Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
Jihad Azour, IMF’s Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department, outlines three key facts about the economic outlook for the Middle East and North Africa.
You can read the full report: https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/REO/MECA/Issues/2024/10/24/regional-economic-outlook-middle-east-central-asia-october-2024
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
In this episode of The BLUF we dive into the Caregiver Support Program. Get the bottom-line up front on CSP, PGCSS, and PCAFC – as well as what those acronyms mean!
#thebluf #veterans #veteranshealth #caregivers #caregiversupportprogram
Find out more at:
www.caregiver.va.gov
More on PGCSS:
https://www.caregiver.va.gov/Care_Caregivers.asp
More on PCAFC:
https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/support_benefits.asp
Find your Caregiver Support Team:
https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/New_CSC_Page.asp
Caregiver Support Line:
1-855-260-3274
https://www.caregiver.va.gov/help_landing.asp
The BLUF
A VA Rocky Mountain Network Production
This show is made by Veterans for Veterans
Executive Producer: Shawn Spitler
Producer, Director, Editor: Matt Murray
Host, Producer: Sarah Kallassy
Technical Director: Patrick Battle
Audiovisual Production Specialist: Adam Desaulniers
Stories by: Katie Beall, Jesus Flores, Sarah Kallassy, and Matt Murray
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Good news, Las Vegas! We just started construction on a new rapid bus line, which is going to save residents money and time, and lead to cleaner air.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Some of the most interesting projects you may not have heard about are our investments in crash prevention via wildlife crossings.
Our Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program provides funding for projects that seek to reduce the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions and, in carrying out that purpose, improve habitat connectivity for terrestrial and aquatic species.
Source: Minister for Trade
Greg Jennett, host: Don Farrell, thanks for making this conversation possible from Shanghai. I suppose the very fact that you’re there indicates that the resumption of trade relations with China is very much back on track. What additional Australian products and services, though, are you telling the Chinese Commerce Minister that Australia should gain access to now in the Chinese market?
Minister for Trade: Thanks, Greg. I met with my Chinese counterpart last evening on my arrival from Canberra. This was our 9th meeting. And again, we discussed those particular products that are still waiting to get back into the China market. Of course, that’s lobster and a couple of meat establishments. I got some assurances from the Minister that everything is on track to resolve all of our outstanding issues.
Now, having done that, we’re not resting on our laurels. I’m here with 253 Australian companies. Some of them have been here before, but many are coming for the first time, and my job as the Trade Minister is to try and push Australian companies out of Australia and into overseas markets. Obviously, China is the largest market for Australian goods. Last year, we sold $327 billion of two-way trade between Australia and China. But I think we can do better than that. I think this Expo – the largest trading event in the world – will be held this week, and I think we can sell even more wonderful Australian products, whether it’s food, whether it’s wine, whether it’s manufactured goods. That’s my ambition for this week.
Greg Jennett: It does sound ambitious Don Farrell. Also on the wine front, I understand you’ve announced the formation of a wine partnership, some sort of training program, I believe. Does that mean that Chinese winemakers will come to Australia to undertake this training?
Minister for Trade: It’ll be a mixture of both Greg. I was just with Penfolds. Of course, Penfolds is the biggest Australian winemaker in China. We want to work with the Chinese officials and the Chinese wine industry firstly so that we can get our product back into China, but also so we can help them improve their product. It’s a two-way thing. As I said before, China is our largest trading market. We want a prosperous future for our wine industry. Already, almost $500 million worth of Australian wine is back on the supermarket shelves here in China. We want to do better in that, but we also want to work closely to improve the skills and the abilities of Chinese winemakers. And Penfolds Wines are at the forefront of that.
Greg Jennett: Now, the Chinese leadership has made no secret over a very long time now about its desire to increase investment into Australia. I’m wondering in your talks whether Minister Wentao raised this and named any particular sectors for greater Chinese investment.
Minister for Trade: On this occasion, Greg, he didn’t raise that with me. But he has raised those issues in the past, and my answer to the Minister is that Australia welcomes foreign investment, and we welcome foreign investment from China. We are agnostic as to where the investments come from. Part of our Future Made in Australia plan will mean that we need investment from overseas. Australia is very well supplied with, for instance, the critical minerals that are needed to move to net zero. What Australia sometimes struggles with is getting the capital to extract those minerals. So we welcome overseas investment, and we process all of those applications for investment on one principle, and that is our national interest, and that’s what we’ll continue to do Greg.
Greg Jennett: All right. Now, subject to events in the US this week, and I admit here Don, that this is a highly hypothetical question, but if America goes ahead and erects higher tariff walls to Chinese goods entering that country, what do you assess the consequences of that might be for Australia? Could more Chinese manufactured goods enter this country at lower prices?
Minister for Trade: Well, of course, our job, and my job in particular Greg, is to discourage companies from imposing additional trade barriers. Free trade provides peace and prosperity in our region, and my argument to any incoming American government, whether it be a Harris government or a Trump government, is that Australia supports the concept of free trade, and we want to continue to work with countries to ensure that the principles of the World Trade Organisation, the free trade principles, continue to apply to world commerce.
Greg Jennett: Alright, can I tempt you into one or two questions on domestic matters, Don? As Tourism Minister, you’d be well aware of a heightened debate about ministers soliciting upgrades from the national flag carrier, of course, Qantas. If a minister did that, are they in breach of the ministerial code?
Minister for Trade: Look, while I’m up here dealing with trade issues, I think I’ll continue to deal with international issues Greg. And I’ll be happy to talk about those issues when I get back to Australia.
Greg Jennett: Alright, then. Electoral reform, if I can try you on that one as well. Here goes. There are very high expectations, Don Farrell, that this bill will be introduced into the Parliament in the final sitting fortnight. Can you confirm that and is it your expectation that it should also be passed this calendar year?
Minister for Trade: Both of those things are correct. I’d like to see the legislation brought forward before the end of the year and the legislation in place as quickly as possible.
Greg Jennett: Ok, and will that be introduced into the House or into the Senate, where you’re the relevant minister, of course?
Minister for Trade: I’ll sort that out when I get back to Australia Greg.
Greg Jennett: Okay. Well, I understand the constraints, some might even say the conventions, in not addressing domestic matters when abroad Don Farrell. So, we’ll thank you and wish you prosperous negotiations there in Shanghai. Thanks so much for coming on.
Minister for Trade: Thanks very much Greg.
Source: European Parliament
Hate speech and hate crime can destroy lives, harm people and property, threaten individual rights, terrify communities, reduce trust between members of society, create and amplify tensions between social groups, disturb public peace and order, and endanger peaceful coexistence. Hate speech distorts public debate and, at its worst, leads to an abuse of rights that endangers the rule of law. Hate speech and hate crime are incompatible with the EU’s common values and fundamental rights, as enshrined in EU Treaties and in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. EU law currently criminalises hate speech and hate crime, but only if it is related to a limited set of characteristics, namely race, colour, religion, descent or national or ethnic origin. The European Commission, with the support of the European Parliament, would like to widen the scope of the prohibition to include other protected characteristics, such as gender, sexual orientation, age and disability. In December 2021, the Commission proposed to the Council and the Parliament to extend the list of EU crimes under Article 83(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to hate speech and hate crime. With this initiative, the Commission hopes to address Member States’ divergent and fragmented approaches to hate speech and hate crime and to guarantee consistent protection of victims across the EU. In this context, it is important to understand how Member States currently criminalise hate speech and hate crime. This briefing therefore provides an overview of relevant legal provisions in selected EU countries. There are significant differences between Member States, strengthening the argument in favour of harmonising legislation across the EU. This briefing is to be read in conjunction with the briefing ‘Hate speech and hate crime: Time to act?’, published in September 2024.
