U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard forces joined the Egyptian Naval Force in executing Exercise Eagle Defender in Safaga, Egypt, and in the Red Sea, Sept. 8-20.
For the first time, U.S. and Egyptian naval forces integrated unmanned systems in a bilateral maritime exercise to uphold the international rules-based order while ensuring maritime security in the Red Sea. Scenarios included: explosive ordnance disposal, mine countermeasures, harbor defense, and the integration of unmanned systems.
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) sailed alongside Egyptian Navy ships during the exercise while several other units also participated.
This is one of many exercises the U.S. military participates in every year with partner nations in the Middle East to enhance partnerships and strengthen interoperability. The combined exercise is designed to broaden levels of cooperation, support long-term regional security, and enhance Egyptian Naval Force interoperability with U.S. naval forces.
The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses nearly 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandeb.
For more information, contact U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs at m-ba-cusnc-publicaffairs@us.navy.mil.
Headline: North Carolina Museum of History Seeks Community Input for Future Exhibits
North Carolina Museum of History Seeks Community Input for Future Exhibits jejohnson6
WHAT: Wilmington Community Gathering
WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 3, 6–7:30 p.m.
WHERE: 1125 North 4th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
DETAILS: The North Carolina Museum of History invites community members in the Wilmington area to participate in an open discussion to help shape the future of the museum’s exhibits. This is an opportunity for the public to share their thoughts on how the state’s layered history should be presented to future visitors.
This event is open to all community members interested in contributing to the storytelling of North Carolina’s history at the state museum. During this gathering, participants will be asked to consider and discuss several key questions, including:
What makes North Carolina unique?
Who should be remembered at the state history museum, and whose stories should be highlighted?
What significant changes have taken place in your community over time?
How can the museum create a stronger connection with visitors from your community?
What advice would you give about how to represent your community’s history at the state museum?
For more information and to register, click here.
About the NC Museum of History
The North Carolina Museum of History, a Smithsonian Affiliate, fosters a passion for North Carolina history. This museum collects and preserves artifacts of state history and educates the public on the history of the state and the nation through exhibits and educational programs. Admission is free. In 2023, more than 355,000 people visited the museum to see some of the 150,000 artifacts in the museum collection. The Museum of History, within the Division of State History Museums, is part of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
About the Smithsonian Affiliations Network
Since 2006, the North Carolina Museum of History has been a Smithsonian Affiliate, part of a select group of museums and cultural, educational, and arts organizations that share Smithsonian resources with the nation. The Smithsonian Affiliations network is a national outreach program that develops long-term collaborative partnerships with museums and other educational and cultural organizations to enrich communities with Smithsonian resources. More information is available ataffiliations.si.edu.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina—its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
The department manages more than 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the NC Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the NC Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the NC Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visitdncr.nc.gov.
Headline: Virtual Walking Tour of ‘Old’ Elizabeth City
Virtual Walking Tour of ‘Old’ Elizabeth City jejohnson6
ELIZABETH CITY
The Museum of the Albemarle will host History for Lunch Wednesday, Oct. 16, at noon in the Gaither Auditorium. Take a stroll down memory lane through Edward Fearing’s collection of photographs of “old” Elizabeth City dating back to the turn of the century. Enjoy exploring Elizabeth City’s growth over the last 125 years.
The Museum will offer the History for Lunch program in-person and through Zoom. To attend the lecture virtually, register in advance by clicking here to receive the link. Registration is not required to attend the lecture in person.
The virtual program is supported by Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle.
About the Museum of the Albemarle
The Museum of the Albemarle is located at 501 S. Water Street, Elizabeth City, NC. (252) 335-1453.www.museumofthealbemarle.com. Find us on Facebook! Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed Sundays and State Holidays. Serving Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hertford, Hyde, Northampton, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Tyrrell, and Washington Counties, the museum is the northeast regional history museum of the North Carolina Division of State History Museums within the N.C.
Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the state agency with the mission to enrich lives and communities and the vision to harness the state’s cultural resources to build North Carolina’s social, cultural, and economic future. Information is available 24/7 atwww.dncr.nc.gov.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the North Carolina Symphony, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visitwww.dncr.nc.gov.
Source: The White House
Our Nation’s nearly 200 Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs) open doors of opportunity for millions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) students. AANAPISIs provide a pathway to the middle class and a better life for their students, many of whom often come from low-income neighborhoods and may be the first in their families to attend college. During AANAPISI Week, we celebrate these critical institutions for the resources and support they provide to students, and we recommit to advancing their mission and success.
AANAPISIs play a critical role in the lives of so many of our Nation’s AA and NHPI students. In addition to a quality education, these institutions meet AA and NHPI students where they are and foster inclusive learning environments — providing tutoring, career development, counseling, culturally and linguistically responsive services, and more. AANAPISIs confer more than half of all associate degrees and more than a third of baccalaureate degrees that AA and NHPI students earn.
My Administration is committed to strengthening our AANAPISIs so that more AA and NHPI students can reach their full potential. My American Rescue Plan delivered $5 billion to AANAPISIs. The Department of Education has invested in increasing the number of diverse and talented teachers by funding programs at Minority Serving Institutions that serve large percentages of AA and NHPI populations. Across my Administration, Federal agencies are working to expand the capacity of AANAPISIs and strengthen their programs. And I re-established the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and released a National Strategy to Advance Equity, Justice, and Opportunity for AA and NHPI Communities. These actions work to ensure AA and NHPI communities have the resources they need to thrive.
My Administration is also working to make college more affordable for all students. We provided a $900 increase to the maximum Pell Grant award — the largest increase in over a decade, canceled debt for hundreds of thousands of borrowers through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, and taken steps to help borrowers manage their payments through income-driven repayment. And earlier this year, I laid out my Administration’s new plans that would cancel student debt for more than 30 million Americans when combined with everything we have done so far.
I have always believed that the American Dream is big enough for everyone — and every generation has benefited by opening the doors of opportunity a bit wider for those behind them. During AANAPISI Week, may we celebrate the nearly 200 institutions across our Nation that ensure generations of AA and NHPI students can pursue the limits of their talents and ambitions. May we recognize that diversity will always be one of our Nation’s greatest strengths. And may we celebrate all our Nation’s AA and NHPI students.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 23 through September 29, 2024, as Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week. I call on public officials, educators, and all the people of the United States to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that acknowledge the many ways these institutions and their graduates contribute to our country.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Sh. Bhupender Yadav to participate in the Beach Clean-Up Campaign in Mumbai tomorrow to mark the International Coastal Clean-up Day International Coastal Clean-up Day is observed every year on the third Saturday of September.
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 7:07PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Sh. Bhupender Yadav will participate in the Beach Clean-Up Campaign on 21 September 2024 (tomorrow) at Juhu Beach in Mumbai. This campaign is being organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the State Government. The Beach Clean-up Campaign will be exercised at more than 100 beaches across coastal States/UTs.
The Ministry launched a Beach Cleaning Drive and introduced the campaign #IamSavingMyBeach on World Environment Day 2018 with the theme “Beat Plastic.” Since 2018, the Ministry has regularly organised beach cleaning activities across all coastal States/Union Territories in collaboration with all coastal States and UTs Governments.
The International Coastal Clean-up Day (ICCD) is observed annually on the third Saturday of September. This day aims to inspire people to clean up beaches, raise awareness about the importance of preserving and protecting the world’s oceans and waterways, and address the issue of marine trash.
In 2021, the Ministry organized beach cleaning activities at all 10 Blue Flag Certified Beaches as part of the 75th Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations. In 2022, the MoEFCC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Earth Sciences, conducted a beach cleaning initiative under the “Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar/Clean Coast Safe Sea” campaign in celebration of International Coastal Clean-up Day (ICCD). The campaign spanned over 75 days across 75 beaches, where more than 15,000 volunteers collected over 1,500 tons of garbage and waste along the Indian coastline.
In 2023, under its G20 Presidency, the Ministry launched the Janbhagidari movement to enhance community participation and raise awareness about the sensitivity of ocean and coastal pollution. This initiative focuses on beach cleaning efforts across all coastal states and union territories. The Mega beach cleaning event was held at Juhu Beach in Mumbai on 21st May 2023, wherein more than 1000 participants (including G20 delegates) having representation of local dignitaries (public representatives), community, NGOs, NCC, NSS, Coast Guards, Corporations, State and Central Government officials participated. A national level Inter-School painting competition for school students of classes 8 to 12 was organized wherein more than 5900 students participated.
In this drive at Juhu Beach, nearly 850 kg of litter, consisting of around 500 kg of plastics and other litter, including single-use plastics and food wrappers, were collected. In India, about 17392 volunteers participated spread across 35 beaches in all coastal States/UTs including Juhu Beach in Mumbai and about 35243 Kg trash collected. Out of which 25% consisted of plastic, followed by glass 11%.
Shri Piyush Goyal, Commerce and Industry Minister during the 1st day of his visit to Vientiane, Lao PDR co-chaired the 21st ASEAN-India Economic Ministers (AEM-India) meeting alongwith H.E. Malaithong Kommasith, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Lao PDR. The Economic Ministers or their representatives from all the 10 ASEAN countries viz. Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam participated in the meeting. Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste joined the Meeting as an observer.
The Ministers reviewed the trade and investment relations between India and ASEAN and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the relations. India and ASEAN registered a bilateral trade of USD 120.9 billion in 2023-24 with ASEAN accounting for 10.9% of India’s global trade.
The Ministers in particular took note of the progress in negotiations for the review of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA). Minister Goyal in his intervention stressed on the need for addressing injury to industries from the existing FTA and the inequitable tariff liberalisation during the review. He also cited India’s ongoing efforts of integrating with other economies through FTAs and highlighted the urgency in upgrading AITIGA which otherwise may lead to diversion of bilateral trade to other regions.
The Ministers reiterated the commitment to ensure that the outcome of the review should be mutually beneficial and commercially meaningful and will make the AITIGA more effective, user-friendly, simple, and trade facilitative for businesses. The Ministers encouraged the AITIGA Joint Committee to expedite the negotiations to conclude the review in 2025.
The review of the AITIGA is a long-standing demand of Indian industry and India is looking forward to an upgraded AITIGA which will address the current asymmetries in bilateral trade and will make trade more balanced and sustainable.
Minister Goyal reiterated India’s request for setting up of Joint Committees under the two separate Agreements on Services and Investment, signed in 2014, to review the implementation of these Agreements.
On the sidelines of AEM-India meeting, Minister Goyal had a productive bilateral meeting with Mrs. Helene Budliger Artieda, Secretary for Economic Affairs, Switzerland. Both sides discussed the progress in ratification of India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement signed on 10th March 2024 and discussed the way forward in facilitating US$100 billion FDI commitment by the EFTA States under the FTA.
Minister Goyal also interacted with the FICCI led industry delegation from India which was visiting Vientiane, Laos to brief the ASEAN-India Economic Ministers on the activities of ASEAN-India Business Council (AIBC). FICCI serves as the AIBC Secretariat from the Indian side. The delegation from AIBC ASEAN also met Minister Goyal separately. Industry from both sides briefed the Minister on their perspective of bilateral trade and their expectations from review of AITIGA.
Our Nation’s nearly 200 Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs) open doors of opportunity for millions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) students. AANAPISIs provide a pathway to the middle class and a better life for their students, many of whom often come from low-income neighborhoods and may be the first in their families to attend college. During AANAPISI Week, we celebrate these critical institutions for the resources and support they provide to students, and we recommit to advancing their mission and success.
AANAPISIs play a critical role in the lives of so many of our Nation’s AA and NHPI students. In addition to a quality education, these institutions meet AA and NHPI students where they are and foster inclusive learning environments — providing tutoring, career development, counseling, culturally and linguistically responsive services, and more. AANAPISIs confer more than half of all associate degrees and more than a third of baccalaureate degrees that AA and NHPI students earn.
