The Department of Conservation (DOC) today released findings on Te Pēwhairangi (Bay of Islands) Marine Mammal Sanctuary (MMS) and the local bottlenose dolphin population.
The research highlights meaningful opportunities to strengthen conservation efforts.
DOC has dedicated significant time and resources to safeguarding bottlenose dolphins in Te Pēwhairangi/Bay of Islands.
“Bottlenose dolphins are long-lived animals, and population trends take time to shift,” says DOC Northern North Island Regional Operations Director, Sue Reed-Thomas.
“Our focus is on consistent, proactive management, underpinned by science and supported by strong partnerships with hapū and the wider community.
“While the findings recognise areas where progress has been made, they also reveal important gaps in current management approaches that DOC is determined to address.”
DOC is publishing two significant documents that together provide a clearer picture of the pressures on bottlenose dolphins in Te Pēwhairangi/Bay of Islands and outline a practical path forward for their protection.
The first, a science report commissioned by DOC and undertaken by NIWA and the Far Out Ocean Research Collective, describes multiple periods of significant decline in the number of bottlenose dolphins in Te Pēwhairangi over the past 30 years.
Drawing on decades of data, the report highlights the pressures these dolphins face and underscores the need for long-term, evidence-based conservation efforts.
The second document is an internal review evaluating the Bay of Islands Marine Mammal Sanctuary’s effectiveness since its establishment in 2021. Informed by the findings of the science report, as well as compliance, education, and operational data, the review highlights practical steps DOC can take to better protect dolphins and other marine mammals in the sanctuary.
“Both reports give us a clear understanding of the long-term population trends, and how we can adapt and improve our management of the marine mammal sanctuary. It’s about using what we’ve learned to move forward in a meaningful way,” says Sue Reed-Thomas.
DOC’s Bay of Islands operations team has already started work to enhance compliance and enforcement within the marine mammal sanctuary, continue building on the partnerships with local hapū, and expand community engagement and education efforts.
“Together, we can take meaningful steps to ensure these taonga species are protected for generations to come,” says Sue Reed-Thomas.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah replies to the discussion on the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Rajya Sabha, Upper house passes the bill Under Modi ji’s leadership, India became a global leader in disaster management
Modi government is managing disasters by adopting a proactive approach instead of a reactive one and by aiming for zero casualties instead of minimising casualties
Compared to the previous regime, Modi government has given more than three times the money to the states from the central fund
In the previous regime, funds were given to the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation from PMNRF
This bill will further increase the capacity, intensity, efficiency and accuracy in disaster response
Earlier, thousands of people used to die in cyclones, but Modi government is moving towards zero casualty
The aim of this bill is to increase transparency, accountability, efficiency and cooperation in disaster management
India’s disaster management prowess has been established globally through CDRI
To deal with the changing size and scale of disasters, we will have to change the methods, systems and make institutions accountable as well as give them powers
India has had the most successful management of the COVID-19 pandemic in the entire world
Earlier, it used to take two generations for getting vaccines, but under the Modi government, India has made the COVID vaccine and also delivered it to every citizen
The Modi government has given more money than the prescribed amount to the states for disaster managementna
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 9:24PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today replied to the discussion in the Rajya Sabha on the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024. After the discussion, with the passage of the bill from the upper house the amendment bill was passed by the Parliament.
Speaking in the upper house during the discussion, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that through this amendment bill, the Narendra Modi government intends to connect Centre, State governments, Panchayat and all our citizens with the cause of disaster management and there is no question of centralization of power. He said that this disaster management amendment bill is an attempt to take the fight against disasters from a reactive approach to a proactive one and also beyond to an innovative and a participatory approach.
Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji presented a ten-point agenda to the world for disaster risk reduction which has been accepted by more than 40 countries of the world. He said that this bill envisages participation not only from state governments and local units but also from the society. He said that the amendment bill keeps scope of minute planning at local levels too along with the national level and gives clarity on the powers and duties of institutions involved. Shri Shah said that the fight against disasters cannot be accomplished without enabling the institutions and making them better and more accountable, and both of these things have been taken care of in the bill. He said that disasters are directly related to climate change and to mitigate them, we should take steps against global warming. He said that India has been moving in this direction for thousands of years and the Modi government is working to take this tradition forward.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Disaster Management Act was brought for the first time in the year 2005 and under this NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority), SDMA (State Disaster Management Authority) and DDMA (District Disaster Management Authority) were formed. He said that in this bill, the biggest responsibility in the aftermath of disasters have been given to DDMAs which is under the state government, thus there is no question of any damage to our federal system. He said that for financial assistance, National Disaster Response Fund and National Disaster Mitigation Fund were created. Shri Amit Shah said that the Finance Commission has made a scientific arrangement for disaster relief and the Modi government has not given a single penny less than the prescribed amount to any state, rather it has given more.
He said that due to global disasters like Covid-19, increasing urbanization, irregular rain-related disasters and climate change, both the size and scale of disasters have changed. Shri Shah said that to deal with the changing size and scale of disasters, we will have to change the methods and systems and also make the institutions accountable and give them powers. He said that with this objective, this bill has been brought for an effective and comprehensive solution to the disaster management problem. He said that suggestions have been incorporated from stakeholders, ministries and departments of the Central Government, all state governments, Union Territories, international organizations and national and international non-governmental organizations and this bill has been prepared comprehensively by accepting 89 percent of their suggestions.
Union Home Minister said that through this bill, Modi government wants to move from reactive response to proactive risk reduction, from manual monitoring to AI-based real-time monitoring, from radio warnings to social media, apps and mobile warnings, and from government-led response to a multi-dimensional response involving society and citizens. He said that this entire bill has been made to incorporate capacity, intensity, efficiency and accuracy in disaster response. Shri Shah said that in the last 10 years, there has been a change in disaster management in our country due to which we have emerged as a regional and global power recognized by the world. He said that this bill is necessary to maintain this success story of India for a longer time in future.
Shri Amit Shah said that this Bill will make both NDMA and SDMA effective, disaster database will be created at national and state level. It envisages creation of Urban Disaster Management Authority which will be completely under the state governments. Apart from this, this Bill will also give statutory power to NDMA and SDMA in creating a blueprint for 100% implementation of the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission. He said that transparency, trust, credibility and accountability have been given place in it. Shri Shah also said that well-defined roles have been fixed in it and moral responsibilities have also been given place. The Home Minister said that we have also fixed responsibility for the best use of resources. He said that through this Bill, an attempt has been made to fight against disaster with synergy, between preparation, good management and coordination. Many reforms have been made on these four pillars and not a single one of these reforms is for centralization of power.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that in the last ten years, on one hand, Prime Minister Modi Ji has done many things for environmental protection and on the other hand, he has also taken disaster management a long way forward. He said that on one hand Modi Ji talked about Mission Life in front of the world and on the other hand he also announced a ten-point disaster risk reduction agenda. He said that on one hand, a definite concrete program was given to become a pro-planet people and on the other hand, the Coalition for Disaster Resilience Infrastructure (CDRI) was presented to the world, which has 43 countries as members. Shri Shah said that Modi Ji started the International Solar Alliance and Global Biofuel Alliance and also formed a task force on Disaster Risk Reduction by hosting the G20 conference in India. He said that on both these fronts, Prime Minister Modi and the government led by him have worked in a meticulous manner with great foresight. The Home Minister said that on the one hand efforts should be made to prevent disasters by protecting the environment and on the other hand, in case of a disaster, Modi ji has made complete arrangements to fight the disaster in a scientific manner from villages to Delhi.
Shri Amit Shah said that the devastating earthquake in Bhuj, Gujarat in 2001 shook not only Gujarat but the entire country and the world. He said that at that time Shri Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat and he had established the Climate Change Department for the first time in India. He said that at that time Modi ji created the Climate Change Fund in Gujarat and in 2003 brought the State Disaster Management Act in Gujarat. Shri Shah said that in 2013, the country’s first city level action plan for heat wave was made in Ahmedabad and Modi ji also worked on making a detailed plan for reconstruction, community preparedness and rehabilitation after the earthquake.
Union Home Minister said that after Shri Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister in 2014, a holistic and integrated approach was introduced in the country instead of a relief-centric approach. He said that a proactive approach was adopted instead of a reactive one and disaster management was done by keeping the target of zero casualty instead of the usual target of minimum casualty of the previous regime. He said that today governments are not only focus on relief and rescue after a disaster but also make many preparations to tackle them. Shri Shah said that the Modi government has done a very good job in early warning system, prevention to the extent possible, mitigation, timely preparedness and disaster risk reduction. He said that when the Odisha Super Cyclone hit in 1999, 10 thousand people died, but when Cyclone Fani hit in 2019, only one person died, this was the result of our changed approach. He said that when Cyclone Biparjoy hit Gujarat in 2023, not a single person or animal died and we achieved the target of zero casualties in 2023. He said that there has been a 98 percent reduction in loss of life and property due to cyclones and we have also succeeded in reducing heat-related mortality significantly.
Shri Amit Shah said that the budget of SDRF was Rs 38 thousand crores during the year 2004 to 2014, which was increased to Rs 1 lakh 24 thousand crores by the Modi government during 2014 to 2024. Rs 28 thousand crores were given to NDRF during 2004 to 2014, while Rs 80 thousand crores were given during 2014 to 2024. Shri Shah said that the government has increased the total amount from Rs 66 thousand crores to more than Rs 2 lakh crores. He said that the Modi government has given more than three times the money to the states from the central funds. Shri Shah said that apart from this, a National Disaster Response Reserve of 250 crores was created, the first National Disaster Management Plan was released in 2016 which is completely in line with the Sendai framework, the Subhash Chandra Bose Disaster Management Award was established in 2018-19 and the first phase of National Cyclone Risk Mitigation was done in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh in 2018. He said that in 2020-21, the Home Ministry decided that the Inter-Ministerial Consultative Team (IMCT) will first go and do an immediate review and the Modi government made a provision to provide immediate assistance by sending 97 IMCTs within 10 days in 5 years.
Union Home Minister said that currently 16 battalions of NDRF are operational and seeing the NDRF personnel, people feel assured that they are safe now. He said that apart from this, programs have also been made for landslide risk management, glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) and civil security and training capacity building.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), in the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, conducted ‘Operation Maitri’ during the earthquake in Nepal in 2015, ‘Operation Samudra Maitri’ in Indonesia in 2018, ‘Operation Dost’ in Turkey and Syria in 2023, ‘Operation Karuna’ in Myanmar and ‘Operation Sadbhav’ in Vietnam, due to which the governments and people of these countries praised NDRF and Modi ji. He said that NDRF has worked to get our disaster management system firmed up at a national level.
Shri Amit Shah said that the Government of India has signed agreements with Japan, Tajikistan, Mongolia, Bangladesh, Italy, Turkmenistan, Maldives and Uzbekistan to strengthen disaster management and disaster risk reduction. The geographical conditions of these countries make them prone to similar disasters which are possible in India. He said that we have tried to ensure that these countries benefit from our best practices and we benefit from their best practices. Apart from the MoUs, international seminars were also held in the years 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020, 2023, in which disaster management experts from member countries of organizations like SAARC, BRICS, SCO also participated.
Union Home Minister said that the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) is an example of India’s global leadership in the field of disaster management. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi put forward this idea in the UN Climate Summit held in New York on 23 September 2019 and it was established in India itself. He said that so far 42 countries and 7 international organizations have become members of CDRI and through CDRI, work has been done to establish India’s leadership in this field at the global level.
Shri Amit Shah said that through the ‘Aapada Mitra’ scheme, a force of one lakh community volunteers has been created in 350 disaster prone districts at a cost of Rs 370 crore and the volunteers have been registered on the India Disaster Resource Network portal. The District Collectors have their complete details. When a disaster strikes, these volunteers reach for the help on their own. The Home Minister said that 20 percent of the one lakh ‘Aapada Mitra’ volunteers are women. Our women power is working shoulder to shoulder in the work of disaster management. He said that as a result of the ‘Aapada Mitra’ scheme, 78 thousand people were rescued from disasters and taken to safe places and 129 lives were saved by providing them timely treatment at the hospitals.
Union Home Minister said that the ‘Aapada Mitra’ scheme is being expanded. To involve the youth, more than 1300 trained ‘Aapada Mitras’ have been employed as master trainers with a budget of Rs 470 crore. In this, NCC, NSS, Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan and Bharat Scouts and Guides will train two lakh 37 thousand ‘Aapada Mitras’, which will increase the total number of community volunteers to three lakh 37 thousand.
Shri Amit Shah said that we have created many apps for weather related information. These include ‘Mausam’, ‘Meghdoot’, ‘Flood Watch’, ‘Damini’, ‘Pocket Bhuvan’, ‘Sachet’, ‘Van Agni’ and ‘Samudra’. Also, a nodal agency has been created for the study of landslides. India Quake app has been created for automated broadcasting of earthquake parameters. He said that due to the efforts of Modi ji, today all these apps have reached almost every citizen of the country. This has benefited farmers, fishermen, people living on the seashore and people living in landslide prone areas on time.