Source: European Parliament
Competitiveness is a multifaceted concept connected with the need to foster the EU’s productivity, the most important driver of long-term growth. While competitiveness has always been an important focus of attention for EU leaders, the past years of multiple crises and an increasingly complex geopolitical situation have brought the topic to the forefront of the political agenda. Turning the EU into a strong and independent global actor supported by a robust economic base, as well as competitive products and services, has become a core priority for the European Council. Recently, much thinking has gone into ways of strengthening both EU competitiveness and the EU’s internal market. At a special meeting on 17-18 April 2024, the European Council discussed competitiveness extensively. Landmark reports by two Italian former prime ministers – Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi – have also fed into the discussion. Furthermore, in the Strategic Agenda for 2024 to 2029, which sets the European Council’s priorities for the current 5-year institutional cycle, ‘a prosperous and competitive Europe’ features as one of the three core headline objectives, alongside ‘a free and democratic Europe’ and ‘a strong and secure Europe’. Likewise, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s political guidelines also call for ‘a new plan for Europe’s sustainable prosperity and competitiveness’. Competitiveness will be discussed in depth during an informal meeting of Heads of State or Government on 8 November 2024, which is expected to result in a ‘Budapest Declaration’.
Source: European Parliament
The confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate will begin today.
MEPs will evaluate whether the Commissioners-designate are qualified both to be a member of the College and to carry out the particular duties to which they have been assigned.
Find more detailed information about the hearings process and how to follow them.
All hearings are public and can be followed live on Parliament’s webstreaming and Ebs/Ebs+.
Find additional information also on Parliament’s dedicated website on the hearings.
Find here press releases on the hearings.
Today’s hearings schedule is as follows:
14.30 – 17.30, room ANTALL 2Q2
Maroš Šefčovič
Portfolio: Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security; Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency
Responsible committees
Committee on International Trade
Committee on Constitutional Affairs
Contacts
(+32) 477 99 20 73
(+32) 470 96 47 35
(+32) 477 99 11 57
You can watch the hearing live.
Bernd Lange (S&D, Germany), Chair of the Committee on International Trade, and Sven Simon (EPP, Germany), Chair of the Committee on Constitutional Affairs, will hold a press point after the hearing outside the meeting room. You can follow it live on Parliament’s webstreaming and on EbS.
14.30 – 17.30, room ANTALL 4Q2
Glenn Micallef
Portfolio: Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport
Responsible committee
Committee on Culture and Education
Contacts
(+32) 477 99 14 95
(+32) 498 98 14 02
You can watch the hearing live.
Nela Riehl (Greens/EFA, Germany), Chair of the Committee on Culture and Education, will hold a press point after the hearing outside the meeting room. You can follow it live on Parliament’s webstreaming and on EbS.
18.30 – 21.30, room ANTALL 2Q2
Christophe Hansen
Portfolio: Commissioner for Agriculture and Food
Responsible committee
Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development
Contacts
(+32) 484 27 87 54
(+32) 498 98 33 32
You can watch the hearing live.
18.30 – 21.30, room ANTALL 4Q2
Apostolos Tzitzikostas
Portfolio: Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism
Responsible committee
Committee on Transport and Tourism
Contacts
(+32) 470 89 29 21
(+32) 470 96 47 35
You can watch the hearing live.
Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi (EPP, Greece), Chair of the Committee on Transport and Tourism, will hold a press point after the hearing outside the meeting room. You can follow it live on Parliament’s webstreaming and on EbS.
Source: European Parliament
In line with Article 165 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Commission aims to develop a European dimension in sport by supporting and supplementing Member States’ actions.
The Commission promotes and supports a European Sport Model[1] based on the autonomy of sport, the openness of competitions, the value of sporting merit and a solidarity and interdependence between elite and grassroots sport.
The Commission encourages participation in sport and health-enhancing physical activity via the creation of adequate opportunities for sport and physical activity for all generations through communication initiatives and events such as the European Week of Sport[2] and funding opportunities for European projects.
Through its SHARE 2.0 initiative[3], the Commission enhanced stakeholders’ capacity to identify and use EU funding opportunities — such as the cohesion funds and NextGenerationEU — to foster sport and physical activity.
Also, the integrity of athletes, mental health and well-being in sport and dual careers for athletes are supported through the Erasmus+ programme[4].
The Council conclusions on sport innovation[5] adopted in 2021 recognise that innovative sport infrastructures, and the processes for their construction and maintenance, can, among other things, provide better and safer conditions for sport and physical activity.
The Council conclusions on sustainable and accessible sports infrastructure[6] adopted in 2022 address transition to more sustainable sport infrastructure in the broadest social, economic and environmental sense.
Finally, the Commission is committed to identifying and spreading good practices across Member States.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission places significant importance on investing in research and innovation to address plant health challenges, with EUR 189 million allocated over the past 4 years through Horizon Europe[1][2].
Plant health research and innovation, including the development of knowledge and tools to tackle plant pests, remains a priority in the future work programmes under Cluster 6[3] of Horizon Europe.
Cryphonectria parasitica is regulated in the EU as protected zone quarantine pest. Furthermore, the pest is regulated in the EU as Union regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP) and as a result the propagating material specifically of Castanea sativa (chestnuts) introduced into or moved in the whole EU has to be free from the pest.
As Greece is not a protected zone, eradication of the pest is not a legal obligation and therefore no financial contribution from the Single Market Programme is provided for such measures.
However, the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan Regulation[4] offers Member States different possibilities to help farmers cope with pest infestations which may include support for investments, support in form of loans, guarantees and working capital, insurance schemes, cooperation projects and advisory services. I t is up to Member States to plan and implement such measures.
The EU Horizon Europe funded project AdvisoryNetPEST[5] will establish and upgrade a network of advisory services across the EU, increasing the knowledge sharing between advisors, and among the whole AKIS[6], promoting the adoption of innovative solutions on crop protection by farmers.
Source: European Parliament
The Fitness Check of the EU Regulation on Trade in Seal Products[1] and the EU Seal Pups Directive[2] has been launched to assess whether these instruments remain fit for purpose as to their effectiveness, efficiency, coherence, relevance, and EU added value. Such evaluations are common practice in the lifespan of any piece of EU legislation.
A report of the Fitness Check performed by external contractors on behalf of the Commission, which is expected in January 2025, will integrate the results of the public consultation and the call for evidence, a factual summary of which is already available on the Have Your Say portal[3], and of targeted consultations with key stakeholders, as well as own literature review/research to fill possible knowledge gaps.
The report will serve as input to a Commission Staff Working Document to be published in the first quarter of 2025.
On the basis of the Fitness Check findings, the Commission will consider whether further measures are needed.
Source: European Parliament
Directive 2003/88/EC[1] lays down minimum safety and health requirements for the organisation of working time, including minimum 11 consecutive hours of daily rest.
The directive offers significant flexibilities to establish derogations in sectors and situations where this is necessary, including in the defence industry.
Member States may derogate from daily rest for specific activities, such as those involving the need for continuity of service or production.
These derogations may be adopted by national law or collective agreements. Derogations can be introduced for any activity, if adopted by collective agreements. For all derogations the workers concerned must receive equivalent periods of compensatory rest or, exceptionally, appropriate protection.
In Jaeger[2], the Court emphasised the health and safety implications of missing minimum rest periods and held that compensatory rest for missed daily rest must follow immediately after the working time it is supposed to counteract.
Only in entirely exceptional circumstances, where granting equivalent compensatory rest is impossible for objective reasons, appropriate protection can be permissible.
Accordingly, the directive opens the possibility in certain circumstances for shifts to last 24 hours continuously, provided that the conditions to derogate from daily rest are fulfilled.
Member States may choose whether to implement derogations enshrined in the directive and whether to entrust national social partners with it.
The Commission currently does not intend to propose a revision of the directive[3].
Source: European Parliament
The initial Regulation on Trade in Seal Products[1] allowed, as an exception, the placing on the EU market of seal products from hunts regulated by national law and conducted for the sole purpose of the sustainable management of marine resources.
The regulation was amended in 2015[2], removing that exception, to reflect the outcomes of World Trade Organisation rulings in the EU-Seal products case[3].
The Fitness Check of the EU Regulation on Trade in Seal Products and of the EU Seal Pups Directive[4] has been launched to assess their functioning, effectiveness and impact against their objectives, and whether they remain fit for purpose. Such evaluations are common practice in the lifespan of any piece of EU legislation.