My Administration is committed to strengthening our AANAPISIs so that more AA and NHPI students can reach their full potential. My American Rescue Plan delivered $5 billion to AANAPISIs. The Department of Education has invested in increasing the number of diverse and talented teachers by funding programs at Minority Serving Institutions that serve large percentages of AA and NHPI populations. Across my Administration, Federal agencies are working to expand the capacity of AANAPISIs and strengthen their programs. And I re-established the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and released a National Strategy to Advance Equity, Justice, and Opportunity for AA and NHPI Communities. These actions work to ensure AA and NHPI communities have the resources they need to thrive.
My Administration is also working to make college more affordable for all students. We provided a $900 increase to the maximum Pell Grant award — the largest increase in over a decade, canceled debt for hundreds of thousands of borrowers through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, and taken steps to help borrowers manage their payments through income-driven repayment. And earlier this year, I laid out my Administration’s new plans that would cancel student debt for more than 30 million Americans when combined with everything we have done so far.
I have always believed that the American Dream is big enough for everyone — and every generation has benefited by opening the doors of opportunity a bit wider for those behind them. During AANAPISI Week, may we celebrate the nearly 200 institutions across our Nation that ensure generations of AA and NHPI students can pursue the limits of their talents and ambitions. May we recognize that diversity will always be one of our Nation’s greatest strengths. And may we celebrate all our Nation’s AA and NHPI students.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 23 through September 29, 2024, as Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week. I call on public officials, educators, and all the people of the United States to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that acknowledge the many ways these institutions and their graduates contribute to our country.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
The Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI), National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Government of India, is pleased to announce that the Brainstorming Session aimed at understanding and improving response to surveys particularly in high income groups/gated societies held today at the Le Meridien Hotel, New Delhi. The session could bring together the key stakeholders, including policymakers, urban economists, survey agencies, institutions,multilateral organisations like World Bank and ILO, officers from state statistical agencies, regulatory bodies and service agencies of the real estate sector, facility management companies, representatives from Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs) and gated Societies.
Around 150 participants from more than 25 organisations/Housing Societies attended the session. In addition to this, representatives from more than 50 housing societies from different part of the country particularly from the metropolitan cities joined virtually through respective Regional Offices of NSSO. The event marked a significant step in engaging distinguished experts from various domainsalong with the representatives from RWAs/Housing Societies for exploring innovative solutions to improve participation from this specific segment of population and ensure collection of more representative data.
In the opening remarks, Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, MoSPI,highlighted the need for building trust among the respondents of gated societies to enhance the cooperation and its impact on accuracy and reliability of the data. Thereafter, Sh. Anand Kumar, Chairman, RERA, Delhi & Sh. Shiv Das Meena, Chairman, RERA, Tamil Nadu in their addressemphasized the importance of the accurate data for planning and policy purposes. Further, they appealed to all the Housing Societies to cooperate with the NSSO in data collection and urged that RERA will extend all possible support to create awareness on NSSO surveys.
The brainstorming session included presentations on recent trends in response, their effects on data quality, and discussions on leveraging technology and customized strategies to enhance survey participation among high-income groups. The event highlighted international best practices and examined the role of Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in facilitating data collection.
The Experts from distinguished institutes, survey agencies from the State Government and private sector, international organizations & Builder’s Association etc, shared their insights on the possible strategies to mitigate non-response. Asession for sharing the views and open discussions by RWAs was also held.
Based on the discussions, the following major suggestions emerged:
Extensive publicity of the surveys to reach out the general public regarding thepurpose and utility of the surveys through various channels including social media.
Explore feasibility of useof data available at the National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM),
Using the appropriateadministrative machinery for approaching RWAs
Use of alternative mode of data capture such as email/web links/CATI etc.
Similar kind of sessions may be planned atlocal level at different parts of the country for sensitisation.
Using Flexi-timing approach in data collection
Shortening of questionnaire to minimise respondent fatigue
In view of the improved economic and social status of women in high income group, special focus may be given to create awareness among them.
Through this initiative, MoSPI aims to enhance collaboration, build trust, and improve data accuracy and comprehensiveness. The session promotes awareness of NSSO’s data privacy practices and the importance of survey participation for evidence-based policymaking. By engaging directly with high-income groups and gated communities, MoSPI seeks to boost response rates and strengthen survey reliability.
Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship plants 11,778 trees in a day under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative under Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign Shri Jayant Chaudhary, MoS (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship participates in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative; plants a tree in Jan Shikshan Sansthan in Ranchi
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 6:51PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has taken a heartfelt step toward honoring mothers and nurturing the environment with the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, inspired by the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and aligned to the ongoing Swachhta Hi Seva campaign of the government. This noble initiative emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation, encouraging citizens to plant a tree in the name of their mothers to symbolize care, growth, and respect.
On June 5, 2024on the occasion of World Environment Day, Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and planted a Peepal tree at Buddha Jayanti Park in the national capital, marking the beginning of a nationwide movement for environmental conservation.
During his recent visit to the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) in Ranchi, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship,and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Government of India,planted a sapling to mark the ministry’s commitment to this cause. The event was a moving tribute, symbolizing the nurturing role of mothers in shaping lives and society, while highlighting the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.
Simultaneously, Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, MSDE, led the plantation drive at Kaushal Bhawan in New Delhi. In line with the Prime Minister’s clarion call for environmental stewardship, both events served as catalysts for action across the nation, with MSDE actively mobilizing its institutions to participate in this green mission.
Pan-India Engagement Across Skill Development Institutions
The “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign saw enthusiastic participation from various MSDE institutions across India. In total, 11,778 trees were planted across MSDE divisions, including:
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKKs): Special plantation drives were organized across multiple PMKKs, with participants planting saplings and pledging to care for them as part of their commitment to sustainable living.
National Institutes for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) and Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE): Both institutions organized workshops to educate students and the local community on the importance of tree plantation and environmental conservation.
Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs): These institutes actively engaged students and trainers in tree-planting activities, while also incorporating the importance of sustainable practices into their curricula.
These events reflect MSDE’s dedication to not only building a skilled workforce but also promoting responsible citizenship. The widespread participation of students, trainers, and staff from across the nation has amplified the message of sustainability, making “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” a symbol of collective responsibility towards environmental protection.
A Tribute to Mothers and Mother Nature
The “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative is a humble yet profound gesture that embodies the deep respect for mothers while addressing the critical need for environmental conservation. Under the guidance of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, this initiative seeks to inspire citizens across the country to take small yet significant steps in fostering a greener and healthier India.
MSDE is proud to align its institutions and programs with this visionary initiative, ensuring that skill development goes hand-in-hand with sustainability, community building, and national pride.
The Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign with the theme: “Swachhta Swabhav, Swachhta Sanskar” is a significant step towards realizing the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Swachh Bharat, with a comprehensive nationwide series of cleanliness drives, awareness activities, and public engagements.
In a major step towards enhancing India’s information security capabilities, Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE) and Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with an aim to advance research and development in critical areas of Cyber, Quantum, Hardware Security and Cryptology. Special focus on niche technologies like Bharat Post Quantum Cryptography (PQC) algorithms, Blockchain Systems, Hardware Security systems, Quantum Safe VPN and Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs) will contribute to the Indian Army’s mission of technological self-reliance and future battlefield ready and contribute towards ATMANIRBHAR Bharat.
The MoU was signed by Lt Gen KH Gawas, PVSM, VSM, Commandant MCTE and Colonel Commandant Corps of Signals and Dr N Subramanian, Executive Director of SETS, in the presence of Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Government of India, Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary, O/o PSA to GoI, Maj Gen CS Mann, AVSM, VSM, ADG, ADB, Indian Army and Dr. Rakesh Kaur, Adviser/Scientist ‘G’, O/o PSA to GoI.
Key Highlights of the MoU
· Prototyping and Field Trials of cutting-edge technology solutions developed by SETS in AI, Blockchain, Quantum and network security to explore their military applications.
· Training and Capacity Building through joint workshops, seminars and certificate programs in information security.
· Infrastructure development by setting up advanced labs in MCTE to foster joint research and learning in cyber & information security.
· Collaborative approach for developing Bharat PQC algorithms, Hardware Security Systems, PQC based Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and QRNGs and QKD systems under research and development.
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Government of India complimented the contributions of MCTE for technology infusion into Indian Army. He commended the initiative as a milestone in fortifying India’s technological capabilities and emphasized the critical role of cyber and quantum security in national defense. Collaborations, driven by innovative research and prototyping, are essential for preparing India for future challenges. He said that overlapping expertise of MCTE and SETS are poised for a seamless collaboration wherein MoU will serve as a catalyst in this inevitable partnership and significantly contributing towards safe secure cyber environment.
Lt Gen K H Gawas, PVSM, VSM, Commandant MCTE, highlighted the significance of synergy between MCTE and SETS Chennai and its alignment towards the initiative of “Nation First and National Security”. The synergy in multiple domains of Network security, quantum computing and cryptography not only propel the indigenization efforts but also enhance operational efficiency through secure and customised solutions for Indian Army. The partnership aims to exploring innovative solutions and strengthening resilience against emerging threats through collaboration in developing indigenous security infrastructure like Bharat PQC, QRNG, QKD, Quantum Safe VPN and Hardware Security systems.
Dr. N. Subramanian, Executive Director of SETS stated that the MoU marks a pivotal step towards strengthening the nation’s cyber and quantum defense capabilities. By leveraging the combined expertise of SETS and MCTE, the aim is to create robust solutions to emerging security challenges.
The MCTE and SETS partnership reinforces India’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in defense technology as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. By combining the research capabilities of SETS with the military expertise of MCTE, this MoU is expected to generate innovative and creative solutions that will enhance the security of critical military networks and contribute to the nation’s broader cyber defense infrastructure.
The Department of Food and Public Distribution organized a door-to-door awareness campaign on at Firoz Gandhi Camp, New Delhi. The officers and the staff of the department visited the camp in the evening and distributed brooms, dustbins, soaps, sanitizers to the residents of the camp. The officers briefed the residents about the importance of not only keeping their houses clean but also their surroundings. The children of the residents were also sensitized about personal hygiene and keeping their environment clean.
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Meanwhile the following activities were undertaken by the PSUs and Attached offices of the Department.
Food Corporation of India:-Swachhata ki Bhagidari:-
Food Corporation of India, in its Headquarter in New Delhi organized a walkathon to Bengali Market which was flagged off by the CMD, Smt. Vanita Ratan Sharma. Around 120 employees of the Corporation participated in this event. Shouting slogans of Swachhata they generated awareness among the general public about cleanliness. During their walkathon they collected around 150 kgs of garbage which was disposed off in the blue and green dustbins.
Besides this, events like Mini Marathon, human chain formation, walkathon, painting competition for school kids etc. were organized FCI, Regional Offices, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Ahmedabad, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Raipur, Zonal Office West. Mumbai, Zonal Office (East), Kolkata,Divisional Office Kanuur and Food Supply Depot Muzhuppilangadon 19thSeptember 2024.
The Indian Grain Storage Management and Research Institute (IGMRI), Hapur organized a successful cleanliness it its Staff Colony. During the drive, organic waste was collected, which will be used in the compost pit to create nutrient-rich compost for our plants and lawns. Some of the photographs of today’s activity are attached.
Central Warehousing Corporation, Hqrs. Office distributed dustbin to nearby residents for degradable and biodegradable waste disposal in Shahpur Jatt Village, New Delhi
Besides this activities like cleanliness work near Railway Line by Regional Warehouse Corporation , Nishatpura, Bhopal, distribution of Sanitation kits in slums & awareness program on Swachhata Pakhwada in a School Maligaon by Regional Office Guwahati, cleaning of dirty space and earmarking them for horticulture activities by Regional Office, Kochi, plantation under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, at Central Warehouse Chhindwara, Gwalior, establishing selfie centres were also undertaken to observe SHS 2024.
Directorate of Sugar &Vegetable Oils successfully conducted a cleanliness drive as part of the SHS 2024 campaign.
Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority conducted an essary writing competition under SHS 2024.
National Sugar Institute, Kanpur also had a cleanliness drive in its premises.