Union Home Minister said that the entire world has accepted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leading the world in the field of environment, therefore the United Nations has honoured him with the award of Champions of the Earth. Modi ji has almost completed the task of making India free from single-use plastic. Many countries have joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) formed on his initiative. Modi ji has worked to popularise the ‘One Sun, One Earth, One Grid’ project worldwide. The construction of Inter-Regional Energy Grid has begun for sharing solar energy across the world. Crores of people have planted trees with devotion in reverence of Mother Earth and their own mothers through the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
Shri Amit Shah said that India has set the target of Net Zero Carbon Emission by the year 2070. He said that we have already achieved the targets of International Solar Alliance, Global Bio-fuel Alliance and 20 percent Ethanol Blending by the year 2025. Today all our vehicles have 20 percent eco-friendly fuel. Shri Shah said that by providing 10 crore gas connections under the Ujjwala Yojana, we have stopped the smoke of cow dung cakes and coal. We have increased the Swachhata Abhiyan from 39 percent to 100 percent sanitation coverage. Along with this, the Green Hydrogen Mission has started the implementation of a new type of scheme in the entire world.
Union Home Minister said that, if the best COVID management has happened anywhere in the world, it has happened in India. Every Indian should be proud of this and the whole world praises our efforts immensely. He said that as soon as Corona arrived, we started making the vaccine. He said that during the previous regime, it used to take two generations to administer vaccines but under Modi Government India not only got the vaccine made but also ensured that it reached every citizen of the country. Shri Shah said that there is no parallel to such a precise use of technology for public welfare anywhere in the world. Due to the use of technology, the certificate was made available on the mobile as soon as the vaccine was administered and a reminder message would also come up with the time for the second vaccine.
Shri Amit Shah said that through video conference in the state’s civil hospitals and AIIMS, doctors treating minor diseases in small villages were guided about telemedicine, which saved the lives of lakhs of people. He said that the Prime Minister talked to the Chief Ministers of the states 40 times during COVID-19 and inquired about the situation. Not only the Prime Minister, the entire cabinet was involved in this work.
Union Home Minister said that due to our leadership we were able to fight the best battle against Corona in the whole world. Governments were fighting against Corona all over the world, but here the Central Government, State Government and 130 crore people were fighting together. He said that there is not a single example in independent India when an appeal by a leader has had the seriousness of a government order and the whole country followed the appeal of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for Janta curfew with full seriousness. No leader’s appeal had ever received such a great respect.
Shri Amit Shah said that the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) was created during the previous regime. He said fund from PMNRF used to be given to Rajiv Gandhi Foundation. Shri Shah said that during Modi ji’s regime PM Cares fund was created. We spent its funds for tackling the corona epidemic, disaster relief, oxygen plants, ventilators, assistance to the poor and vaccination. Shri Shah said that under PM Cares, along with relief work, we have also provided many types of innovative assistance. There is no political interference in this.
Union Home Minister said that for Karnataka, an estimate of Rs 5,909 crore was given by a high-level committee, out of which Rs 5,800 crore was transferred. For Kerala, an estimate of Rs 3,743 crore was made, out of which Rs 2438 crore was given. For Tamil Nadu, Rs 4600 crore was given out of Rs 4817 crore. West Bengal was given Rs 5000 crore out of Rs 6837 crore. Himachal Pradesh was given Rs 1766 crore out of Rs 2339 crore. The committee has given more or less the same amount to Telangana as well.
Shri Amit Shah said that Rs 111 crore was given to Jharkhand, Rs 121 crore to Kerala, Rs 460 crore to Maharashtra, Rs 256 crore to Bihar and Rs 254 crore to Gujarat for fire-fighting measures, which was never given before. He said that other states will be given funds for fire-fighting measures next year. Shri Shah said that Rs 228 crore has been given to Tamil Nadu between the years 2019 to 2024 and a lot of assistance has been provided.
Union Home Minister said that we declared the disaster in Wayanad, Kerala as a disaster of severe nature. Rs 215 crore was immediately released from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). Rs 36 crore was sent for debris removal, which has not been spent yet. Apart from this, assistance of Rs 153 crore was given on the basis of the IMCT report. The state government has estimated the need for Rs 2219 crore for normalizing the situation and reconstruction, out of which Rs 530 crore has been given. Along with this, other measures have been suggested to get additional assistance from a special window.
Shri Amit Shah said that for the Central Government, citizens of all states including Kerala, Ladakh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh are equal and we do not discriminate against anyone. He said that in the Disaster Management Bill, we have paid attention to increasing human resources along with the provision of increasing technical capacity. Along with the government’s effort, provision has also been made for community effort and along with disaster-resistant construction, care has also been taken for the conservation of nature.
India, Singapore Sign Letter of Intent (LOI) on Green Shipping & Digital Corridor Collaboration Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal along with Senior Minister Dr Amy Khor Attends the Signing Ceremony
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal held Bilateral Meeting with Vice Minister Brigit Gijsbers of The Netharlands on Further Deepening Maritime Cooperation between the two countries
“Fruitful discussion on using Dutch Global expertise to enable Cargo Movement in low draft rivers of Brahmaputra & Barak”: Sarbananda Sonowal
Sarbananda Sonowal joined Dr Amy Khor to inaugurate India Pavillion at the ongoing Singapore Maritime Week (SMW)
Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurates ‘’ Pavillion, Presides over India Business Roundtable
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 8:16PM by PIB Delhi
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Shri Sarbananda Sonowal attended the signing ceremony of Letter of Intent (LOI) between India and Singapore on maritime digitalisation (Digital Corridor Collaboration) and Decarbonisation (Green Shipping) here today. Shri Sonowal was joined by Dr Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Sustainability and the Enviornment and Ministry of Transport, Singapore. The LOI was inked by Shri R Lakshmanan, Joint Secretary, MoPSW, and Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore.
Under the LOI, both sides will collaborate on maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation projects, including identifying relevant stakeholders who could contribute to the effort, and work towards formalising the partnership through a memorandum of understanding on a Singapore-India Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC).
India is a leading player in information technology with the potential to become a major producer and exporter of green marine fuels.
Singapore, as a key transshipment and bunkering hub, also supports a dynamic research and innovation ecosystem. The Singapore-India GDSC, when established, will enhance collaboration from both countries and help accelerate the development and uptake of zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies and the adoption of digital solutions.
Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The signing of this landmark LOI marks the bilateral
collaboration as a significant step towards modernising maritime operations and advancing green shipping efforts. The Singapore-India
Green and Digital Shipping Corridor will drive innovation, accelerate the adoption of low-emission technologies, and strengthen digital integration in the sector, allowing us to move India towards realising the vision of PM Shri Narendra Modiji’s ‘Viksit Bharat’. With India’s strength in Information Technology and green fuel production, along with Singapore’s role as a global maritime hub, this partnership will set new benchmarks in sustainability and efficiency in the maritime sector. We look forward to work closely to build a resilient, future ready maritime ecosystem that benefits both nations and the global maritime industry.”
Seeking the Global Dutch Expertise for revamping India’s waterways rivers like Barak and Brahmaputra, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “With their rich experience and global expertise in dredging, river engineering, we can enable our diverse and rich riverine system with effective dredging techniques, modern inland vessel technology & water management. The Netherlands’ expertise in shallow-draft push barges, modular inland vessels, & LNG-powered river transport presents a valuable opportunity for India. We are keen to adapt these technologies to enhance cargo movement in low-draft rivers like the Brahmaputra & Barak, making inland waterways more efficient, sustainable, & economically viable. We see great potential for Dutch collaboration in India’s major projects like the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) and Brahmaputra River dredging. This will help us realise the vision of PM Shri Narendra Modi ji to empower the Northeast as the New Engine of Growth for an Atmanirbhar Bharat charting its course on becoming a Viksit country.”
The Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal also inaugurated the ‘India Pavilion’ along with Dr Amy Khor, Senior Minister of Singapore.
Shri Sonowal also inaugurated the IRClass Pavilion at the ongoing Singapore Maritime Week (SMW). Speaking at the India Business Roundtable, the Union Minister, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “India is rapidly emerging as a global maritime hub, driven by sustainability, digital innovation, and strategic partnerships. Under the visionary leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi ji, we are transforming ports into clean energy-driven investment hubs, fostering shipbuilding excellence, and decarbonising shipping. With bold reforms, resilient supply chains, and global collaborations like the India-Singapore Green and Digital Shipping Corridor, we invite the world to partner with us in shaping a sustainable and future-ready maritime economy.”
During the day, the Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal also visited Singapore Cruise Centre to understand the infrastructure and facilities that has helped Singapore to become a thriving cruise tourism destination. India aims to replicate such terminals in key locations like Goa, Mumbai and Chennai to provide a fillip to the cruise tourism. Sonowal also met with key officials of Singapore Chamber of Maritime Arbitration (SCMA) as well as top industry captains from maritime sector of the Netherlands.
In order to manage the overall food security and to prevent unscrupulous speculation, the Government of India has decided that Traders/Wholesalers, Retailers, Big Chain Retailers and Processors in all States and Union Territories have to declare their Stock position of wheat on the portal (https://evegoils.nic.in/wsp/login) w.e.f. 01.04.2025 and then, on every Friday till further orders. All the respective legal entities to ensure that stock are regularly and correctly disclosed on the portal.
Wheat Stock Limit is expiring on 31.03.2025 for all categories of entities in States and UTs. Thereafter, the entities have to disclose the wheat stock on portal. Any entity which is not registered on the Portal, may register themselves and start disclosing the wheat stock on every Friday.
The Department of Food and Public Distribution is maintaining a close watch over the stock position of wheat to prevent speculation, control prices and ensure easy availability in the country
The Competition Commission of India has approved acquisition of Athaang Devanahalli TollwayPrivate Limited, Athaang Jammu Udhampur Highway Private Limited and Quazigund Expressway Private Limited by Cube Highways Trust and Cube Highways and Infrastructure V Pte. Ltd.
The Proposed Combination envisages:
acquisition of 100% shareholding of Athaang Devanahalli Tollway Private Limited (ADTPL) by Cube Highways and Infrastructure V Pte. Ltd. (Cube V); and
acquisition of 100% shareholding of (i) Athaang Jammu Udhampur Highway Private Limited (AJUHPL), and (ii) Quazigund Expressway Private Limited (QEPL) by Cube Highways Trust (Cube Trust).
(Hereinafter ADTPL, AJUHPL and QEPL are collectively referred to as the ‘Targets’)
The Cube Trust is an infrastructure investment trust registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) under the SEBI (Infrastructure Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014 (as amended). The road assets/ SPVs of Cube Trust are engaged, inter alia, in the operation and maintenance (O&M) of various road and highway projects in India.
Cube V is registered as a foreign portfolio investor with the SEBI and acquires, operates and manages road assets in India.
The Targets have been incorporated in India as special purpose vehicles and are engaged in the business of operating (through governmental concessions) roads and highways in India.
The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed combination involving, inter alia, Maple Infrastructure Trust (MIT); CDPQ Infrastructures Asia III Inc. (CDPQ Asia); Maple Highways Pte. Ltd.; 360 ONE Private Equity Fund and certain road assets of the Ashoka Buildcon group.
The Proposed Combination involves the acquisition by MIT, acting through Maple Infra Invit Investment Manager Private Limited (Maple IM) of Ashoka Dhankuni Kharagpur Tollway Limited (ADKTL); Ashoka Sambalpur Baragarh Tollway Limited (ASBTL); Ashoka Belgaum Dharwad Tollway Limited (ABDTL); Ashoka Highways (Bhandara) Limited (AHBL); and Ashoka Highways (Durg) Limited (AHDL) (Proposed SPV Acquisitions) and certain inter-connected transactions.
MIT is a private trust settled under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, and was registered as an infrastructure investment trust under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Infrastructure Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014, on 24thFebruary 2020. MIT is, through its special purpose vehicles, engaged in the business of owning and operating road assets in India. Maple IM is the investment manager of MIT.
CPDQ Asia is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caisse de dépôt et de placement du Québec (CDPQ). CDPQ is a global investment group that manages the funds of its depositors, primarily comprised of public and para-public pension and insurance plans from Québec.
Maple Sponsor is the sponsor of MIT for purposes of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Infrastructure Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014.
360 ONE Private Equity Fund is registered with the SEBI as a Category II Alternative Investment Fund and is established for the purpose of investing in various sectors in India and worldwide. The 360 ONE Private Equity Fund is managed by its investment manager, 360 ONE Alternates Asset Management Limited.
ADKTL, ASBTL, ABDTL, AHBL and AHDL are engaged by the National Highway Authority of India Limited (NHAI) to provide infrastructure concession services.
The Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition of 100% equity shareholding in 11 road special purpose vehicles owned by Ashoka Concessions Limited and Ashoka Buildcon Limited by Epic Concesiones 2 Private Limited.
The Proposed Combination envisages acquisition of 100% equity shareholding by Epic Concesiones 2 Private Limited (EC2PL) in road 11 special purpose vehicles (Target SPVs) owned by Ashoka Concessions Limited (ACL) and Ashoka Buildcon Limited (ABL) (Proposed Equity Transaction).
