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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WELFARE OF CAPFs PERSONNEL

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 4:08PM by PIB Delhi

    The details of the various schemes and the initiatives being taken by the Government for the welfare of Central Armed Police Force personnel are annexed.

    • Ayushman CAPF as an initiative was launched on January 23, 2021 for providing cashless and paperless medical treatment at empaneled private and government hospitals across India to the serving personnel of Central Armed Police Forces, Assam Rifles, National Security Guard & National Disaster Response Force and their dependents.
    • 41,79,361 Ayushman CAPF Cards (ID) have been generated.

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    ANNEXURE

    The Government of India has taken several welfare initiatives for the personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and their families. These initiatives encompass financial assistance, educational support, housing, and rehabilitation services.

    • Ayushman CAPF: It is an initiative launched by the Government of India under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) specifically for personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and their families. It provides cashless and paperless medical treatment at empanelled private and government hospitals across India
    • Ex-Gratia Payments: In the unfortunate event of death due to accidents during duty, CAPF personnel’s next of kin receive ₹25 lakh. For deaths resulting from acts of violence by terrorists or during enemy action, the compensation is ₹35 lakh.
    • Accidental death insurance coverage under CAPF salary package scheme: This policy offers financial support to the families of personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty.
    • Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS): Launched to encourage higher technical and professional education among the wards and widows of CAPF and Assam Rifles personnel, the scheme offers 2,000 scholarships annually (1,000 for boys and 1,000 for girls). The scholarship amounts are ₹3,000 per month for girls and ₹2,500 per month for boys, disbursed annually as ₹36,000 and ₹30,000, respectively.

    ANNEXURE

    • Contributory Welfare Fund:- Necessary guidelines issued to bring uniformity in payout to the Next of Kins (NoKs) of deceased CAPF personnel from Contributory Welfare Fund.
    • Quota for wards of CAPF:- 26 seats in MBBS & 03 seats in BDS have been reserved for the wards of serving/deceased CAPFs & AR personnel.
    • CAPF e-Awas Portal: A dedicated online platform facilitates the registration and allotment of residential quarters to CAPF personnel. The portal also provides services such as retention and regularization of accommodations.
    • Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB): Established to oversee the welfare and rehabilitation of retired CAPF personnel and their families, including the next of kin of deceased or disabled personnel, WARB operates through State and District Welfare Officers across the country.
    • “CAPF Punarvaas” scheme: – A “CAPF Punarvaas” scheme was launched by linking Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act (PSARA) website with WARB website where the data of retired and willing Ex- CAPF/AR personnel is made available to Private Security Agencies on PSARA website for re-employment in Private Security Agencies.
    • Medical Facilities: Retired personnel and their spouses receive medical facilities from CGHS/CPMF Hospitals or a medical allowance of ₹1000 per month.

    ANNEXURE

    • Risk and Hardship Allowances: Enhancements have been made to the existing risk and hardship allowances for CAPF personnel deployed in Jammu and Kashmir and Left-Wing Extremism affected districts.
    • Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar (KPKB): Formerly known as the Central Police Canteen, KPKB provides quality products to CAPF personnel at discounted rates through direct negotiations with suppliers.
    • Liberalized Pension Awards (LPA) and Extraordinary Family Pension (EFP): There are special pension schemes designed for the families of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel who suffer death or disability due to operational hazards, ensuring financial security for their dependents.
    • Bharat Ke Veer: It is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to support the families of deceased Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel. It enables citizens to contribute financially to the families of soldiers who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

    This was stated by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘WATAN KO JANO’ PROGRAMME

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 4:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme, organized by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir under the funding from Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, is aimed at fostering national integration by exposing children of the age less than 18 years from government-run homes to the cultural, historical, and technological advancements of other parts of the country. The ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme has been successful in promoting national integration, fostering unity among India’s youth, and helping create a more inclusive, harmonious society. The Government of Jammu and Kashmir is implementing various vocational training and skill development programmes including two flagship programs namely, Mission Youth and Mission Yuva. These missions have been specifically mandated to empower and enhance the skills of the youth in the region, providing them with the necessary tools and opportunities to excel in various sectors.

    Further, under ‘Kashmiri Youth Exchange Programme (KYEP)’ various activities are being organized for school students/youth of Jammu and Kashmir with the other states/UTs through interactions, seminars, panel discussions, skill development, visit to Industries, exhibition of artefacts and local products of Kashmir valley, food festival, sharing of best practices, culture and customs, career guidance, patriotism and nation building programme, cultural programs, etc. by Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS).

    This was stated by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: GAGANYAAN-1 MISSION

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 4:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Gaganyaan Programme is currently approved with a financial sanction of ~20,193 Crores. The envisaged expenditure is categorised into Revenue (~ 341 Crores) and Capital (~19852 Crores) elements catering to necessary technology development activities and undertaking uncrewed/ crewed flight missions. (Total: 8 Nos.).

    There has been a revision in the scope and financial sanction of Gaganyaan Programme. The vision for space in the Amrit kaal envisages including other things, creation of an operational Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035 and Indian Crewed Lunar Mission by 2040. Towards building these new capabilities to enable longer duration Indian human space missions, various technologies have to be developed and validated. As per the revised scope, demonstration of these technologies is planned through eight missions (2 Crewed+ 6 Uncrewed) in a phased manner.

    ISRO together with collaborating national agencies is responsible for development of various technologies which are planned to be demonstrated in this mission. Private enterprises are contributing enormously to the programme specifically in areas such as realization of launch vehicle systems, sub-systems and critical structures (simulated Crew Module/ Crew Module) for ground/ flight test program, Crew Module Recovery Models, Virtual reality based training simulators, realization of various subsystems of indigenous Environment Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) as well as avionics packages for ground simulations. Some of these contributing private enterprises are Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Tata Elxsi, Larsen & Toubro, Walchand nagar Industries, Manjira Machine Builders, Godrej Aerospace, Data Patterns India, Centum Electronics etc.

    The Government of India has announced reforms, on June, 2020, in the space sector towards enabling the private players to provide end-to-end services towards enhancing the Indian space economy to a significant level. Indian Space Policy-2023 was released in April 2023 as an overarching, composite and dynamic framework to implement the space reform vision. It helps to promote greater participation of Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) in the value chain of space economy in order to develop robust, innovative and competitive space ecosystem aiming for a larger share of India in global space economy. It also enables the NGEs to make use of infrastructure created through public funds. Further, amendment was made to the Foreign Direct Investment policy for space sector, enabling higher threshold of foreign investments in various space domains. Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre {IN-SPACe), a single-window agency, was formed under Department of Space, to promote, regulate and authorize space activities of Non-Governmental Entities {NG Es). Further, in order to carry out space activities, the facilities across various ISRO centres will also be permitted for use by private sector through IN-SPACe. New Space India Ltd (NSIL}, a CPSE under the Department of Space will transfer the matured technologies developed by ISRO to Indian industries. ISRO will also nurture Indian space industries by sharing its experiences on quality and reliability protocols, documentation, testing procedures etc. Announcement of Opportunities and initiatives like ‘Atmanirbharta in development of space technologies/ products/ systems through Indian industry’ are also being undertaken offering challenges in new domains of space technology.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: CHANDRAYAN-4 MISSION

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The primary objective of Chandrayaan-4 is to collect Lunar samples from southern high latitudes and return the samples to Earth for scientific study. Towards this, various critical technologies would be demonstrated that would also pave the way for the landing of an Indian on the Moon by 2040.

    The mission is targeted to be launched during October 2027. The total cost of the said mission is Rs. 2104 Crores and has been sanctioned.

    The department has been systematically exploring the Lunar surface through the past missions and advancing various technologies. The Chandrayaan-4 mission is the nextmission to be realized for exploration of the moon and has the following advantages:

    1. To demonstrate key first level technologies for future crewed mission to Moon.
    2. To provide opportunities to study the lunar samples in greater detail, scientifically, compared to which the lander and rover mission could do in-situ.
    3. To inform and gain valuable experience to undertake future planetary missions including crewed missions.
    4. To further the strides achieved in advancing lunar science within the country.
    5. To enhance the technological and scientific capability of the country and aid tocement international presence in such prestigious endeavours.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Admission campaign for foreign citizens has started

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The Polytechnic University held Open Day for international applicants online. The event was dedicated to the start of the admissions campaign. Representatives of SPbPU international services spoke about the admissions process, educational opportunities and answered questions from future students.

