide technical support for ensuring round-the-clock power supply, expanding renewable energy initiatives, and accelerating industrial energy efficiency and de-carbonization, in collaboration with the Ministry of Power (MOP) and Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
The Ministers were pleased to observe the bilateral collaboration between the two sides to promote growth and jobs, through technical assistance cooperation and investment. They also discussed the progress of trade missions focusing on offshore wind and green hydrogen, as well as the cooperation between the UK’s Energy Systems Catapult and India’s Power Trading Corporation.
Recognizing the shared ambition for advancing offshore wind development, the Ministers announced the establishment of a UK-India Offshore Wind Taskforce, which will focus on advancing offshore wind ecosystem development, supply chains, and financing models in both countries. Mr. Miliband commended India’s ambitious initiatives in the renewable energy sector and shown a strong interest in gaining insights from India’s experience in implementing the Solar Rooftop Programme (PM – Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna).
The Ministers agreed on the importance of power market regulations in driving the energy transition and ensuring greater energy security and access. To support this, they announced the continuation of the Power Sector Reforms programme under the UK Partnering for Accelerating Climate Change (UKPACT). Additionally, a new taskforce has been proposed between the UK’s Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (OFGEM) and India’s Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) to support renewable energy integration and grid transformation in India.
Both Ministers emphasized the ongoing value of the India-UK Energy Dialogue in advancing mutual energy transition goals, ensuring energy access, and building secure and sustainable clean energy supply chains while aligning these efforts with economic growth.
The Ministers expressed their intention to further strengthen their collaboration through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and looked forward to the fifth UK-India Energy Dialogue in 2026. The dialogue concluded with the launch of the ‘Best Practices Compendium of Industrial Energy Efficiency/Decarbonisation’ and a ‘Pathways for Energy Efficiency and Decarbonisation in the Indian Aluminium Sector’.
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JN/ SK
(Release ID: 2101542) Visitor Counter : 44
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:57PM by PIB Delhi
The National Archives of India and the National Records and Archives Authority of Oman are the custodians of the non-current records of the Government of India and the Government of the Sultanate of Oman, respectively, providing public access to historical records.
To strengthen the friendship between the two countries, an Executive Programme of Cooperation (EPC) for 2025-2028 between the National Archives of India and the National Records and Archives Authority of Oman has been signed today, 10 February 2025, at 10:30 AM in the Committee Room of the National Archives of India, New Delhi.
The signing of the EPC reflects the Indian Government’s commitment to promoting and showcasing the historical connections between the two nations, fostering a dynamic and shared future. It also serves as a vision statement to enhance friendly relations, particularly in the field of archival cooperation.
Shri Arun Singhal, IAS, Director General of Archives, National Archives of India, Government of India, signed the agreement on behalf of India, while His Excellency Dr. Hamed Mohd. Al Dhawaini, Chairman, National Records & Archives Authority, signed on behalf of the Government of the Sultanate of Oman. This collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening cultural and historical ties between India and Oman.
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Sunil Kumar Tiwari
(Release ID: 2101552) Visitor Counter : 58
Source: Government of India
FPOs, FPCs, State-nominated agencies, Central Nodal Agencies to undertake procurement of top crops under MIS
Approval given to NCCF for reimbursement of cost for transportation of Kharif tomato up to 1,000 MT from Madhya Pradesh to Delhi.
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:26PM by PIB Delhi
Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) is a component of PM-AASHA scheme. Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) is implemented on the request of State/UT Government for procurement of various perishable agricultural/horticultural commodities such as tomato, onion and potato etc. for which Minimum Support Price (MSP) is not applicable and there is a reduction of at least 10% in the market prices in the States/UTs as compared to the rates of the previous normal season, so that farmers are not forced to sell their produce under distress.
To encourage more States for implementation of MIS, Government has revised the MIS Guidelines in the following provisions:
1. Made MIS a component of the integrated scheme of PM-AASHA.
2. MIS will be implemented only when there is a minimum reduction of 10% in the prevailing market price as compared to the previous normal year.
3. The procurement/coverage limit of production quantity of crops has been increased from the existing 20 percent to 25 percent.