EC2PL is a private limited company engaged in owning and operating infrastructure projects. It is owned by Infrastructure Yield Plus II (IYP II) & Infrastructure Yield Plus IIA (IYP IIA) (collectively IYP), which are both schemes of the Infrastructure Yield Trust, an irrevocable and determinate contributory investment trust under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 and registered with the SEBI as a Category I – Infrastructure Alternative Investment Fund, under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012. The investment manager of IYP II and IYP IIA is EAAA India Alternatives Limited (EIAL) which is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of EFSL, the parent entity of EC2PL.
The Target SPVs are eleven road SPVs have been incorporated in India and are engaged in the business of operating (through governmental concessions) roads and highways in India.
The Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) was announced on 15th September, 2015 with the objective to reduce country’s reliance on the import of gold in the long run and mobilise gold held by households and institutions in the country to facilitate its use for productive purposes.
The GMS comprised of 3 components:
Short Term Bank Deposit (1-3 years)
Medium Term Government Deposit (5-7 years), and
Long-Term Government Deposit (12 – 15 years)
Based on the examination of the performance of the Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) and evolving market conditions, it has been decided to discontinue the Medium Term and Long Term Government Deposit (MLTGD) components of the GMS w.e.f. March 26, 2025.
Accordingly, any gold deposits tendered at the designated Collection and Purity Testing Centre (CPTC) or GMS Mobilisation, Collection & Testing Agent (GMCTA) or the designated bank branches under the said components of GMS shall not be accepted with effect from March 26, 2025. However, the existing deposits under MLTGD shall continue till redemption as per extant guidelines of GMS issued vide Reserve Bank Master Direction No. DBR.IBD.No.45/23.67.003/2015-16 dated October 22, 2015 (as updated).
Further, the Short-Term Bank Deposits (STBD) offered by the banks under GMS shall continue at the discretion of the individual banks based on the commercial viability as assessed by them. The detailed guidelines of Reserve Bank in this regard shall follow.
The following are the lists, in order of merit of 349(223+89 + 37) candidates who have qualified on the basis of the results of the Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2024 conducted by the Union Public Service Commission in September, 2024 and SSB interviews held by the Services Selection Board of the Ministry of Defence for admission to the 159th (DE) Course of Indian Military Academy, Dehradun; Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala and Air Force Academy, Hyderabad (Pre-Flying) Training Course i.e. No. 218 F(P) Course.
2. There are some common candidates in the three lists for various courses.
3. The number of vacancies, as intimated by the Government is100for Indian Military Academy [including13vacancies reserved for NCC ‘C’ Certificates (Army Wing) holders],32for Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala Executive Branch (General Service)/Hydro[including06vacancies for NCC ‘C’ Certificate (Naval Wing) holders] and32for Air Force Academy, Hyderabad[03vacancies are reserved for NCC ’C’ Certificate (Air Wing) holders through NCC Spl. Entry].
4. The Commission had recommended2534, 900,and613as qualified in the written test for admission to the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy and Air Force Academy, respectively. The number of candidates finally qualified are those after SSB test conducted by Army Head Quarters.
5. The results of Medical examination have not been taken into account in preparing these lists.
6. Verification of date of birth and educational qualifications of these candidates is still under process by the Army Headquarters. The candidature of all these candidates is, therefore, Provisional on this score. Candidates are requested to forward their certificates, in original, in support of Date of Birth/Educational qualification etc. claimed by them, along with Photostat attested copies thereof to Army Headquarters /Naval Headquarters /Air Headquarters, as per their first choice.
7. In case, there is any change of address, the candidates are advised to promptly intimate directly to the Army Headquarters /Naval Headquarters /Air Headquarters.
8. These results will also be available on the UPSC website athttp://www.upsc.gov.in. However, marks of the candidates will be available on the website after declaration of final result of Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) Course for Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2024.
9. For any further information, the candidates may contact Facilitation Counter near Gate ‘C’ of the Commission’s Office, either in person or on telephone Nos. 011-23385271/011-23381125/011-23098543 between 10:00 hours and 17:00 hours on any working day.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
HKPF conducts inter-departmental tabletop exercise to strengthen collaboration and responsiveness in transportation services near KTSP The exercise built on insights from the first phase of the tabletop exercise completed on October 25, 2024, and data collected from a number of subsequent large-scale test events and stress tests, which showed approximately 70 per cent of participants chose to take the MTR Tuen Ma Line during large-scale events at the KTSP. As such, this exercise, which was based on the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens simulated different emergency scenarios involving train operations and signal systems at nearby MTR stations, causing varying degrees of impact to the MTR Tuen Ma Line service.
The exercise aimed to enhance stakeholders’ ability to immediately deploy manpower, implement appropriate contingency measures, and coordinate inter-departmental actions according to different emergency situations, so as to minimise impacts on participants of large-scale events and local residents near the KTSP, as well as ensuring their safety and smooth mobility.
Supported by 13 government bureaux, departments and relevant organisations, over 150 representatives participated in the exercise, including personnel from the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the Security Bureau, the HKPF, the Fire Services Department, the Hospital Authority, the Civil Aid Service, the Auxiliary Medical Service, the Transport Department, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the Home Affairs Department (Wong Tai Sin District Office and Kowloon City District Office), the MTR Corporation Limited and the KTSP Limited. Issued at HKT 21:35
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hospital Authority implements fees and charges reform rationalising healthcare services and enhancing patient protection The Chairman of the HA, Mr Henry Fan, said, “We sincerely thank the Health Bureau for leading the HA in conducting this fees and charges reform review. Through this reform, the HA can promote the development of Hong Kong’s public healthcare services. We believe that once the fees and charges reform measures are fully implemented, the current service imbalances in public hospitals can be gradually straightened out and the protection for patients, especially those with critical illnesses or emergency conditions, can be enhanced. This will enable sustainable development of public healthcare services to cope with the various challenges posed by Hong Kong’s ageing population.”
Currently, the government provides a high degree of subsidy for HA services, with a subsidy rate as high as 97.6 per cent, with the subsidy amount for some public hospital services even reaching 100 per cent. Beyond facing challenges from an ageing population creating excess demand, Hong Kong’s public healthcare system experiences systemic imbalances, subsidy misallocations, and service waste. To ensure the sustainability of the public healthcare system, the HA initiated a review to reform public healthcare fees and charges last year, based on relevant principles including public affordability, optimal service utilisation, cost sharing, subsidy prioritisation, support for the underprivileged and public acceptance. The review covers the following areas:
Reforming the susidisation structure Reducing wastage and misuse Strengthening healthcare protection The Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko, said, “The HA will fully implement the reform. Under the reform, subsidy ratios will vary by service type of public hospitals, depending on the nature of the service. After the reform, the public copayment ratio will remain affordable. Through the enhanced medical fee waiving mechanism, relaxed eligibility criteria of means test for Samaritan Fund safety net applications, and a cap on annual spending on inpatient and outpatient fees, the HA will continue to ensure that no one will be denied adequate medical care due to lack of means and will strengthen the protection of the public, not only taking care of the underprivileged groups, but also preventing middle income people from impoverishment due to illness.”
After the implementation of measures such as enhancing medical fee waiving mechanism, relaxing eligibility criteria of means test for Samaritan Fund safety net applications, and establishing a cap on annual spending on inpatient and outpatient fees, over 1.4 million people are expected to be eligible for protection. The HA pledges that all additional revenue generated from fees and charges adjustments will be entirely utilised to medical services, particularly supporting those with critical conditions like cancer or rare diseases, waiving or reducing self-financed medications and devices or medical supplies fees. The HA can also accelerate the introduction of more effective new medications and devices to improve treatment outcomes.
The detailed fee schedule will take effect in January 2026 (see Annex). Details of enhanced protection measures, include enhancing medical fee waiving mechanism, introducing an annual fee cap on inpatients and outpatients of $10,000, and relaxing eligibility criteria of means test for Samaritan Fund safety net application, are provided in the appendix. The HA’s last fee adjustment was in 2017.
Mr Fan stated that Hong Kong’s public hospitals remain among the world’s most efficient healthcare providers. The HA will continue promoting reforms to improve the service level of public hospitals, and ensure limited medical resources can be used for patients most in need. Once the public healthcare fees and charges reform achieves its target within five years, Hong Kong’s public healthcare system will take a major step forward. The HA will also fully cooperate with other government healthcare reform measures to continue providing high-quality and sustainable medical services with appropriate healthcare protection for Hong Kong citizens.
Annex
Public healthcare fees and charges reform
Service(Acute bed)(convalescent / rehabilitation, infirmary and psychiatric beds) Maintenance fee (per day)(Geriatric, rehabilitation) Community allied health service(Fee exempted for Category I, II)16 weeks maximumup to 4 weeks(applicable for SOPC) $135 for the 1st attendance
$80 per subsequent attendance $15 per unit, 16 weeks maximumup to 4 weeksIssued at HKT 21:25
Under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, 15,057 Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) have been opened till 28.2.2025 across the country For smooth supply and product availability at JAKs, an end-to-end IT-enabled supply chain system has been established; It comprises one central warehouse at Gurugram and four regional warehouses at Bengaluru, Guwahati, Chennai and Surat
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 7:02PM by PIB Delhi
Under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana scheme, a total of 15,057 Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) have been opened till 28.2.2025 across the country, the State- and Union-territory-wise numbers of which are at Annexure.
Lack of availability of medicines to JAKs is not a systemic issue. For smooth supply and product availability at JAKs, an end-to-end IT-enabled supply chain system has been established. It comprises one central warehouse at Gurugram and four regional warehouses at Bengaluru, Guwahati, Chennai and Surat. Further, 36 distributors have been appointed across the country to strengthen the supply chain system. Availability of 400 fast-moving products is monitored regularly to ensure their availability. Further, a minimum stocking mandate has been implemented for 200 medicines consisting of the 100 top-selling medicines in the scheme product basket and 100 fast-selling medicines in the market. Under the stocking mandate, the Jan Aushadhi Kendra owners become eligible for claiming incentive based on stocks of the said 200 medicines maintained by them. Thus, supply of medicines to JAKs is ensured through the system of warehouses and distributors and monitoring system and incentives are in place to encourage JAKs to stock the products that are more in demand. JAKs being run on an entrepreneurship model, the actual stocking of products is done by entrepreneurs based on demand for the same.
To safeguard against complaints about the quality of medicines sold from JAKs, stringent measures as specified below are in place to ensure that the medicines supplied through Jan Aushadhi Kendras meet standards:
Medicines are procured only from suppliers certified for World Health Organization – Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP).
Each batch of drugs supplied under the scheme is tested at laboratories accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) and only after passing quality tests, medicines are dispatched to Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
Quality audit of the facilities of vendors is routinely done by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India.
Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) opened till 28.2.2025
S. No.
State / Union Territory
JAKs opened
1
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
9
2
Andhra Pradesh
275
3
Arunachal Pradesh
34
4
Assam
170
5
Bihar
812
6
Chandigarh
11
7
Chhattisgarh
278
8
Delhi
492
9
Goa
15
10
Gujarat
760
11
Haryana
408
12
Himachal Pradesh
71
13
Jammu and Kashmir
318
14
Jharkhand
148
15
Karnataka
1,425
16
Kerala
1,528
17
Ladakh
2
18
Lakshadweep
1
19
Madhya Pradesh
545
20
Maharashtra
708
21
Manipur
54
22
Meghalaya
25
23
Mizoram
15
24
Nagaland
22
25
Odisha
682
26
Puducherry
33
27
Punjab
489
28
Rajasthan
486
29
Sikkim
11
30
Tamil Nadu
1,363
31
Telangana
199
32
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
39
33
Tripura
28
34
Uttar Pradesh
2,658
35
Uttarakhand
313
36
West Bengal
630
Total
15,057
This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Smt Anupriya Patel in Rajya Sabha in written reply to a question today.
New Investment Policy (NIP) to facilitate fresh investment and making India Self-Sufficient in the urea sector Total 6 new urea units have been set up under NIP-2012 including 4 Urea units set up through Joint Venture Companies (JVC) of nominated PSUs and 2 Urea units set up by the private companies
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 7:01PM by PIB Delhi
The Government had announced New Investment Policy (NIP) – 2012 on 2nd January, 2013 and its amendment on 7th October, 2014 to facilitate fresh investment in the urea sector and to make India self-sufficient in the urea sector. Total 6 new urea units have been set up under NIP-2012 which includes 4 Urea units set up through Joint Venture Companies (JVC) of nominated PSUs and 2 Urea units set up by the private companies. The units set up through JVC are Ramagundam Urea unit of Ramagundam Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd (RFCL) in Telangana and 3 Urea units namely Gorakhpur, Sindri and Barauni of Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL) in Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Bihar, respectively. The units set up by private companies are Panagarh Urea unit of Matix Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd. (Matix) in West Bengal; and Gadepan-III Urea unit of Chambal Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd. (CFCL) in Rajasthan. Each of these units has installed capacity of 12.7 Lakh Metric Tonne per annum (LMTPA). These units are highly energy efficient as they are based on latest technology. Therefore, these units have together added urea production of 76.2 LMTPA thereby total production urea production capacity (RAC) has increased from 207.54 LMTPA during 2014-15 to 283.74 LMTPA in 2023-24.