    For more than a century of history, Polytechnic University has established itself as one of the leading engineering universities in Russia and the world. We are proud of our graduates — talented engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs and government officials who contribute to the development of technology, economy and society. We invite you to become part of our energetic and multifaceted community. Polytechnic University is a place where you can unleash your potential, find friends from all over the world and take the first step towards a successful career. We are looking forward to seeing you at Polytechnic University. Let’s create the future together, — Vice-Rector for International Affairs Dmitry Arsenyev greeted future students.

    Students from the Institute of Computer Science and Cybersecurity, the Civil Engineering Institute, the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport, and the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade shared their impressions of studying at the university.

    Learning the language and adapting were difficult at first, but over time they opened up new opportunities. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the teachers who create additional materials to help students in their studies. The atmosphere at the university is inspiring: the polytechnics are incredibly responsive and always ready to support, – said Marvin Bethel, a student from Botswana.

    ISI student Mustafa Ibrahim is from Ethiopia. He chose Polytechnic University because of its high international rankings, its status as one of the best universities in Russia, and its campus with modern infrastructure.

    The academic environment at the university is conducive to development. The teachers are always ready to help and share knowledge in their field. Here I met students from Russia, India, Egypt, China and other countries, which significantly expanded my cultural and educational experience. The training at the Polytechnic is intensive, with an emphasis on practical skills and research, – shared Mustafa Ibrahim.

    Activists from PolyUnion, the Council of Fellowships and Tutor Forces spoke about communities and extracurricular activities for international students at the Polytechnic University.

    Useful links:

    Admission procedure

    Personal Account of a Foreign Applicant

    Polunion

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government adopts comprehensive strategy for Women’s Empowerment, focusing on Political Participation and Local Governance

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Government adopts comprehensive strategy for Women’s Empowerment, focusing on Political Participation and Local Governance

    Government launches Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats Initiative with an aim to establish at least one Model Gram Panchayat in each District in the country

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:56PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India has adopted a “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-society” approach to address issues on a life-cycle continuum basis for the holistic empowerment of women from all sections of the society, and this includes political empowerment of women. Through various policies, the Government of India is promoting greater participation of women in local governance and political leadership roles.

    In 2023, Parliament of India passed the Constitution (One Hundred and Sixth Amendment) Act, 2023, “Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam”, marking a historic milestone in its national journey to foster equitable representation of women in public life at all levels of the federal structure. This landmark legislation rotationally reserves one-third of all seats for women in the Lower House of Parliament, Lok Sabha, and in all federal State Legislative Assemblies, including Legislative Assembly of National Capital Territory of Delhi, thus institutionalizing representation of women in politics at the highest levels of public decision-making.

    This recent landmark is built on the foundation of more than three decades of honing women’s leadership affirmative action at grassroots level by reserving one-third (33 percent) of the seats in in the rural and urban bodies of local governance, i.e., Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Municipal bodies, through the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments (1992). Keeping with decentralized federal structure, over two-third states (21 states / and 2 UTs with PRIs) have made provisions of 50% reservation for women in their Panchayati Raj Institutions. As a result, today, out of approximately 31 lakh elected representatives in local governments, nearly half (46 percent), comprising 14.5 lakh, are women – a scale of representation unparalleled anywhere else in the world.

    The Government has launched the “Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan”, a comprehensive and targeted capacity-building initiative aimed at strengthening Women Elected Representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions across the nation. It focuses on sharpening their leadership acumen, enhancing their decision-making capabilities, and reinforcing their role in grassroots governance. The Government has prepared specialized training modules designed specifically for capacity building of Women Elected Representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions. Recognizing the on-ground challenges faced by women duty bearers and women leaders contesting elections, a comprehensive “Primer on Law Addressing Gender Based Violence and Harmful Practices” for Panchayat Elected Representatives has also been prepared.

    Recently, the Government has launched Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats Initiative with an aim to establish at least one Model Gram Panchayat in each District in the country that is both women and girl friendly, reinforcing the commitment to gender equality and sustainable rural development.

    The Government also aims to engage 01 lakh youth, including young women, in politics without political affiliations and provide them a national platform to make their ideas for Viksit Bharat, a reality.

    Further, there are a number of schemes being implemented by various Ministries and Departments of the Government of India for holistic educational, economic, social, political empowerment of women. The Government is moving with a saturation approach through saturation of essential services for the poor and marginalised such as affordable housing, incentivizing women’s property ownership, and universal health coverage, linkages to formal credit, insurance and banking services, as well as financial support to pregnant women and lactating mothers to rest and recover after childbirth, tracking nutrition and well-being of children and mothers, amongst others.

    Envisioning Self Help Groups as vehicles of change, today 10 crore women are transforming the rural landscape economically, and taking greater leadership at grassroots level.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Rajya Sabha in reply to a question today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Over 53.76 Lakh Beneficiaries Covered Under PMMVY Scheme in FY 2023-24

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:55PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Food Security Act, 2013 (NFSA) provides that subject to such schemes as may be framed by the Central Government, every Pregnant Women & Lactating Mother (PW&LM), except those who are in regular employment with the Central Government or State Government or Public Sector Undertaking or those who are in receipt of similar benefits under any law for the time being in force, shall be entitled to maternity benefit of not less than rupees six thousand, in such instalments as may be prescribed by the Central Government.

    The Ministry of Women and Child Development has notified Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana Rules, 2022 (PMMVY Rules) under sub-section 3 of Section 39 of NFSA on 22nd December, 2022. The PMMVY Rules were also laid on the Table of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on 3rd February, 2023 and 8th February, 2023 respectively.

    Under Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), maternal benefit of ₹5,000/- is provided to eligible Pregnant Women & lactating Mothers (PW&LM) during the period of pregnancy and lactation. The eligible beneficiary also receives the remaining cash incentive as per approved norms towards maternity benefit under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) after institutional delivery so that on an average, a woman gets ₹6,000/-.

    Normally, the first pregnancy of a woman exposes her to new kinds of challenges and stress factors. Hence, the scheme provides support to the mother for safe delivery and immunization of her first child. Under Mission Shakti, w.e.f. 01.04.2022, to promote positive behavioural change towards girl child, the maternity benefits of ₹6000 is also provided to beneficiaries for second child subject to condition that the second child is a girl.

    Every pregnant women & lactating mother is entitled to meal, free of charge, during pregnancy and six months after child birth through the Anganwadi, so as to meet the nutritional standards specified in schedule of NFSA Act. These foodgrains are being allocated to the states through the Wheat Based Nutritional Programme (WBNP) wherein foodgrains (Wheat/Rice/Coarse grains (Millets)) are allocated to the States/UTs through the Department of Food & Public Distribution for use as Supplementary Nutrition at NFSA rates.

    As per information in the PMMVY Portal, during the FY 2023-24, the number of beneficiaries covered under the PMMVY scheme was 53,76,728.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Rajya Sabha in reply to a question today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs combats counterfeit goods activities (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs combats counterfeit goods activities (with photo) 
    On March 14, Customs inspected two outgoing consignments in a courier logistics centre in Kwun Tong. With the assistance of the trademark owner, about 150 suspected counterfeit mobile phones with an estimated value of about $105,000 were seized. After in-depth investigations, a company in Kwun Tong was identified as the suspected consignor of the batch of suspected counterfeit goods.
     
    Subsequently, Customs officers on March 17 conducted a controlled delivery operation and arrested a 36-year-old man who was suspected to be connected with the case inside the aforesaid consignor. About 5 100 suspected counterfeit mobile phones with an estimated market value of about $3.5 million were seized.
     
    With the suspicion that another company in Kwun Tong was involved in the case, Customs officers immediately conducted a search at the company on the same day. About 3 900 suspected counterfeit mobile phones with an estimated value of about $2.8 million were further seized, and a 55-year-old man who was suspected to be connected with the case was also arrested. 
     
    The two arrested persons have been released on bail pending further investigation. Investigations are ongoing, and the likelihood of further arrests is not ruled out.
     
    Customs reminds consumers to procure goods at reputable shops and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agents if the authenticity of a product is in doubt. Traders should also be cautious and prudent in merchandising since selling counterfeit goods is a serious crime, and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions.
     
    Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who import, export, sells or possesses for sale any goods with a forged trademark commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
     
    Members of the public may report any suspected counterfeiting activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hkIssued at HKT 18:03

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Projects under PM-DevINE

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:29PM by PIB Delhi

    The projects sanctioned under PM-DevINE are executed by the State Governments/Implementing Agencies (IAs) concerned in the North Eastern Region (NER) and the primary responsibility of monitoring of these projects lies with the concerned State Governments/IAs.

    The MDoNER also closely monitors the progress of the ongoing projects under PM-DevINE at different levels. The officials of Ministry of DoNER/NEC carry out inspection of the select projects on a regular basis.

    The Field Technical Support Units (FTSU) have been set up by the Ministry in all the 08 NE States, who regularly interact with project Implementing Agencies and maintain and update the database of projects on Gati Shakti Portal of MDoNER, and also carry out inspections of the ongoing projects.

    In order to further strengthen the monitoring mechanism and to ensure quality control of the ongoing projects under the various schemes of MDoNER inter-alia including PM-DevINE, the Project Quality Monitors/Third Party Technical Inspection (PQM/TPTI) Units have been engaged.

    Sanctioning of projects under PM-DevINE requires vetting of the DPR of a project by institute of repute like IIT, NIT etc. and subsequently recommended by SLEC and EIMC. This ensures that the project contains sustainability plan, targeted Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Statutory clearances like environment and forest clearance etc. so that the projects sanctioned under PM-DevINE are sustainable and eco-friendly.

    Projects sanctioned under PM-DevINE include those relating to education, health, tourism, connectivity and livelihood, which directly or indirectly improve employment generation and economic development in the NER.

    This information was given by the Minister of State of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region Dr. Sukanta Majumdar in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CONTROLLING OF SPAM CALLS BY TRAI

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has amended the Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations (TCCCPR), 2018 on 12.02.2025 which has, inter-alia, following provisions:

    1. A customer can now make a complaint about spam/ Unsolicited Commercial Communication (UCC) within 7 days of receiving spam as compared to earlier 3-day time limit.
    2. Time limit for taking action by the access providers against the UCC from unregistered senders has been reduced from 30 days to 5 days.
    3. To ensure prompt action against the senders of UCC, the criterion for taking action against them has been revised and made more stringent. As compared to earlier criterion of ‘having 10 complaints against the sender in last 7 days’ to trigger action, it has been modified to ‘having 5 complaints against the sender in last 10 days’.

     

    These amendments shall come into force after thirty days from the date of their publication in the Official Gazette except regulation 8, regulation 17; sub-clauses (a) and (b) of regulation 20; and sub-clause (b) of regulation 21, which shall come into force after sixty days of publication of these regulations in the Official Gazette. Moreover, TRAI issued directions on 13.08.2024 to disconnect all telecom resources of unregistered Senders/ Unregistered Telemarketers (UTMs) which are being used for making spam calls and to blacklist such Senders. Access Providers have taken widespread actions which has led to a significant reduction in the complaints against UTMs from 1,89,419 in August 2024 to 1,34,821 in January 2025. More than 1150 Number of entities/individuals have been blacklisted & more than 18.8 lakh telecom resources have been disconnected. 

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DATA-VISUALIZATION HACKATHON

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) in collaboration with MyGov is organising a data visualization hackathon titled ‘Innovate with GoIStats’ during the period 25.2.2025 to 31.03.2025. Students enrolled in undergraduate (UG)/ postgraduate (PG) degrees/ diploma or equivalent courses, research associates currently enrolled in recognized and bonafide Indian universities, colleges and institutions or completed the above degrees in financial year 2024-25 are eligible to participate in the hackathon.

    The hackathon is organised aiming to create awareness about the data being generated by the Ministry and encourage students and researchers to utilize the data for analysis to create any data visualization by using technology which may include AI/ML. The visualizations would aid dissemination of insights derived from the data for further use by researchers and policy makers.

    MoSPI has taken the following measures to promote data literacy and statistical analysis among students and researchers in India:

    1. The official statistics being generated by the Ministry are published on the website of the Ministry and also disseminated through social media handles of the Ministry for use by students and researchers.
    2. MoSPI provides internship opportunities to students pursuing or completed graduate/post-graduate or research scholars in recognized institutes / universities / research institutes under the ‘National Internship in Official Statistics’ programme.
    3. MoSPI promotes research in official statistics by way of providing financial assistance under the Grant-in-Aid component of the Capacity Development scheme of the Ministry.
    4. The National Statistical Systems Training Academy (NSSTA) organizes one-week awareness programme on official statistics for Heads of the Departments and UG/PG Students of Departments of Statistics / Economics / Social Science of Central and State Universities.
    5. NSSTA also organises one-day awareness workshop on official statistics for UG/PG students of Departments of Statistics/ Economics/Social Science at the campuses of the Universities/ Colleges.

    This information was given by Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Planning, and Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Rao Inderjit Singh in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government steps to increase 5G connectivity in the country

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Government of India has undertaken following projects, with funding from Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), to increase telecommunication connectivity in remote areas :-

    1. Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan (CTDP) for mobile connectivity in the North Eastern Region, Andaman & Nicobar islands and Lakshadweep islands with projects costing over ₹4,050 crore.

    2. Scheme for providing mobile services in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas and Aspirational Districts with projects costing over ₹13,179 crore.

    3. 4G Saturation Project for providing 4G mobile services in uncovered villages with projects costing over ₹26,300 crore.

    4. Amended BharatNet project to provide broadband connectivity to the Gram Panchayats (GPs) and villages.

     

    The Government has taken several steps to increase 5G connectivity in the country, including in remote and tribal areas. These initiatives are listed as below:-

    i.          Auction of spectrum for 5G mobile services.

    ii.         Financial reforms to rationalize Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR), Bank Guarantees (BGs) and interest rates.

    iii.        Removal of Spectrum Usage Charges for spectrum acquired in auction of 2022 and thereafter.

    iv.        Simplification of procedure for SACFA (Standing Advisory Committee on Radio Frequency Allocations) clearance.

    v.         Launch of PM GatiShakti Sanchar portal and RoW (Right of Way) Rules to streamline RoW permissions and clearance of installation of telecom infrastructure.

    vi.        Time-bound permission for use of street furniture for installation of small cells and telecommunication line.

     

    Since its launch in October 2022, 4.69 lakhs 5G Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) have been installed across the country which is one of the fastest roll out of 5G mobile services in the world. At present, 5G mobile services are available in 99.6% of the districts in the country. Further, 2.95 lakh 5G BTSs have been set up in the last financial year (2023-24).

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BFAC appreciates Tourism Commission and MPFA’s committed efforts in outlining long-term development for Hong Kong’s tourism industry and operating eMPF Platform

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    BFAC appreciates Tourism Commission and MPFA’s committed efforts in outlining long-term development for Hong Kong’s tourism industry and operating eMPF Platform 
         The Business Facilitation Advisory Committee held its 56th meeting today (March 19). At the meeting, the Tourism Commission briefed members on the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 (Blueprint 2.0) promulgated at the end of last year. The Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) and eMPF Outreach Team also briefed members on the eMPF Platform.

         Blueprint 2.0 proposes four positions, four development strategies and 133 measures for Hong Kong’s tourism development in the coming five years. The four positions of Hong Kong’s tourism industry are (i) reinforcing the role of an international tourism hub and a core demonstration zone for multi-destination tourism; (ii) highlighting the unique elements of Hong Kong’s local cultural characteristics that are irreplaceable and unrepeatable and making good use of its positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, with a view to achieving “shaping tourism with cultural activities and promoting culture through tourism”; (iii) upholding Hong Kong’s positioning as a city with high-quality tourism experiences; and (iv) stressing the importance of quality over quantity in development to build Hong Kong into a demonstration point for sustainable tourism.   
         The eMPF Platform was launched in June 2024 to centralise the administrative tasks dispersed across various trustees’ platforms by providing one-stop services, and facilitate the standardisation, streamlining and automation of the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) scheme administration processes, thereby enhancing operational efficiency of the MPF System and reducing administration costs. The MPFA anticipated that all MPF trustees will complete onboarding the Platform by 2025. 
         The Committee also received the work reports of its three task forces:
     
    Wholesale and Retail Task Force (WRTF)
    ———————————————
       —————————————————————
     Task Force on Business Liaison Groups (BLGTF)
    —————————————————–
          The Committee also expressed appreciation of the commitment and achievements of the bureaux and departments in continuously implementing the business facilitation measures under the Be the Smart Regulator Programme to enhance their business licensing services.