4. The State has also been given the option to pay the difference between the Market Intervention Price (MIP) and the selling price directly into the bank account of the farmers in place of physical procurement.
Further, where there is a difference in the price of TOP crops (tomato, onion and potato) between the producing and consuming States, the operational cost incurred in storage and transportation of crops from the producing State to other consuming States will be reimbursed by Central Nodal Agencies (CNA) like NAFED and NCCF, in the interest of farmers. Approval has been given to NCCF for reimbursement of cost for transportation of Kharif tomato upto 1,000 MT from Madhya Pradesh to Delhi. It is being proposed to include, apart from NAFED and NCCF, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), State nominated agencies and other Central Nodal Agencies, to undertake procurement of top crops under MIS and to make arrangements for storage and transportation from the producing state to the consuming State in case of price difference between the producing State and the consuming State, in coordination with the implementing state.
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MG/KSR
(Release ID: 2101530) Visitor Counter : 53
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:22PM by PIB Delhi
As per the Scheme of Financial Assistance to States/Union Territories for organizing Youth Parliament Competitions, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs provides financial assistance as per the following limits, subject to receiving of the claims on completion of the competitions from the concerned States/UTs:-
|
Sl. No. |
Strength of Legislature |
Maximum Amount for reimbursement |
|
1. |
Legislatures having members up to 100 |
₹ 3 lakhs per Legislature p.a. |
|
2. |
Legislatures having members between 100 -200 |
₹ 4 lakhs per Legislature p.a. |
|
3. |
Legislatures having members above 200 |
₹ 5 lakhs per Legislature p.a. |
|
4. |
UTs having no legislature |
₹ 2 lakhs per UT p.a. |
During the Financial Year 2024-25, total amount of financial assistance reimbursed to the states of Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Odisha is as follows:
|
Sl. No. |
State |
Amount Reimbursed |
|
|
Madhya Pradesh |
₹4,83,145/- |
|
|
Haryana |
₹2,75,335/- |
|
|
Odisha |
₹3,66,578/- |
|
Total |
₹ 11,25,058/- |
|
As per the guidelines of the Scheme, the Ministry does not prescribe any particular subjects for questions and answers and other discussions in Youth Parliament sittings. However, it is desirable that the matters raised in the Youth Parliament sittings relate to contemporary important and relevant issues, welfare activity, defence of the country, social justice, social reforms, economic development, communal harmony, health and student discipline etc.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. L. Murugan in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
***
SS/ISA
(Release ID: 2101520) Visitor Counter : 56
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:21PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) has implemented various skilling and education schemes for socio-economic development of minorities and make them employment ready.
Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) is a flagship Scheme of the MoMA which converges five erstwhile schemes and focuses on upliftment of minorities through skill development; entrepreneurship and leadership of minority women; and education support for school dropouts. Skill training were provided to youth from minority communities to increase employment and livelihood opportunities under the ‘Seekho Aur Kamao’, ‘Nai Manzil’, and ‘USTTAD’ schemes, which have now been converged into the PM VIKAS scheme. A brief of these schemes along with achievements made therein is as under:
(i) Seekho aur Kamao (SAK) scheme, started in 2013-14, targeted to upgrade the skills of minority youth (14-45 years) in various modern/ traditional skills depending upon their qualification, prevailing economic trends, and market potential, that could earn them suitable employment or make them suitably skilled to take up self-employment.
Since inception, about 4.68 lakh beneficiaries have been trained, and as reported on the scheme portal about 2,98,909 beneficiaries have been placed under the scheme.
ii) Nai Manzil scheme started in 2015, and was implemented with an objective to benefit the minority youth who do not have formal school leaving certificate. The scheme provided a combination of formal education (Class VIII or X) and skills and enabled the beneficiaries to seek better employment and livelihoods. Since inception, 98,712 beneficiaries have been trained, and as reported on the scheme portal about 58,879 beneficiaries have been placed under the scheme.
iii) USTTAD scheme started in 2015 for targeted capacity building and upgrading of the traditional skills of master craftsmen/artisans. Since inception, about 21,611 beneficiaries have been trained and about 4,946 have been placed/self-employed/organised into Self Help Groups under the scheme.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Minority & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today
***
SS/ISA
(Release ID: 2101518) Visitor Counter : 63
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:19PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme for welfare of Minorities is a programme which covers various schemes/initiatives of the participating Ministries/Departments with an aim to ensure that the underprivileged and weaker sections of six centrally notified minority communities have equal opportunities for availing the various Government welfare Schemes and contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the Country.