A report of the Fitness Check performed by external contractors on behalf of the Commission, which is expected in January 2025, will integrate the results of the public consultation and the call for evidence, a factual summary of which is already available on the Have Your Say portal[5], and of targeted consultations with key stakeholders, as well as own literature review/research to fill possible knowledge gaps.
The report will serve as input to a Commission Staff Working Document to be published in the first quarter of 2025.
On the basis of the Fitness Check findings, the Commission will consider whether further measures are needed.
Source: European Parliament
Member States may provide support for restoration of agricultural potential damaged by natural disasters and for preventive actions in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2021/2115[1].
It is up to Member States to plan those interventions in their CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) and eventually support investments to restore agricultural production potential of mastic crops. Eligible investments may be funded entirely (up to 100%) by EU resources, under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).
The CSP may also offer financial support in form of loans, guarantees or working capital to help farmers restore agricultural potential after such events.
Member States may benefit from exceptional market measures including support packages to address economic difficulties of farmers financed from the agricultural reserve according to the regulation (EU) 1308/2013[2].
In the case of adverse climatic events which can be assimilated to a natural disaster, national authorities may also grant support to farmers from their national budget in line with EU State aid rules[3].
According to the Floods Directive[4], the objectives for risk reduction are determined at national level by the Member States based on local and regional circumstances[5]. The same applies to the selection and prioritisation of measures aiming to reduce the risk from flooding.
For the period 2021-2027, Cohesion Policy supports Greece with some EUR 379 million (public expenditure), to invest on risk prevention and management of floods through targeted measures under the sectoral programmes ‘Environment and climate change’ and ‘Civil Protection’.
Under the regional programme ‘Voreio Aigaio’, EUR 13 million (public expenditure) are granted to flood protection actions.
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 04 NOV 2024 5:01PM by PIB Delhi
The Department of Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), along with its Programme Divisions and Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee National Institute of Water and Sanitation (SPM-NIWAS), successfully completed Special Campaign 4.0. All the divisions of DDWS and SPM-NIWAS made a significant contribution to the Special Campaign 4.0 organized by the Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG).
The aims of the campaign was to improve cleanliness of the offices and clearing pendency in the MP’s references, references from State Governments, Inter-Ministerial references, Parliamentary Assurances, PMO references, Public Grievances and PG Appeals etc. Besides, records of the offices were reviewed and action was taken for weeding out/retention ‘following CSMOP, GFR and Public Record Act, 1993’.
Several cleanliness campaigns were conducted in CGO Complex (including inside the Sanitation Park). 5 PMO/MP references / Assurances were disposed of during the period. 163 pending Public Grievance petitions and 22 Public Grievance appeals were cleared. The offices earned revenue amounting to Rs.1.60 Lakhs on disposal of scrap and obsolete items. With regard to record management, all records have been reviewed and old / obsolete records have been weeded out, as per the schedules, and rest has already been digitized.
*****
DS
(Release ID: 2070621) Visitor Counter : 20
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:42PM by PIB Delhi
954421 Corporal Vikky Pahade Communication Technician is on the posted strength of a Transportable Radar Unit with effect from 16 Oct 23. He was employed as per his trade duty at unit Op location Shahsitar (JK&L).
On 04 May 24, Corporal Vikky Pahade was detailed as armed escort towards collection of ration for the unit from Indian Army Field Supply Depot located 40 kms from the unit’s Op location. At around, 1759h, while returning back from the field supply depot, their vehicle was ambushed by three terrorists near Doba ridge at Shahsitar, 1.5 km short of the Unit Op location.
At the time of ambush, he was seated on the front seat of the vehicle as per his earmarked role. Being on the front seat, he had received heavy and concentrated small arms fire onto him and suffered grievous gunshot wounds in head, neck as well as chest. However, unmindful of his physical condition, he maintained his composure, situational awareness and opened retaliatory fire from his personal weapon (AK-103) onto one of the terrorists who was firing at their vehicle from higher ridges. Because of his retaliatory fire, the terrorist had to hide which allowed the armed air warriors seated behind to open fire on terrorists in a coordinated manner. This brave act of Corporal Vikky Pahade resulted in providing a window of opportunity for rest of the air warriors to open retaliatory fire on the terrorists, thereby saving the precious lives of his team members and prevented other collateral damage to the service property. However, Corporal Vikky Pahade succumbed to his injuries later at Command hospital Udhampur.
For this act of exceptional courage displayed during life threating situation, Corporal Vikky Pahade Communication Technician is awarded with ‘Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) posthumously.
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VK/JS/SM
(Release ID: 2096087) Visitor Counter : 55
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:45PM by PIB Delhi
Flight Lieutenant Tarun Nair (35964) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of the IAF on 16 Jun 18 and is on the posted strength of a MiG-29 Squadron since 03 Aug 19.
On 12 Mar 24, Flt Lt Tarun Nair was authorized to fly a valley flying sortie as a leader in a MiG-29 aircraft in heavy weight configuration. Immediately after getting airborne, while turning towards the first waypoint, at a low altitude of 1.3 km, Flt Lt Nair encountered multiple failure indications. As the pilot was in the process of taking emergency actions, the situation deteriorated rapidly with the control stick moving to its extreme left and back position resulting in a sharp roll to the left and abrupt pitch up with ‘g’ indicating 12.5 g and Angle of Attack indicating -12° on the displays along with associated audio and visual warnings. The pilot immediately took actions to control the aircraft by overpowering the control stick forces and disengaging the Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS). The situation was most unusual as the indications did not correspond to a failure of a single system. The pilot undertook actions as per SOP however the situation did not improve. During this time, he had to keep the aircraft under control by flying manually while countering heavy forces on control stick and severe oscillations in pitch and roll. The pilot had to counter the heavy forces for over an hour because of the need to consume fuel. In his third attempt at a slow speed check, the minimum controllable speed allowed an approach to be attempted.
Under such a situation, the landing approach management was precarious and posed severe problems in alignment and maintenance of flight path. However, the pilot retained his composure and executed a flawless approach and landing. Upon touchdown, he immediately took actions to safely stop the aircraft and maintain on the runway despite the high landing speed and control problems. The pilot through his watchfulness, superior judgment, skills and composure retrieved a dangerous situation. He prevented loss of a valuable combat asset of the IAF and averted a possible mishap which could have resulted in loss of civilian life and property.
For this act of exceptional courage, very high standard of professionalism and contribution to aerospace safety, Flt Lt Tarun Nair is awarded with ‘Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)’.
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VK/JS/SM
(Release ID: 2096089) Visitor Counter : 29
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:47PM by PIB Delhi
Group Captain Ankit Raj Singh (28175) was commissioned as a pilot in the Flying branch of the IAF on 18 Dec 04 and is posted as the Commanding Officer of a C-130 Squadron wef 29 May 23. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor with more than 7500 hours of flying experience.
On 09 April 24, the officer displayed an act of gallantry by flying a mission to the North Forward Area Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) amidst the darkness of new moon night, facing intense risks to own safety and equipment, all to prioritise Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) of an injured soldier with an amputated hand.
As the Commanding Officer of a Special Ops Squadron of IAF, the officer demonstrated swift actions in limited timeframe, unparalleled courage and tactical acumen during a critical CASEVAC sortie. In the face of immense challenges, including navigating through unforgiving terrain, limited lighting conditions and constricted timelines to salvage the amputated hand of the injured Sepoy, he fearlessly orchestrated the activation of Leh ALG, validating the night operation capability of C-130J. Particularly notable was the officer’s daring initiative to plan the first ever transport aircraft mission to a forward base, into the hills, under the cover of darkness of new moon. Ensuring quick launch which was critical for mission success, he executed CASEVAC with utmost safety, which ultimately saved the limb of the injured Sepoy. His unwavering commitment to duty, precise on-the-go planning and navigating treacherous terrain to conduct a safe operation in complete darkness, utilising Night Vision Goggles, testify his dedication to the well-being of his comrades and the mission’s success.
For his selfless act of exceptional courage and valour, Group Captain Ankit Raj Singh is awarded with ‘Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)’.