         Papers for the Committee meeting are available at 
    www.gov.hk/en/business/supportenterprises/bf/advisory/index.htmIssued at HKT 18:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ULIP Surpasses 100 Crore API Transactions: Enabling Seamless, Smart, and Sustainable Logistics

    Source: Government of India (2)

    ULIP Surpasses 100 Crore API Transactions: Enabling Seamless, Smart, and Sustainable Logistics

    From Data to Decisions, ULIP is Driving Ease of Doing Business in India: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) has reached a significant milestone, recording 100 crore API transactions, reinforcing its role as a game-changer in India’s logistics sector. This achievement marks a significant step toward building a world-class, technology-driven logistics ecosystem that fuels industrial growth under Make in India and accelerates the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

    The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal, commended the achievement, stating, “ULIP’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the collaborative efforts of our users, logistics stakeholders and govt. departments who are leveraging API integrations to create impactful solutions. This milestone brings to life our Prime Minister’s vision of a seamless logistics ecosystem that strengthens Ease of Doing Business and positions Bharat as a global trade and manufacturing powerhouse. We remain committed to expanding ULIP’s capabilities, making Indian logistics more agile, resilient, and globally competitive.”

    By bridging critical data gaps, ULIP enables automation, real-time cargo tracking, and streamlined regulatory compliance, benefiting businesses across industries. Processing an average of 1 crore API transactions weekly, ULIP continues to drive widespread adoption and democratizes access to logistics data, ensuring equal opportunities for businesses of all sizes. This digital disruption is reshaping the competitive landscape, breaking monopolistic control, and empowering MSMEs, start-ups, and large enterprises alike.

    ULIP has also significantly impacted the manufacturing sector with companies such as Prism Johnson, Asian Paints, and Tata Steel leveraging its APIs to streamline transporter verification, automate processes, and strengthen supply chains.

    Meanwhile, ULIP’s multi-modal APIs across road, rail, ocean, and air provide real-time shipment ETAs, ensuring just-in time inventory management and cost savings for manufacturers.

    Beyond logistics, ULIP is accelerating sustainability efforts, helping businesses like Century Plywoods and TCIL choose greener transport options, cut emissions, and align with India’s carbon reduction goals.

    Transporters and logistics service providers—including Cuttack Carriers, Road Pilot, and Intugine—are enabling digital documentation, automated gate processes, and seamless freight movement, reducing delays and congestion at hubs.

    Alongside private sector players, state and central government departments are leveraging the digital gateway for data-driven decision-making.

    ULIP is not just modernizing logistics, it is revolutionizing how goods move, businesses operate, and industries thrive in a digitally connected world. With greater visibility and smarter decision-making, the platform is playing a vital role in building a self-reliant India.

    Launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi under the National Logistics Policy (NLP) on 17th September 2022, to create an integrated, efficient, and technology-driven logistics sector. Since its inception, the platform has been actively driving this vision forward and connects 43 systems from 11 ministries through 129 APIs, covering more than 1,800 data fields, enabling comprehensive data access for stakeholders. With over 1,300 registered companies, 350+ agreements signed, and 100 crore+ API transactions processed, ULIP has emerged as a powerful tool for driving operational efficiency, and innovation in India’s logistics sector.

    About NLDSL:

    NICDC Logistics Data Services Ltd. (NLDSL) has been at the forefront of transforming India’s logistics sector through its innovative solutions like Logistics Data Bank (LDB) and ULIP. By leveraging advanced technology, NLDSL has enhanced efficiency, transparency, and digitization within the industry.

    The company was established on December 30, 2015, with the primary objective of harnessing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance efficiency in the Indian logistics sector. It is a joint venture between the Government of India represented by National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT) and Japanese IT major NEC Corporation.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan

     

    (Release ID: 2112727) Visitor Counter : 10

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PACS operating PMBJKS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:02PM by PIB Delhi

    2,744 PACS across the country have received initial approval from the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), Department of Pharmaceuticals and the Government of India to establish Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK). Among the 2,744 PACS that received initial approval, 785 have been issued drug licenses by the State Drug Controllers and 716 PACS have been allotted Store Codes by PMBI, which are ready to function as PMBJK.

    PACS functioning as PMBJKs provide around 2,047 quality generic medicines and around 300 surgical items. The product basket covers all major therapeutic groups such as Cardiovascular, Anti-cancers, Anti-diabetics, Anti-infectives, Anti-allergic, Gastro-intestinal medicines, Nutraceuticals, etc. These Kendras provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices to rural citizens which are 50% to 90% less priced than that of branded alternatives, making healthcare more affordable for rural population. The initiative aims to improve accessibility to essential medicines, reduce healthcare costs, and improve the overall well-being of rural communities.

    PACS operating PMBJKs have been able to diversify their income streams, enhancing their financial sustainability. As per information provided by PMBI, so far, medicines worth Rs. 4.9 Crore have been purchased by PACS operating PMBJKs from PMBI. The initiative has strengthened financial viability of PACS, allowing them to reinvest in other cooperative activities, provide better services to their members, and expand their role in rural economic development.

    In order to increase the number of PACS operating PMBJKs, particularly in underserved/ rural and remote areas, the implementation of the initiative is regularly reviewed through meetings with States/UTs and PMBI to ensure effective progress. Efforts include simplifying the application process, fast-tracking approvals, and conducting training programs for PACS staff on pharmacy operations. Additionally, State Governments are encouraged to identify and support eligible PACS in launching PMBJKs to further strengthen rural healthcare access.

    This was stated by the Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha.

    *****

    RK/VV/ASH/RR/PR/PS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Strengthening of the Cooperative Sugar Mills

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 3:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India has taken the following steps for strengthening of Cooperative Sugar Mills (CSMs):-

    1. Relief from Income Tax to Cooperative Sugar Mills: Sugar factories operating in the co-operative sector in certain States of India pay to sugarcane growers a final amount, often referred to as Final Cane Price (FCP) which is over and above the Statutory Minimum Price (SMP) fixed by the Central Government under the Sugarcane Control Order, 1996.

    The payment of FCP by the co-operative sugar factories over and above the SMP for purchase of sugarcane had resulted into tax litigation. The co-operative sugar factories were claiming this excess payment as business expenditure whereas the same has been disallowed in the assessment on the ground that the excess price paid for purchase of sugar cane over and above SMP is in the nature of appropriation/distribution of profit and hence not allowable as deduction.

    In order to provide certainty in this matter and to encourage co-operative movement in sugar sector, a new clause (xvii) was inserted to amend sub-section (1) of section 36 of

    the Income-tax Actto provide that the amount paid for purchase of sugarcane by the co-operative societies engaged in the manufacture of sugar at a price which is equal to or less than the price fixed by or fixed with the approval of the Government, including price fixation by State Governments through State-level Acts/Orders or other legal instruments that regulate the purchase price for sugarcane, including State Advised Price, which may be higher than the Statutory Minimum Price/Fair and Remunerative Price fixed by the Central Government shall be allowed as deduction for computing business income of the sugar co-operative factories w.e.f. 01.4.2016.

    1. Resolving decades old pending issues related to income tax demand on Cooperative Sugar Mills: The provision at SI. No (i) above resolved the issue of treatment of additional payment for sugar price by CSMs as an income distribution to farmers w.e.f.01.04.2016. However, pending demands and litigation still persisted in respect of assessment years(AYs) prior to 2016-

    17. Therefore, to conclude the matter logically and to extend the benefit of the abovementioned relief to all the applicable years, section 155 of the Act has been amended to insert a new sub- section (19) vide Finance Act, 2023, w.e.f. 01 April 2023. It provides that in the case of a sugar mill cooperative, where any deduction in respect of any expenditure incurred for the purchase of sugarcane has been claimed by an assessee and such deduction has been disallowed wholly or partly in any previous year commencing on or before the 1ª day of April, 2014, the Assessing Officer shall, on the basis of an application made by such assessee in this regard, recompute the total income of such assessee for such previous year. The Assessing Officer shall allow such deduction to the extent such expenditure is incurred at a price which is equal to or less than price fixed or approved by the Government for that previous year. CBDT has also issued Standard Operating Procedure in this regard on 27.07.2023.