The programme has the following broad objectives: (i) Enhancing opportunities for education; (ii) Ensuring an equitable share for minorities in economic activities and employment, through existing and new schemes, enhanced credit support for self-employment, and recruitment to State and Central Government jobs; (iii) Improving the conditions of living of minorities by ensuring an appropriate share for them in infrastructure development schemes; and (iv) Prevention and control of communal disharmony and violence.
The schemes of the Ministry of Minority Affairs covered under the Prime Minister’s 15 Point Programme are exclusively meant for notified minorities. However, 15% of the outlays and targets, to the extent possible, of schemes/initiatives implemented by other participating Ministries/Departments are earmarked for notified minorities.
The welfare schemes, including initiatives for education and skill development of minorities, being implemented by Ministry of Minority Affairs and other participating ministries under the programme, are as under:
The Schemes are being implemented by the respective Ministries/Departments under the saturation approach of Government. Under the saturation approach of the Government many of the components have achieved mainstreaming.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Minority & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today
***
SS/ISA
(Release ID: 2101517) Visitor Counter : 61
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:18PM by PIB Delhi
The Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) is a flagship Scheme of the Ministry of Minority Affairs which converges five erstwhile schemes viz. ‘Seekho Aur Kamao’, ‘Nai Manzil’, ‘Nai Roshni’, ‘Hamari Dharohar’ and ‘USTTAD’; and focuses on upliftment of six notified minority communities through skill development; entrepreneurship and leadership of minority women; and education support for school dropouts.
Additionally, the scheme provision to facilitate credit linkages by connecting beneficiaries with loan programs offered by the National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC). Beneficiaries would also be supported for market linkages through EPCH (Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts) to enhance their livelihood. The PM VIKAS scheme is yet to be implemented.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Minority & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today
***
SS/ISA
(Release ID: 2101513) Visitor Counter : 61
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:18PM by PIB Delhi
The Government implements various schemes for the welfare and upliftment of every strata, including minorities, specially the economically weaker and lesser privileged sections of the society. Ministry of Minority Affairs specifically implements various schemes across the country for socio-economic and educational empowerment of the six (6) centrally notified minority communities. The Udasi/Udasin Sect falls under one of these notified communities i.e. Sikh Community. These schemes are meant for the weaker segments of minority. The schemes/programmes implemented by Minority Affairs for the welfare of minority communities are as under:
1. Educational Empowerment Schemes
(i) Pre-Matric, (ii) Post-Matric and (iii) Merit-cum-Means based scholarships
2. Employment and Economic Empowerment Schemes
(i) Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS)
(ii) Equity to National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC) for
providing concessional loans to minorities.
3. Infrastructural Development Scheme
(i) Pradham Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakaram (PMJVK)
All the schemes together have contributed in the acquisition of high-level skills, greater opportunities in livelihood, high employability potential, improved access to better infrastructure, improved health and in the overall welfare of the Minority Communities.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Minority & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today
***
SS/ISA
(Release ID: 2101515) Visitor Counter : 57
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:15PM by PIB Delhi
NITI Aayog today launched a policy report titled ‘Expanding Quality Higher Education through States and State Public Universities’. The report was released by Sh. Suman Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog; Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul, Member (Education); NITI Aayog, Sh. BVR Subrahmanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog; Sh. Vineet Joshi, Secretary, Department of Higher Education; and Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
The report is a first-of-its kind policy document in the higher education sector focused specifically on States and State Public Universities (SPUs). It provides detailed quantitative analysis on vital indicators of Quality, Funding and Financing, Governance and Employability over the last decade across the themes. It provides the distilled essence of the insights gained from extensive stakeholder consultations held with State Government Officers of Higher and Technical Education Departments from over 20 States and Union Territories, Vice Chancellors, and senior academicians of 50 SPUs, and Chairpersons of several State Higher Education Councils.