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VK/JS/SM
(Release ID: 2096090) Visitor Counter : 26
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:44PM by PIB Delhi
Flight Lieutenant Aman Singh Hans (36412) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of the IAF on 15 Jun 19 and is on the posted strength of a MiG-29 Sqn since 07 Sep 20.
On 28 Mar 24, the officer was authorised to fly a long range ferry mission on MiG-29 aircraft by dark night, towards Exercise Gagan Shakti-24. After 20 minutes of flying time, at an altitude of 28,000 feet (8.5 km), the pilot felt a sudden blast in the cockpit with aircraft Head Up Display and visual reference to fly, blanking off. He realised that the canopy of the aircraft had flown off, exposing him to severe weather conditions with temperatures of minus 35° – 40° Celsius, dangers of decompression sickness, hypoxia and wind blast affecting eyes at that altitude and high speeds. In this grave situation, he maintained his composure and quickly took control of the aircraft. While flying on head down instruments, he announced the emergency using standby radio control, kept clear of the civil flying in the proximity and descended to a lower altitude of 3 km with no radio reception and severe pain in the eyes. He conveyed the flight information with utmost clarity to the controlling agencies and took prompt decision to land at the nearest airbase. He correctly assessed aircraft weight required for landing due to heavy fuel configuration and made a safe landing at the earliest.
Despite imminent danger to his own self and inhospitable environmental conditions, he displayed astute presence of mind, controlled the aircraft and initiated the recovery. His prompt actions and exemplary situational awareness led to the recovery of the aircraft which otherwise could have been catastrophic, leading to loss of an asset to the IAF and collateral damage to civilian property.
For an act of exceptional courage, displaying indomitable valour and exemplary gallantry beyond call of duty, Flight Lieutenant Aman Singh Hans is awarded with ‘Shaurya Chakra’.
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VK/JS/SM
(Release ID: 2096088) Visitor Counter : 43
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:50PM by PIB Delhi
Wing Commander Akshay Saxena (29020) was commissioned as a pilot in the Flying branch of the IAF on 17 Jun 2006 and is on the posted strength of a C-17 Squadron since 01 Feb 2021.
On 16 Mar 2024, the officer executed a mission in support of Op Sankalp aimed at anti piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. He airdropped two Combat Rubberised Raiding Craft (CRRC) boats and a team of 18 MARCOs with combat load to capture a Pirate controlled ship which was not only launching attacks on merchant vessels in the Arabian Sea but also opened fire at INS Kolkata and had shot down a naval spotter drone on 15 Mar 24. The objective area was near the Somalian coast, 1450 NMs off Mumbai and 540 NMs out of Indian FIR. Due to the time critical and secret nature of the mission, he finalised suitable crew and ensured aircraft readiness for a quick launch.
The mission involved real threat of small arms with the pirates over and above the extended mission timelines which involved flying into airspace of another country undeclared and undetected for close to four hours. The Officer as Captain of the C-17 aircraft decided to switch off all emitters, fly low level over high seas in foreign territory and drop at dusk time to avoid detection. Even after receiving the changed drop location only 50 NMs prior to the drop, he guided the crew to safely execute a precision airdrop thus resulting in the capture of the pirates and rescue of MV Ruen with its 17 member crew. He displayed effective inter-service coordination with Indian Navy while maintaining heightened situational awareness both on ground and in air. All possible measures were taken to maintain secrecy of the almost 10 hours long mission. During the flawless execution of the extremely gruelling, mission the officer displayed exceptional courage, dynamic leadership, outstanding professionalism and steadfast determination.
For his act of indomitable courage and conspicuous gallantry Wing Commander Akshay Saxena is awarded with ‘Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)’.
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VK/JS/SM
(Release ID: 2096093) Visitor Counter : 87
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:49PM by PIB Delhi
Squadron Leader Prathamesh D Dongre (35823) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of the IAF on 16 Dec 17 and is on the posted strength of a MiG-21 Bison Sqn since 04 Mar 24.
On 10 May 2024, Sqn Ldr Dongre was authorised to fly a Bison aircraft for an Op task. Due to ongoing repair of runway the take-off was planned from parallel taxy track. Immediately after take-off the pilot experienced ‘Main Hydraulic failure’. Despite a grave emergency at the critical phase of flight he maintained his composure. He aborted the exercise and initiated priority recovery of aircraft. Due to the hydraulic failure, aircraft intake cone remained extended at 30% which reduced the available engine power. The emergency also warranted a flapless landing which is the most demanding configuration of landing on Bison aircraft due to extremely high landing speeds and reduced visibility. The runway was cleared and made available for landing but with only four meter of width on either side of center line due to ongoing repairs. Despite landing with high speed and in flapless configuration, the pilot was able to stop the aircraft 300 meters from end of runway.
The pilot handled the emergency in a most proficient manner and executed a safe heavy weight flapless landing. The seriousness of the emergency can be gauged from the fact that the situation, if not handled timely and correctly, could have led to loss of aircraft or major damage to aircraft.
For his exceptional courage, decision making ability and skillful handling of the vintage MiG-21 Bison aircraft, Sqn Ldr PD Dongre is awarded with ‘Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)’.
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VK/JS/SM
(Release ID: 2096092) Visitor Counter : 15
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:46PM by PIB Delhi
The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed the 15th National Voters’ Day Celebrations in New Delhi today (January 25, 2025). The President presented the Best Electoral Practices Awards to state and district officials who demonstrated exemplary performance in ensuring the smooth conduct of elections, on the occasion. She also received the first copy of the book “India Votes 2024: A Saga of Democracy” from the Chief Election Commissioner, Shri Rajiv Kumar.
Addressing the gathering, the President said that it is a matter of pride for all of us that our democracy is not only the oldest democracy in the world but is also the largest, diverse, young, inclusive and sensitive democracy in the world. She stated that India’s democracy is a unique example for the modern world. Many countries of the world are learning from our election system and management.
The President said that the impressive glimpse of our inclusive democracy is visible in elections. The increasing participation of women in elections is an important sign of the overall development of our society and country. She noted that the Election Commission has made special efforts to facilitate the voting process for senior voters above 85 years of age, differently-abled voters and tribal voters living in remote areas. In this way, she said, the Election Commission has set a good example of inclusive and sensitive election management.
The President said that the ideals and responsibilities associated with voting are the main dimensions of our democracy. The Voters’ Pledge issued by the Election Commission can guide all citizens. She stated that along with full faith in democracy, voters should also have the firm resolve that they will exercise their right to vote by rising above all kinds of narrow-mindedness, discrimination and temptation. Enlightened voters strengthen our democracy, she added.
Since 2011, National Voters’ Day has been observed annually on January 25 to commemorate the foundation day of the Election Commission of India. This event aims to underline the centrality of the voter, raise electoral awareness among citizens and inspire their active participation in the democratic process.
Please click here to see the President’s Speech –
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MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2096091) Visitor Counter : 18
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 3:56PM by PIB Delhi
As part of the 76th Republic Day Celebrations (RDC), Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth gave away prizes to the winners of the National School Band Competition in New Delhi on January 25, 2025. The jury appointed by the Ministry of Defence, which included members from each wing of the Armed Forces, selected the winners upon the culmination of the Grand Finale of the Competition which was held on January 24 & 25, 2025. The winners are:
The top three teams in each category were given a cash prize (1st – Rs 21,000/-, 2nd – Rs 16,000/- & 3rd – Rs 11,000/-), a trophy and a certificate. A consolation cash prize of Rs 3,000/- each was given to the remaining team in each category.
The winner of Pipe Band Girls – PM Shri Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, Patamda, East Singhbum, Jharkhand (Eastern Zone) along with the military band team – will be a star attraction during the RD Parade at Kartavya Path on January 26, 2025 as they will be performing at the rostrum.
Two other bands – PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 2 Belagavi Cantt. Karnataka (Southern Zone) and Government Sr. Sec. School West Point, Gangtok, Sikkim (Eastern Zone) – will perform at Vijay Chowk during the Beating Retreat Ceremony on January 29, 2025.
In his address, Raksha Rajya Mantri described the winners as well as the participants of the competition as the brand ambassadors of Viksit Bharat, a vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He urged the youth to keep the nation first and strive to make India a developed nation by 2047.