The Government has implemented Nutrient Based Subsidy Policy w.e.f. 01.04.2010 for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) Fertilizers. Under the policy, a fixed amount of subsidy, decided on annual/bi-annual basis, is provided on notified P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content. The P&K sector is decontrolled, fertilizer companies are allowed to fix MRP at reasonable levels.The fertilizer companies manufacture/import fertilizers and do investment as per the market dynamics.
This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Smt Anupriya Patel in Rajya Sabha in written reply to a question today.
Scheme for Promotion of Research and Innovation in the Pharma Medtech sector to promote research and development (R&D) including in the areas of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) provide training in AI-based tools to build human resource capacities in these areas for the pharmaceutical sector
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 6:58PM by PIB Delhi
The Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) has taken steps to promote research and development (R&D) in the sector, including in the areas of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, in the pharmaceutical sector through the Scheme for Promotion of Research and Innovation in the Pharma Medtech sector. Further, the National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) under the aegis of DoP have introduced topics related to AI and block chain technology in their courses and they provide training to students in AI-based tools to build human resource capacities in these areas for the pharmaceutical sector. In addition, the Department of Biotechnology also supports AI-based research activities in the biotech sector, particularly in the healthcare and agriculture areas, in order to leverage emerging technologies for these sectors. Further, the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, with the assistance of the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing, has undertaken a pilot project to evaluate the feasibility of a block-chain-based track-and-trace system for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana.
This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Smt. Anupriya Patel in Rajya Sabha in written reply to a question today.
Department of Pharmaceuticals hosts Industry Dialogue on Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech Sector (PRIP) Scheme at Bengaluru Innovate in India and Make for the World aiming to position the country as a global leader in innovation and manufacturing for the world: Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 6:57PM by PIB Delhi
The Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India, hosted an Industry Dialogue on the scheme for Promotion of Research and Innovation in the Pharma-MedTech Sector (PRIP) at Bangalore on 25th March 2025. The event served as a significant platform for representatives from industry, startups, and research institutes, including representatives from the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and innovation hubs like C-CAMP (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms), to engage in discussions aimed at fostering collaboration, and leveraging government initiatives to accelerate research and development (R&D) in the pharmaceutical and MedTech sectors.
The session provided detailed insights into the PRIP Scheme, along with other government initiatives promoting and enabling research innovation in the sector. Notable initiatives such as ICMR’s Patent Mitra, MedTech Mitra, and Indian Clinical Trial and Education Network (INTENT) programme were discussed, with an emphasis on support for patent filing, facilitating the innovation journey, clinical trials, and commercialization of R&D outcomes. The CSIR’s Innovation Complex and C-CAMP’s incubation facilities were also highlighted as key enablers for translational research and industry collaboration.
Shri Amit Agrawal, Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals, underscored India’s comparative advantage in enhancing the resilience of global supply chains, a goal further supported by the PRIP Scheme. He advocated progression from “Make in India” also Innovate in India and Make for the World aiming to position the country as a global leader in innovation and manufacturing for the world.
In the breakout sessions, representatives from startups, Industry, academia and other stakeholders gave in-depth feedback regarding research and innovation opportunities, emerging R&D trends, strategies to enhance industry-academia collaboration. Useful suggestions were made regarding maximising funding opportunities and scaling up innovative research initiatives to drive the sector’s growth.
The stakeholders were encouraged to submit their feedback and project details through the Expression of Interest (EoI) hosted on the Department of Pharmaceuticals website, which will be open till April 7, 2025. This process will help refine the implementation strategy of the PRIP Scheme, ensuring it aligns with industry need and drives sectoral growth.
The Industry Dialogue in Bangalore was an insightful and productive event, with participants reaffirming their commitment to fostering a collaborative, innovation-driven ecosystem in the Pharma-MedTech sector.
The National Education Policy (NEP), 2020 emphasizes the critical importance of universal and high-quality Early Childhood Education along with the power of multilingualism and the importance of including children’s languages in primary education. To fulfil the vision of NEP 2020, the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSE&L), Ministry of Education has launched “Baalpan ki Kavita initiative: Restoring Bhartiya rhymes/poems for young children” for preparing a compendium of nursery rhymes/poems in all Bhartiya Bhasha and also in English, focusing on content relevant to the Indian context. The purpose of this initiative is that the young children can have better learning at the Foundational stage by becoming familiar with the world around them through easily understandable and joyful poems and rhymes, in their mother tongue.
To further this initiative, the DoSE&L in collaboration with MyGov is inviting contribution to the “Baalpan ki Kavita initiative: Restoring Bhartiya rhymes/poems for young children”. The participants of the contest can send existing poems/rhymes popular in folklore (mentioning the name of the author) or newly composed joyful poems/rhymes under three categories:
Pre-primary (ages 3-6)
Grade 1 (ages 6-7)
Grade 2 (ages 7-8)
Entries are invited in all Indian language (Bhartiya Bhasha), also in English, and can include regional rhymes/poems that hold cultural significance in Indian context. The competition is starting from 26.03.2025 till 22.04.2025, on the MyGov website (https://www.mygov.in/). There is no entry fee for participation. Other details of the competition can be seen on MyGov website.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Opening ceremony of Diversity and Inclusion Arts Festival and Diverse Abilities · Inclusive Workplace Recognition Scheme held today The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun; the Vice Chairperson of the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong (ADAHK), Ms Grace Cheng; Head of Charities (Healthy Community) of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Ms Imelda Chan; the Commissioner for Rehabilitation of LWB, Mr Fletch Chan; the Vice-Chairman of the Rehabilitation Advisory Committee (RAC), Dr Kevin Lau; the Chairman of the RAC Sub-committee on Employment, Mr Alvin Miu; and the Assistant Director of Social Welfare (Rehabilitation and Medical Social Services), Mr David Ng, officiated at the ceremony. Representatives of various participating organisations also attended. Artists with disabilities presented music and dance performances at the opening ceremony fostering an inclusive community through arts.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Sun expected that the artistic talents of PWDs could be showcased through the Arts Festival. He encouraged them to pursue excellence and aim for professional development. Mr Sun said that PWDs possess exceptional capabilities in various fields and expressed the hope that the Arts Festival would draw greater attention across the community to the abilities of PWDs. At the same time, he called on enterprises to provide more employment opportunities for PWDs to develop their potential, thereby achieving an inclusive workplace. Mr Sun also appealed to the community to actively participate in the Diversity and Inclusion Arts Festival and the “Caring Employer” Medal Design Competition under the Diverse Abilities · Inclusive Workplace Recognition Scheme.
A phase II trial to study efficacy, toxicity and imunomodulatory effect of Carctol-S in high grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer at first
serological relapse collaborative project.
The Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer & CARI, Mumbai
2.
Evaluation of Hepatoprotective activity of PTK as an add on therapy in the patients of Tuberculosis on ATT – A double blind
randomized control clinical study
K.L.E. Academy of Higher Education & Research, Belagavi
3.
Evaluating the efficacy of Ayurvedic intervention as add on to conventional treatment and explore the interaction of epigenetics, neuro/gut biomarkers and neuroimaging in pediatric ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperacidity Disorder)
National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) Bengaluru
4.
Double blind randomized placebo controlled multicentric clinical trial of Ayush M-3 in the management of Migraine.
NIMHANS, Bengaluru
5.
Ayurveda therapeutic regimen as on Add-on to optimized conventional management of Parkinson’s disease: an RCT for assessment of clinical Cortical excitability neuroimmune and Autonomic function parameters.
NIMHANS, Bengaluru
6.
Efficacy and safety of Ayurveda Formulation Trikatu as add on to standard care in Dyslipidemia – a randomized controlled trial
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) , Bhubaneswar
7.
Efficacy of Ayurveda regimen (mild purgation and internal oleation) in comparison with Allopathic regimen (Letrozole) along with Yoga module in the management of unexplained and anovulatory female infertility: A RCT
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) , Mandi
8.
Topical Oil Pooling (Karnapurana) with Kshirabala Taila and supple mentation of Ashwagandha churna (TOPMAC) in presbycusis
– An exploratory randomized controlled trial
Institute of Communicative and cognitive Neurosciences (ICCONS), Shoranur, Kerala
9.
Prospective, Randomized, Open-Label, Blinded End Point exploratory clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic regimen as an adjunct to Hydroxyurea in the management of Sickle cell disease.
AIIMS, Bhopal
10.
A multi-center study to assess the treatment adherence & tolerability of Ayush SR in Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
College, Kotakkal; Sri Sri College of Ayurvedic Science and Research, Bengaluru;
Adichunchanagiri Ayurvedic Medical College, Bengaluru
11.
Impact of Mukta Shukti Bhasma and Saubhagya Shunti in reversal of bone mineral density among Lactating women consuming traditional diet foods in Maharashtra: A randomized Controlled preliminary clinical study
National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health (NIRRCH-ICMR), Mumbai
12.
Efficacy of Ayurveda interventions (Hridyarnava Rasa and Harityakyadi yoga) as an add-on to standard care in Stable Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) assessed through Global Longitudinal Strain Imaging Technique (GLSIT) – A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Ayurvedic Cardiac Rehabilitation Centre, Madhavbaugh, Pune
13.
Prospective double blind randomized controlled clinical study on Ayurvedic intervention (Pushkar guggulu & Haritaki churna) in the management of stable coronary artery disease.
Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi
14.
A randomized double blind placebo control clinical study to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of Swarnaprashan in moderately malnourished children.
Sanjiv Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow
15.
Efficacy and safety of Punarnavadi Mandura alone and in combination with Drakshavaleha compared to iron folic acid in the treatment of moderate iron deficiency anaemia among non- pregnant women of reproductive age group: a community-based three arm multicentre randomized controlled trial.
Ayush-ICMR
16.
Randomized controlled trial of Anshumati Ksheer Paka in hypertension induced left ventricular hypertrophy
Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi
17.
Anemia control among adolescent girls through Ayurveda interventions in the five districts under Mission -Utkarsh
All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi; National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), Jaipur, Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI)’s Indian Institute of Public Health-Delhi (IIPH-D)
18.
An exploratory series of n of 1 responder restricted study of Ayurveda regimen on quality of life among elderly population in Ballabgarh district of Haryana- A community-based study.
Ministry of Ayush has taken multiple initiatives towards integration of Ayush systems of medicine with Allopathic system
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Ayush has taken multiple initiatives towards integration of Ayush systems of medicine including Ayurveda with Allopathic system:
The Ayush Vertical under Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), established by the Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW), serves as a dedicated institutional mechanism for planning, monitoring, and supervising Ayush-specific public health programs. This vertical provides technical support to both Ministries in developing strategies for public health, healthcare, Ayush education, and training.
The Ministry of Ayush and MoH&FW have jointly established Integrated Ayush Departments in Central Government Hospitals to promote integrative healthcare. As part of this initiative, Department of Integrative Medicine has been set up and is operational at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital and Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi through All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi and Central Ayurveda Research Institute (CARI), Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi respectively. No separate funding is allocated for establishing these centres.
An Advisory committee was constituted under the chairpersonship of Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog to study the existing knowledge and efficacy of different models of Integrative Medicine and its benefits at large and to propose a framework of comprehensive Integrative Health Policy.
Government of India has adopted a strategy of Co-location of AYUSH facilities at Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs) and District Hospitals (DHs), thus enabling the choice to the patients for different systems of medicines under a single window. The engagement of AYUSH doctors/ paramedics and their training is supported by the MoH&FW under National Health Mission (NHM), while the support for AYUSH infrastructure, equipment/ furniture and medicines are provided by the Ministry of Ayush under National AYUSH Mission (NAM) as shared responsibilities.
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has undertaken research studies such as Operational study to explore the feasibility of integrating Ayurveda with modern system of medicine in a tertiary care hospital (Safdarjung Hospital New Delhi) for the management of Osteoarthritis (Knee), Feasibility of introducing the Indian System of Medicine (Ayurveda) in the National Reproductive and Child Health services at the Primary Health Care (PHC) level in Himachal Pradesh and Integration of AYUSH systems in the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases & Stroke (NPCDCS) and Feasibility of introducing Ayurveda Intervention in Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) in PHCs of the Selected district (Gadchiroli) of Maharashtra (Effectiveness of Ayurvedic intervention for Ante-Natal care (Garbhini Paricharya) at Primary Health Care level: A Multi Centre Operational Study). Details of the collaborative projects by the Council in the last five years are given in AnnexureI.
Further, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and CCRAS has taken an initiative to set up Ayush-ICMR Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research (AI-ACIHR), at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to conduct research on identified areas focusing on integrative healthcare under Extra Mural research Scheme of ICMR. Under this program, four research areas in four AIIMS have been identified, which are as follows:
AIIMS Delhi:
Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Gastro-intestinal Disorders
Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Women and Child Health
AIIMS Jodhpur: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Geriatric Health
AIIMS Nagpur: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Cancer Care
AIIMS Rishikesh: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Geriatric Health.