Speaking on the occasion, NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery said that in many global education systems, public universities set the benchmark for excellence, as seen in the U.S. and Brazil. While India has institutions like IITs, SPUs must also strive for high standards. He observed that as directed by the Hon. PM, NITI Aayog’s role is to create evidence through research, while implementation remains the Ministry’s responsibility. He hoped that the recommendations contained in the report would be enthusiastically taken forward by the Ministries in the Central and State Governments.
NITI Aayog Member Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul positioned the report in the context of NEP implementation and India’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047. He emphasized that with 80% of India’s higher education taking place in SPUs, reforming them is crucial for creating human capital and establishing India as a knowledge hub.
NITI Aayog CEO Sh. BVR Subrahmanyam, highlighted that by 2035, the NEP 2020 target is to double enrolment in the higher education system to nearly 9 crore students. Nearly 7 crore of these will continue to study in SPUs. Hence, it is of utmost importance that these universities transition from focusing only on access to higher education to delivering world class higher education to create the high-quality human resource required to power the vision of becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047. He pitched the report as a milestone contribution of NITI Aayog that would complement the NEP 2020 in transforming India’s higher education landscape.
Secretary DHE Sh. Vineet Joshi highlighted key initiatives that were announced in the recent budget including the selection of 10,000 PMRF research fellows, addition of 6,500 seats in second-generation IITs, and the Bharatiya Bhasha textbook scheme for regional language education. He highlighted PM-USHA’s allocation of INR13,000 crores for 2023-24 to 2025-26, with INR 100 crores per SPU for transitioning to become MERUs. He said that these would play a role in transforming SPUs.
Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, AIU detailed how the report involved extensive deliberations and stakeholder consultations. She highlighted that the report addresses three major constraints raised by vice-chancellors: funding limitations, governance issues, and the need for capacity building of VCs, teachers, and staff, and is a pioneering policy work on SPUs.
The policy report provides a detailed policy roadmap including nearly 80 policy recommendations, short, medium, and long-term implementation strategies, actors responsible for implementing the recommendations and over 125 Performance Success Indicators. The recommendations assimilated from the consultation process are aimed at improving the quality of research, pedagogy and curriculum, augmenting institutional and systemic funding and financing capacity, upgrading and empowering institutional governance structures, and strengthening industry-academia interface to boost student employability.
The full policy report can be accessed at: https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-02/Expanding-Quality-Higher-Education-through-SPUs.pdf
The full policy brief can be accessed at: https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-02/Policy_Brief_Education.pdf
***
MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2101510) Visitor Counter : 41
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:10PM by PIB Delhi
India and Israel are set to deepen their economic and trade engagement with the India-Israel Business Forum and the India-Israel CEO Forum, both scheduled for February 11, 2025, in New Delhi. These forums will bring together top business leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders from both countries to explore new avenues of economic cooperation, technological collaboration, and investment opportunities.
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, and the Embassy of Israel, in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), is organizing the India-Israel Business Forum. The forum will focus on expanding trade relationships, fostering cross-sector collaborations, and identifying investment opportunities between Indian and Israeli businesses.
A high-level Israeli business delegation, led by H.E. Nir M. Barkat, Minister of Economy and Industry, State of Israel, will participate in the forum. The delegation includes leading Israeli enterprises and representatives from sectors such as technology, manufacturing, healthcare, agri-tech, food processing, defense, homeland security, water management, logistics, and retail.
The event will feature a ceremonial inaugural session, followed by panel discussions and B2B meetings, allowing Indian and Israeli business leaders to explore new opportunities for joint ventures, investments, and knowledge sharing. Representatives from the Government of India, the Government of Israel, and leading business organizations will participate in these discussions, focusing on sectoral growth and innovation-driven partnerships.
India and Israel’s shared commitment to technological advancement, innovation, and entrepreneurship makes them natural economic allies. With India’s rise as a global manufacturing and technology hub, the forum will provide a strategic platform to strengthen business-to-business (B2B) and government-to-business (G2B) ties.
Alongside the Business Forum, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) will host the India-Israel CEO Forum, an exclusive gathering of top CEOs, senior executives, and policymakers from both nations.