From RDC 2023 onwards, the National School Band Competition is being jointly conducted by Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Education. A School Band evokes a feeling of oneness, belonging and pride in school children towards their school and country.
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SR/KB/SS
(Release ID: 2096108) Visitor Counter : 69
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:53PM by PIB Delhi
Wing Commander Ankit Sood (29873) was commissioned as a pilot in the Flying branch of the IAF on 21 Jun 08. He is an Experimental Test Pilot and a Type Check Pilot and is on the posted strength of a Mi-17-1V Helicopter Unit since 16 Apr 23. The officer has a total of 2100 hrs of accident/ incident free flying on 10 different types of helicopters, including 1400 hrs on Mi-17 type.
In the aftermath of unprecedented rainfall in Himachal Pradesh, his Unit was tasked to undertake CASEVAC operations in Kullu and Mandi districts at short notice. On 24 Aug 23, the officer piloted the aircraft in deteriorating weather conditions from Jammu to the narrow valleys of Kullu, where 12 critical patients were stranded and as a life saving measure required immediate evacuation to PGI, Chandigarh. Inclement weather, unforgiving hilly terrain, high All Up Weight and time sensitivity of the missions demanded the aircraft to be flown at the limits of its manoeuvre envelope and the fatigue limits of the operating crew. In the absence of any standard landing site and rapidly darkening skies, the determined officer pressed on with single minded focus of saving precious lives. Despite the low clouding in the valley and landslides in the operating area, Wg Cdr Ankit Sood in the spirit of a true air warrior, disregarded his personal safety, demonstrated mature decision making and carried out landings at non-standard areas at four villages to successfully evacuate all patients. Combating harsh terrain and weather, officer landed at Chandigarh close to sunset from where all patients were transferred to PGI. Subsequently, officer was tasked to undertake Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations Ex-Mandi. He demonstrated deft handling of the aircraft to effect landings at constricted areas and skillfully hovered at low heights to deliver ration and medicals kits. He promptly planned and safely executed over 68 critical missions in a span of next five days in which more than 34,000 kgs of critical relief material was delivered, saving many marooned lives.
For this act of exceptional courage, professional competence and extreme dedication beyond the call of duty in undertaking high risk missions to save precious lives under hostile weather conditions, Wing Commander Ankit Sood is awarded with ‘Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)’.
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VK/JS/SM
(Release ID: 2096094) Visitor Counter : 84
Source: Government of India (2)
The ceremony to showcase India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development & military prowess; Special focus on 75 years of enactment of the Constitution
Around 10,000 Special Guests from different walks of life to witness the parade
31 Tableaux to roll down Kartavya Path on the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’; In a first, a Tri-services tableau to display the spirit of jointness & integration among the Armed Forces
Cultural performance by 5,000 artists to cover entire Kartavya Path for the first time
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:58PM by PIB Delhi
President Smt Droupadi Murmu will lead the Nation in celebrating the 76th Republic Day from Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2025. With special focus on 75 years of enactment of the Constitution and Jan Bhagidari, the celebrations this year will be a unique blend of India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development and military prowess. President of the Republic of Indonesia Mr Prabowo Subianto will be the Chief Guest.
Around 10,000 Special Guests have been invited to witness the parade, in line with the Government’s objective to increase ‘Jan Bhagidari’ in events of national importance. These Special Guests from different walks of life are the architects of ‘Swarnim Bharat’. They include best performers in various fields and those who have made best use of the schemes of the Government.
The parade
The Republic Day parade will start at 1030 hrs and run for a duration of approx. 90 minutes. The ceremony will commence with the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to the National War Memorial, where he will lead the nation in paying solemn tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath. Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will head to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade.
The arrival of the President of India and her Indonesian counterpart will be escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the senior most Regiment of the Indian Army. The two Presidents will arrive in the ‘Traditional Buggy’, the practice which made a comeback in 2024 after a gap of 40 years.
As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled followed by the National Anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system.
The parade will be heralded by 300 cultural artists playing ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ with musical instruments of different parts of the country. This indigenous mix of instruments would resonate with the melody, beat and hopes of a billion Indians hearts. The ensemble of instruments includes Shehnai, Sundari, Nadaswaram, Been, Mashak Been, Ransingha – Rajasthan, Flute, Karadi Majalu, Mohuri, Sankha, Tutari, Dhol, Gong, Nishan, Chang, Tasha, Sambal, Chenda, Idakka, Lezim, Thavil, Gudum Baza, Talam and Monbah.
Showering of flower petals will be carried out by Mi-17 1V helicopters from 129 Helicopter Unit in the Dhwaj Formation. Trooping the National Flag, this formation of helicopters will be led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.
The parade will then begin with the President taking the salute. The parade will be commanded by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second-generation officer. Major General Sumit Mehta, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area will be the Parade Second-in-Command.
The proud winners of the highest gallantry awards will follow. They include Param Vir Chakra winners Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) & Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), and Ashok Chakra winner Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd). The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for the most conspicuous act of bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of the enemy, while the Ashok Chakra is awarded for similar acts of valour and self-sacrifice but, other than, in the face of the enemy.
Indonesian Contingent
Kartavya Path will be witness to a march past by the Marching Contingent of Indonesian National Armed Forces and Military Band of Indonesia’s Military Academy. The marching contingent will consist of 152 members, with 190 members in the military band.
Indian Army Contingent
The first Army contingent leading the Mounted Column will be of 61 Cavalry, led by Lt Ahaan Kumar. Raised in 1953, the 61 Cavalry is the only serving active Horsed Cavalry Regiment in the world, with the amalgamation of all the ‘State Horsed Cavalry Units’. It will be followed by nine Mechanised Columns and nine marching contingents.
Tank T-90 (Bhishma); NAG Missile System along with BMP-2 Sarath; BrahMos; Pinaka Multi-launcher Rocket System, Agnibaan Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher; Akash Weapon System; Integrated Battlefield Surveillance System; All-Terrain Vehicle (Chetak), Light Specialist Vehicle (Bajrang), Vehicle Mounted Infantry Mortar System (Airawat), Quick Reaction Force Vehicles (Nandighosh & Tripurantak) and Short-Span Bridging System will also be on display at the Kartavya Path.
Marching down the Kartavya Path will be the contingents of Brigade of the Guards, The Jat Regiment, The Garhwal Rifles, The Mahar Regiment, The Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Regiment, the Corps of Signals, among others.
Tri-Services Tableau
For the first time, a Tri-services tableau will roll down on Kartavya Path, displaying the spirit of jointness and integration. With the theme ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat’, the tableau will depict a Joint Operations Room facilitating networking and communication among the three Services. It would display a battlefield scenario demonstrating a synchronised operation in land, water and air with the indigenous Arjun Main Battle Tank, Tejas MKII fighter aircraft, Advanced Light Helicopter, destroyer INS Visakhapatnam & a Remotely Piloted Aircraft, reflecting the Tri-services synergy in multi-domain operations. These platforms exemplify the vision to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence.
Veterans’ Tableau
Another highlight would be the Veterans’ Tableau on the theme ‘Viksit Bharat ki Ore Sadaiv Agrasar’, a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering spirit of our veterans, who are the symbols of discipline, resilience, and unyielding dedication.
Adding to the display of honor will be the esteemed veterans who have brought glory to India in sports. Among them are Padma Shri awardees Subedar Murlikant Petkar, whose story inspired the Bollywood film Chandu Champion, and Honorary Captain Jitu Rai. Arjuna and Khel Ratna awardees Colonel Balbir Singh Kular, Captain (IN) Homi Motivala, Master Chief Petty Officer Tajinder Toor, Master Warrant Officer Ram Mehar Singh, and Wing Commander Gurmeet Sandhu will also be present.
Representing Nari Shakti will be veteran women officers from all three services – Lieutenant Colonel Ravinderjeet Randhawa, Lieutenant Commander Mani Agarwal, and Flight Lieutenant Ruchi Saha, showcasing the pivotal role of women in shaping our armed forces.