MY Bharat Volunteers Lead National Cleanliness Drive as Part of Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign Over 8 Lakh Youth Volunteers Remove More Than 12 Lakh kg of Waste Nationwide in First 3 Days
15-Day Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign to Eliminate Single-Use Plastic Waste, Culminating in Massive Coastal and Beach Clean-Up on October 2
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 5:10PM by PIB Delhi
Department of Youth Affairs has taken the lead in actively participating in this year’s Swachhta Hi Seva campaign, taking place from September 17 to October 2, 2024, with the theme “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata.” Youth volunteers across India, under the MY Bharat initiative, are leading this nationwide effort to promote cleanliness and environmental responsibility. The campaign will culminate in Swachh Bharat Diwas on October 2, 2024, reinforcing the commitment to a cleaner and greener India.
(Odisha)
The campaign was formally inaugurated on September 17, 2024, by Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, marking the beginning of a nationwide effort towards creating a cleaner and greener India. On the first day alone, a remarkable 240,808 young volunteers collected 1,75,627 kg of single-use plastic across 1,562 adopted villages, underscoring the significant impact of the youth’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
(Madhya Pradesh)
Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, expressed the government’s vision for this initiative, stating, “We must instill a sense of responsibility and pride in cleanliness among our youth. The Swachhata Hi Seva campaign is not just an initiative; it’s a movement that empowers young Indians to take ownership of their environment. MY Bharat will play a leading role in this nationwide effort, with its youth volunteers at the forefront of driving change and fostering a culture of cleanliness.”
(Maharashtra)
As of September 19, 2024, over 8 lakh MY Bharat youth volunteers have actively participated in the campaign, successfully removing more than 12 lakh kilograms of waste from various locations across the country. Under the campaign, over 7,000 villages, 2,000 community centres, 450 Amrit Sarovars, and other historical and public spaces have been cleaned, showcasing the power of collective action.
(Cleaning of Railway Tracks)
Throughout the campaign, youth volunteers are engaging in extensive cleanliness activities, with a focus on the removal and proper disposal of single-use plastics. These activities are being carried out across institutional premises, adopted villages, and public spaces such as bus stands, railway stations, markets, and heritage sites across India.
(Uttar Pradesh)
The 15-day nationwide drive ‘Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign’ will culminate on October 2, 2024, with extensive beach and coastal area cleaning activities, focusing on the collection and disposal of single-use plastics. Youth volunteers will actively participate, with events organized through the MY Bharat portal, fostering greater community involvement.
(Kerala)
The MY Bharat platform is hosting a dedicated window (https://mybharat.gov.in/mega_events/swachhata-hi-seva) where youth from across India are uploading pictures and videos of their participation in the cleanliness drive, reflecting the spirit of ‘Jan Bhagidari se Jan Andolan’. MY Bharat platform is enabling young Indians to share their efforts and inspire others to join the nationwide movement towards a cleaner and greener India.
President Smt. Droupadi Murmu graces the centenary celebration of the ICAR-National Institute of Secondary Agriculture in Ranchi, Jharkhand today Lac is a small forest product, we will try to get lac recognised as an agricultural product across the country: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Lac processing units will be set up to promote lac products: Union Minister
There is a need to increase the minimum support price of lac, we will make efforts for this in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs: Shri Chouhan
5000 lac producing farmers will be trained at Ranchi Agricultural Education Research Institute: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Ranchi will be made the country’s leading center for Agricultural Education and Research: Union Minister
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 5:32PM by PIB Delhi
The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu graced the centenary celebration of the ICAR-National Institute of Secondary Agriculture (NISA) in Ranchi, Jharkhand today. Speaking on the occasion, the President said that besides making farming a profitable venture, there are three other major challenges before agriculture in the 21st century. It is maintaining food and nutrition security, sustainable use of resources and climate change. She stated that activities related to secondary agriculture can help meet these challenges. The secondary agriculture includes the value addition of primary agricultural products as well as other agriculture-related activities like beekeeping, poultry farming, agricultural tourism etc. She said that agricultural waste can be utilized properly through secondary agriculture activities. They can be processed to make useful and valuable things. In this way, the environment can be protected and the farmers’ income will be increased as well.
The President said that lac is produced in India mainly by the tribal community. It is an important source of their income. She was happy to note that the National Institute of Secondary Agriculture has taken several steps for research and development as well as commercial development of Lac, Natural Resins and Gums. It includes the development of a Small small-scale lac Processing Unit and an Integrated Lac Processing Unit; the development of lac-based natural paints, varnishes and cosmetic products; development of lac-based coating to increase the shelf-life of fruits, vegetables and spices. She expressed confidence that all these steps will help in improving the living standards of tribal brothers and sisters. The President said that NISA has done good work in lac farming. But, there are still many areas in which we can go further. For example, there is a demand for high-quality lac in the pharmaceuticals and cosmetics industries. If the quality, supply chain and marketing of Indian lac are improved, our farmers will be able to supply it in the country and abroad and will get better prices.
Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan participated in the centenary celebrations of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) – National Institute of Secondary Agriculture (NISA). During his address, Shri Chouhan said that today President Smt. Draupadi Murmu is present among us who has a special attachment to Jharkhand. Even when she was the Governor, she has been working a lot for the welfare of the people. The history of lac is as old as India. There is a mention of Lakhshagriha in Mahabharata, that too was made of lac. From then, lac has been cultivated. In today’s time, lac has great importance. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s goal is to double the income of farmers. To increase the income of farmers, the goal is to increase production in the fields, reduce the cost of production, give fair prices for the produce, compensate for losses and diversify farming.
The Union Minister said that we will have to move towards other farming along with traditional farming. Prime Minister Shri Modi has also drawn attention towards agro-forestry i.e. income from trees. He said that if we think about all these aspects, then lac farming is very important. We export lac 400 crore rupees. There are many people associated with this farming who are earning more than 1 lakh rupees. Different groups have also been formed; many of them have an income of 25 to 30 lakh rupees. There are infinite possibilities in lac farming, so lac is important for increasing our income and it is also an alternative to plastic. We can use lac to save the environment from plastic.
Welcoming the women who attended the program, Shri Chouhan said that with the power of women empowerment, our sisters can also cultivate lac very easily. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s goal is to make women Lakhpati Didi, that is, every woman’s income should be at least 1 lakh rupees annually, we have to make arrangements for this. Lakhpati Didi Yojana has been created for this. He said that the department of Lakhpati Didi Yojana is with me. Lakhpati Didis can also be created through lac. We will leave no stone unturned to increase your income more than 1 lakh rupees. The Department of Agriculture and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research are working on how to process lac, increase production and get a fair price after processing, etc. He said that with the President’s visit, lac cultivation should progress here and the problems of the lac producing farmers and the poor should be solved. The poor, tribals and backward people are engaged in this farming, so the production of lac should at least double, they should get more encouragement, their income should increase.
Shri Chouhan said that lac production comes under the Forest Department, therefore, the farmers producing lac do not get the benefit of the schemes of the Agriculture Department. I will try to get lac recognized as an agricultural product across the country. He said that the Government of India will focus on helping in setting up cluster-based processing units of lac so that the processing work becomes easy and the farmers also get a fair price after processing. He said that together with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, we will try to fix the minimum support price (MSP). The cost of lac should be fixed by adding at least 50 percent profit to the cost so that the farmers can get more money. He said that right now 1500 farmers are being trained here. From this year, not 1500 but 5000 farmers will be trained here so that farmers can earn more profit by getting training. He said that I assure that Ranchi will be made the country’s leading center in agricultural education and research.
Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Shri Bhagirath Choudhary said in his address that earlier the slogan of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan was raised and then the dream of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to make the country a developed nation by raising the slogan of Jai Anusandhan is being reflected today. The food provider of this country not only feeds 145 crore people but also works day and night in every field. When prosperity comes to the houses of the food providers, not only the houses develop but the country also develops. The farmer cultivating any crop cannot prosper until he is protected from middlemen. The country can become a developed nation only when the farmers of this country prosper. Lac cultivation is the main source of income for many tribal communities of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
Chapter Convention on Quality Concepts 2024 (CCQC2024) Concludes at Visakhapatnam Steel Plant We need to invest in people to better equip them so that the challenges of the present business environment are met with more confidence- Sri GVN Prasad, Director (Commercial), RINL
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 6:14PM by PIB Delhi
The 2-day Chapter Convention on Quality Concepts 2024 with the theme “Investing in People, Building a Better Future” organized by Quality Circle Forum of India, Visakhapatanam Chapter on 19th and 20th September 2024 successfully concluded today at the Multipurpose hall of Ukku club of Visakhapatnam steel plant.
Speaking at the valedictory program which was held today, the Chief Guest Sri GVN Prasad, Director (Commercial), RINL said that the magnitude of this event is like a mini national convention. He congratulated the entire team of QCFI Visakhapatnam Chapter for bringing over 660 delegates from 34 organisations together and for creating an opportunity to share and learn from each other.
“If we look at the convention theme ‘Investing in People, building a Better Future’, it is very aptly chosen. In order to create a better future, we need to work at our best in the present. In order to sustain in any business, we need to ensure whether the products / services we are delivering really meet the requirements of the customer at a competitive price or not. Organizations do work constantly to deliver the best. However, as the competition is increasing, businesses are required to work at higher precision. Technological improvements and customer choice are dynamically shifting. In this scenario, the only way is to up-skill and empowers the people. For that, we need to invest in people to better equip them so that the challenges of the present business environment are met with more confidence. However, Total Employee Involvement is the key to build a better future for the organization”, Sri GVN prasad added.
“In the Indian steel Industry, particularly at RINL -Vizag Steel, thrust for adopting Quality & Lean concepts has been given utmost importance. I am glad to say that Vizag Steel is the first Public Sector Steel Plant to have implemented 5S as one of the lean management initiatives across the organization. It is worth mentioning that RINL Vizag Steel is the first 5S certified Steel PSU in the country and QCFI has been a trusted partner in our journey and in achieving this mission” Sri GVN Prasad said.
Amidst a thunderous applause, Sri GVN Prasad said that “Vizag Steel(RINL) employees are keeping our flag high at National and International fora in the areas of QCs and 5S. Last year, three LQC teams participated at the International Convention on QC Circles ICQCC 2023 held at Beijing, China and bagged “Gold Awards”. Maintaining the same tempo, RINL is regularly participating in the international fora. This year also we have nominated 3 teams to ICQCC 2024 to be held at Colombo, Sri Lanka in the month of November 2024.”
Speaking on the occasion, Rear Admiral Shri R. Vijay Sekhar, Admiral Superintendent, Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam said that employee involvement is the key to success at the workplace. He reiterated that Organizations need to give top priority for employee involvement and continual improvement initiatives like Quality Circles and 5S Workplace Management system at RINL.
Guests of Honour Shri Sanjay Kumar Sinha, CGM & Head of Projects, NTPC Simhadri, Visakhapatnam, Sri Gnana Sundaram, Head, Coromandel International, Vizag spoke on this occasion and expressed that such Conventions immensely help the members of various organizations in gaining knowledge and they complimented the efforts of QCFI Visakhapatnam in disseminating the knowledge and guiding the surrounding organizations towards higher quality and productivity.
Shri G Gandhi, CGM (HR) and the Chairman of QCFI Visakhapatnam Chapter thanked all the participating organizations for nominating their delegates. Vice Chairman, QCFI Shri Cmde Sanjay Kumar, GM (HR&QA) Naval Dockyard Visakhapatnam thanked all the participating organizations and for active participation of teams in various events.
Honorary Secretary QCFI Visakhapatnam Chapter Shri MECV Sagar congratulated the Awardees for their excellent case study presentations, and Prize Winners of various events thanked all the member organizations in making this mega event of CCQC 2024 a grand success by nominating maximum number of delegates this year. Later, the dignitaries presented awards to the delegates who excelled in various competitions conducted on the occasion.
Ministry achieves 100 days target on the International Big Cat Alliance Framework Agreement has been approved by the Cabinet recently and India became a member of IBCA
Four countries have become members of IBCA including India, Nicaragua, Eswatini and Somalia
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 6:31PM by PIB Delhi
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the proposal of India to become a member country of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) by signing and ratification of the Framework Agreement on the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA).