In All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, integrative medical services are available under, Centre for Integrative Cancer Therapy, Centre for Integrative Dentistry, Centre for Integrative Critical Care & Emergency Medicine, Centre for Integrative Orthopedics, Centre for Integrative Dietetics and Nutrition and Causality OPD Section. Integrated services are also provided through Satellite Clinical Services Units established at Integrative Medical Services Unit at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, Integrative Medical Services Unit AIIMS Jhajjar and Centre for Integrative Oncology at National Cancer Institute – AIIMS, Jhajjar.
Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), conducts integrated research and also has visiting allopathic doctors for consultation.
The Ministry of Ayush has been implementing the Central Sector Scheme namely Ayurswasthya Yojana since 2021-22. The Scheme has 02 components viz. (i) Ayush & public health (PHI) component and (ii) Upgradation of facilities to the centre of excellence. Under the Centre of Excellence, financial assistance is provided to support creative and innovative proposals of prestigious organizations with well-established buildings and infrastructure and wish to work for Ayush systems to the level of Centre of Excellence. Nine organizations of National repute have been funded under the Centre of Excellence component of Ayurswasthya Yojana under the activity-based/research-based Centre of Excellence for research and development to integrate the knowledge of Ayurveda with the modern system of medicine. Details of organizations are given at Annexure II.
Annexure I
LIST OF COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS OF LAST FIVE YEARS 2020-21 TO 2024-25
COMPLETED PROJECTS
S.
No.
Name of Project
Name of the Collaborating Institutes
1.
Evaluation of Add on Efficacy & Safety of an Ayurvedic coded Formulation in the management of Dengue Fever & Prevention of its complications – A Double Blind Clinical Study
National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, KLE University’s Department of Integrative Medicine, Kolar.
2.
A Randomized Placebo Controlled Prospective Phase II Clinical Study of an Ayurvedic Coded Drug ‘AYUSH-D’ on Glycemic control in Pre- Diabetic Subjects
Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Bengaluru
AIIMS, New Delhi
RRA Poddar Medical College, Mumbai
KLEU’s Shri BMK Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belgavi
3.
A Randomized Placebo Controlled Phase II Clinical Study of an Ayurvedic Coded Drug ‘AYUSH-D’ in the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus as add on Therapy to Metformin
Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Bengaluru
AIIMS, New Delhi
RRA Poddar Medical College, Mumbai
Rajiv Gandhi PG Govt Ayurveda College, Paprola
4.
Multi-centric Collaborative Double Blind study on clinical evaluation of AYUSH-SL in chronic Filarial Lymphoedema in patients receiving mass drug administration Multi-centric Collaborative Double Blind study on clinical evaluation of AYUSH-SL in chronic Filarial Lymphoedema in patients receiving mass drug administration
Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine (CSTM) in collaboration with CARI, Kolkata
Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Bhubaneswar
Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Vijayawada
5.
Feasibility of introducing Ayurveda intervention in Reproductive and Child Health
30 PHCs of Gadchiroli District of Maharashtra
(RCH) in PHCs of selected district (Gadchiroli) of Maharashtra (Effectiveness of Ayurvedic Intervention for Ante-Natal care (Garbhini Paricharya) at Primary Health Care level: A Multi Centre Operational Study)
6.
Randomized control study to evaluate the efficacy of Ayush CCT and Rajyoga Meditation versus conventional treatment on clinical recovery and post-operative outcomes following elective adult cardiothoracic surgeries
AIIMS, New Delhi
7.
Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of “Ayush- SS Granules” in exclusively breast feeding mothers with Insufficient Lactation (Stanyalpata)-A Randomized double blind placebo control Trial”
Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjang Hospital, New Delhi
8.
A comparative clinical study of Ayush LND a coded Ayurvedic formulation in the management of Asrigdara (Abnormal Uterine Bleeding)
Regional Ayurveda Research Institute,, Nagpur
Govt. Medical College, Nagpur
9.
A Randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of Marma therapy in Lumbar disc Herniation with Radiculopathy.
Uttrakhand Ayurved University, Dehradun
10.
Efficacy of Ayurveda nutritional supplements and Yoga protocol in the prevention and reduction of the severity of Acute Mountain Sickness: an open-label randomized controlled study
2118 field hospitals, Nimu/Leh under the AFMS, Northern Command of Indian Army
11.
A pilot study to assess the effect of intranasal oil instillation (Pratimarsha Nasya) on nasal barrier function among healthy individuals
Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune
12.
Prospective double blind randomized controlled clinical study on Ayurvedic intervention (Sarpagandha Mishran) vs. Amlodipine in the management of stage-I Primary Hypertension
AIIMS Delhi
13.
Randomized double blind placebo controlled clinical study Ayurvedic coded drug AYUSH-A in the management of Bronchial Asthma (Tamaka Shwasa)
AIIMS Delhi
14.
Study the physiological basis and gut bacterial modulation induced by Virechana Purgation therapy in the healthy adults: A prospective longitudinal study.
Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi
15.
Morbidity and Healthcare-seeking behaviour of
Directorate General Armed Force
the patients visiting the Ayurveda healthcare facilities of the DGAFMS Hospitals: A multicentre cross-sectional survey study
Medical Services- facilities
16.
A Randomized Controlled Study to Assess the Effect of Marsha Nasya Karma in Motor, Sensory, Memory and Cognitive Parameters elicited through f – MRI in Apparently Healthy Individuals.
Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Cochin, Kerala
17.
Evaluation of Ayush-GMH in the subjects of mild to moderate Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-A double blind randomized control clinical study
KLE’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Belagavi ICMR – National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belegavi
18.
A randomized trial to evaluate the efficacy of multimodal Ayurveda interventions in Jannu Sandhigatavata (Primary Knee – osteoarthritis)
AIIMS Delhi
19.
Clinical evaluation of Ayurvedic management in Allergic Rhinitis- A Randomized controlled Trial
Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjang Hospital, New Delhi
ONGOING PROJECTS
S.
No.
Name of Project
Name of the Collaborating Institutes
1.
A phase II trial to study efficacy, toxicity and imunomodulatory effect of Carctol-S in high grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer at first serological relapse collaborative project.
Tata Memorial Hospital ACTREC Mumbai & Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Mumbai
2.
Evaluation of Hepatoprotective activity of PTK as an add on therapy in the patients of Tuberculosis on ATT – A double blind randomized control clinical study
KLE’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Belagavi
3.
Evaluating the efficacy of Ayurvedic intervention as add on to conventional treatment and explore the interaction of epigenetics, neuro/gut biomarkers and neuroimaging in pediatric ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperacidity Disorder)
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru
4.
Double blind randomized placebo controlled multicentric clinical trial of Ayush M-3 in the management of Migraine.
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru
5.
Ayurveda therapeutic regiman as on Add-on
to optimized conventional management of Parkinson’s disease: an RCT for assessment
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru
of clinical Cortical excitability neuroimmune and Autonomic function parameters.
6.
Efficacy and safety of Ayurveda Formulation Trikatu as add on to standard care in Dyslipidemia – a randomized controlled trial
AIIMS, Bhubaneswar
7.
Efficacy of Ayurveda regimen (mild purgation and internal oleation) in comparison with Allopathic regimen (Letrozole) along with Yoga module in the management of unexplained and anovulatory female infertility: A RCT
IIT, Mandi
8.
Topical Oil Pooling (Karnapurana) with Kshirabala Taila and supple mentation of Ashwagandha churna (TOPMAC) in presbycusis – An exploratory randomized controlled trial
Institute for Communicative and Cognitive Neurosciences(ICCONS), Shoranur, Kerela
9.
Prospective, Randomized, Open-Label, Blinded End Point exploratory clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic regimen as an adjunct to Hydroxyurea in the management of Sickle cell disease.
AIIMS, Bhopal
10.
A multi-center study to assess the treatment adherence & tolerability of Ayush SR in Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Shri B.M. Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belgavi; Vaidyaratnam PS Varier Ayurveda College, Kotakkal; Sri Sri College of Ayurvedic Science and Research, Bengaluru; Adichunchanagiri Ayurvedic Medical College, Bengaluru
11.
Impact of Mukta Shukti Bhasma and Saubhagya Shunti in reversal of bone mineral density among Lactating women consuming traditional diet foods in Maharashtra: A randomized Controlled preliminary clinical study
ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai
12.
Efficacy of Ayurveda interventions (Hridyarnava Rasa and Harityakyadi yoga) as an add-on to standard care in Stable Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) assessed through Global Longitudinal Strain Imaging Technique (GLSIT) – A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Ayurvedic Cardiac Rehabilitation Centre, Madhavbaugh, Pune
13.
Prospective double blind randomized controlled clinical study on Ayurvedic intervention (Pushkar guggulu & Haritaki churna) in the management of stable coronary artery disease.
Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi
14.
A randomized double blind placebo control clinical study to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of Swarnaprashan in moderately malnourished children.
Sanjiv Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow
15.
Randomized controlled trial of Anshumati Ksheer Paka in hypertension induced left ventricular hypertrophy
Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi
16.
Anemia control among adolescent girls through Ayurveda interventions in the five districts under Mission Utkarsh
All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi;
National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Public Health Foundation India’s IIPH- Delhi
17.
An exploratory series of n of 1 responder restricted study of Ayurveda regimen on quality of life among elderly population in Ballabgarh district of Haryana- A community based study.
AIIMS, Ballabhgarh
ANNEXURE II
NINE ORGANIZATIONS OF NATIONAL REPUTE FUNDED UNDER CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE COMPONENT OF AYURSWASTHYA SCHEMETO INTEGRATE KNOWLEDGE OF AYURVEDA WITH MODERN SYSTEM OF MEDICINE AYURSWASTHYA SCHEME:
S.
No.
Name of the Organization
State
Project Name
Fund Released (Amount in Crore)
2022-23
2023-24
2024-25
1.
Tata Memorial Centre, (TMC) Mumbai
Maharashtra
Centre of
Excellence for
Discovery and Development of AYUSH
Medicine for Cancer Care
–
2.00
1.62
2.
Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI),
Lucknow
Uttar Pradesh
Center of
Excellence for Fundamental and Translation Research in
Ayurveda at Central Drug Research Institute
–
2.00
1.99
3.
Jawaharlal Nehru University, (JNU) New Delhi
Delhi
Functional-based CoE on Ayurveda
and Systems Medicine
–
1.01
2.44
4.
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
Delhi
Centre of
Excellence in Sustainable Ayush for Advanced technological solutions, startup support and net zero sustainable solutions for
Rasausadhies
–
2.00
1.14
5.
Indian Institute of Science (IISC) Bengaluru
Karnataka
Centre of
Excellence in
Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders
–
2.00
1.82
6.
Centre for
Delhi
Centre of
2.05
2.04
–
Integrative Medicine and Research (CIMR), AIIMS
New Delhi
Excellence for
Yoga &
Ayurveda
7.
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS),
Bangalore
Karnataka
Centre of
Excellence in Ayush Research
0.85
0.37
–
8.
Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS)
Delhi
Effects of Indian Foods and Ayurvedic drugs
on healthy and diseases Liver
2.61
–
–
9.
Indian Institute of Technology, (IIT) Jodhpur
Rajasthan
Centre of
Excellence in AYURTech for Integrative Precision Health and Medicine
–
4.00
–
Total
5.51
15.42
9.01
This information was given by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.
Under the National AYUSH Mission an amount of Rs. 276529.87 Lakhs released as financial assistance to State/UT during the last five years for overall promotion of Ayush systems Ministry of Ayush approved 145 Integrated Ayush Hospitals for establishment during the last five years
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Ayush is implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Ayush Mission (NAM) through State/UT Governments. Under NAM, as per the proposals received from State/UT Governments through their State Annual Action Plans (SAAPs) during the last five years, a consolidated amount of Rs. 276529.87 Lakhs has been released as financial assistance to them for different activities and overall promotion of Ayush systems as per the provision of NAM guidelines.
Under NAM, as per the proposals submitted by State/UT Governments through their SAAPs, the Ministry of Ayush has approved 145 Integrated Ayush Hospitals (IAHs) for establishment during the last five years. The State and district-wise status of approved IAHs is furnished at Annexure-I. Further, existing Ayush Hospitals and Dispensaries have also been supported under the activities of supply of medicines & upgradation of Ayush hospitals/dispensaries during the last five years as per the proposals received from States/UTs through SAAPs.
Ayush Gram is a concept wherein villages will be selected for adoption of principles and practice of Ayush way of life and interventions of health care. As per NAM guideline, there is a provision of financial assistance of Rs. 3.0 lakhs per unit covering 2000-3000 population in 2-3 villages in a block. As per the proposals received by the States/UTs through SAAPs, 699 number of Ayush Gram units have been supported under Ayush Gram in the country during the last five years but district-wise data is not being maintained in the Ministry. The State/UT-wise status of approved Ayush grams is furnished at Annexure -II.
Annexure-I State and district-wise status of approved Integrated Ayush Hospitals during last five
years under NAM
S.No.
State/UT
District
Bedded
1.