    1. Rs 10,000 crore loan scheme through NCDC for strengthening of Cooperative Sugar Mills: Ministry of Cooperation has launched a new scheme named ‘Grant-in-aid to NCDC for Strengthening of Cooperative Sugar Mills’, under which Government of India has provided grant of Rs.1,000 crore to NCDC during financial year 2022-23 and 2024-25. NCDC will use this grant to provide loans up to Rs. 10,000 crores to Cooperative Sugar Mills, for setting up ethanol plants or for setting up cogeneration plants or for working capital or for all three purposes. NCDC has so far sanctioned 87 loans of ₹ 9893.12 crore to 48 CSMs.

    For ease of CSMs availing loan for setting up of ethanol plants under the scheme, NCDC has revised its funding pattern from 70:30 to 90:10 wherein the society has to raise only 10% of the project cost and 90% of the project cost will be provided by NCDC subject to technical and financial viability of the project. Further,for benefit of the Cooperative Sugar Mills, NCDC has reduced its floating rate of interest for term loan to 8.50% under the scheme.

      1. Preference in purchase of ethanol to Cooperative Sugar Mills: Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) are according top priority to CSMs participating in ethanol procurement cycles. So far, 24,650 KL ethanol worth ₹ 25.50 crore have been procured by OMCs from 11 CSMs.
      2. Enhancing ethanol production of Cooperative Sugar Mills by converting their molasses-based ethanol plants into multi feed ethanol plants: Ministry of Cooperation has taken initiative for conversion of existing molasses-based ethanol plants of CSMs into multi feed ethanol plants.As that they can operate their distilleries throughout the year, under this initiative CSMs will get following benefits:
    2. NCDC will provide a term loan under funding pattern of 90:10, with 90% from the society and 10% from NCDC.
    3. On March 6, 2025, the Department of Food and Public Distribution issued a Gazette Notification notifying the revised scheme titled “Scheme for Financial Assistance to Cooperative Sugar Mills (CSMs) for Converting Their Existing Sugarcane-Based Feedstock Ethanol Plants into Multi-Feedstock-Based Plants to Utilize Grains Such as Maize and Damaged Food Grains (DFG) for Enhancing and Augmenting Ethanol Production Capacity”, exclusively for cooperative sugar mills. Under the scheme, Central Government will bear the interest subvention on the loan availed by them at a rate of either 6% per annum or 50% of the interest rate charged by the lending institution, whichever is lower, for a period of five years, including a one-year moratorium.
    4. Cooperative sugar mills availing the benefit of interest subvention will be given Priority-1 by OMCs to facilitate their transition from single-feed ethanol plants to multi-feed ethanol plants.

    This was stated by the Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha.

    *****

    RK/VV/ASH/RR/PR/PS

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Facilities to Local People by South Eastern Coalfields Limited

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The facilities provided by South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) under CSR through various CSR activities are related to different themes viz. Healthcare, Education, Water Supply, Rural Development, etc., primarily for development of local populace residing within 25 KMs from SECL project sites/ mines/ Area HQ/ Company HQ and also for people residing in the operating state of SECL i.e. Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. Moreover, SECL also provides a wide range facilities to the local populace by providing safe & free drinking water, better roads, organising periodical medical check-up camps/eye camps in affected and nearby villages, free OPD facilities in the dispensary / hospitals of the Company and vocational training to landless people displaced by the project.

    Further, SECL also provides facilities at the various R&R sites such as buildings for primary schools, shopping centres, buildings for community centres, buildings for health centres, wells, hand pumps, approach roads, Electric poles and electric wires and playgrounds as per the Act/Policy.

    Further, SECL has a range of welfare initiatives in place for its employees/workers. These initiatives focus on improving the well-being, safety, and quality of life for human capital. The key welfare measures by SECL to its workers are:

    1. Health and Medical Facilities

    • Healthcare Centres: SECL runs a number of health centres and dispensaries across its mining areas, providing primary and emergency medical care to employees and their families. The central Hospitals at Area provide emergency medical services and inpatient treatment to employees and their families.
    • Free Medical Services: Employees and their dependents are offered free medical treatment, including in-house medical care and the provisions of treatment at empanelled hospitals.
    • Medical Camps: Periodic health check-up camps are organized to monitor the health status of workers, especially in areas like respiratory health, which is critical for mining personnel

    2. Housing and Accommodation

    • Residential Quarters: SECL provides residential facilities to its employees, especially in mining regions where housing is a critical concern. These quarters are maintained and offer basic amenities.
    • Family Welfare: Efforts are made to ensure that the families of employees have access to amenities like clean drinking water, electricity and sanitation.

    3. Education and Skill Development

    • Schools for Children: SECL runs schools in its mining areas, providing education to the children of employees.
    • Scholarships and reimbursement of Tuition Fee: Scholarships are provided to the children of employees who excel in their academic pursuits. There are provisions of reimbursement of tuition fee of the dependents of employee for engineering and medical education au government institutes.
    • Skill Development Programs: SECL organizes various training and development programs to upskill its employees, improving their employability and career growth opportunities.

    4. Retirement Benefits

    • Pension and Gratuity: SECL offers comprehensive retirement benefits, including Coal Mines Pension Scheme, Gratuity, and Coal Mines Provident Fund (CMPF) to its employees.
    • Post-Retirement Welfare: SECL has welfare schemes in place for retired employees, offering post-retirement medical benefits and other postretirement support services.

    5. Financial Assistance and Loans

    • Housing Loans/ Car Loan: SECL provides employees with low-interest loans to construct or purchase houses and/or car.

    6. Cultural and Recreational Activities

    • Sports and Recreation: SECL encourages employees to participate in sports and cultural activities. The company organizes sports events, cultural festivals, and competitions for both employees and their families.
    • Clubs and Societies: Employees and their families can engage themselves in social and recreational clubs within the company, helping foster a healthy work-life balance.

    7. Women’s Welfare

    • SECL ensures equal opportunities for women in its workforce, with policies in place to prevent discrimination and promote gender equality.
    • Women employees are also provided with maternity leave, childcare facilities, creche at workplace and other benefits to balance work and family responsibilities.

    Further, the facilities provided to Contractors’ Workers in SECL are as follows:

    • First Aid facility in Mines Premises.
    • Medical OPD and indoor facility in company hospital are being provided to contractor workers on producing I/Card.
    • Drinking Water and sanitary facilities.
    • Personal Protection/ Safety Equipment as per terms of contract
    • Ambulance facility.
    • Canteen and Creche facility.
    • Group Personal Accident Insurance as per terms of contract.
    • Corporate salary package with Eight Nationalized Banks viz SBI, PNB, BOB, UCO Bank, BOI, Indian bank, UBI. The aforesaid Banks are also providing personal accidental insurance coverage of Rs. 40 Lakhs in case of death or for permanent total disability and other facilities as per MoU signed between Coal India Ltd and different banks.
    • Social Security as per statute, including ex-gratia of Rs 15 lakh to the next of kin of contractor worker in case of mine accident and even during Covid -19, similar amount was also paid to the next kin of contractor workers of SECL who died due to COVID-19.
    • The contractor workers are also covered under CMPF/EPF & Employees Compensation ACT. In addition, contractor workers are paid minimum Wages (Central) engaged in non- mining activities and in case of contractor workers engaged in mining activities are being paid wages as per High Power Committee of CIL. (HPC Wages are midway between wages prescribed by Central Government under the Minimum Wages Act 1948 for the workers employed in the scheduled employment for non- coal mines and the wages payable to the lowest category of regular workers i.e Cat-I of NCWA-XI for CIL and SCCL.)
    • Education facility to the children of Contractor workers in project school of SECL is also being provided.