On the occasion of Commemorating 50 years of India’s Project Tiger on April 9, 2023 the Prime Minister launched an International Big Cat Alliance aiming at securing the future of big cats and landscapes they thrive. Seven big cats include Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar and the Cheetah. Out of these five big cats viz. Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard and Cheetah are found in India.
The Union Cabinet in its meeting held on 29.02.2024 approved the establishment of International Big Cat Alliance with Headquarters in India with a one-time budgetary support of Rs. 150 crores for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
The Copy of the signed Frame work agreement was handed over by IG Forests, MoEFCC to Interim Head of IBCA today.
The International Big Cat Alliance aims to be multi-country, multi-agency coalition of 95 big cat range countries, non-range countries interested in big cat conservation, conservation partners and scientific organizations working in the field of big cat conservation besides business groups and corporates willing to contribute to the cause of big cats, to establish networks and develop synergies in a focused manner so as to bring to a common platform a centralized repository of successful practices and personnel, backed by financial support which can be leveraged to strengthen the conservation agenda in the field to arrest decline in big cat population and reverse the trend. This is a demonstrative step in leadership position on big cat agenda, to bring range countries and others on a common platform.
IBCA envisages synergy through a collaborative platform for increased dissemination of gold standard big cat conservation practices, provides access to a central common repository of technical know-how and corpus of funds, strengthens the existing species-specific intergovernmental platforms, networks and transnational initiatives on conservation and protection and assists securing our ecological future and mitigate adverse effects of climate change.
All UN member countries are eligible for becoming the member of IBCA. Twenty-four (24) countries (including India) have consented to be members of IBCA. Nine International Organizations have also consented to be partner organization of IBCA. Framework Agreement has been approved by the Cabinet recently and India became a member of IBCA. So far 4 countries have become member of IBCA including India, Nicaragua, Eswatini and Somalia.
The Framework Agreement is intent to establish IBCA to collectively address common challenges for the protection and conservation of seven Big Cats in the world. The parties to this agreement shall be guided by the principles of coordinated action for protection and conservation of seven big cats, seeking the benefits of collective action under the IBCA.
The Alliance focuses on sustainable use of natural resources and mitigates challenges emanating from climate change. By safeguarding big cats and their habitats, the IBCA contributes to natural climate adaptation, water and food security and well-being of thousands of communities reliant on these ecosystems. IBCA would instill cooperation among countries for mutual benefit and immensely contribute in furthering long-term conservation agenda.
India becoming a founder member of International Big Cat Alliance is a great moment that demonstrates country’s leadership in conservation and sustenance of Big Cats. It will definitely help in mutual benefit and understanding in the areas of Big Cats conservation across the globe.
India to host World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit early next year, covering the entire gamut of Media and Entertainment industry WAVES would position India as an unparalleled global powerhouse in the M&E landscape says Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of I&B
‘Create in India’ Challenge Season 1of WAVES thrown open, Shri Jaju exhorts youth to participate in large numbers
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 5:08PM by PIB Hyderabad
The Government of India is gearing up to host the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) early next year from 5th to 9th February to bolster India’s Media & Entertainment industry and extend its global influence.
Speaking at a roadshow to promote WAVES at the Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University (JNAFAU) in the city today, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju said that WAVES would be the first-ever global summit covering the entire gamut of Media and Entertainment industry. Participating in the event, Shri Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, Department of IT, Electronics & Communications of Government of Telangana said that the state has a curated ecosystem to promote innovations in this sector and would be glad to take it to the national level.
Secretary I&B Shri Sanjay Jaju briefing about WAVES summit in Hyderabad
Shi Jaju said that WAVES would see a close coordinated efforts between the M&E industry and technology. WAVES aims to be a premier forum, fostering dialogue, trade collaboration and innovation within the evolving M&E industry landscape. The Summit will convene industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators to explore opportunities, tackle challenges, attract trade to India, and shape the sector’s future.
Earlier in the day Secretary I&B Shri Sanjay Jaju met the Film Associations and the industry leaders of the AVGC sector. In the meeting organised by the CBFC Regional office of Hyderabad, he promised strict implementation of punitive measures against piracy faced by the film industry. Shri Jaju also assured Government support to the gaming industry stakeholders.
Shi Jaju said that WAVES would see a close coordinated efforts between the M&E industry and technology. WAVES aims to be a premier forum, fostering dialogue, trade collaboration and innovation within the evolving M&E industry landscape. The Summit will convene industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators to explore opportunities, tackle challenges, attract trade to India, and shape the sector’s future.
Earlier in the day Secretary I&B Shri Sanjay Jaju met the Film Associations and the industry leaders of the AVGC sector. In the meeting organised by the CBFC Regional office of Hyderabad, he promised strict implementation of punitive measures against piracy faced by the film industry. Shri Jaju also assured Government support to the gaming industry stakeholders.
Meeting of film associations and AVGC sector stakeholders being addressed by Shri Sanjay Jaju
and Shri Jayesh Ranjan
Sh Ajay Dhoke, GM of NFDC and CEO of WAVES, Sh Rajendra Singh, CEO of CBFC,
Smt Shifali Kumar, RO and Shri Rahul Gowlikar EO from CBFC Hyderabad participated in the meeting.
MY Bharat Volunteers Lead National Cleanliness Drive as Part of Swachhata He Seva Campaign Over 8 Lakh Youth Volunteers Remove More Than 12 Lakh kg of Waste Nationwide in First 3 Days
15-Day Swachhata He Seva Campaign to Eliminate Single-Use Plastic Waste, Culminating in Massive Coastal and Beach Clean-Up on October 2
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 5:10PM by PIB Delhi
Department of Youth Affairs has taken the lead in actively participating in this year’s Swachhta He Seva campaign, taking place from September 17 to October 2, 2024, with the theme “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata.” Youth volunteers across India, under the MY Bharat initiative, are leading this nationwide effort to promote cleanliness and environmental responsibility. The campaign will culminate in Swachh Bharat Diwas on October 2, 2024, reinforcing the commitment to a cleaner and greener India.
(Odisha)
The campaign was formally inaugurated on September 17, 2024, by Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, marking the beginning of a nationwide effort towards creating a cleaner and greener India. On the first day alone, a remarkable 240,808 young volunteers collected 1,75,627 kg of single-use plastic across 1,562 adopted villages, underscoring the significant impact of the youth’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
(Madhya Pradesh)
Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, expressed the government’s vision for this initiative, stating, “We must instill a sense of responsibility and pride in cleanliness among our youth. The Swachhata He Seva campaign is not just an initiative; it’s a movement that empowers young Indians to take ownership of their environment. MY Bharat will play a leading role in this nationwide effort, with its youth volunteers at the forefront of driving change and fostering a culture of cleanliness.”
(Maharashtra)
As of September 19, 2024, over 8 lakh MY Bharat youth volunteers have actively participated in the campaign, successfully removing more than 12 lakh kilograms of waste from various locations across the country. Under the campaign, over 7,000 villages, 2,000 community centres, 450 Amrit Sarovars, and other historical and public spaces have been cleaned, showcasing the power of collective action.
(Cleaning of Railway Tracks)
Throughout the campaign, youth volunteers are engaging in extensive cleanliness activities, with a focus on the removal and proper disposal of single-use plastics. These activities are being carried out across institutional premises, adopted villages, and public spaces such as bus stands, railway stations, markets, and heritage sites across India.
(Uttar Pradesh)
The 15-day nationwide drive ‘Swachhata He Seva Campaign’ will culminate on October 2, 2024, with extensive beach and coastal area cleaning activities, focusing on the collection and disposal of single-use plastics. Youth volunteers will actively participate, with events organized through the MY Bharat portal, fostering greater community involvement.
(Kerala)
The MY Bharat platform is hosting a dedicated window (https://mybharat.gov.in/mega_events/swachhata-hi-seva) where youth from across India are uploading pictures and videos of their participation in the cleanliness drive, reflecting the spirit of ‘Jan Bhagidari se Jan Andolan’. MY Bharat platform is enabling young Indians to share their efforts and inspire others to join the nationwide movement towards a cleaner and greener India.
The Department of Commerce (DoC) has focused on empowering exporters, streamlining processes, and promoting economic growth through innovative solutions during the first 100 days of this Government. These achievements underscore the. Below are some of the key highlights:
1. Empowering Exporters through Trade Connect e-Platform The launch of a comprehensive Trade Connect e-Platform has connected over 6 lakh IEC holders, 185 Indian Mission officials, and over 600 Export Promotion Council members with Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)/DoC offices and banks. This digital initiative enhances the ease of doing business for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by providing them with information and guidance, fostering a more seamless and transparent export ecosystem.
2. Enhanced Insurance Cover for MSME Exporters To boost exports, the government has introduced enhanced insurance cover for MSME exporters, which is expected to provide credit worth ₹20,000 crore at lower costs. This initiative will make Indian exports more competitive, benefitting around 10,000 exporters.
3. Reducing Compliance Burden through Self-Certified Electronic Bank Realisation Certificate (eBRC) system The introduction of a self-certified electronic Bank Realisation Certificate system has significantly reduced compliance costs for exporters. Previously costing between ₹500-₹1,500 per eBRC, this system now saves exporters over ₹125 crore and simplifies the process for claiming benefits and refunds. This paperless system also aligns with the government’s broader goals of promoting a digital, eco-friendly economy, cutting down both administrative and environmental expenses.
The bulk generation and Application Programming Interface (API) integration of eBRCs significantly reduce time and effort, streamlining the process for exporters and stakeholders. This system is particularly beneficial for small exporters, especially in e-commerce, as it efficiently handles high-volume, low-cost transactions. As a result, it enables them to claim benefits and refunds more effectively, supporting their growth and participation in international trade.
4. Connecting SME Exporters to the World through E-Commerce Export Hub (ECEH) The launch of the E-Commerce Export Hub (ECEH) is poised to revolutionize India’s cross-border e-commerce ecosystem, with projections indicating a potential export value of USD 100 billion by 2030. ECEHs will provide artisans, SMEs, and One District One Product (ODOP) producers easy access to global markets, reduce costs and simplify logistics.
These hubs will boost employment opportunities in transport, warehousing, and quality assurance. Linking Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, as well as rural areas, with the global marketplace ECEH will play a significant role in driving the digital transformation of these regions. This connection will enable smaller cities to access broader opportunities in international trade, fostering economic growth and inclusion.
5. Reducing Transaction Costs for MSMEs on GeM Portal
To promote greater MSME participation in the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), the number of pricing slabs has been reduced, making it easier for vendors to understand and comply with. New cap on charges ensures greater affordability for high-value transactions as Orders above ₹10 Crore will now pay a flat fee of ₹3 Lakh, a massive reduction from the transaction charges previously capped at ₹72.5 lakh.
6. Bharat Mart in Dubai
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Department of Commerce has facilitated the establishment of Bharat Mart in Dubai. This hub will provide Indian MSMEs cost-efficient access to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), African, and CIS markets, thereby boosting India’s exports to these regions.
7. Eliminating Human Interface through Jansunwai
The government has further enhanced ease of doing business by launching Jansunwai, a platform that facilitates smooth communication eliminating intermediaries and providing direct communication between stakeholders and the Department. This fosters transparency and saves businesses time and effort, reducing the need for physical office visits.
8. Strengthening the Organic Regulatory Ecosystem
A revamped National Programme of Organic Production (NPOP) is set to benefit approximately 20 lakh farmers from 5,000 grower groups through enhanced export opportunities. With a focus on improving certification standards, organic exports are expected to surpass USD 1 billion by 2025-26.
9. Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana (PMCSPY)
Under this initiative, more than 10 lakh workers across 1,210 tea gardens in Assam and West Bengal will have access to better healthcare, education, and resting shed facilities. This marks a major step toward improving the quality of life for tea garden workers and their families.