Andaman & Nicobar
Island
South Andaman
50
2.
Andhra Pradesh
Kakinada
50
Visakhapatnam
50
3.
Arunachal Pradesh
West Kameng
50
Lower Siang
50
Upper Siang
10
East Kameng
10
Lower Subansiri
10
4.
Assam
Goalpara
50
Majuli
50
Kokrajhar
50
Baksa
50
Morigaon
50
Nagaon
50
KarbiAnglong
30
Bajali
10
5.
Bihar
Patna
50
6.
Chandigarh
Chandigarh
50
7.
Chhattisgarh
Janjgir-Champa
10
Mahasamund
10
Korea
10
Korba
10
Uttar BastarKanker
10
Narayanpur
10
Bijapur
10
DakshinBastarDantewada
10
Balod
30
8.
Dadra Nagar Haveli and
Daman & Diu
Dadra and Nagar Havel
50
9.
Goa
North Goa
50
South Goa
50
10.
Gujarat
Surat
50
11.
Haryana
Hisar
50
12.
Himachal Pradesh
Kullu
50
13.
Jammu & Kashmir
Kishtwar
50
Kupwara
50
Kathua
50
Kulgam
50
Samba
50
Baramulla
10
14.
Jharkhand
Ranchi
50
Gumla
10
Bokaro
10
Deoghar
10
Palamu
10
Dumka
10
East Singhbum
50
15.
Karnataka
Gadag
50
Dakshina Kannada
50
Shivamogga
10
16.
Kerala
Thrissur
50
Kannur
50
Pathanamthitta
10
Palakkad
50
Kollam
30
Wayanad
30
Idukki
30
Pathanamthitta
30
Thiruvanthapuram
50
Thiruvanthapuram
50
17.
Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep
30
18.
Maharashtra
Nandurbar
30
Sindhudurg
30
Pune
30
Osmanabad
50
Ahmednagar
30
Jalgaon
30
Jalna
50
Thane
50
Nagpur
50
19.
Manipur
Tengnoupal
50
Churachandpur
50
Imphal East
50
Chandel
10
Jiribam
10
Kangpokpi
10
Bishnupur
10
Noney
10
Thoubal
10
Senapati
10
20.
Madhya Pradesh
Bhopal
50
Indore
50
Narsinghpur
50
Anuppur
50
Khargone
50
Balaghat
50
Sehore
50
Guna
50
Panna
50
Bhind
50
Barwani
30
21.
Meghalaya
East Khasi Hills
50
RiBhoi
50
West Jaintia Hills
30
22.
Mizoram
Aizwal
50
Saitual
10
23.
Nagaland
Noklak
30
Kohima
50
Mokokchung
50
Longleng
30
Kiphire
30
Mon
30
Zunheboto
30
24.
Odisha
Dhenkanal
50
Balasore
50
25.
Puducherry
Puducherry
50
Yanam
50
26.
Rajasthan
Sikar
50
Sawaimadhopur
50
Bharatpur
50
27.
Sikkim
Gyalshing
50
Gangtok
30
28.
Tamil Nadu
Namakkal
50
Chennai
50
29.
Telangana
Siddipet
50
Vikarabad
50
JayashankarBhupalapally
50
30.
Tripura
West Tripura
50
South Tripura
50
31.
Uttar Pradesh
Jaunpur
30
Kaushambi
50
Sonbhadra
50
Jalaun
50
SantKabir Nagar
50
Saharanpur
50
Deoria
50
Lalitpur
50
Amethi
50
Kanpur Dehat
50
Ballia
50
Raebareli
50
Baghpat
50
Fatehpur
50
Shrawasti
50
Unnao
50
Hardoi
50
Gorakhpur
50
Sambhal
50
Mirzapur
50
32.
Uttarakhand
TehriGarhwal
50
Champawat
50
PauriGarhwal
50
Haridwar
10
Nainatal
10
Haridwar
50
33.
West Bengal
PaschimMedinipur
50
Annexure II
State/UT- wise status of supported villages under Ayush Gram concept during the last five years
Sr.No.
States/UTs
Total
1
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
7
2
Andhra Pradesh
13
3
Arunachal Pradesh
2
4
Assam
4
5
Bihar
10
6
Chandigarh
0
7
Chhattisgarh
0
8
Dadra & Nagar Haveli Daman & Diu
13
9
Delhi
0
10
Goa
10
11
Gujarat
110
12
Haryana
22
13
Himachal Pradesh
0
14
Jammu & Kashmir
20
15
Jharkhand
97
16
Karnataka
0
17
Kerala
64
18
Lakshadweep
6
19
Madhya Pradesh
201
20
Maharashtra
9
21
Manipur
2
22
Meghalaya
35
23
Mizoram
7
24
Nagaland
2
25
Odisha
7
26
Puducherry
0
27
Punjab
0
28
Rajasthan
5
29
Sikkim
0
30
Tamil nadu
0
31
Telangana
10
32
Tripura
1
33
Uttar Pradesh
25
34
Uttrakhand
0
35
West Bengal
8
36
Ladakh
9
Total
699
This information was given by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today’
The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India has taken note of the imminent threat to the Blue Economy posed by climate change, which may affect the livelihoods of fishermen and other coastal communities. In this regard, the Department of Fisheries, Government of India under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in consultation with the coastal State Governments, has identified 100 coastal fishermen villages situated close to the coastline as Climate Resilient Coastal Fishermen Villages (CRCFV). The activities promoted in the identified coastal fishermen villages under PMMSY are need-based facilities, including development of common facilities like fish drying yards, fish processing centers, fish markets, fishing jetties, ice plants, cold storages, and emergency rescue facilities. The Government is also promoting the climate-resilient livelihoods like aquaculture, especially the mariculture of seaweed, food and ornamental fishes, bivalves etc. through the schemes of the Department of Fisheries, Government of India. Further, for livelihood and nutritional support for socio-economically backward active traditional fisher’s families during fish ban/lean period and insurance cover to fishers are also provided under the PMMSY scheme. Additionally, the ICAR-Fisheries Research Institutes have been contributing to promote inland and marine aquaculture activities through ongoing research, technology development, and capacity-building programs with funding support of the Government of India.
The Department of Fisheries, Government of India has not received any assistance from the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) in this regard. However, to combat marine plastic pollution, particularly from fishing and maritime sectors, the Department of Fisheries, Government of India has been actively engaged in the global and regional efforts like Glolitter Partnership Project and Reglitter Project both of which are jointly implemented by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Food, and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (UN-FAO). These projects focus on preventing and reducing Marine Plastic Litter (MPL) from sea-based sources, with an emphasis on addressing abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) and wastes from ships. The Bay of Bengal Large Marine Ecosystem (BOBLME) Project funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and NORAD with co-financing from member countries and being implemented by the FAO in partnership with regional organizations viz. Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organization (BOBP-IGO) in its member countries, including India. The BOBLME Project is promoting the concept of Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) that aims to integrate ecological health, social equity, and economic sustainability, ensuring that fisheries management addresses broader ecosystem and community needs. The Department of Fisheries, Government of India hosted the FAO Workshop on Mainstreaming Climate Change into International Fisheries Governance and Strengthen of Fisheries Management Measures in the Indo-Pacific Region, organized by BOBP-IGO and NFDB during 16th -19th October, 2023. Over 15 Regional Fisheries Bodies from the region participated in the event and identified potential areas for collaboration and the capacity development needs in mainstreaming climate change in fisheries management.
This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.
The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India has established a robust framework for early detection, reporting and control of aquatic animal diseases. Under the central sector component of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Department of Fisheries is implementing the National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) through ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow with total outlay of ₹ 33.78 crore. NSPAAD involves systematic surveillance across all the States/UTs in the country to identify disease risk, improve disease management and promote healthy aquatic ecosystem. This is a pan-India program, being implemented in collaboration with 54 partner institutions, includes ICAR fisheries research institutes, namely ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai; ICAR- Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai; ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore; ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar; ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi; ICAR-Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research, Bhimtal; ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Cochin; fisheries colleges /universities and state governments. The programme supports fish farmers by generating awareness, issuing advisories and capacity building campaigns. Under the National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD), the Department of Fisheries has also launched an android-based mobile app known as “Report Fish Disease”. The app provide a central platform for connecting and integrating fish farmers, field-level officers and fish health experts seamlessly. In addition, the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) under the Department of Fisheries, Govt. of India promotes biosecurity and disease prevention through farm management guidelines.
To strengthen aquatic health and disease management across the country, the Department of Fisheries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampda Yojana (PMMSY) has developed a network of 19 disease diagnostic centre and quality testing labs, 31 mobile centres and testing labs and 6 Aquatic referral labs. Additionally, the Department of Fisheries, Govt. of India is actively engaged with World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), Paris, France and Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific (NACA), Bangkok, Thailand to improve aquatic animal health in India.
This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.
The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, recognizing the potential of fisheries sector, since 2015, has substantially stepped-up investments in fisheries sector through schemes worth Rs. 38,572 crore for holistic development of fisheries and aquaculture and welfare of fishermen in the country including in West Bengal and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The schemes include, (i) Blue Revolution Scheme implemented from FY2015-16 to 2019-20 with central outlay of Rs 3,000 crore helped in mobilizing of a total investment of Rs. 5,000 crore, (ii) Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund implemented from FY2018-19 with a fund size of Rs. 7,522.48 crore, (iii) Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) implemented from FY2020-21 to 2024-25 with an investment of Rs. 20,050 crore, (iv) Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah Yojana (PM-MKSSY) implemented from the FY2023-24 to 2026-27 with a total outlay of Rs. 6,000 crore an. In addition, the Government of India has also extended the facility of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to the fishers and fish farmers to meet their working capital requirements.
The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying during the last four years (2020-21 to 2023-24) and current year(2024-25) has accorded approvals to the fisheries developmental proposals of various State Governments, Union Territories and other implementation agencies amounting to Rs.20,990.79 crore with central share of Rs.8926.28 crore under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana for development of fisheries and aquaculture in the country. This includes (i) proposals of Government of West Bengal approved at a cost of Rs.544.39 crore with central share of Rs.225.55 crore and (ii) proposals of Andaman & Nicobar Administration approved at a cost of Rs.58.67 crore with central share of Rs.31.23 crore under PMMSY. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampadha Yojana (PMMSY)inter-alia provides adoption of a cluster-based approach to enhance the competitiveness of the fisheries sector, facilitate economies of scale, generate higher incomes, accelerate the growth, expansion of fisheries and aquaculture in an organized manner in cluster based approach. The Department of Fisheries, Government of India has issued the “Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on Production and Processing Clusters in Fisheries Sector” to all the State Governments and Union Territories for implementation of clusters in various field of fisheries and aquaculture under PMMSY. The States and UTs have been advised to implement the clusters based approach for development of fisheries and aquaculture. Based on the request received from the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, development of Tuna fisheries cluster in Andaman & Nicobar Islands has been notified under PMMSY.
The ‘National Policy on Marine Fisheries, 2017 notified by the Government of India, provides guiding principles of conservation and optimum utilization of fisheries resources for ensuring sustainability. The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, as a conservation measure, has been implementing fishing ban in India’s EEZ along the east and west coasts annually during the major breeding season of the commercial fish species. On the east coast, including the coasts of West Bengal and Andaman and Nicobar, the fishing ban is implemented annually from 15th April to 15th June. The States and UTs, through their Marine Fisheries Regulation Act, also regulates fishing activities in the state’s and UT’s territorial waters to support the sustainable management of fisheries. In addition, the Government of India has prohibited harmful fishing practices, such as pair or bull trawling, and the use of LED or artificial lights for fishing within the EEZ.
This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.
Government is reviewing the financial performance of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) at national and regional levels. The agenda items for the review meetings, inter-alia, include:
Review of the performance of RRBs on Financial Parameters and technology upgradation.
Thrust on Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) portfolio.
Importance on loan diversification towards Agri-allied, MSME and Retail Sectors.
Financial health of RRBs has improved in the recent years as they have posted highest ever consolidated net profit of ₹ 7,571 crore during FY 2023-24. Also, the RRBs have shown consistent improvement in key financial parameters like CRAR, deposits, advances, NPA, CD ratio etc. The Key Financial Parameters of RRBs have improved consistently in past years. The Total Balance sheet Size of RRBs have increased from Rs. 7,04,556 Crore in FY 2021- 22 to Rs. 8,40,080 Crore in FY 2023-24. Further the Net NPA has declined from 4.7% in FY 2021- 22 to 2.4% in FY 2023-24. Also the Credit to Deposit Ratio has increased from 64.5% to 71.4% from FY 2021-22 to FY 2023-24.
Government has also reviewed the progress made by RRBs in deepening financial inclusion in rural and remote areas by reviewing performance on various financial inclusion schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana etc.
This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.