Indian Navy Contingent
The Indian Navy contingent will consist of 144 personnel, led by Lt Cdr Sahil Ahluwalia as Contingent Commander and Lt Cdr Indresh Choudhary, Lt Cdr Kajal Anil Bharani & Lt Devender as Platoon Commanders. It will be followed by the Naval Tableau, depicting a strong ‘Aatmanirbhar’ Navy capable of protecting India’s maritime interests.
The tableau showcases the newly-commissioned indigenous frontline state-of-the-art combatants including the Destroyer INS Surat, Frigate INS Nilgiri and Submarine INS Vaghsheer, highlighting India’s rapid progress in indigenous warship design and construction and reinforcing Indian Navy’s commitment to build a robust and self-sufficient defence eco system.
Indian Air Force Contingent
The Indian Air Force contingent will comprise four officers and 144 personnel, led by Sqn Ldr Mahender Singh Garati, with Flt Lt Nepo Moirangthem, Flt Lt Damini Deshmukh & Fg Offr Abhinav Gorsi being supernumerary officers. It will be followed by a fly-past by three MiG-29 aircraft in ‘Baaz Formation’.
Indian Coast Guard
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) contingent will be led by Deputy Commandant Navita Thakran followed by three officers of the guard – Deputy Commandant Sumit Kumar, Deputy Commandant Pankaj Saini and Assistant Commandant Priya Balurkar.
It will be followed by a tableau of ICG focussing on coastal security and maritime search and rescue. The theme is ‘Swarnim Bharat: Heritage and Progress’.
DRDO Tableau & Equipment
DRDO will display some path-breaking innovations for national security during the parade. The DRDO Tableau, with the theme ‘Raksha Kavach – Multi-layer Protection against Multi-domain Threats’ will feature Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile; Airborne Early Warning & Control System; 155 mm/52 Cal Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System; Drone Detect, Deter & Destroy; Satellite-Based Surveillance System; Medium Power Radar – Arudhra; Advanced Light Weight Torpedo; Electronic Warfare System – Dharashakti; Laser-Based Directed Energy Weapon; Very Short Range Air Defence System; Indigenous Unmanned Aerial System; V/UHF Manpack Software Defined Radio for Land Forces; Indigenous Secure Satellite Phone and UGRAM Assault Rifle.
Apart from this, DRDO’s major landmarks of 2024 will also be showcased in the tableau posters namely Long Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile; Light Weight Bullet Proof Jacket ‘ABHED’; Divyastra – Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle; ‘Zorawar’ Light Tank and the Dornier Mid-Life Upgrade with radar, Electronic Warfare System, Software Defined Radio etc.
Contingents of paramilitary & other auxiliary civil forces
Among the contingents marching down the Kartavya Path will be a 148-member all-women marching contingent of Central Reserve Police Force, led by Assistant Commandant Aishwarya Joy M. The marching contingent of Railway Protection Force will be led by Divisional Security Commissioner Aditya.
The Assam Rifles contingent will be led by Captain Karanveer Singh Kumbhavat of 29 Assam Rifles. It will comprise soldiers recruited from all over the country.
The Delhi Police marching contingent will be led by Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Rishi Kumar Singh. The Delhi Police all-women band will be participating for the second time, led by Band Master Ruyangunuo Kense.
The Camel contingent of Border Security Force will be under the command of Deputy Commandant Manohar Singh Kheechee.
The all-girls marching contingent of NCC – SW (Girls) – will be led by Senior Under Officer Ekta Kumari of Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Directorate. The all-boys marching contingent – SD (Boys) – will be led by Senior Under Officer Prasad Prakash Waikul of Maharashtra Directorate. The National Service Scheme (NSS) marching contingent of 148 volunteers will be led by Mr Deepak from Punjab.
Tableaux
Tableaux from 16 State Government/Union Territories and 10 Ministries/Departments of the Central Government highlighting ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’, will participate in the parade this year. These tableaux would showcase India’s diverse strengths and its constantly-evolving cultural inclusiveness marching into a glorious future. The details of the participating tableaux of States/UTs are as follows:
|
States/UTs |
||
|
Cultural Heritage of Goa |
||
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Uttarakhand
|
Uttarakhand: Cultural Heritage and Adventure Sports |
|
|
Haryana
|
Showcasing Bhagwad Gita |
|
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Jharkhand
|
Swarnim Jharkhand: A Legacy of Heritage and Progress |
|
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Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas |
||
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Andhra Pradesh |
Etikoppaka Bommalu- Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys |
|
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Punjab as the land of knowledge and wisdom |
||
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Uttar Pradesh |
Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat Virasat aur Vikas |
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Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas (Nalanda Vishwavidyalya) |
||
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Madhya Pradesh |
Madhya Pradesh’s Glory: Kuno National park- The land of CHeetahs |
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Tripura
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Eternal Reverence: The worship of 14 Deities in Tripura – Kharchi Puja |
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Karnataka
|
Lakkundi: Cradle of Stone craft |
|
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West Bengal |
The ‘Lakshmir Bhandar’ & ‘Lok Prasar Prakalpa’ – Empowering Lives and Fostering Self-Reliance in Bengal |
|
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Chandigarh |
Chandigarh: A Harmonious Blend of Heritage, Innovation and Sustainability |
|
|
Quality Education |
||
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Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu |
Daman Aviary Bird Park along with Kukri Memorial- a tribute to the valiant sailors of the Indian Navy |
The details of tableaux of Ministries/Departments are as follows:
|
Departments/Ministries |
||
|
Department of Social Justice and Empowerment |
The Constitution of India, a cornerstone of our Virasat (Heritage), Vikas and Path-Pradarshak |
|
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Ministry of Tribal Affairs |
Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh |
|
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Ministry of Women & Child Development |
Multifaceted journey of women and children nurtured under the Ministry’s comprehensive schemes |
|
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Ministry of New & Renewable Energy |
Swarnim Bharat: Heritage and Development |
|
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Ministry of Rural Development |
Lakhpati Didi |
|
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Department of Financial Services |
India’s remarkable journey in financial evolution |
|
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Ministry of Earth Sciences (IMD) |
Modern Science forecasting extreme weather conditioning- saving lives and livelihood |
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Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying |
Golden India Heritage and Development Honouring India’s Indigenous Bovine Breeds as Icons of Sustainable Rural Growth |
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Ministry of Culture |
Swarnim Bharat: Heritage and Development |
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75 Years of Constitution of India through flower tableau |
Cultural Performance
This year, 5,000 artists in a title of ‘Jayati Jaya Mamaḧ Bharatam’ will perform over 45 dance forms from different part of the country in a 11-minute cultural performance. For the first time, the performance will cover the entire Kartavya Path – from Vijay Chowk to C hexagon – to ensure that all guests get the same viewing experience.
Motorcycle Display
The Corps of Signals Motorcycle Rider Display Team, famously known as ‘The Dare Devils’, will carry out breath-taking stunts during the motorcycle display. The team will showcase their bravery and determination through a number of formations, including Bullet Salute, Tank Top, Double Jimmy, Devils Down, Ladder Salute, Shatrujeet, Shraddhanjali, Mercury Peak, Info Warriors, Lotus and Human Pyramid.
Fly-past
One of the most eagerly-awaited events of the parade, the ‘Fly-past’ will witness a breath-taking air show by 40 aircraft/helicopters – 22 fighter jets, 11 transport aircraft and seven helicopters – of IAF. These include Rafale, Su-30, Jaguar, C-130, C-295, C-17, AWACS, Dornier-228 & An-32 aircraft and Apache & Mi-17 helicopters. They will display a variety of formations including Dhwaj, Ajay, Satluj, Rakshak, Arjan, Netra, Bheem, Amrit, Vajrang, Trishul and Vijay. The concluding Vertical Charlie maneuver will be performed by a Rafale fighter aircraft.
The ceremony will culminate with the national anthem and the release of balloons carrying banners with the official logo depicting 75 years of enactment of the Constitution in both English and Hindi.
A number of unique activities have been carried out as part of the celebrations. These include:
Rashtraparv Portal & Mobile App
‘Rashtraparv Portal’ portal and mobile App (Apple play and Msewa) have been launched to facilitate access to information related to national events such as Republic Day, Beating Retreat Ceremony, Independence Day; live streaming, purchase of tickets, provide information related to seating arrangements & route-maps of events etc.