    Various development works done in the concerned districts of Chhattisgarh by SECL during last five years (year-wise) and the current year i.e. 2024-25, under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) head (Sector-wise) is detailed hereunder:

    (Rs. in Crore)

    Financial Year

    Healthcare

    Education

    Water

    Supply

    Environmental Sustainability

    Rural

    Development

    Others

    Total

    2019-20

    18.50

    0.91

    0.69

    5.62

    1.94

    56.99

    84.65

    2020-21

    26.44

    4.74

    0.24

    0.11

    2.24

    4.56

    38.33

    2021-22

    45.55

    15.32

    0.00

    4.36

    5.14

    9.45

    79.82

    2022-23

    35.72

    12.77

    0.00

    0.42

    2.48

    7.89

    59.28

    2023-24

    32.07

    7.25

    0.00

    0.24

    6.54

    6.97

    53.07

    2024-25(Current)

    13.40

    5.12

    0.00

    1.09

    4.25

    1.49

    25.35

    Total

    171.68

    46.11

    0.93

    11.84

    22.59

    87.35

    340.50

     

    District wise CSR expenditure of SECL in Chhattisgarh State is detailed below:

                                                                                                                                 (Rs. in Crore)

    Name of District in Chhattisgarh

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Grand Total

     

    		  
       

    Balrampur

    0.42

     

     

    0.11

     

    0.92

    1.45

    		    

    Balrampur-Ramanujganj

     

     

    3.52

     

     

     

    3.52

    		    

    Bastar

     

     

    0.21

     

    0.04

     

    0.24

    		    

    Bilaspur

    21.65

    11.45

    10.32

    0.96

    1.98

    4.18

    50.54

    		    

    Gaurella-Pendra-Marwahi

     

     

    0.2

     

     

     

    0.2

    		    

    Janjgir-Champa

     

     

    0.25

     

     

     

    0.25

    		    

    Korba

    0.99

    4.51

    7

    5.41

    11.74

    8.99

    38.64

    		    

    Koriya

    0.12

    0.01

    0.32

    0.06

    3.69

     

    4.2

    		    

    Raigarh

    0.36

    1.36

    7.25

    5.96

    1.67

    3.86

    20.47

    		    

    Raipur

    0.02

    0.27

    0.31

    2.83

    6.31

    0.69

    10.42

    		    

    Surajpur

    1.15

    1.11

    0.89

    0.73

    0.66

     

    4.53

    		    

    Surguja

     

    2.93

    1.6

    0.18

    0.6

    0.59

    5.91

    		    

    Other districts of Chhattisgarh

    58.49

    12.88

    10.88

    25.52

    9.29

    2.13

    119.19

    		    

    Administrative Expenditure in CG

    0.49

    3.33

    2.33

    2.73

    3.02

     

    11.9

    		    

    Grand Total

    83.69

    37.86

    45.07

    44.49

    39

    21.35

    271.46

    		    

    Overall, SECL’s CSR expenditure reflects a strategic shift towards targeted investments, adapting to evolving community needs while maintaining a strong focus on improving health, education, environmental sustainability, rural development projects etc.

    The details of the development works done under other heads in various districts of Chhattisgarh during each of the last five years and the current year is as under:

    • Providing filtered Mine water in various villages.
    • Construction of Community/ Multipurpose Hall.
    • Modification of existing Stadiums.
    • Construction of Boundary Wall of Schools/Townships, etc.
    • Construction of Sewerage Treatment Plants
    • Construction of Approach Road/Village Road, etc.
    • Construction of Cement concrete road with pavement, culverts, etc.
    • Strengthening and widening of existing roads.
    • Re-carpeting of PWD Road.
    • Construction of Hostels.
    • Construction of Badminton Court, Tennis Court, etc.
    • Addition of ICU Unit at Hospital.
    • Construction/Modernisation of Sport Complex.

    This information was given by Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2112724) Visitor Counter : 46

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Coal Gasification Initiative

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:58PM by PIB Delhi

    The coal gasification initiatives taken by the Government are as under:

    (i) On January 24, 2024 the Government has approved an outlay of ₹ 8,500 crore as financial incentive, for promotion of coal/lignite gasification projects for both government PSUs as well as private sector.

    (ii) Government has also approved investment by Coal India Limited (CIL) in joint ventures of CIL-BHEL and CIL-GAIL for undertaking coal gasification projects.

    (iii) In 2022, a new sub-sector, “Production of Syngas leading to coal gasification,” was created under the NRS linkage auctions policy to support this initiative. Further under this sector the government has allowed auction with a floor price at the notified price of the regulated sector, for the projects commissioning within the next seven years.

    (iv) 50% rebate in the revenue share for coal used in gasification has been introduced in commercial coal block auctions, provided that at least 10% of the total coal production is used for gasification purposes.

    Coal is one of the most abundant natural resources in the country. Coal gasification technology enables conversion of coal into syngas (synthetic gas), which can be used to produce downstream products like methanol, ammonium nitrate, Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG) and Fertilizers etc. Coal gasification technology provides alternative use of coal promoting environmental sustainability to align with vision of developed India 2047.

    The Government has not conducted any specific impact assessment of the financial incentive scheme for coal gasification projects.

    Coal India Limited (CIL), a CPSE under Ministry of Coal, has secured Khattali Chhoti Graphite Block in Madhya Pradesh, India through e- auction of critical mineral blocks conducted by Ministry of Mines. Besides, CIL has also signed Non-Disclosure Agreement with an Argentinian company and an Australian company for acquisition of lithium assets in Argentina.

    The Government has, inter-alia, taken the following steps to reduce India’s import dependency and build supply chain resilience in critical minerals:

    • Central Government has been empowered to exclusively auction mining lease and composite license for 24 critical minerals, with an aim to increase exploration and mining of critical minerals and ensure self-sufficiency in their supply.
    • The Government has announced in the Union Budget 2024-25 the setting up of a Critical Mineral Mission for a harmonized approach in areas including domestic production, recycling, overseas acquisition of critical mineral assets and research & development (R&D).

    This information was given by Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ****

    Shuhaib T                                                                                    

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ9: Urban renewal

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by Dr the Hon Starry Lee and a written reply by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, in the Legislative Council today (March 19):
        
    Question:
     
    It is learnt that recently, under the influence of various factors such as high interest rates, uncertainties in the global economy and adjustments in the local property market, private developers’ wish to participate in urban renewal has significantly diminished, resulting in impediment to the progress of a number of redevelopment projects, including the “13 Streets” and “5 Streets” projects in To Kwa Wan. There are views that the Urban Renewal Authority (URA), as the primary organisation to drive urban renewal, must ensure that its redevelopment work will not be stalled by changes in the economic environment, so as to avoid any impact on the pressing demand of residents of dilapidated buildings for improvement in their living conditions. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council if it knows:
     
    (1) whether the URA has assessed the specific impact of the current weak property market on urban renewal projects, including details of the delayed projects and the number of residents affected; 

    (2) whether the URA will actively consider fully unleashing the development potential of land in old districts by means of establishment of street consolidation areas, cross-district transfer of plot ratios, greater planning flexibility or introduction of other innovative approaches; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;  
    President,
     
    In consultation with the Urban Renewal Authority (URA), my reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) Under the Urban Renewal Authority Ordinance (Cap. 563), the URA is required to exercise due care and diligence in handling its finances, thereby maintaining a sound and healthy financial position in the long run. Given its business nature, the URA’s annual financial position will be affected by the fluctuations in the property market and the progress of commenced projects. To cope with the challenges posed by the economic environment and property market situations on sustaining urban renewal, the URA will adopt a dynamic management approach to review, from time to time, the commenced and/or to be commenced redevelopment projects. It will also appropriately adjust the planning and the pace of implementation of different projects in the light of market situations and building conditions, so as to strike a balance between maintaining its financial stability, effectively promoting the regeneration of old districts and addressing the expectations of the local community in its mission to carry out urban renewal in a sustainable and orderly manner.
     
    Meanwhile, the Development Bureau (DEVB) will continue to provide various forms of financial support to the URA, and will work with the URA and relevant departments for the wider application of innovative planning tools to enhance the commercial viability of redevelopment. The DEVB will also enable the URA to take forward redevelopment projects in a sustainable manner through policy measures, the details of which are set out below:
     
    (2) and (3) In recent years, the URA has started to apply the new planning tools proposed in its District Study for Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok (YMDS) (Note) in suitable redevelopment projects. For example, the URA has adopted a more flexible interchangeable domestic/non-domestic plot ratio for the Shantung Street/Thistle Street Development Scheme in Mong Kok to be tendered this month by relaxing the maximum residential plot ratio from 7.5 to 8.5 without exceeding the current permitted gross floor area, so as to increase the flexibility in planning and to attract the participation of private developers. Separately, the Sai Yee Street/Flower Market Road Development Scheme in Mong Kok announced by the URA in March 2024 will, through the transfer of plot ratio, consolidate and transfer the redevelopment potential of several small, scattered sites to a larger site for mixed development to enhance planning gains and commercial viability of the project. With the Government’s support, the URA has introduced the “single site, multiple use” model to consolidate different government and community services in the same building to provide convenience to the public, release government land and enhance development potential of redevelopment projects. The URA has also utilised the above new planning tools in other suitable projects, including the Nga Tsin Wai Road/Carpenter Road Development Scheme. In the district planning studies for Tsuen Wan and Sham Shui Po underway, the Government will explore with the URA the feasibility of other tools to expedite the pace of urban renewal.
     