Government has Launched Multiple Digital Initiatives for Transparency and Efficiency, Reducing compliance burden in corporate filings MCA21 V3 gives Enhanced Security with Web-Based Forms and Multifactor Authentication
MCA Portal Mobile App provides stakeholders with easy access to various services available on MCA21 website
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:50PM by PIB Delhi
To prevent fraudulent filings, web-based online forms have been introduced in MCA21 V3, incorporating field-level validations and auto-prefill functionalities across forms. Furthermore, multifactor authentication has been implemented to verify the identity of users accessing the system. Additionally, measures such as masking private information from public view have been adopted to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the data.
The Ministry has introduced several digital initiatives to enhance transparency, efficiency, quickness in service delivery for reducing compliance burden and enhancing user experience, a few are listed below:
The Centre for Processing Accelerated Corporate Exit (CPACE) for centralized processing of voluntary closure of Companies/LLPs.
The Centralized Processing Centre (CPC) streamlines the verification process for various Non-STP forms by consolidating operations at a single location, replacing multiple RoC locations.
The MCA Portal Mobile App offers stakeholders seamless access to various services available on the MCA21 website.
The Chatbot serves as a unified communication channel, allowing stakeholders to interact via chat or call for query resolution.
The E-Adjudication system provides an end-to-end online platform for the processing of adjudication cases, ensuring efficiency and transparency.
Stakeholders can also raise tickets on the MCA21 portal to provide feedback and report grievances if any, regarding challenges faced.
The total number of corporate filings, processed through MCA21, have steadily increased from 67,02,788 in 2020-21 to 80,77,210 in 2023-24, reaching 84,30,731 by February 2025.
This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Shri Harsh Malhotra in Rajya Sabha today
The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying with effect from financial year 2018-19 has been implementing Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) with a total fund size of Rs 7522.48 crore to address the infrastructure requirement for fisheries sector. The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying based on the techno-financial proposals, so far, has approved a total 141 proposals at a cost of Rs. 5915.54 crore with restricting the project’s cost for interest subvention at Rs. 3947.54 crore to various State Governments, Union Territories and other End Implementing Agencies. The state-wise details of these projects approved under FIDF are furnished at Annexure-I.
The key projects approved primarily include 28 Fishing Harbours, 24 Fish Landing Centers, 8 Fisheries Training Centres and 5 Fish Processing Units. This includes the four fishing harbours at a total investment of Rs 1291.40 crore approved for Andhra Pradesh. The state-wise and project-wise details of these key projects indicating the project-wise status, timeline, loans sanctioned and disbursed are furnished at Annexure-II.
Annexure-I
State-wise details of projects approved under Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)
(Rs in crores)
Sl No
Name of State
No. of projects approved
Total Project Cost
Amount eligible for interest subvention
1
Andhra Pradesh
10
1396.82
653.05
2
Arunachal Pradesh
1
0.68
0.54
3
Assam
1
0.41
0.18
5
Goa
1
6.42
5.00
6
Gujarat
5
1354.92
750.00
7
Haryana
1
1.17
0.64
8
Himachal Pradesh
1
5.17
5.00
9
Jammu and Kashmir
2
120.70
93.17
10
Karnataka
2
1.44
0.79
11
Kerala
3
162.82
151.20
12
Maharashtra
17
1069.17
799.12
13
Manipur
4
1.15
0.90
14
Mizoram
1
8.57
6.85
15
Odisha
4
60.18
33.83
16
Puducherry
1
2.46
1.97
17
Tamil Nadu
67
1577.70
1338.30
18
Telangana
1
4.70
2.31
19
Uttar Pradesh
2
75.22
60.09
20
West Bengal
17
65.85
44.60
Total
141
5915.54
3947.54
Annexure-II
Status of fisheries infrastructure projects approved under Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)
Fishing Harbours
Sl No.
State
Name of the Project With Districts
Financial Year
Amount eligible for interest subvention
Loan Sanctioned
Loan Disbursed
Status
Physical Status
Financial Status
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
(ix)
(x)
1
Andhra Pradesh
Fishing Harbour at Uppada in East Godavari
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
63.14%
40.87%
2
Andhra Pradesh
Fishing Harbour at Machilipattinam in Krishna District
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
58.35%
59.95%
3
Andhra Pradesh
Fishing Harbour at Nizampattinam in Guntur District
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
61.10%
38.26%
4
Andhra Pradesh
Fishing Harbour at Vodarevu in Prakasham District
2019-2020
150.00
Nil
Nil
Project Yet to Start
NR
NR
5
Gujarat
Fishing Harbour at Porbandar-Phase: 2
2019-2020
150.00
Nil
Nil
To take up
NR
NR
6
Gujarat
Fishing Harbour at Navabandar
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
41.44
Project Ongoing
95%
90.00%
7
Gujarat
Fishing Harbour at Madhwad in Junagad District
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
4.02
Project Ongoing
14.19%
10.27%
8
Gujarat
Establishment of Fishing Harbour at Veraval – Phase: 2 in Gir Somnath District
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
1.66
Project Ongoing
47.59%
42.46%
9
Gujarat
Establishment of Fishing Harbour at Sutrapada
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
1.48
Project Ongoing
33.61%
19.82%
10
Kerala
Development of Arthunkal Fishing Harbour
2020-2021
150.00
150.00
0.50
Project Ongoing
NR
NR
11
Tamil Nadu
Fishing Harbour at Tharangampadi in Nagapattinam District
2018-2019
120.00
108.00
107.94
Project Completed
100%
100%
12
Tamil Nadu
Fishing Harbour at ThiruvottriyurKuppam in Tiruvallur District
2018-2019
150.00
150.00
135.655
Project Completed
100%
60%
13
Tamil Nadu
Fishing Harbour at Mudhunagar in Cuddalore
2018-2019
100.00
90.00
83.6281
Project Completed
100%
82%
14
Tamil Nadu
Fishing Harbour at Vellapallam in Nagapattinam
2018-2019
100.00
100.00
42.6123
Project Ongoing
79%
76%
15
Tamil Nadu
Fishing Harbour at Azhagankuppam in Villupuram District
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
2%
1%
16
Tamil Nadu
Fishing Harbour at Arcottuthurai in NagapattinamDisrtict
2019-2020
150.00
150.00
116.98
Project Ongoing
91%
89%
17
Tamil Nadu
Export Infrastructures in Mookaiyur Fishing Harbour in Ramanathapuram District
2020-2021
20.00
20.00
11.90
Project Completed
100%
90%
18
Tamil Nadu
Additional berthing facilities in Fishing Harbour at Thoothukudi
2020-2021
25.00
25.00
Nil
Project Completed
100%
100%
19
Tamil Nadu
Additional arrangements and Dredging the Fishing Harbour in Nagapattinam
2020-2021
6.00
6.00
5.79
Project Completed
100%
89%
20
Tamil Nadu
Extension of Fishing harbour in Kanyakumari
2020-2021
150.00
150.00
30.00
Project Ongoing
66%
54%
21
West Bengal
Infrastructural development at Deshpran Fishing HarbourPetuaghat.
2019-2020
3.25
0.00
Nil
Project Dropped
NR
NR
22
Maharashtra
Post Harvesting Facilities in Fisheries Habour at Ratnagiri
2022-2023
146.90
146.90
Nil
project ongoing
5%
0%
23
Maharashtra
Infrastructural Facilities in Fisheries Harbour at Raigad.
2022-2023
150.00
150.00
Nil
project ongoing
45%
32%
24
Maharashtra
Infrastructure Facilities Fisheries Habour at Dapoli, Ratnagiri District
2022-2023
150.00
150.00
Nil
project ongoing
10%
7%
25
Maharashtra
Fisheries Harbour at Shrivardhan, Raigad
2022-2023
119.64
119.64
Nil
Project Yet to Start
NR
NR
26
Tamil Nadu
Modernisation of Fishing Harbour in Nagapattinam
2022-2023
81.00
81.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
79%
76%
27
Tamil Nadu
Additional Infrastructure facilities in Fishing Harbour at Thoothukudi
2022-2023
10.00
10.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
94%
84%
28
Maharashtra
Fisheries Harbour at Satpati, Palghar
2022-2023
150.00
150.00
Nil
Project Yet to Start
NR
NR
Fish Landing Centres
Sl
No.
State
Name of the Project With Districts
FY
Amount eligible for interest subvention
Loan Sanctioned
Loan Disbursed
Status
Physical Status
Financial Status
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
(ix)
(x)
1
Odisha
Fish Landing Centre at Khordha
2020-2021
9.29
Nil
Nil
Project Dropped
NR
NR
2
Odisha
Fish Landing Centre at Khordha
2020-2021
7.56
Nil
Nil
Project Dropped
NR
NR
3
Odisha
Fish Landing Center at Bhadruk
2020-2021
7.85
Nil
Nil
Project Dropped
NR
NR
4
Tamil Nadu
additional facilities to Fish Landing Centre at Portonovo-Annankovil in Cuddalore
2020-2021
10.00
10.00
3.85
Project Completed
100%
100%
5
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Keelamunthal in Ramanathapuram
2020-2021
10.00
10.00
8.50
Project Completed
100%
100%
6
Tamil Nadu
Additional Infrastructure facilities to Fish Landing Centre at Mudasalodai Village in Cuddalore
2020-2021
9.50
9.50
6.05
Project Completed
100%
100%
7
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Chandrapadi village in Nagapattinum
2020-2021
10.00
10.00
Nil
Project Completed
100%
100%
8
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Vanagiri Village in Nagapattinam
2020-2021
8.00
8.00
4.85
Project Completed
100%
100%
9
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Keezhathottam Village in Thanjavur
2020-2021
8.00
8.00
7.89
Project Completed
100%
94%
10
Tamil Nadu
T-Jetty at Tharuvaikulam in Thoothukudi
2020-2021
10.00
10.00
10.00
Project Completed
100%
94%
11
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Mandapam (North) in Ramanathapuram
2020-2021
10.00
10.00
9.98
Project Completed
100%
95%
12
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Mandapam (South) in Ramanathapuram
2020-2021
10.00
10.00
9.98
Project Completed
100%
95%
13
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Aruvikarai Village in Tirunelveli
2020-2021
10.00
10.00
Nil
Project Completed
100%
100%
14
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Kottaipattinam, Village in Pudukottai
2020-2021
3.05
3.05
2.36
Project Completed
100%
94%
15
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Vadakkamapattinam, Village at Pudukottai
2020-2021
1.55
1.55
1.25
Project Completed
100%
97%
16
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Puthukudi, Village at Pudukottai
2020-2021
1.40
1.40
1.20
Project Completed
100%
99%
17
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Sattankuppam at Thiruvallur
2022-2023
8.00
8.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
25%
13%
18
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Sunnambukulam at Thiruvallur
2022-2023
8.00
8.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
92%
38%
19
Tamil Nadu
fish landing centre at Tsunami Nagar and Akkaraigori village in Cuddalore
2022-2023
4.50
4.50
Nil
Project Completed
100%
100%
20
Tamil Nadu
fish landing centre at Sonankuppam village in Cuddalore
2022-2023
5.50
5.50
Nil
Project Completed
100%
96%
21
Tamil Nadu
Fish landing centre at Chithiraipettai and Nanjalingampettai villages in Cuddalore
2022-2023
7.50
7.50
Nil
Project Ongoing
91%
47%
22
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Pudhukuppam and Anichankuppam Villages in Villupuram
2022-2023
7.00
7.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
77%
21%
23
Tamil Nadu
Fish Landing Centre at Mudhaliyarkuppam and Chettynagar Villages in Villupuram
2022-2023
7.00
7.00
Nil
Project Ongoing
95%
39%
24
Tamil Nadu
Fish landing centre at Sothikuppam and Rasapettai village in Cuddalore District
2022-2023
8.50
8.50
Nil
Project Ongoing
77%
53%
182.20
157.50
65.90
Fisheries Training Centres
Sl No.
State
Name of the Project
FY
Amount eligible for interest subvention
Loan Sanctioned
Loan Disbursed
Status
Physical Status
Financial Status
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
(ix)
(x)
1
Himachal Pradesh
Establishment of State of art of Fisheries Training Centres, Gagret Dist. Una
2020-2021
5.00
5.00
0.54
Project Ongoing
25.25%
20.91%
2
Tamil Nadu
Construction of Integrated office building for Training Centre to the Fishermen at Trichy in Trichy
2020-2021
4.00
4.00
Nil
Project Completed
100%
94%
3
Tamil Nadu
Construction of Integrated Training Centre and Offices at Cuddalore
2020-2021
5.00
5.00
3.92
Project Completed
100%
98%
4
Tamil Nadu
Construction of Training Centre at Radhapuram in Tirunelveli District.
2020-2021
1.60
1.60
1.56
Project Completed
100%
95%
5
Tamil Nadu
Establishment of Training Centre
2022-2023
5.00
5.00
Nil
Project Completed
100%
NR
6
Tamil Nadu
Establishment of Training Centre at Mettur Dam in Salem District.
2022-2023
3.00
3.00
0.03
Project Ongoing
NR
NR
7
West Bengal
Capacity Expansion and modernisation of Govt. Freshwater Fisheries Research & Training Center, Kulia, Kalyani, Nadia
2024-2025
5.00
Nil
Nil
Project Yet to Start
NR
NR
Processing Plants
Sl No.