Ease of Access
Special Guests
Approximately 10,000 Special Guests in 34 categories, including the Sarpanches from villages excelling in key government schemes, have been invited as Special Guests to witness the parade this year. Details are as follows:
|
S No |
Category |
No of Guests |
|
|
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Sarpanches |
500 |
|
|
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Sarpanches from top performing village |
200 |
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|
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Disaster Relief Workers |
300 |
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|
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Guests from Vibrant Villages |
300 |
|
|
|
Best performing Water Warriors |
400 |
|
|
|
Primary Agriculture Credit (PAC) Societies |
200 |
|
|
|
Pani Samitee |
400 |
|
|
|
Community Resource Person (Krishi Sakhi, Udhyog Sakhi etc.) |
400
|
|
|
|
SHG members |
200 |
|
|
|
Trainees of DGT got training under National Skill Development Corporation |
200 |
|
|
|
PM YASASVI Scheme |
400 |
|
|
|
Forest & Wildlife conservation volunteers/workers |
200 |
|
|
|
Handloom Artisans |
200 |
|
|
|
Handicraft Artisans |
200 |
|
|
|
Special Achievers and Tribal beneficiaries of various schemes |
500
|
|
|
|
ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) |
500 |
|
|
|
Mann Ki Baat Participants |
400 |
|
|
|
My Bharat Volunteers |
400 |
|
|
|
Paralympic Contingent & winners of International Sports events |
200 |
|
|
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Agriculture Infrastructure Fund scheme, Farmers Producing Organisation, Padma Awardee Farmers, PMKISAN, PMFBY, PMKSY |
800 |
|
|
|
PM Surya Ghar Yojna |
400 |
|
|
|
Renewable Energy workers |
200 |
|
|
|
Beneficiaries of PM KUSUM scheme |
200 |
|
|
|
Anganwadi Workers |
400 |
|
|
|
Road Construction Workers |
300 |
|
|
|
Best Start-Ups |
100 |
|
|
|
Best Patent Holders |
100 |
|
|
|
PM-VISHWAKARMA yojana Beneficiaries |
200 |
|
|
|
PM Matasya Sampada Yojana Beneficiaries |
200 |
|
|
|
Rashtriya Gokul Mission beneficiaries |
200 |
|
|
|
Guests from North Eastern States |
200 |
|
|
|
Foreign Cadets of Youth Exchange Programme/NCC |
250 |
|
|
|
Finalist of the National School Band Competition |
600 |
|
|
|
Winners of Veer Gatha 4.0 |
100 |
Beating Retreat Ceremony
RDC comes to a close with the ‘Beating Retreat Ceremony’, which is held every year on the 29th January at Vijay Chowk. It marks a centuries old military tradition, when the troops ceased fighting, sheathed their arms, withdrew from the battlefield and returned to the camps at sunset at the sounding of the Retreat. Colours and Standards are cased and flags lowered. During the Beating Retreat Ceremony 2025, only Indian Tunes will be played by all the participating bands.
Bharat Parv
‘Bharat Parv’ will be organised at the Red Fort, Delhi from January 26-31, 2025 by the Ministry of Tourism. It will showcase Republic Day Tableaux, performances by the Military Bands (Static), cultural performances, Food Courts serving pan India cuisines and Crafts Bazaar.
PM’s NCC Rally
PM’s NCC rally, with the theme of ‘Yuva Shakti-Viksit Bharat’ is scheduled to be organised at Cariappa Parade Ground, Delhi Cantt. on January 27, 2025. During the event, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will review the multifarious activities of the NCC.
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VK/SR/Savvy/KB
(Release ID: 2096097) Visitor Counter : 47
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with NCC Cadets, NSS Volunteers, Tribal guests and Tableaux Artists who would be a part of the upcoming Republic Day parade at his residence at Lok Kalyan Marg yesterday (24 Jan 2025). During the interaction, many participants expressed their joy of meeting the Prime Minister in person, to which the PM replied that “this demonstrates the strength of Indian Democracy”.
Interacting with a participant from Munger, Bihar, the PM extended his respects to the land of Munger, acknowledging that Munger is renowned worldwide for yoga and now the entire world is embracing yoga.
Another participant said that initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission and National Health Mission have not only contributed to the country’s progress but have also attracted the youth. She added that everyone was drawn to the Prime Minister like a magnet, and it was a matter of great pride for the nation to have a Prime Minister with such a personality. Shri Modi emphasized that if 140 crore Indians resolve to maintain cleanliness, then India will always remain Swachh.
Another participant from Odisha asked Shri Modi, the actual definition of success, to which he remarked that one should never accept failure. He highlighted that those who accept failure never achieve success, but those who learn from it reach the pinnacle. The Prime Minister emphasized that one should never fear failure, but rather have the spirit to learn from it and those who learn from failure ultimately reach the top.
Upon being asked by a participant what keeps him motivated and energetic, the Prime Minister remarked “Meeting young people like you gives me energy and inspiration”. He highlighted that when he thinks of the farmers in the country, he realizes how many hours they work; when he remembers the soldiers, he reflects on how many hours they stand guard at the borders. The Prime Minister emphasized that everyone works very hard, and if we observe and try to live like them, we feel that we don’t have the right to rest either. He noted that as they fulfill their duties with such dedication, the 140 crore citizens of the country have also entrusted him with duties to fulfill.
The Prime Minister remarked that the habit of waking up early was very beneficial in life. He shared that being an NCC cadet in the past and the habit of waking up early during camps had taught him discipline. The Prime Minister highlighted that even today, his habit of waking up early is a valuable asset, allowing him to complete many tasks before the world wakes up. He encouraged everyone to maintain the habit of waking up early, as it will be very useful to them.
On the topic of learning from great personalities, the Prime Minister shared that we need to learn from everyone, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from great leaders of the past and applying those lessons to serve the nation today.
The Prime Minister asked a participant about her learnings from others during the Republic Day program preparations, to which she replied that building friendships and interacting with various participants and blending together to form a unified India. She added that it has also taught a lot about making adjustments of every kind. Shri Modi was pleased when it was shared by a young participant from a Kashmiri Pandit family that being in the program has taught her to be self-independent. She highlighted that despite never having done household chores before, learning to manage everything independently here has been a significant experience. She emphasized that once she returns home, she will help her mother with the household work alongside her studies.
The Prime Minister was deeply touched when it was shared by a young participant that one of the most important lessons learned here is that family is not only composed of those who live with us at home, but also included the people here – friends and seniors – all forming a big family. The participant emphasized that this is a valuable lesson that will always be remembered. Shri Modi remarked that embracing the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat” as a significant learning from this experience.
Upon being asked by Shri Modi to the participants about their selection or non – selection in the upcoming Republic Day Parade, a participant replied that selection or non-selection was a different matter, but making an effort is a significant achievement in itself. Shri Modi then emphasized that the most important thing is to give your best, regardless of the outcome.
Prime Minister highlighted to the participants, who have spent a month here, that they were able to video conference with their friends and family because of Technology and Digital India which was leading us to Viksit Bharat. He emphasized that there are very few countries around the world that have data as affordable as it is in India. He added that as a result, even the poorest in the country can comfortably talk to their loved ones via video conference. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi asked how many people use UPI and digital payments, remarking that the new generation seems to hardly carry cash in their pockets.
Upon being asked by Shri Modi about what valuable aspects the participants gained from NCC which they didn’t have before, a participant replied punctuality, time management and leadership. Another participant highlighted that the most important lesson learned from NCC was public service, such as organizing blood donation camps and maintaining cleanliness in the surroundings. Highlighting the MY Bharat or Mera Yuva Bharat platform run by the Government of India, PM remarked that over three crore young men and women have registered on this platform. He emphasized that the participants had made significant contributions, including debates on a developed India, quiz competitions, essay writing, and speech contests. He noted that around 30 lakh people across the country were involved in these activities. Shri Modi urged the participants to register in the MY Bharat portal soon.