10. Rollout of ICEGATE Across All Non-IT/ITES SEZs
The ICEGATE portal has been expanded to cover all non-IT/ITES SEZ units, enabling them to apply for benefits under the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme. This move enhances ease of doing business, offering 24×7 helpdesk support to SEZ units and ensuring more seamless trading operations.
These transformative initiatives reaffirm the government’s commitment to expanding India’s global trade footprint while ensuring the development and welfare of its people. With the continued efforts of the Department of Commerce, India is well on its way to becoming a global economic powerhouse by 2047.
Department of Telecommunications under the leadership of Hon’ble Union Minister of Communications, Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia has actively participated in ‘Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) – 2024’ campaign by promoting cleanliness and environment sustainability. Hon’ble Union Minister administered ‘ Swachhata Pledge’ to officers and staff of BSNL Telephone Exchange Achleshwar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh on 19.09.2024 .He also led by example by planting a tree sapling under ”Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative.
The Department is committed to ensure promotion of cleanliness, hygiene and environment sustainability through active participation of citizen.
Headline: New State Law Provides Free State Parks Annual Passes for Veterans with Disabilities
New State Law Provides Free State Parks Annual Passes for Veterans with Disabilities jejohnson6
Veterans with service-related disabilities are now eligible to apply to receive a free Annual Pass to N.C. State Parks, the Division of Parks and Recreation announced. Those who want to redeem their free pass can submit a request form along with a copy of their Summary of Benefits Letter from the federal Department of Veterans Affairs.
In July, the General Assembly passed State Law 2024-45, which included Section 15.(a) to 15.(d) that made any State Parks Annual Pass free for veterans who were discharged honorably and received benefits or certification that they have a service-connected disability.
“North Carolinians take pride in our spectacular state parks and our strong support for military families,” said N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Reid Wilson. “This is a small token of acknowledgement of the sacrifices that our veterans have made for our state and our country, and we welcome them to our state parks.”
The Annual Pass program allows visitors to enjoy equipment rentals, swimming, and more throughout the calendar year for a discounted package rate. Because most North Carolina state parks are free to enter throughout the year, the Annual Pass program is different from typical annual passes at other states or at the national level.
Benefits of note include day-use entry at the reservoirs of Falls Lake, Jordan Lake, and Kerr Lake state recreation areas; ferry passes to Hammocks Beach State Park’s Bear Island (set to reopen in spring 2025); boat launches at Carolina Beach and Hammocks Beach state parks; and canoe, kayak, or paddleboard rentals at select parks.
“We are thrilled to provide these recreation opportunities at no cost to veterans with disabilities,” said State Parks Director Brian Strong. “We hope all who are eligible take advantage of this program so they can enjoy the beautiful natural and cultural resources they have served to defend. We also remain committed to taking additional steps to make our parks more accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.”
By default, all requestors under this provision will receive the Annual Pass, typically sold at $90. Those who want to utilize the four-wheel-drive beach at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area in New Hanover County can indicate so on the form, and they will receive the Annual Pass with 4WD Beach Access, priced at $150. Veterans who receive this pass must visit the Fort Fisher park office to receive instructions on how to use the four-wheel-drive gate.
For more information on the Annual Pass benefits and how eligible veterans can request a free one, visit ncparks.gov/annual-pass.
About North Carolina State Parks North Carolina State Parks manages more than 262,000 acres of iconic landscape within North Carolina’s state parks, state recreation areas and state natural areas. It administers the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, including its local grants program, as well as a state trails program, North Carolina Natural and Scenic Rivers and more, all with a mission dedicated to conservation, recreation and education. The state parks system welcomes more than 19 million visitors annually.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
Headline: Public Opening of New Fort Fisher Visitor Center, Earthworks, and Archaeology Lab Postponed
Public Opening of New Fort Fisher Visitor Center, Earthworks, and Archaeology Lab Postponed jejohnson6
KURE BEACH
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and the N.C. Division of State Historic Sites have postponed the public opening of Fort Fisher State Historic Site’s new visitor center, earthworks, and underwater archaeology lab due to damage and flooding associated with Tropical Cyclone 13.
Originally set for Sept. 27, the public opening of the site has been postponed. The event will be rescheduled for a future date to be announced.
Fort Fisher temporarily closed to the public in mid-April 2024 to allow staff members to relocate offices, artifacts, and exhibits to the site’s new and long-awaited 20,000 sq. ft visitor center. The new visitor center is expected to serve more than 1 million annual visitors.
Known as the Gibraltar of the South, Fort Fisher protected the port of Wilmington during the American Civil War until it fell to US forces in January 1865. In 1961, the site was designated a National Historic Landmark. Its original visitor center was built to accommodate an expected 25,000 visitors a year. It is part of the Division of State Historic Sites within DNCR.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
India Achieves Tier 1 Status in Global Cybersecurity Index 2024 The stellar achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to global cybersecurity: Minister of Communications Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia
With a remarkable score of 98.49 out of 100, India joins the ranks of ‘role-modelling’ countries
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 4:50PM by PIB Delhi
India has marked a significant milestone in its cybersecurity efforts by achieving top Tier i.e. Tier 1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). With a remarkable score of 98.49 out of 100, India joins the ranks of ‘role-modelling’ countries, demonstrating a strong commitment to cybersecurity practices across the globe.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) played a pivotal role as the nodal agency representing India in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024. Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Hon’ble Minister of Communications, hailed the accomplishment as a Proud Moment for Bharat. He said, “This stellar achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to cybersecurity and highlights the remarkable growth of India’s telecom sector.”
The GCI 2024 assessed national efforts based on five pillars: legal, technical, organizational, capacity development, and cooperation. The comprehensive questionnaire includes 83 questions, covering 20 indicators, 64 sub-indicators, and 28 micro-indicators, ensuring a thorough evaluation of each country’s cybersecurity landscape.
India’s strong performance in cybersecurity is driven by a series of initiatives and measures undertaken by the Government of India to enhance cyber resilience and establish robust frameworks for cybercrime laws and cybersecurity standards. The country’s legal institutions are well-prepared to address cybersecurity challenges and combat cybercrime, ensuring the protection of its digital infrastructure. Additionally, Sectoral Computer Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) provide sector-specific technical support and incident reporting, further strengthening India’s cybersecurity capabilities.
Education and awareness have been central to India’s cybersecurity strategy. Targeted campaigns and educational initiatives have promoted secure online practices across sectors, including private industry, public institutions, civil society, and academia. The integration of cybersecurity into primary and secondary education curricula further underscores the country’s dedication to cultivating a knowledgeable and well-prepared digital citizenry.
In addition, incentives and grants have driven skill development and promoted research and innovation within India’s cybersecurity industry. International collaborations, along with bilateral and multilateral agreements, have further strengthened India’s capacity-building and information-sharing efforts, solidifying its role as a global leader in cybersecurity.
India’s leap to Tier 1 in the GCI 2024 is a clear indicator of the nation’s elevated cybersecurity commitments. This achievement not only reflects Government of India’s dedication to securing its digital domain but also sets a benchmark for other nations. DoT continues to spearhead India’s efforts in securing its digital infrastructure on the global stage.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)
Washington D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) spoke at a Ways and Means digital trade hearing focused on protecting American innovation by establishing and enforcing strong digital trade rules.
Congresswoman Miller began her remarks by explaining how specific Korean digital policies, if passed, will end up harming U.S. businesses and threaten our national security in the Indo-Pacific.
“Korea may soon pass online platform laws and regulations that would make it difficult for U.S. companies to operate in their country. I am very concerned that such an important, strategic ally like the Republic of Korea is pursuing economic policies that target and discriminate against U.S. technology companies while welcoming state-owned Chinese companies with open arms. Chinese firms are the fastest growing tech companies in Korea, with many leveraging strategic partnerships with Korean monopolies who have a strong influence in Korea’s legislature. I am very concerned about the national security implications of Korea’s ill-advised economic discrimination and would urge them not to go down this path, and instead, continue our important technology partnership and the goals established in our free trade agreement. Our trade agreement with Korea is the second largest Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by trade flows, second only to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). It is extremely concerning to me that our two biggest FTAs are both facing obstacles in the world of digital trade,” said Congresswoman Miller.
Congresswoman Miller asked the President of Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), Robert D. Atkinson, how China will benefit from the Korean digital policies and how this will affect the United States regarding the economy and national security.
“Can you explain how China wins if Korea pursues economic discrimination policies against the United States and why are Chinese firms seeking to drastically increase their Korean userbase? Do you believe that Korea is assisting them in their growth?” asked Congresswoman Miller.
“Last time I was there [in Korea], I tried to use google maps to figure out where to go and I couldn’t. I could use a Korean app company and they say it’s national security. It has nothing to do with national security. It’s the fact that they wanted to favor their own domestic map companies, their own domestic players. That’s what they’re doing now by copying the European Digital Markets Act (DMA) and what they want to do is they want to be able to pass a law that would require American companies to turn over data to be interoperable to do other kinds of things that would benefit Korean companies. But they can’t write the law so blatantly that it admits that, so it would benefit Korean companies, but it would also benefit Chinese companies. They’re willing to make that trade-off because they think it’s going to benefit their companies more, and it’ll hurt our companies. This will benefit Chinese companies and make them stronger. I would put Korea again in the same categories as I’d put Canada. They need us a lot more than we need them. They’re dependent upon us not just for military, but they’re so focused right now on building technology partnerships. They want technology partnerships with us and we’re going ahead and saying “yes,” but I think there must be a quid pro quo with that. Yeah, we want technology partnerships with you so we can both be stronger against the Chinese, but we’re not going to do partnerships with you if you do these kinds of discriminatory things,” responded Dr. Atkinson.
“What are the national security concerns related to U.S. foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific should the U.S. be less economically tied to our strategic ally as they grow closer to China?” asked Congresswoman Miller.
“So, the fundamental question I think in, in the Indo-Pacific is, are these countries going to gradually move over into the China orbit or are they going to stay in the Western democratic market orbit? The Koreans don’t want to pick. They want to have really close relationship with the Chinese because they know Chinese are predatory and retaliatory. They will hurt the Korean companies. They’ve done that before, but we need to let them know that they can’t have it both ways. They have to pick. We’re their defender. They need to be on the side of the allies and democracy, so I think it’s a critical, critical issue that we make them choose and choose us,” responded Dr. Atkinson.
To take on the Government of India Vision of Swachh Bharat, Department of Scientific & Industrial Research (DSIR) along with Autonomous Body, Council for Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) and two PSUs i.e. National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) & Central Electronics Ltd. (CEL) has launched the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign 2024 starting from 17th Sept to 2nd Oct., 2024 with a series of activities focusing on collective cleanliness efforts and community engagement.
Swachhata Hi Seva campaign rolled out with collective Swachhata Pledge and plantation by senior officers under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’programme.
Special initiatives have been taken by the Department duringSwachhata Hi Seva Campaign 2024 whichinclude the Plantation drives,Trainings & Workshop and Shramdaan activity around the office of DSIR and its organizations i.e. CSIR, CEL and NRDC.
Union Health Minister Shri J P Nadda lists out achievements of the Union Health Ministry in the First 100 Days of the New Government Ayushman Bharat is the world’s largest publicly funded health coverage program: Shri JP Nadda
“The U-WIN portal has been developed for full digitization of vaccination services for complete vaccination record of pregnant women and children from birth to 17 years under the Universal Immunization Programme”
“There has been 98% increase in medical colleges from 387 in 2013-14 to 766 in 2024-25”
“MBBS Seats increased by 64,464 (i.e., 125%) from 2013-14 (51,348 seats) to 2024-25 (11,5812 seats) while the number of PG seats increased by 39,460 (i.e., 127%) from 2013-14 (31,185 seats) to 2024-25 (73,111 seats)”
“In the first phase, BHISHM Cubes are being placed in 25 AIIMS and Institutes of National Importance for rapid deployment in the respective region in case of disaster / health emergencies”
“Union Health Ministry in consultation with the States/UTs is preparing a detailed rollout plan for logistics and training of health professionals for the introduction of the new TB treatment regimen early next year”
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 4:48PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda highlighted the key achievements of the Union Health Ministry in the first 100 days of the government at a press conference, here today. Union Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav and Smt. Anupriya Singh Patel were also present.