State
Name of the Project
FY
Amount eligible for interest subvention
Loan Sanctioned
Loan Disbursed
Status
Physical Status
Financial Status
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
(ix)
(x)
1
Andhra Pradesh
Expansion of Processing Plant, M/s Ananda Foods, Ramayanapuram village, Bhimavaram, West Godavari District
2020-2021
8.82
8.82
8.82
Project Completed
100%
100%
2
Karnataka
Establishing Fish Processing Unit at Bangalore, by M/s Sashimi Foods Pvt.Ltd.,
2020-2021
0.68
Nil
Nil
Project Yet to Start
NR
NR
3
Odisha
EXPANSION OF SHRIMP PROCESSING UNIT OF “HIGHLAND AGRO”
2022-2023
9.13
25.00
25.00
Project Completed
100%
100%
4
Andhra Pradesh
Proposal of M/s Agro products, Andhra pradesh for setting up of a state-of-the -art shrimp processing unit in Nellore,Andhra Pradesh
2024-2025
37.39
Nil
Nil
Project Yet to Start
NR
NR
5
Maharashtra
A greenfield fish &Shrimp processing project proposed by M/s Pushpai Marine Exports Private Limited
2024-2025
22.51
Nil
Nil
Project Yet to Start
NR
NR
6
Maharashtra
Fish Processing Unit
2024-2025
5.07
Nil
Nil
Project Yet to Start
NR
NR
This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.
Global Head of IBM Corporation, an American multinational Technology Company headquartered in New York with presence in over 175 countries, Shri. Arvind Krishna called on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh to explore potential joint collaborations in Quantum, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and geospatial AI solutions Both sides acknowledge the transformation of India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi which has placed this country as a frontline nation in AI and next-generation technologies
Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirms government’s pro-technology and forthcoming stance on innovation ecosystem with synergistic collaboration and partnership with the Private sector
S&T Minister reiterates Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering support for a deep tech enabled India with indigenous solutions
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:49PM by PIB Delhi
In a significant step towards elevating India’s global position in emerging technologies, Global Head of IBM Corporation, an American multinational Technology Company headquartered in New York with presence in over 175 countries, Arvind Krishna called on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh to explore potential joint collaboration in Quantum, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and geospatial AI solutions.
The meeting between the two delegations took place in the backdrop of India’s recently launched National Quantum Mission, positioning the country as a global leader in quantum technologies.
During the discussion, both sides acknowledged the transformation of India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi which has placed this country as a frontline nation in AI and next-generation technologies.
They deliberated on possibilities of integrating geospatial AI solutions to drive innovation and technological advancements across various sectors.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, reaffirmed the Government of India’s pro-technology stance and its commitment to fostering a robust innovation ecosystem. He highlighted the government’s proactive approach in welcoming private sector participation, citing recent breakthroughs in the space sector following its unlocking for private investment. He also referenced the Union Budget announcement allowing non-government sectors to participate in nuclear energy development as a testament to India’s commitment to deep-tech innovation.
Emphasizing the need for global collaboration, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that India is now more open than ever to partnerships with private sector players to scale up technological advancements at a global level. He highlighted the role of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) in creating a strong research ecosystem and expressed confidence in the potential of Indian youth to achieve the goals of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
The Union Minister reiterated the government’s unwavering support for a deep-tech enabled India, emphasizing indigenous solutions and self-reliance in critical technologies. He also asserted that India is at par, if not ahead, of other nations in the field of emerging technologies.
Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, actively participated in the discussions, assuring full support from government institutions to facilitate technological collaborations.
From the IBM delegation, Sandip Patel, Country General Manager and MD; Kishore Balaji, Executive Director – GRA; and Amith Singhee, Director, IBM Research India & CTO, were also present, expressing their commitment to deepening IBM’s engagement with India’s technology ecosystem.
The meeting marked a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in quantum computing, AI, and deep-tech innovations, with synergistic collaboration between the government and private sector driving the nation toward a technologically advanced future.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by Acting CE at Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit Principal Dinner (English only) (with photo) Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good evening. It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to tonight’s Principal Dinner, on the eve of the third annual Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit.
Allow me to begin by thanking our Hong Kong dancers for their elegant and innovative approach to the traditional Chinese lion dance – tonight performed as a lion ballet dance. That mingling of Asian and Western cultures is very much in keeping with today’s Hong Kong, the world’s rising East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
Hong Kong’s singular role as a gainful bridge between East and West is why many of you are here, with us, from all over the world – from Mainland China and throughout Asia, from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and beyond. And while our Chief Executive, John Lee, is unfortunately away on a duty visit, I am delighted to be your host for this evening’s gala dinner.
Over these next few days, I invite you to immerse yourselves in all that Hong Kong has to offer – to discover, first-hand, why our city is the leading choice for family offices.
And for good reason. Hong Kong is a super-connector bringing together people and ideas. We are a platform for visionaries looking to create lasting legacies, a dynamic hub where your offices and families can flourish.
The theme of this year’s Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit, “Hong Kong of the World, for the World,” smartly reflects that reality, spotlights our commitment to international collaboration and mutual rewards.
Hong Kong’s advantages are clear and unique. Our “one country, two systems” framework ensures close and beneficial ties with our country and deep connectivity with the rest of the world.
It helps, too, that Hong Kong is China’s international financial centre and one of the world’s major financial centres. In the latest Global Financial Centres Index, out last week, Hong Kong maintained its position as the world’s third-ranked financial centre, and the top in the Asia-Pacific. In the Index’s “human capital,” “infrastructure” and “financial sector development” areas, Hong Kong climbed to second, worldwide, while our rankings in “business environment” and “reputational and general” rose to third, globally.
We are at the forefront of digitalisation, too, the first government to issue tokenised green bonds, demonstrating our flexibility and support for financial technology.
And we will soon publish a second policy statement on virtual assets, including advancing stablecoin regulations to set a new global standard for the future of digital finance.
Hong Kong is also a hub for world-class events such as this evening’s. We bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and industry innovators to help shape the future of finance, technology and sustainability.
Yesterday, the Milken Institute held its second Global Investors’ Symposium, attracting senior players from finance, business, technology, healthcare, philanthropy and government.
It’s just one of a number of events making up our “Wealth & Investment Mega-Event Week”. The HSBC Global Investment Summit opened earlier today. On Thursday, we have the Bloomberg Family Office Summit. And the World Economic Forum is hosting several sustainability-themed events here, including Friday’s One Earth Summit.
Our commitment to creating an enriching environment extends beyond finance and investment. Earlier this month, we opened Kai Tak Sports Park, the striking, pearl-like landmark rising from the waterfront in East Kowloon.
The world-class venue features a 50 000-seat stadium, complete with a retractable roof, and stunning views to Victoria Harbour from the South Stand. The 100-metre Champions Bar will be a popular watering hole this weekend, given that the renowned Hong Kong Sevens kicks off on Friday.
And there’s more, much more, on tap this month in Hong Kong. Art Basel Hong Kong opens this week, featuring more than 240 galleries from 42 countries and regions. And the five-day Art Central opens tomorrow, spotlighting Asian galleries and emerging artists.
Family offices, let me add, are no less critical to Hong Kong’s flourishing future.
At the inaugural Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit, in 2023, we issued a Policy Statement setting out our strategic vision for family offices.
The majority of the Policy Statement’s eight initiatives have already been implemented, I’m pleased to tell you.
They include establishing a dedicated FamilyOfficeHK team within Invest Hong Kong. To date, the team has helped more than 160 family offices set up or expand their operations in Hong Kong.
We’ve also launched the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, designed to attract asset owners to invest and reside in Hong Kong.
And, more good news, a series of enhancement measures are now in place. They include recognising jointly owned assets and investments through specified family-owned entities. And that works well with the tax concession regime we introduced in 2023 for single-family offices.
We are, let me add, expanding tax concessions for single-family offices, increasing the types of qualifying transactions. Add it up, and I think you’ll agree with me that Hong Kong is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for asset owners.
More good reason to turn to Hong Kong for your family office future. You’ll be in good company, with more than 2 700 single-family offices now operating here.
Ladies and gentlemen, I believe we’re just one group photo away from a fine dinner and a fabulous evening.
I wish you all a rewarding Summit and a memorable stay in Hong Kong, Asia’s world city. Thank you. Issued at HKT 20:30
Government Strengthens financial assistance for Loan Schemes for Entrepreneurs, Farmers, Small Businesses and startups PMMY Offers Collateral-Free Loans for Small Businesses across Four Categories
New Loan Scheme for first-Time Entrepreneurs announced in Union Budget 2025-26
In Union Budget 2025-26, the government raised MISS loan limit for KCC borrowers from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh
Jan Samarth Portal: One-Stop Digital Platform for Easy access to 15 Government Loan Schemes
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:48PM by PIB Delhi
The Government runs many credit Schemes for small traders, farmers and startups. The details of few of these schemes are mentioned below.
It provides collateral-free institutional credit through Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) i.e. Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs), Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs).
Any individual, who is otherwise eligible to take a loan and has a business plan can avail loan under the Scheme. The loan is available for income generating activities in the manufacturing, trading, services sector and also for activities allied to agriculture across four loan products, viz. Shishu (loans up to Rs. 50,000), Kishore (loans above Rs. 50,000 and up to Rs. 5 lakh) and Tarun (loans above Rs. 5 lakh and up to Rs. 10 lakh). Loans upto Rs. 20 lakh under Tarun Plus category are given to those entrepreneurs who have availed and successfully repaid previous loans under the ‘Tarun’ category.
The objective of the Scheme is to facilitate loans from Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) of value between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 1 crore to at least one Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) borrower and one Woman borrower per bank branch for setting up greenfield enterprise in manufacturing, services or trading sector, including activities allied to agriculture.
Under both the Schemes, the prospective borrowers may avail the loan for trading, activities allied to agriculture and for new business.
As per para 32 of Union Budget 2025-26 “A new scheme will be launched for 5 lakh women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes first- time entrepreneurs. This will provide term loans upto Rs.2.00 crore during next 5 years. The Scheme will incorporate lessons from successful Stand Up India Scheme. Online capacity building for entrepreneurship and managerial skills will also be organized.”
Kisan Credit Card (KCC), introduced in 1998, is a banking product that provides farmers with timely and affordable credit for purchasing agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, as well as for meeting cash requirements related to crop production and allied activities. In 2019, the KCC scheme was extended to cover the working capital requirements of allied activities, viz. Animal Husbandry, Dairy and Fisheries.
Government of India under Modified Interest Subvention Scheme provides Interest Subvention of 1.5% to banks for providing short-term working capital loans upto Rs. 3 lakh at 7% p.a. Further, a Prompt Repayment Incentive of 3% is also provided to farmers on timely repayment of loans. Therefore, effective interest rate for farmers is 4%. In the Union Budget 2025-26, the Government has announced to enhance loan limit under the MISS from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh for loans taken through the KCC.
The Jan Samarth portal is a one-stop digital platform for linking fifteen Government-sponsored loans and subsidies Schemes. It provides a quick and efficient way to apply for loans and obtain approvals based on a digital evaluation of the applicant’s data. Further, many Banks and financial institutions have developed online platforms and mobile apps for end to end digital processing of loan applications, reducing the need for physical paperwork and in-person visits.
This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.
The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, and investing in the transport infrastructure that South Australians need.
The 2025-2026 Federal Budget delivers funding for three new projects including:
$525 million for the High Productivity Vehicle Network (HPVN)
$125 million for the Curtis Road Level Crossing Removal
$40 million for Main South Road upgrade – Myponga to Yankalilla
The HPVN will deliver upgrades between the South Eastern Freeway and Sturt Highway such as the duplication of the Swanport Bridge and Murray Bridge Township Bypass in Monarto.
The project will provide the necessary infrastructure to enable higher productivity vehicles to bypass Adelaide resulting in fewer trips with reduced vehicle carbon emissions, increased freight efficiency and improved safety for all road users.
Removal of the Curtis Road Level Crossing in Munno Para in northern Adelaide will eliminate the need for road traffic to interact with the Gawler passenger rail line.
The project will improve safety and support the significant housing development in the region, improving residents’ access to employment, education and recreational services by reducing road and rail network conflicts. The project will also improve travel times within the northern growth area of Adelaide.
The Main South Road upgrade – Myponga to Yankalilla will deliver critical safety improvement works along Main South Road between Myponga and Yankalilla, including:
two new overtaking lanes
targeted curve easing and road widening; and
widening narrow bridges and culverts
Its completion will create a safer environment for all road users in the area.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King:
“In this Budget, the Albanese Government is investing in infrastructure in South Australia – in the projects that are needed to make our roads safer, our freight networks more resilient and our transport links better serve communities.
“Our Government is committed to working with the Malinauskas Labor Government are get these projects done.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Boothby Louise Miller-Frost:
“I have been advocating for appropriate and safer traffic solutions for years, in fact since before I was elected. The Liberals, including the previous Member for Boothby, made a complete mess of it, cancelling Globelink and proposing an unsafe inadequate alternative.
“Through the investment in this Budget, and these critical new projects, Labor is building South Australia’s future.”