    Self-developed residential projects are one of the development options. As the URA has to pay the construction costs for residential projects upfront, it has to take into account the resulting cash-flow pressure. Therefore, the URA’s redevelopment strategy will continue to primarily focus on joint venture with developers, leveraging market forces to carry out redevelopment through land tendering. To this end, the URA has piloted the Development Facilitation Services at the end of last year to gather developers’ views on relevant projects before commencing the tender process. This serves as a basis for refining the project parameters and tender terms, thereby enhancing developers’ interest and confidence in tendering.
     
    (4) As the URA is the Government’s important partner in urban renewal, the Government will ensure that the URA has adequate resources to fulfill its statutory mission as well as to carry out the tasks entrusted by the Government. Apart from the $10 billion capital injection upon the URA’s establishment, the Government has also provided additional funding in the form of land premium waivers for redevelopment projects of the URA, with the cumulative amount of land premium waived reaching $25.3 billion as of March 31, 2024. The Government will also continue to support the URA in suitable redevelopment projects to consolidate the “Government, Institution or Community” sites in the vicinity to reprovision and upgrade relevant facilities. This will increase the overall development potential of the redevelopment projects through releasing and granting government land to the URA, which is also a form of financial support rendered to the URA by the Government. Moreover, the Government approved in mid-2023 to uplift the borrowing limit of the URA from $6 billion to $25 billion to enable the URA to cope with the financing need arising from a number of large-scale redevelopment projects in the coming few years. If necessary, the Government will also consider rendering other forms of support as appropriate.
     
    Moreover, the Government has embarked on a policy study to explore the use of newly developed land to create more favourable conditions for future URA and private redevelopment projects in old districts, so as to facilitate sustainable urban renewal. Among other things, we will consider allocating land in new development areas (NDAs) for the construction of rehousing estates to provide decanting space for redevelopment of old districts. We will also study the feasibility of cross-district transfer of plot ratios, with the objective of transferring the residual plot ratios of redevelopment projects in old districts for use in NDAs, so as to incentivise market participation in redevelopment and transform densely-developed old districts at the same time, thereby thinning out the urban population and renewing old districts to make them more livable in the long run. Our target is to put forward preliminary proposals in the first half of 2025.
     
    Redevelopment of old districts cannot be taken up solely by the URA. Private market forces are also needed. The Land (Compulsory Sale for Redevelopment) (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 just implemented in December 2024 is one of the Government’s measures to encourage developers to participate in redevelopment by lowering the compulsory sale application thresholds and facilitating multiple adjoining-lot compulsory sale applications.
     
    Lastly, our urban renewal strategy is a dual-track approach of building rehabilitation and redevelopment. Regarding building rehabilitation, the Government launched a public consultation on the proposed amendments to the Buildings Ordinance (BO) (Cap. 123) in December 2024, and listened to the views of various sectors, including their suggestions on expediting building inspection and repair, during the consultation period ended in late February this year. The views collected so far generally support the Government’s carrot and stick approach (i.e. with both support and a punitive system) to urge owners to comply with the statutory orders and notices under the BO. The Government will take into account the views collated when finalising the proposals and proceed with the law drafting work to amend the BO with the target of introducing the amendment bill into the Legislative Council in the first half of 2026. Implementation of proposals on expediting building inspection and repair will help owners to better maintain their properties, thereby decelerating the building ageing process and slowing down the need for urban renewal.
     
    Note: The URA completed the YMDS in 2021, proposing recommendations and new planning tools such as transfer of plot ratio, permitting interchangeability of domestic/non-domestic plot ratio in the Yau Mong districts, and removing the plot ratio restriction of the commercial zone along Nathan Road.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu to grace the Udyam Utsav at Amrit Udyan, Rashtrapati Bhavan tomorrow

    Source: Government of India

    President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu to grace the Udyam Utsav at Amrit Udyan, Rashtrapati Bhavan tomorrow

    Celebration of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at Amrit Udyan from March 20 to March 30, 2025

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:47PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of MSME is organizing “Udyam Utsav” at Rashtrapati Bhavan from March 20, 2025, to March 30, 2025, an event to celebrate the spirit of MSMEs across the country, aimed to empower and encourage MSMEs, thereby bringing India’s vibrant heritage closer to its citizens at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

    The Hon’ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu will grace the occasion and visit the Utsav on 20th March 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the august presence of Ministry officials.

    The key highlights of the event would be:

    • Seven pavilions showcasing diverse product segments, including Heritage & Handicrafts, Organic & Agro-based products, Green MSME Technologies, Women Entrepreneurs, PM Vishwakarma & Tribal Entrepreneurs, Khadi & Village Industries (APRATIM), and MSME Business Support Pavilion.
    • Around 60 stalls, having products for sale and display by artisans and entrepreneurs.
    • A dedicated pavilion highlighting PM Vishwakarma Scheme of the Ministry of MSME and Tribal Entrepreneurs will showcase trades covered under the Scheme with toolkits and  live pottery demonstration.
    • Additional attractions include food stalls offering a variety of cuisine, AR/VR experiences, and traditional crafts. A model of Chandrayaan will be a central highlight ensuring an immersive experience.
    • Activities such as Hunar Sangeet, Nukkad Natak, Saree Draping Sessions, and Rajasthani Puppet Maker demonstrations will add vibrancy to the event.

    The Utsav is open to the public from March 20, 2025 to 30, 2025 between 10 AM and 8 PM. Entry will be through Gate Number 35 of the Rashtrapati Bhavan (where North Avenue meets Rashtrapati Bhavan). Online and free of cost Bookings can be done on https://visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in/plan-visit/amrit-udyan/rE/mO

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ2: Kwu Tung North/Fanling North New Development Areas

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ2: Kwu Tung North/Fanling North New Development Areas 
    Question:
     
    The Kwu Tung North and Fanling North New Development Area (NDA) project is the first NDA project in the Northern Metropolis to enter construction stage. The Government invoked the relevant legislation in 2019 and 2024 successively for the resumption of private lots for implementing the development of the NDAs. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the number and hectare of private lots resumed so far; 
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Kwu Tung North/Fanling North New Development Area (KTN/FLN NDA) is the first NDA in the Northern Metropolis to enter the construction stage. It is being implemented in two phases where land has gradually been developed.
     
         To implement the project, the Government resumed privately owned land in 2019 and 2024 in phases according to the Lands Resumption Ordinance and other relevant ordinances, and is required by law to pay statutory compensation to landowners. As an alternative to statutory compensation, the Government has introduced ex-gratia compensation which is administrative in nature and processed in a more simplified and speedier manner, in accordance with the policy.
     
         When the Government resumes private land for a public purpose, a notice will first be gazetted specifying that the relevant lot will revert to the Government after a specified date, in general three months after a notice is published. According to the present mechanism and performance pledge, the Lands Department will within four weeks of gazetting the resumption notice issue an ex-gratia compensation offer to the landowner, and mention that the relevant person may submit a claim for statutory compensation if the offer is not accepted. If both parties cannot reach an agreement on the amount of statutory compensation, either party may refer the claim to the Lands Tribunal for final determination of the compensation. Upon receipt of the letter of acceptance from the landowner and after checking and confirming the land title, the Lands Department will issue the ex-gratia compensation. According to the above mechanism, if a landowner does not accept the ex-gratia compensation offer and opts for making a statutory compensation claim, or may not be able to provide the required documents in a timely manner to prove its title, it will take longer time to process such cases. 
    (1) The KTN/FLN NDA requires the resumption of 2 498 private lots in total, involving a total area of about 178 hectares (ha). The Government resumed 784 private lots for the first phase development in December 2019 with an area of around 68 ha; and resumed 1 714 private lots for the remaining phase development in April and October last year with an area of around 110 ha.
     