The CEO Forum will serve as a high-level platform for industry leaders to discuss investment opportunities, policy frameworks, and emerging business trends. The discussions will revolve around technology collaboration, research & development, innovation-driven growth, and trade diversification.
Key focus areas for engagement between India and Israel include strengthening cooperation in technology and innovation, particularly in AI, digital transformation, and smart manufacturing. Defense and security partnerships will expand in areas like defense technology, cybersecurity, and homeland security solutions. Joint projects in clean energy and sustainability will promote renewable energy, water conservation, and green technologies. In healthcare and life sciences, collaborations will be enhanced in medical research, pharmaceutical trade, and biotech investments. Additionally, agriculture and food security will benefit from Israeli expertise in precision agriculture, drip irrigation, and sustainable farming solutions.
India and Israel have witnessed steady growth in bilateral trade, which has diversified significantly beyond traditional sectors like diamonds and precious metals to include engineering goods, chemicals, electronics, defense, and agricultural products.
Israeli investments in India have been expanding, with various Israeli companies operating in various sectors, including renewable energy, water technology, defense, and manufacturing. Similarly, Indian companies have made significant inroads into Israel, particularly in pharmaceuticals, IT, and infrastructure.
The CEO Forum will provide a unique opportunity for business leaders to develop new partnerships, exchange insights, and explore pathways for expanding bilateral trade and investment flows.
Both forums are in line with India and Israel’s long-term vision for economic growth and cooperation, highlighting the importance of strengthening business connections, policy discussions, and strategic partnerships. They will promote deeper engagement between Indian and Israeli industries, encourage foreign direct investment (FDI) and joint ventures, foster technology transfer and innovation partnerships, and boost trade by implementing policy reforms and establishing new agreements.
As India moves towards its goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, and Israel continues to strengthen its global economic partnerships, these forums will play a crucial role in shaping the future of India-Israel economic ties.
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Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna
(Release ID: 2101505) Visitor Counter : 58
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 8:09PM by PIB Delhi
On the sidelines of Aero India 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held bilateral meetings with Minister for Defence & National Service of Tanzania Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax, Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defence, Chief of Staff of People’s National Army of Algeria General Saïd Chanegriha and Minister of Defence of Zambia Mr Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma in Bengaluru on February 10, 2025.
In his meeting with the Defence Minister of Tanzania, both leaders discussed cross-border terrorism and bilateral defence cooperation in a number of areas, including dockyard development & shipbuilding. Both sides welcomed co-hosting of maiden Africa India key Maritime Exercise in April 2025.
The meeting with Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defence, Chief of Staff of People’s National Army of Algeria gave further impetus to defence engagement with the North African nation in diverse fields. Possibility of signing of Terms of Reference for a Joint Commission in the Military Field to reap full benefits of the MoU was also discussed.
In his meeting with the Minister of Defence of Zambia, both leaders reviewed and agreed to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation, especially in the areas of capacity building and UN peacekeeping operations. Both sides agreed to early finalisation of Terms of Reference for institutionalizing a Joint Defence Cooperation Committee.
***********
VK/Savvy
(Release ID: 2101504) Visitor Counter : 79
Source: Government of India (2)
In 2024, the seized drugs included more harmful and addictive synthetic drugs, cocaine, and pharmaceutical drugs used as psychotropic substances, which are also of much higher value
This success is a testament to the ‘Bottom to Top’ and ‘Top to Bottom’ approach adopted under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah
The Modi government is moving forward with a Whole-of-Government Approach to create a drug-free India
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 7:16PM by PIB Delhi
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, while implementing zero-tolerance policy against drugs, in 2024, all law enforcement agencies across the country, including the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), seized narcotics worth approximately ₹25,330 crore, which is more than 55% higher compared to the ₹16,100 crore worth of drugs seized in 2023. This success is a testament to the ‘Bottom to Top’ and ‘Top to Bottom’ approach adopted under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah. The Modi government is moving forward with a Whole-of-Government Approach to create a drug-free India.