The Union Health Minister noted that around Rs.15 lakh crores of investment have been made in the last 100 days with speed and scale across different ministries. He noted that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched several key initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery and access in India. The following are some of the achievements made in the last 100 days across different health schemes:
Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY:
Shri Nadda said that the recent announcement of expansion of the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY scheme to include all senior citizens, irrespective of income group, aged 70 years and above will potentially benefit around 6 crore individuals across 4.5 crore families. Highlighting that Ayushman Bharat is the world’s largest publicly funded health coverage program, Shri Nadda informed that the expanded scheme will be implemented from October this year.
U-WIN Portal:
Another significant advancement is the U-WIN Portal which has been developed for full digitization of vaccination services for complete vaccination record of pregnant women and children from birth to 17 years under the Universal Immunization Programme. The citizen-centric services of the digital platform include ‘Anytime Access’ and ‘Anywhere’ vaccination services, Self-Registration by citizens using the U-WIN web-portal or the U-WIN citizen mobile application, automated SMS alerts, universal QR-based eVaccination Certificate and utility to create their Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) ID for themselves and Child ABHA ID for their children. The portal is in 11 regional languages including Hindi.
Stating that “the U-WIN portal has been developed for full digitization of vaccination services for complete vaccination record of pregnant women and children from birth to 17 years under the Universal Immunization Programme”, he informed that the portal is already operational on pilot basis. As on 16th September 2024, 6.46 crore beneficiaries have been registered, 1.04 crore vaccination sessions have been held and 23.06 crore administered vaccine doses have been recorded on the portal.
New TB Treatment Regimen & Made-in-India TB Diagnostics:
A shorter and more efficacious treatment regimen is now available for use under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) which would help in reducing the treatment duration from 9-12 months to 6 months. It has been validated along with Health Technology Assessment (HTA) by ICMR. Shri Nadda informed that the Union Health Ministry in consultation with the State/UT governments is preparing a detailed rollout plan for logistics and training of health professionals for the introduction of this new regimen early next year. He also highlighted the expected reduction in duration of the treatment regimen in approximately 75,000 DRTB cases across the country.
In order to ensure country wide coverage for TB and Drug Resistance diagnosis by ‘state of the art’ molecular methods, a new indigenous diagnostic system (Patho detect) has been validated by ICMR, along with field feasibility. Shri Nadda stated that it would lead to reduction in turn-around times for test results, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality of TB patients.
Deployment of BHISM Cubes:
BHISHM Cubes are portable and rapidly deployable modular medical facility intended to provide emergency lifesaving clinical care in event of disaster/public health emergencies. Union Health Minister stated that BHISM cubes have the capacity to handle about 200 cases of diverse nature in emergency situations such as trauma, bleeding, burns, fractures, etc. In the 1st Phase, BHISHM Cubes will be placed in 25 AIIMS and Institutes of National Importance (INIs) for rapid deployment in the respective region in case of disaster / health emergencies. States may also deploy at strategic locations subsequently. India has gifted four BHISHM Cubes to Ukraine during the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s visit to the country recently.
Use of Drone Services:
Drones service aid in rapid, cost-effective and safe delivery of medical supplies and samples in hard-to-reach and tough terrains. Fifteen (15) AIIMS/INIs/NE institutions have been identified for Drone Services. Drone trials and trainings have been completed in 12 institutes. Shri Nadda said that drones provide safe, accurate reliable pickup & delivery of medicines, vaccines, blood, diagnostic specimens & other life-saving items to difficult-to-reach facilities.
Medical Education:
Increase in Medical Colleges:
The Union Health Minister said that the increase in medical colleges and MBBS and PG seats would lead to increase in the availability of doctors in the healthcare system.
There is an increase of 8.07% in Medical Colleges from 706 in 2023-24 to 766 in 2024-25. There has been 98% increase in medical colleges from 387 in 2013-14 to 766 in 2024-25. During the same period, 379 new medical colleges have been established and, presently there are 766 (Govt: 423, Pvt: 343) medical colleges in the Country.
Increase in MBBS seats:
There is an increase of 6.30 % in MBBS seats from 1,08,940 in 2023-24 to 1,15,812 in 2024-25. MBBS Seats increased by 64,464 (i.e., 125%) from 2013-14 (51,348 seats) to 2024-25 (11,5812 seats).
Increase in PG seats:
There is an increase of 5.92% in PG seats from 69,024 in 2023-24 to 73,111 in 2024-25. During the last ten years, the number of PG seats increased by 39,460 (i.e., 127%) from 2013-14 (31,185 seats) to 2024-25 (73,111 seats).
Operationalization of National Medical Register:
National Medical Register (NMR) is a comprehensive dynamic database for all allopathic (MBBS) registered doctors in India. NMR is linked with Aadhaar ID of the doctors that ensures the individual’s authenticity.
Shri Nadda said that NMR being a key component of the country’s Ayushman Bharat digital mission, it would be part of Healthcare Professional Registry (HPR). He further said that NMR will ensure provision of data covering details of around 13 lakh doctors in the country – State-wise, those who have left the country, those who have lost their license to practice, or details of doctors who have lost their lives.
National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS):
Virtual National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) Assessment of Ayushman Arogya Mandir -Sub Centre:
NQAS are set of standards designed to ensure and improve the quality of healthcare services in District Hospitals, Community Health Centres, Ayushman Arogya Mandir – Primary Health Centre, Ayushman Arogya Mandir – Urban Primary Health Centre and Ayushman Arogya Mandir – Sub Health Centre.
Shri Nadda said that as on 31st August 2024, 13,782 Public Health Facilities are NQAS Certified. A total of 5,784 Public Health Facilities have been NQAS Certified from 1st April 2024 till date, in which 3,134 facilities (including 2,734 Ayushman Arogya Mandir – Sub Centers) have been NQAS certified at all levels in the first 100 days.
The virtual National Quality Assurance Standards assessments for Ayushman Arogya Mandir-Sub Centres commenced on August 1st after requisite trainings. 58 assessments have been done, with 104 more assessments scheduled to take place by end of September, 2024. “This will give an impetus to ensuring Quality standards for all levels of public health care facilities improving comprehensive primary healthcare of citizens” Shri Nadda said.
National Quality Assurance Standards for Integrated Public Health Laboratories:
Release of NQAS for IPHLs spread across district level health facilities is aimed at improving the quality and competence of management and testing systems in IPHLs. This will positively impact the reliability of test results and enhance the quality of diagnostics & patient care.
Establishment of AIIMS in Darbhanga:
Union Cabinet has approved setting up of new AIIMS at Darbhanga on 15.09.2020 at an estimated cost of Rs. 1264 Crore. Shri Nadda stated that the issue of allotment of land for AIIMS Darbhanga, which was pending for over 3 years has been finally settled and the Government of Bihar has allotted and since handed over 150.13 acres of land on 12.8.2024 required for AIIMS Darbhanga. He further noted that AIIMS institutions would serve to fill the gap in affordable tertiary healthcare services and reduce out of pocket expenditure.
Completion of Super Specialty Blocks:
Completion of construction works of Super Specialty Blocks (SSB) has been taken up as upgradation projects of existing Government Medical Colleges under PMSSY of four Government Medical Colleges in Bihar, these include:
a) Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Bhagalpur
b) Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College, Gaya
c) Sri Krishna Medical College, Muzaffarpur
d) Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital.
The launch of Super Specialty Blocks in Government Medical Colleges (Bihar) would serve to fill the gap in affordable tertiary healthcare services and reduce out of pocket expenditure, Shri Nadda highlighted.
Launch of Food Import Rejection Alerts:
The Union Minister also highlighted the introduction of the Food Import Rejection Alerts (FIRA), an online portal designed to notify the public and relevant food safety authorities about food import rejections at Indian borders and training of food street vendors by the FSSAI. The portal has been launched today at the second edition of the Global Food Regulators Summit 2024 hosted by FSSAI at Bharat Mandapam.
Shri Apurva Chandra, Union Health Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Officer on Special Duty, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Smt. LS Changsan, Addl. Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; Shri Dhirendra Ojha, Principal DG, PIB, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and senior officials of the Union Health Ministry were present on the occasion.
DFS drives expansion of digital payments in India and abroad Digital payment transactions volume grew to 18,737 crore in FY 2023-24 from 2,071 crore in FY 2017-18 at Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 44%; with value of transactions at ₹3,659 lakh crore in FY23-24 from ₹1,962 lakh crore in FY17-18 at CAGR of 11%
UPI transactions volume grew to 13,116 crore in FY 2023-24 from 92 crore in FY 2017-18 at CAGR of 129%; with value of UPI transactions reaching ₹200 lakh crore trillion in FY23-24 from ₹1 lakh crore in FY17-18 at CAGR of 138%
UPI now seamlessly facilitates live transactions in 7 countries, including key markets such as UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, and Mauritius
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 3:31PM by PIB Delhi
The Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, plays a critical role in driving the promotion of digital payments in the country.
Efforts to accelerate the adoption of fast payment system like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionised the way financial transactions are conducted, enabling real-time, secure, and seamless payments for millions.
This initiative aligns with the Government’s vision of a cashless and inclusive economy, empowering every citizen in their financial decision.
In comparison with previous fiscal years, the digital payments landscape has demonstrated remarkable expansion in Financial Year (FY) 2023-24. Key insights include:
Growth in Digital Payment Transactions:
Digital payments in India have witnessed significant growth, with the total number of digital payment transactions volume increased from 2,071 crore in FY 2017-18 to 18,737 crore in FY 2023-24 at Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 44%. Furthermore, during the last 5 months (April-August) of the current financial year 2024-25, the transaction volume has reached to 8,659 crore.
Source: RBI, NPCI & Banks
The value of transactions has grown from ₹1,962 lakh crore to ₹3,659 lakh crore at CAGR of 11%. Additionally, in the last 5 months (April-August) of the current financial year 2024-25, the total transaction value has surged to an impressive ₹1,669 lakh crore.
Source: RBI, NPCI & Banks
UPI’s Continued Success:
UPI remains the cornerstone of India’s digital payment ecosystem. UPI has revolutionised digital payments in the country, UPI transactions have grown from 92 crore in FY 2017-18 to 13,116 crore in FY 2023-24 at CAGR of 129%. Furthermore, during the last 5 months (April-August) of the current Financial Year 2024-25, the transaction volume has reached 7,062 crore.
The ease of use facilitated by growing network of participating banks and fintech platforms, has made UPI the most preferred mode of real-time payments for millions of users across the country.
Source: NPCI
The value of UPI transactions has grown from ₹1 lakh crore to ₹200 lakh crore at CAGR of 138%. Additionally, in the last 5 months (April-August FY2024-25), the total transaction value has surged to an impressive ₹101 lakh crore.
Source: NPCI
UPI: P2M and P2P Transactions (by Volume in crore) for Aug 2024
The contribution of P2M transactions reached 62.40% in Aug’ 2024, where 85% of these transactions are up to a value of ₹500. This indicates the trust that UPI enjoys among citizens for making low value payments.
UPI and RuPay Global Expansion:
India’s digital payments revolution is extending beyond its borders. Both UPI and RuPay are rapidly expanding globally, enabling seamless cross-border transactions for Indians living and traveling abroad. Presently, UPI is live in 7 countries, including key markets such as UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius, allowing Indian consumers and businesses to make and receive payments internationally. This expansion will further bolster remittance flows, improve financial inclusion, and elevate India’s stature in the global financial landscape. As per ACI Worldwide Report 2024, in 2023 around 49% of the global real-time payment transactions is happening in India.
India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in digital payments. With UPI’s global expansion and the continued rise of digital transactions, India is setting new benchmarks for financial inclusion and economic empowerment of common citizen.
Department of Financial Services remains committed to advancing digital payment solutions that are secure, scalable, and inclusive, while also exploring new avenues to strengthen India’s position in the global financial ecosystem.