Discussing the goal set by India and Indians to make Bharat a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) by 2047, the Prime Minister remarked that if 140 crore citizens resolve to do something positive, achieving the goal will not be difficult. He emphasized, “By fulfilling our duties, we can become a significant force in building a developed India”.
Asking the participants that who among us loves our mothers deeply and who loves Mother Earth just as much, Shri Modi stressed that a program ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ that expresses reverence for both our mothers and Mother Earth. He urged everyone to plant a tree in their mother’s name and ensure it never dries up. He added that the first beneficiary of this act will be Mother Earth.
Interacting with a participant from Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Modi highlighted that the unique feature of Arunachal Pradesh was it is where the first rays of the sun reach India. He mentioned that in Arunachal Pradesh, people greet each other with “Jai Hind” instead of “Ram Ram” or “Namaste.” The Prime Minister encouraged everyone to experience the diversity, art, natural beauty, and love of the people in Arunachal Pradesh. He urged people to visit the entire region of Ashtalakshmi, including Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya, mentioning that there is so much to see that even two or three months may not be enough.
Prime Minister asked the participants if there was any work done by the unit that has been widely recognized in their area while working with the NSS team. Sharing his experience, a participant from Jharkhand said that one notable effort involved helping the Mahiri community in Dumka, known for crafting bamboo items. He added that the community faced challenges as their products were only sold seasonally. He said that the unit identified such artisans and connected them with factories that manufacture incense sticks (agarbatti). The Prime Minister highlighted that the forests in Agartala, Tripura produce agar wood, known for its unique and pleasant fragrance. He mentioned that the oil extracted from these trees is highly valuable and among the most expensive oils in the world. He added that the rich aroma of agar has led to the tradition of making incense sticks (agarbatti) with this fragrance.
Shri Modi highlighted the government’s GeM (Government e-Marketplace) portal. He encouraged educated youth to help local artisans and producers register their products on the portal. The Prime Minister explained that by listing products and prices, there is a possibility that the government might place orders for those items, enabling swift transactions. He shared his vision of making 3 crore women from self-help groups (SHGs) in villages become “Lakhpati Didis” and noted that their numbers have already reached 1.3 crore. A participant shared that his mother learned sewing, and now makes traditional Chaniyas worn during Navratri. He added that these chaniyas were even exported abroad. He added that this sets an inspiring example and emphasized that the “Lakhpati Didi” program can play a crucial role in building a developed India.
The Prime Minister was pleased to hear from a participant from Nepal, who expressed excitement about visiting India and meeting him. She also took a moment to thank the Prime Minister for the unconditional hospitality extended to her. Another participant from Mauritius said that on the eve of their departure, the High Commissioner of India to Mauritius met with them and encouraged them to visit India, referring to it as their “second home.” The Prime Minister emphasized that India is not only their second home but also the first home of their forefathers.
The Union Minister for Defence, Shri Rajnath Singh, Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya were present among other dignitaries during the event.
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MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2096135) Visitor Counter : 77
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 5:52PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today congratulated Indore and Udaipur on joining the list of 31 Wetland Accredited Cities in the world. He remarked that this recognition reflects India’s strong commitment to sustainable development and nurturing harmony between nature and urban growth.
Responding to a post by Union Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav on X, the PM said:
“Congratulations to Indore and Udaipur! This recognition reflects our strong commitment to sustainable development and nurturing harmony between nature and urban growth. May this feat inspire everyone to keep working towards creating greener, cleaner and more eco-friendly urban spaces across our nation.”
Congratulations to Indore and Udaipur! This recognition reflects our strong commitment to sustainable development and nurturing harmony between nature and urban growth. May this feat inspire everyone to keep working towards creating greener, cleaner and more eco-friendly urban… https://t.co/yaDGG4Dtea
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2025
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MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2096165) Visitor Counter : 79
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 5:48PM by PIB Delhi
Welcoming the President of Indonesia, H.E. Mr. Prabowo Subianto, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today remarked that various aspects of the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership were discussed. He highlighted that Indonesia was at the core of our Act East Policy and India welcomes Indonesia’s BRICS membership.
In a thread post on X, Shri Modi wrote:
“India is honoured to welcome President Prabowo Subianto.
When we marked our first Republic Day, Indonesia was the guest nation and now, when we are marking 75 years of India being a Republic, President Subianto will be attending the celebrations. We discussed various aspects of the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
@prabowo”
“We discussed ways to deepen India-Indonesia relations in areas such as security, defence manufacturing, trade, FinTech, AI and more. Sectors like food security, energy and disaster management are also areas where we look forward to working closely.”
“India and Indonesia are closely cooperating in various multilateral platforms as well. Indonesia is at the core of our Act East Policy and we welcome Indonesia’s BRICS membership.”
India is honoured to welcome President Prabowo Subianto.
When we marked our first Republic Day, Indonesia was the guest nation and now, when we are marking 75 years of India being a Republic, President Subianto will be attending the celebrations. We discussed various aspects of… pic.twitter.com/8YiWA8zlQb
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2025
We discussed ways to deepen India-Indonesia relations in areas such as security, defence manufacturing, trade, FinTech, AI and more. Sectors like food security, energy and disaster management are also areas where we look forward to working closely. pic.twitter.com/wyYcSPtuYr
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2025
India and Indonesia are closely cooperating in various multilateral platforms as well. Indonesia is at the core of our Act East Policy and we welcome Indonesia’s BRICS membership.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2025
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MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2096164) Visitor Counter : 78
Source: Government of India (2)
Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 5:19PM by PIB Delhi
The 76th Republic Day will be celebrated tomorrow with much fanfare showcasing the rich diversity and strength of our great nation. On this occasion, the Government of India has extended special invitations to over 400 Fishermen/Livestock farmers and their families from across the country to witness the Republic Day Parade at the Kartavya Path on 26th January , 2025.
The 200 Special Guests from the Department of Fisheries also include 6 Special Invitees who will get the opportunity to meet the Hon’ble President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. These include Ms P. Hema Lathan from Karnool, Andhra Pradesh, Mr Gyan Swaroop Sahoo from Puri, Odisha, Mr Yohan Arvind Gavit from Nandurbar, Maharashtra, Ms. Shabnamben Sajidbhai Vhora from Anand, Gujarat, Mr Samdup Bhutia from Soreng, Sikkim, C. Arjun, from South Andaman, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
While the 200 distinguished guests of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying from Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Jammu & Kashmir are the beneficiaries of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) and include MAITRIs (Multi-Purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India), Gopal Ratna Awardees and AI technicians who have significantly contributed to the development of the livestock sector.
Following their participation in the spectacular Republic Day parade ceremony, these Special Guests will have an opportunity to interact with the Union Minister, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D) and Ministry of Panchayati Raj along with Minister of State, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Minister of State, Shri George Kurian, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Minority Affairs at Ashok Hotel, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.
During the interaction, 10 special invitees (5 each from the Department of Fisheries and Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying) will be felicitated by the Union Minister.
To make the experience of these special guests an enriching one, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, has also made special arrangements for their visit to several iconic places in the National Capital. This initiative of the government acknowledges the invaluable contributions by the fishermen, livestock farmers, technicians and their families in advancing the Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Livestock Sector in the country.
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Aditi Agrawal
(Release ID: 2096139) Visitor Counter : 11
Source: Government of India (2)
| Ministry of Home Affairs
President approves conferment of Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards-2024 Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 6:10PM by PIB Delhi The President of India has approved the conferment of Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards – 2024 on 49 persons which includes Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak to 17, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak to 09 and Jeevan Raksha Padak to 23 persons. Six awardees are posthumous. The details are as under: –
Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak
Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak
Jeevan Raksha Padak
Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards are given to a person for meritorious act of human nature in saving the life of a person. The award is given in three categories, namely, Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak and Jeevan Raksha Padak. Persons of all walks of life are eligible for these awards. The award can also be conferred posthumously. The decoration of the award consists of a Medal, Certificate signed by the Union Home Minister and lump sum Monetary Allowance. It is presented to the awardees by the respective Union Ministries/Organizations/State Government to which the awardee belongs. ***** Raj/Vivek/Ashutosh/Rajeev/Priyabhanshu/Pankaj (Release ID: 2096171) |