In 2024, the seizure of more harmful and addictive synthetic drugs, cocaine, and pharmaceutical drugs used as psychotropic substances has increased significantly, which are also of much higher value.
In 2024, the quantity of ATS (Amphetamine-Type Stimulants)like Methamphetamine has more than doubled from 34 quintals in 2023 to 80 quintals in 2024. Similarly quantity of cocaine seized has also gone up from 292 Kgs in 2023 to 1426 Kgs in 2024.The quantity of seized Mephedrone has also gone up from 688 kgs in 2023 in comparison to 3391 kgs in 2024. Likewise, quantity of Hashish seized has gone up from 34 Quintal in 2023 to 61 Quintal in 2024.The quantity of pharmaceutical drugs which are increasingly being abused as psychotropic substances has gone up from 1.84 crore to 4.69 crore in number (Tablets).
Major operations conducted by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in collaboration with various agencies in 2024:
February 2024: NCB and Special Cell of Delhi Police busts an international drugs trafficking network with the arrest of three people and seizure of 50 kg narcotics-making chemical Pseudoephedrine. A joint team of NCB and Delhi Police busted the network acting on information provided by Australian and New Zealand authorities.
February 2024: In a joint operation codenamed ‘Sagar Manthan-1’, carried out by NCB, Navy, and ATS Gujarat Police, a gigantic consignment of approximate 3300 kg of drugs (3110 Kg Charas/Hashish, 158.3 Kg crystalline powder Meth and 24.6 Kg Suspected Heroin) was seized in the Indian Ocean. It was a record in itself in terms of the amount of offshore seizure of Charas/Hashish on the beach in the country. Five suspected foreign nationals were detained in this case.
March 2024: NCB arrested Jaffer Sadiq, the kingpin of the drug trafficking network busted by it in the month of February, 2024. Jaffer Sadiq was absconding and on the run since 15th February, 2024 when NCB seized 50.070 kg of Pseudoephedrine from the godown of a firm and arrested three accomplices of Jaffer Sadiq in this connection
April 2024: In a joint maritime operation by NCB, ATS of Gujarat Police and Indian Coast Guard, a foreign boat carrying 86 kgs (approx.) Heroin was seized and 14 Pakistani nationals were arrested. Drugs worth Approx. Rs.602 Crore were seized during the operation.
October 2024:NCB conducted a search operation in a factory in Kasna Industrial Area of district Gautam Budh Nagar and found about 95 kg of Methamphetamine in solid and liquid forms. Chemicals like Acetone, Sodium Hydroxide, Methylene Chloride, Premium grade Ethanol, Toluene, Red phosphorus, Ethyl Acetate etc and imported machinery for manufacturing were also found.
November 2024: In a major breakthrough against the drug trafficking syndicates operating in India and especially in Delhi NCR Region, the Narcotics Control Bureau recovered one of the biggest haul of Cocaine at Delhi. After working on the leads generated in these cases, and through technical and human intelligence, the NCB was finally able to reach at the source of the contraband and 82.53 Kg of high grade Cocaine was recovered from Janakpuri and Nangloi area of Delhi.
November 2024: In a joint operation codenamed ‘Sagar Manthan-4’, the NCB, Indian Navy, and ATS Gujarat Police busted an international drug trafficking cartel and seized approx. 700 kg of contraband Meth in Gujarat.
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RK/VV/ASH/PR/PS
(Release ID: 2101471) Visitor Counter : 45
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 7:14PM by PIB Delhi
The grandeur and divinity of the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela 2025 are not only attracting pilgrims from across the country but also drawing the attention of foreign tourists and travel writers. In this context, a group of famous travel writers from Britain will visit the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, on 25th – 26th February. During this trip, the group will explore not only the Kumbh Mela but also other religious, historical, and cultural sites.
UP Tourism Minister Shri Jayveer Singh mentioned that Uttar Pradesh has immense tourism potential, but it needs to be promoted among foreign tourists. To achieve this, international-level travel writers and journalists are being invited to present the state’s tourism sites on a global stage. The visit of the British travel writers is part of this effort, aimed at firmly establishing Uttar Pradesh’s cultural and religious heritage on the global tourism map.