Department of Posts played a pioneering role in distributing toolkits to beneficiaries under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, first in Mahesana district of Gujarat Postmaster General Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav reviews Progress of Postal Services in Mahesana Division, Emphasised achievement of targets
Not Just Letters and Parcels, the Department of Posts is Connecting People with Various Government Welfare Schemes at door step – Postmaster General Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav
Department of Posts Plays a Key Role in Delivering Toolkits to Artisans/Beneficiaries under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme – Postmaster General Krishna Kumar Yadav
Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 3:56PM by PIB Ahmedabad
In addition to delivering letters and parcels, Department of Posts is now ensuring that various government welfare schemes and their benefits reach to all citizens. Department of Posts has access to last mile of the country and is equally involved in the joys and sorrows of the people. Postmaster General, North Gujarat Region, Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav, expressed these views during his visit to the Mahesana Head Post Office on 20th sepetember 2024. Under the campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’, tree plantation was conducted at the Mahesana Head Post Office to spread the message of environmental protection. Superintendent of Post Offices, Mahesana Division Shri H.C. Parmar welcomed the Postmaster General and provided detailed information about the progress of postal services in Mahesana.”
Postmaster General Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav delivered a cheque for ₹10 lakh as a claim payment to the family of Shri Babubhai Rabari from Mahesana, who had taken the Tata Group’s accident insurance policy for just ₹399 through India Post Payments Bank, after his untimely death.
Postmaster General Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav added that the Department of Posts is also playing a vital role in the PM Vishwakarma Scheme. Under this scheme, toolkits are being provided to artisans/beneficiaries through the Department of Posts. Department of Posts led by distributing the first toolkit in the country to Shri Rameshbhai Babubhai Senma, a resident of Jagannathpura village in the Mahesana Postal Division, North Gujarat Region.
Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav told that the PM Vishwakarma Scheme has been launched by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (M/o MSME) for the upliftment of traditional artisans and craftsmen engaged in various trades like blacksmithing, goldsmithing, pottery, carpentry, and sculpting, among others. The aim is to preserve cultural heritage and integrate these artisans into the formal economy and global value chains. The scheme is being implemented through the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC). Toolkits for 18 identified trades under this scheme will be distributed to artisans/beneficiaries through post offices. The Department of Posts is the logistics partner for the Ministry of MSME in this scheme and will ensure the smooth transportation and delivery of toolkits to beneficiaries across the country.
Postmaster General Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav conducted a detailed review of the progress of postal services in the Mahesana Division. Currently, there are a total of 6.77 lakhs savings accounts, 79,000 IPPB accounts, 66,000 Sukanya Samriddhi accounts, and 4,000 Mahila Samman Savings Certificates opened in Mahesana Division. Additionally, 61 villages have been covered as ‘Sampoorna Sukanya Samriddhi Grams,’ 100 villages covered as Sampoorna Bima Grams,’ and 5 villages designated as Five-Star Villages. Through the Passport Seva Kendra at the Mahesana Head Post Office, more than 7,015 people have obtained passports in this financial year. 14,000 people have enrolled or updated their Aadhaar through the post office, while 70,000 people have benefited from CELC through India Post Payments Bank. More than 69,000 individuals received payments totaling ₹22.4 crore through the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System at door step.
During his visit to the Mahesana Head Post Office, Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav emphasized the importance of good behavior towards customers. Postmaster General emphasized the importance of conducting extensive campaigns and Dak Chaupals in the remaining days of the financial year to achieve the allocated targets for various services. He also highlighted the need to connect the citizens with these services, ensure prompt resolution of public grievances, and responsiveness towards customers.
During this visit, Superintendent of Post Offices Shri H.C. Parmar, Assistant Superintendent Shri R.M. Rabari, Shri N.K. Parmar, Shri Vishal Brahmbhatt, IPPB Branch manager Shri J. Rohit and Postmaster, Mahesana HO Shri D G Patel were present.
The 2024 Enabling Native Researchers and Other Minorities Through Graduate Engineering (ENRGE) internship cohort. From left, Javier Moscoso, Chelsea Neely, Success Oluwole, Adrian Gomez, Zain ulAbdeen, and Danish Saleem. Photo by Josh Bauer, NREL
Internships offer students the opportunity to gain valuable experience in their field before joining the workforce—but for interns at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), they have the added motivation of contributing to meaningful work in energy efficiency and renewable energy. For interns in the Enabling Native Researchers and Other Minorities Through Graduate Engineering (ENRGE) program, undergraduate and graduate students at minority-serving institutions gain valuable experience in power, energy, and cybersecurity. It is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration’s Minority Serving Institution Partnership Program, which aims to create and support a sustainable career pathway that prepares a diverse workforce of talented students to make immediate and significant contributions in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
ENRGE brings undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at minority-serving institutions with underrepresented backgrounds—such as Native, Black, Asian, Hispanic, and Latino Americans—to NREL for hands-on summer internships. The interns work on research projects that look at how human or natural threats may disrupt the U.S. electrical grid, assess the cybersecurity of distributed energy systems, or research pathways to strengthen the U.S. electrical grid.
“Many companies and teams look forward to new pools of student interns, as they’ll bring with them fresh ideas, new perspectives, and creative approaches to the projects or processes,” said NREL’s Danish Saleem, senior engineer and ENRGE program leader.
This past summer, JavierMoscoso, Adrian Gomez, ZainulAbdeen, and Success Oluwole participated in NREL’s second ENRGE summer internship program.
“We were fortunate to have Javier, Zain, Adrian, and Success this year at NREL,” Saleem said. “Their exceptional work, dedication, and contributions toward NREL’s clean energy goals was invaluable.”
Making the Personal Universal
Javier Moscoso. Photo by Josh Bauer, NREL
For Javier Moscoso, energy and climate issues hit home—that is, they affect him and all the people of Puerto Rico. “It’s a personal mission,” Moscoso said.
Hurricanes Maria and Fiona wreaked havoc on Puerto Rico in 2017 and 2022. Fiona knocked out power for 80% of the island’s customers who depended on an already fragile power system. Moscoso has witnessed the damage the hurricanes—and the loss of power—cause. He spoke with a woman using an oxygen tank earlier in 2024 about issues she faced when power goes away. She died following a power outage this summer. “I’m talking because I live this,” he said.
The ENRGE internship allows Moscoso to work on important cybersecurity projects, but it also allows him to talk with NREL people—like Laboratory Director Martin Keller, who Moscoso met with earlier this summer—about the issues Puerto Rico faces. “Not having a strong cybersecurity background before coming here, I have felt comfortable with my team, and I was always eager to learn more and get out of my comfort zone,” Moscoso said. “It gives me the opportunity to test out what I like and see new things that I maybe didn’t think I would ever like or work with. I have come to familiarize myself with cybersecurity and how crucial it is in power systems today. If I’m honest, I have come to appreciate how impactful this experience will be for my future. I think there is no better place than NREL to be exposing myself to this through many readings, workshops, and conversations with mentors. I look forward to continue learning and contributing in the best way I can.”
Moscoso’s work at NREL involves looking at the cybersecurity of utility-scale batteries and distributed energy resources (DER) deployment for underserved communities on separate projects. He completed a literature review on the cybersecurity of DERs, and his background informed the case studies he wrote on Puerto Rico. “It’s my opportunity to give visibility to Puerto Rican communities,” he said.
Moscoso said that there is intention to everything he does, which is why the ENRGE internship was enticing. It allowed him to bring his personal story and experience to NREL, which he will then take back to Puerto Rico. Encouraged by his time at NREL and with ENRGE, he will begin graduate school in Puerto Rico, where part of his time will be spent continuing a renewable energy project he began before coming to NREL.
Prior to arriving at NREL, Moscoso engaged other students on the design and architecture of a solar gazebo to be constructed at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez. The gazebo will provide power on campus for students in the event of an outage. Moscoso has presented on this project at NREL and to many national outlets. The project includes an educational component where talks will be given on renewable energy and energy consumption.
What started as a napkin drawing is morphing into a reality that will benefit other Puerto Ricans, and Moscoso hopes that this first gazebo can be replicated across the island.
“Javier serves as an excellent example of someone who took full advantage of the networking and professional development opportunities that NREL and the ENRGE internship offered,” said NREL’s Chelsea Neely, cybersecurity researcher and ENRGE program coordinator. “Almost every week, he came to me to tell me who he met at NREL and what research and development opportunities he was excited about. We are so proud of the impact he has made here at NREL and can’t wait to see him continue his mission towards clean energy transformation.”
Exploring a New Career Pathway
Adrian Gomez. Photo by Josh Bauer, NREL
The path to NREL was not a straight line for Adrian Gomez. From the U.S. Army to education in criminal justice, his background was outside of energy. When Gomez decided that the criminal justice route was not what he wanted, he enrolled in the Ecotech Institute to learn about sustainable technologies.
Then the school closed permanently.
Gomez returned to criminal justice briefly before he learned about ENRGE. When he found the ENRGE internship opportunity at NREL, it felt like a fit. “It’s the right choice,” he said. “Everything led up to this. This is something I can do.”
At NREL, Gomez brings a cybersecurity background to the Clean Energy Cybersecurity Accelerator—which aims to expedite the deployment of novel or emerging operational technology security solutions—and learned from researchers involved in the cybersecurity situational awareness tool designed for renewable energy systems. For the Clean Energy Cybersecurity Accelerator, Gomez researched cyberattack scenarios involving solar panels and what types of attacks might cause disruptions.
“It’s interesting to see how everything is interconnected—how everything in a system affects everything else,” Gomez said. Researching cybersecurity has made Gomez hyperaware of cybersecurity concerns. He is paying attention to what is happening in the world in that regard. “I’m vigilant about those interconnections and how my role in cybersecurity is involved in that sphere.”
Following the ENRGE internship, Gomez will return to school to pursue a master’s degree in cybersecurity.
“For someone new to research, Adrian embraced the uncomfortable, often nonlinear path his research took him down this summer,” Neely said. “I was impressed with his ability to take on new concepts and come away from this experience with research he felt proud of. With the encouragement of researchers at NREL, we’re thrilled to hear he’s decided to pursue an advanced degree in cybersecurity. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for him as he builds on the skills he has learned here at NREL.”
Meeting the Challenges of Cybersecurity Through Computational Science
Zain ul Abdeen. Photo by Josh Bauer, NREL
Zain ul Abdeen came to NREL with a background in machine learning and artificial intelligence through a previous internship in NREL’s Computational Science Center, which comes in handy when asked to anticipate and respond to cyberattacks on power systems. Zain had worked as a computational scientist prior to arriving at NREL, and his computational skills were put to good use on cybersecurity projects.
Zain helped to test the performance of power system algorithms during adversarial attacks and built a model to detect anomalies in the system. With both, Zain was able to apply computational knowledge to specific challenges in cybersecurity. “We considered various kinds of attacks on the grid and how the algorithm was affected and how another model performed at detecting the attack,” he said.
A key component of Zain’s work is training models well enough that they are trustworthy when it comes to detecting and responding to attacks. That means designing robust systems that are well trained on possible scenarios and attacks.
“ENRGE is so well structured, and the mentors are very helpful,” he said. “They’re always there to help you solve a problem in your research. They listen, provide guidelines, and guide you in the right direction.”
“Zain’s final presentation of his projects this summer were incredibly impressive,” Neely said. “He made a big impact on his projects in such a short period of time. His successes clearly reflect the strong relationships he built with his mentors, Dr. Shuva Paul and Dr. Vivek Singh. We were very lucky to have his talents in the cybersecurity center this summer, and I can’t wait to read his next publications!”
Seizing an Unexpected Opportunity
Success Oluwole. Photo by Josh Bauer, NREL
When Success Oluwole went to her mentor and mechanical engineering department chair at Alabama Agriculture and Mechanical University, she asked him to keep his ears open for relevant opportunities. He called her up one day and directed Oluwole to an opportunity in the ENRGE program.
“I noticed it was a cybersecurity position and I’m quite in the mechanical engineering field,” she said. “So, I remember saying, ‘I’m not sure if this is the right fit for me.’”
The chair told Oluwole that she should not think like that—that she should be open to opportunities, even if the fit is not a direct match for her experience.
She applied to the ENRGE program. “I have always wanted to work at a national lab because I have research experience and working at the lab will give me more opportunities to do research full time,” she said.
When she interviewed for the role, it was the first time Oluwole had been interviewed by a panel, and she was nervous but optimistic, she said. When the offer came, Oluwole jumped at it. “The program gives people from minority communities the opportunity to work at a national lab. I’m Nigerian, and not many international students like me who come to this country have this opportunity. I knew working at NREL would be a great stepping stone for my career.”
Oluwole quickly realized that there was overlap between cybersecurity and mechanical engineering. She said she had the notion that there would be a lot of coding, but the actuality of the cybersecurity projects she worked on allowed her to use skills she brought with her to NREL.
She was able to deploy project management experience—data collection and budgeting—to help coordinate Liberty Eclipse, an annual full-scale cybersecurity preparedness exercise run by the U.S. Department of Energy. Oluwole also worked on a project involving cyber-informed engineering (CIE), which provides engineers a framework to integrate cybersecurity into the early design stages and throughout the life cycle of engineered systems. “I’ve been trying to apply the principles of CIE to the design, development, and operations of the wind turbines in the United States. I’ve been trying to apply the 12 principles of CIE to basically each level of a wind turbine,” she said.
“Success truly blossomed during her 10 weeks here at NREL,” Neely said. “She did a fantastic job collaborating with her mentor and I could tell she was really open trying things outside of her comfort zone. The fact that she left her experience better able to understand how cybersecurity affects her work as a mechanical engineer is a huge win for all of us. I feel so privileged to witness her growth and can’t wait to see what the future has in store for such a promising young researcher.”
Oluwole values the experiences she is gaining in the ENRGE program.
“Every single day since I started my internship here, I have been grateful, because this has been a blessing,” she said. “This program has been transformative. I’ve met great people. I’ve been able to apply my academic knowledge. I hope the program grows so that other people from minority communities can have the opportunities to learn like I have this summer.”
Before joining NREL, Oluwole did not have cybersecurity as a potential career path, but she is glad she has been able to gain this experience in an unexpected field.
ENRGE began with one intern in 2023 and has grown to four interns, two of whom have decided to pursue higher education as a result of their time in the program.
“Coming from diverse engineering and technical backgrounds, ENRGE interns learned to appreciate the importance of taking an interdisciplinary approach to the cybersecurity of energy systems,” Neely said. “Each of them has a very bright future as leaders in this important field. I hope their experience at NREL influences how they design and build critical cyber-physical systems of the future.”
Learn more about NREL’s ENRGE program and about NREL’s internship opportunities.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Michelle Steel (CA-48)
WASHINGTON, D.C.– With recent reports indicating that General Secretary for the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam plans to meet with Meta and Google while in the United States next week, Rep. Michelle Steel is calling on both companies to refuse their meetings and clarify whether they support Vietnam’s persecution of those utilizing their platforms.
In letters to both Meta and Google, Steel notes that under To Lam’s leadership, Vietnam has doubled down on the repression of human rights, with over 170 prisoners of conscience currently detained. Such abuses largely occur due to the communist regime’s vast surveillance of online discourse, including on Meta and Google’s very platforms.
“To Lam is a dangerous authoritarian who has stifled free expression and taken many prisoners of conscience in Vietnam. Corporations like Google and Meta – who allegedly facilitate open communication – must reverse course and refuse to grant legitimacy to someone who jails his own citizens simply for speaking their mind,” said Rep. Michelle Steel, who represents a large population of Vietnamese Americans in Orange County, CA. “If these big tech companies choose to give To Lam a platform, the Vietnamese people and Vietnamese Americans should assume that Meta and Google support Communist Vietnam’s persecution of users on their very own platforms.”
To Lam, who recently took over as Vietnam’s head of state after a stint as Vietnam’s Minister of Public Security, will be in New York for a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly. Even prior to his current human rights abuses, To Lam has a documented history of stifling free speech.
Rep. Steel represents parts of Los Angeles County and Orange County, including the Little Saigon community, which has the largest population of Vietnamese anywhere outside of Vietnam.
Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ-07) introduced the Tribal Heritage and American Bison, Grizzly Bear, and Wolf Restoration and Coexistence Act, legislation to establish permanent federal protections for these three species and expand recovery efforts and coexistence measures. Additionally, the bill would enhance existing tribal management authorities over these species by creating oversight committees that work in unison with Indian Tribes to identify tribal lands suitable for possible reintroduction efforts.
“American bison, grizzly bears, and gray wolves are iconic American species and are timeless symbols of our nation’s heritage, yet these animals were driven to the brink of extinction,” said Senator Booker. “Building on the success of past conservation legislation like the American Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act, I am proud to introduce legislation that directs the Secretary of the Interior to works closely with Indigenous communities to ensure permanent protection for these animals.”
“Bison, grizzly bears, and wolves hold significant spiritual, cultural, and ecological value to many tribal communities and our nation,” said House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Raúl M. Grijalva. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Senator Booker to enshrine protections for these species and ensure that conservation and management are conducted in close consultation with Tribal Nations. For centuries, the United States’ policies have systematically failed to honor our treaties, harming Tribal Nations and resulting in significant cultural losses and ecological damage. Congress has a trust responsibility to move forward from past injustices and craft policies for the future that are based on respect and recognition of Tribal Nations’ leadership in recovering these iconic species and their habitats.”
American bison, grizzly bears, and gray wolves hold important cultural significance to the Indigenous peoples of North America. Despite their important ecological roles and cultural symbolism, during the 19th and 20th century each of these species were hunted to the point of eradication from most of their historic range throughout the continental United States. The elimination of these animals from their traditional ranges has dramatically compromised the integrity of their former ecosystems. Continuing to reestablish their presence – and prohibiting future eradication efforts – will restore the health of these ecosystems.
As seen with the 1995 reintroduction of gray wolves in Yellowstone National Park, reestablishing keystone species in their former ranges can have significant benefits to the ecosystem. The 1995 introduction rebalanced elk and deer populations, allowing vegetation to flourish in response to reduced herbivore grazing pressure. This landmark conservation effort helped re-stabilize the Yellowstone ecosystem, while creating an immense boom in ecotourism revenue that now generates an annual average of over $80 million for local economies in the Greater Yellowstone region. Grizzly bears play a similar role by regulating prey populations and preventing overgrazing, while bison grazing and foraging aid in plant growth and increase biodiversity by aerating soil and dispersing native seeds. These are just a few examples that demonstrate the positive impacts that bison, grizzly bears, and wolves have on North American ecosystems.
Specifically, the Tribal Heritage and American Bison, Grizzly Bear, and Wolf Restoration and Coexistence Act would:
1. Prohibit the take, possession, purchase, sale, or transport of American bison, grizzly bears, and wolves, exclusive of captive-bred bison intended for human consumption, with targeted exceptions authorizing the Secretary of the Interior to issue permits for scientific or conservation purposes and for protection of agricultural interests and public safety.
2. Exempt religious, cultural or treaty-reserved purposes of Federally recognized Indian Tribes.
3. Provide for civil and criminal penalties for violations.
4. Require consultation with federally recognized Indian Tribes before a take permit is issued under this Act or before any activity is carried out on the Tribal land of a federally recognized Indian Tribe that may negatively impact habitat or increase mortality of bison, grizzly bears or wolves.
5. Authorize federally recognized Indian Tribes, in consultation with the Secretary, to manage bison, grizzly bears and wolves reintroduced on Tribal land.
“In the gulf coast of Texas remains a species of wolf called “The Ghost” wolf for its elusive nature and ability to ‘come back from the dead’. After generations of persecution, encroachment, and habitat loss, the Red Wolf was thought to be extinct, but that wasn’t the case. This story is much like the story of my people, the Karankawa. By hiding in plain sight, mixing and adapting to our ever-changing environment, both of us are still here. If only there had been a system in place like this legislation proposes today; that defends and protects, under the wings of their original stewards, our relatives who defend biodiversity, health, culture, and the climate,” said Chiara Beaumont, Karankawa.
“Indigenous peoples, like our relatives the Buffalo, Grizzly and Wolves have distinct cosmology with our natural world. We have inhabited our natural world prior to colonization, dating back to our creation stories. “Comes Holy” a white buffalo was born June 4, 2024 and fulfills a prophecy that teaches our human relatives that spiritual unity is of essence to our survival. Indigenous people speak on behalf of those who cannot – the Buffalo, Grizzlies and Wolves,” said Vivian Delgado, Yaqui.
“We must protect and speak for our sacred relatives because they can’t speak for themselves. For they maintain an ecological balance that is imperative for our survival, knowledge and growth. Just like we seek guidance from our elders, we are also guided by our relatives of the Wolf Nation. By protecting and restoring our bond with our relatives we receive their teachings and many blessings. Through this we can begin to heal our relationship with ourselves, others and Mother Earth,” said Osvaldo Cabral, Huichol.
“This legislation reverses the current doom narrative, instead asks, “What do we stand to gain and how fast.” This fresh novel inquiry is the best approach to wildlife coexistence, reversing climate warming, stemming biodiversity loss and move humans to right relationship with the natural world. This legislative framework utilizes, to the fullest, traditional ecological knowledge together with western science in tribal Co-stewardship decision-making collaboratives for conservation, restoration and protection of our 4-leg relatives, their habitat and their natural active role in maintaining overall ecological health,” said Dallas Gudgell, Yankton Dakota.
“Our relatives within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the nation, from all walks of life, whether they are keystone species, like buffalo or an apex predator, deserve to be protected from corporate interests and settler-colonial practices that put private interests above the American public and the original occupants of the land,”said Devin Oldman, Arapaho.
“All these species are important and it is that, also, we need their “spirit” in our world to live as the Creator wants us to,” said Allen Pinkham, Nez Perce.
“In 2021 President Joe Biden issued an executive order that elevated Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge and ancestral wisdom into federal policy decisions. “Indigenous Knowledge cannot be separated from the people inextricably connected to that knowledge,” the order states. “It applies to phenomena across biological, physical, social, cultural, and spiritual systems.” Indigenous Peoples worldwide “manage over 24% of land, which contains about 40% of all ecologically intact landscapes and protected areas left on the planet, and a staggering 80% of the world’s biodiversity.” Now is the time for Native people to share stories about the wolves, bison and Grizzley bears that would receive lasting protections under this senate bill, which began in 2019 with House Bill 2532, originally co-sponsored by Representative Deb Haaland, who is now by the first Native director of the Department of the Interior,” said Tony Evans, Mohawk.
“The relationship between Indigenous peoples and animals like wolves, grizzly bears, and buffalo is deeply rooted in spiritual, cultural, and ecological significance. These animals are not just seen as wildlife but as relatives and integral parts of the natural world, embodying lessons, symbols, and connections that are vital to the balance of life. The protection of wolves, grizzly bears, and buffalo is not only about preserving species but also about maintaining the natural order and the sacred bonds that sustain life. In this way, the relationship with these animals is a profound reminder of the responsibilities humans have to the Earth and all living beings. The respect and reverence for these animals are central to Indigenous teachings, which stress that all life is interconnected, and the well-being of one species affects the well-being of all.”said Red Fawn Janis, Iglala Lakota.
“The wolf, who is named Ma’iingan by the Anishinaabe people of the Great Lakes, carries core cultural teachings that are necessary for us to understand how to live in accordance with our instructions as responsible and moral beings. The unanimous rejection of a recreational wolf hunt by every Federally recognized tribe in Michigan underscores how integral the living presence of Ma’iingan is to our continued existence as Anishinaabek. From the beginning, our fates have run parallel, and it is deeply necessary that we continue to reside on these lands together with Ma’iingan. Kchi miigwech, much gratitude, to Senator Booker for his leadership and rational insistence that our relationship with the natural world is foundationally important,” said Dr. Nichole Keway Biber, Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.
To read the full text of the bill, click here.
To read the section by section summary, click here.