Special plans have been prepared by the Tourism and Culture Department for foreign tourists during the Mahakumbh, so they can experience this unique event. The government is providing accommodation facilities, guide services, digital information centers, and organizing various cultural programmes to give foreign tourists the opportunity to connect with Indian culture and traditions.
The group of British travel writers will not only visit the Kumbh Mela but will also tour Prayagraj and other important sites. During this visit, they will explore sites such as the Prayagraj Fort, Anand Bhawan, Akshayavat, Alfred Park, and the Sangam area. Additionally, they will closely visit Uttar Pradesh’s other major tourist destinations, including Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Lucknow, to witness the state’s historical and cultural heritage.
The visit of the British travel writers will be a significant milestone to promote tourism in the State. This visit will not only help showcase the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela to the world but also play an essential role in establishing Uttar Pradesh as a major global tourism destination. The government aims to ensure that Uttar Pradesh’s rich heritage, spiritual sites, and natural beauty are recognized internationally and the state is included among the top tourism destinations in the world.
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AD/VM
(Release ID: 2101470) Visitor Counter : 45
Source: Government of India (2)
3,800 Minor and 12 Major Surgeries Completed, 3.71 Lakh Pilgrims underwent Pathology Tests
Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 7:13PM by PIB Delhi
The health of pilgrims is being given top priority at the Mahakumbh 2025, and the Mela administration has ensured extensive medical arrangements are in place. From common ailments to specialized treatments, comprehensive healthcare facilities are available. So far, over 7 lakh pilgrims have been treated. To make the healthcare services world-class, specialists from Canada, Germany, Russia, along with doctors from AIIMS Delhi and IMS BHU, are working tirelessly on the ground.
Dr. Gaurav Dubey, the nodal medical officer of the Kumbh Mela, shared that more than 4.5 lakh pilgrims have been treated at 23 allopathic hospitals, and over 3.71 lakh pilgrims have undergone pathology tests. Additionally, more than 3,800 minor surgeries and 12 major surgeries have been successfully completed.
Over 2.18 Lakh Pilgrims Treated with AYUSH Medicine
With the collaboration of the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, and Uttar Pradesh AYUSH Society, 20 AYUSH hospitals (10 Ayurveda and 10 Homeopathy) are operating 24/7 in the Kumbh Mela area. To date, over 2.18 lakh pilgrims have benefited from Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and Naturopathy treatments. Specialists from AIIMS Ayurveda, Delhi, including Dr. V.K. Joshi, Dean of BHU, Dr. Thomas from Canada, and many other medical experts from around the world, are treating pilgrims at the Kumbh Mela.
Pilgrims Benefiting from Yoga, Panchakarma, and Ayurvedic Treatments
At the Ayurvedic hospitals in the Kumbh Mela, pilgrims are being treated with traditional methods like Panchakarma, herbal-based treatments, yoga therapy, and naturopathy. AYUSH kits, yoga kits, calendars, medicinal plants, and health awareness materials are being distributed to help pilgrims adopt a healthier lifestyle in the future. Yoga sessions are regularly conducted by teams of yoga instructors from New Delhi, and these sessions have gained significant interest, especially from foreign pilgrims.
Special Ayurvedic ‘Swarnaprashan’ Medicine for Children
For children aged 1 to 12 years, special Ayurvedic ‘Swarnaprashan’ medicine is being administered, distributed during the Pushya Nakshatra. This medicine is proving beneficial in enhancing children’s concentration, intelligence, immunity, and physical development.
Multidimensional Medical Facilities Become a Major Attraction for Pilgrims
The combined arrangement of Allopathy and AYUSH medicine at the Kumbh Mela is proving to be a great relief for pilgrims. High-quality healthcare services are being provided free of charge to sadhus, kalpavasis, and common pilgrims. The integration of Ayurveda, yoga, Panchakarma, and modern medical science has set a new standard for healthcare services at the Kumbh Mela.
It has been ensured that the Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025 will not only be a center for spiritual experiences but also an exemplary event in terms of health and well-being. The health services being offered to pilgrims are being appreciated both nationally and internationally, giving global recognition to the Indian medical system.
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AD/VM
(Release ID: 2101469) Visitor Counter : 50