    (2) As of end February 2025, the Government has already paid compensation to landowners of over 90 per cent and 20 per cent of the land resumed for the first phase and remaining phase development respectively, with an amount of around $10.7 billion and $3.6 billion respectively, totalling around $14.3 billion (interest included). While it is our goal to disburse the compensation as soon as possible after the land reverts to the Government, as mentioned above, the general circumstances of each case will also depend on factors such as whether and when the landowner accepts the compensation offer, whether land title checking can be smoothly conducted. According to the performance pledge of the Lands Department for issuing compensation, cheques would be made available for collection by the landowner within four weeks following the acceptance of proof of legal title or execution of compensation agreements. In the past two year, all of the cases met the performance pledge.
     
    For this development area, the remaining compensation of around $16.9 billion not yet paid mainly involves land resumed last year for the remaining phase development. Among the cases with compensation not yet disbursed, around half are due to land title not yet fully proven, incomplete land title documents and time required for title checking; while the other half are due to landowners being not contactable or not in Hong Kong.
     
    (3) The Lands Resumption Ordinance and relevant ordinances stipulate that interest shall be awarded for the compensation payable for the period running from the reversion of land to the Government to the payment of compensation, and that the relevant interest rate is set at one-month Hong Kong Dollar Interest Settlement Rates (HIBOR). Under the current approval mechanism, the time required for disbursement of compensation for cases with no land title checking problem would generally be around three to six months from the date of reversion of land to the Government. In other words, payment of interest is expected for resumption and compensation work, and is also reasonable to both the Government and the affected landowners under the current mechanism. 
     
    In the context of KTN/FLN NDA, cases with payment of compensation completed totaled around $14.3 billion as mentioned above, and this includes interest payment of over $49 million. As the interest rate fluctuates and the processing time of each case differs, the Government is unable to provide an estimate of the interest expense for the compensation amounts not yet paid.Issued at HKT 17:08

    NNNN

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: SCHEMES TO PROMOTE ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INNOVATION AMONGST SC

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:14PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government has introduced various Schemes to promote entrepreneurship and innovation amongst Scheduled Castes. The Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Castes (VCF-SC), with a corpus of Rs. 750 crore, provides concessional finance ranging from Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 15 crore at a 4% coupon rate. This fund is managed by IFCI Venture Capital Ltd.

    Additionally, the Ambedkar Social Innovation and Incubation Mission (ASIIM), supports SC students, researchers, and entrepreneurs in Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) and Atal Incubation Centers (AICs). Under ASIIM, Rs. 30 lakh equity funding is provided over three years to help start-ups in sectors such as agriculture technology, IT, environment, waste management, and green energy. As of now, 245 SC-owned companies have been sanctioned financial assistance of ₹588.4 crore under the Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Castes, including ASIIM.

    Currently, the Government has no plans to establish a Social Innovation Hub to facilitate business ventures and startups for the SC community. However, it continues to promote entrepreneurship and innovation through existing initiatives such as ASIIM and VCF-SC. Additionally, steps have been taken to simplify access to credit through PM SURAJ—a digital interface for all financial inclusion Schemes of the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment and providing mentorship support and market linkages to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem for Scheduled Castes and other marginalized communities.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT, DR. VIRENDRA KUMAR, in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: ACHIEVEMENTS AND INITIATIVES REGARDING PM-AJAY SCHEME

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:14PM by PIB Delhi

    Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme being implemented since 2021-22. The Scheme has three components namely (i) ‘Adarsh Gram’, (ii) ‘Grants-in-aid for District/State-level Projects for Socio-Economic betterment of Scheduled Caste (SC) Communities’ and (iii) ‘Hostel’

    The objectives and role of the Scheme are:

    (i) To improve socio-economic developmental indicators by ensuring adequate infrastructure and requisite services in the SC dominated villages.

    (ii) To reduce poverty of the SC communities by generation of additional employment opportunities through skill development, income generating schemes and other initiatives.

    (iii) To increase literacy and encourage enrolment of SCs in schools and higher educational institutions by providing adequate residential facilities in quality institutions, as well as residential schools where required, especially in the aspirational districts/ SC dominated blocks and elsewhere in India.

    In FY 2024-25, 4,928 villages have been declared as Adarsh Gram and 4,25,821 beneficiaries have been benefited which has led to socio-economic development by ensuring adequate infrastructure and requisite services in the SC dominated villages.

    ‘Grants-in-aid’ Component aims to reduce poverty of the SC communities by generation of additional employment opportunities through Skill development, income generating schemes and other initiatives. Under this component, since 2021-22, 9,549 Projects have been approved and Central Assistance of Rs. 1,219.80 Cr. has been released benefiting 2,01,006 SC beneficiaries.

    So far, 866 hostels are sanctioned under the Hostel Component of PM-AJAY covering 69,212 beneficiaries and an amount of Rs.936.27 Crore has been released, thereby encouraging students belonging to Scheduled Castes to attain quality education. Out of the total hostels sanctioned, 96 hostels are under construction.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT, SHRI RAMDAS ATHAWALE, in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR DAIRY DEVELOPMENT

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) is implementing “National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD)”scheme across the country since Feb-2014. The scheme has been restructured/ realigned in July 2021 for implementation from 2021-22 to 2025-26 with the following two components:

    (i)   The Component ”A” of NPDD focuses on creating/strengthening of infrastructure for quality milk testing equipment as well as primary chilling facilities for State Cooperative Dairy Federations/ District Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union/SHGs/Milk Producer Companies/Farmer Producer Organizations.

    (ii) The Component ‘B’ of the NPDD scheme “Dairying through Cooperatives” aims to increase sale of milk and dairy products by increasing farmer’s access to organized market, upgrading dairy processing facilities and marketing infrastructure and enhancing the capacity of producer owned institutions.

    Under Component A of NPDD scheme, 110 projects have been approved across the country including Tamil Nadu  with the total outlay of Rs.2247.46 crore. (including Central Share of Rs.1658.29 crore) and under Component B of NPDD scheme, 22 projects have been approved with a total project cost of Rs.1130.62 crore (including Loan amount of Rs.705.53 crore, Grant of Rs.329.70 crore & participating institution (PI) contribution of Rs.93.38 crore) during last five years (2019-20 to 2023-24). Out of the total 132 projects approved under the scheme, 52 have been completed. In Tamilnadu, 4 projects have been approved with the total outlay of Rs.177.61 crore. (including Central Share of Rs.133.42 crore) during last five years (2019-20 to 2023-24). Out of these 4 projects, 2 have been completed under NPDD scheme.

    Total 16041 dairy cooperative societies have been organised & 15.31 lakh farmers/milk producers have been enrolled under NPDD scheme during last five years (2019-20 to 2023-24). Tamilnadu Cooperative Milk Producers Federation Limited (TCMPFL) has informed that total 3.79 lakh farmers belonging to 9235 cooperative societies in Tamil Nadu have benefitted by getting remunerative price for their produce and the scheme made producers to supply their milk with easy access.

    Dairy Plant Capacity of 1.82 Lakh litre per day (LLPD) has been enhanced under NPDD scheme during last three year (2021-22 to 2023-24). In addition, TCMPFL has informed that milk processing plant and value added product capacity created other than NPDD scheme in the State of Tamil Nadu is as under:

    Sr. No.

    Scheme/Funding

    Activity created

    1.

    Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME)

    Milk processing plant of capacity 2.00 lakh litre per day

    2.

    National Agriculture Development Programme (NADP).

    Paneer Plant of capacity 2000 Kilogram per day at Coimbatore

    3

    TCMPFL Fund

    Ice Cream Plant of capacity 30,000 litre per day at Coimbatore at Madurai

    4.

    National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)

    Production capacity of Butter, Ghee & Paneer with capacity of 5000 Kilogram per day, 2000 litre per day & 1000 Kilogram per day respectively at Virudhunagar District Milk Union.

    5.

    Milk Union Fund

    Curd plant of capacity 10,000 Litre per day Kanchipuram-Tiruvallur District Milk Union

      

    Under Comp B of NPDD, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) assisted programme, loan has been provided with subsidized rate of interest @1.50% for the eligible institutions for creations of dairy infrastructure in the interest of  farmers and cooperative societies.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on 19th March, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Development of Fisheries in Odisha

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:10PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Fisheries (DoF), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D), Government of India is implementing the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) for a period of five years from 2020-21 to 2024-25 in all States and Union Territories including Odisha. The DoF, MoFAH&D, Government of India under PMMSY has approved the proposals received from the Government of Odisha at a cost of Rs.1264.23 Crore with central share of Rs.510.94 Crore during the last four years and in the current financial year. Out of this, Rs.271.17 crore of central share has been released to the Government of Odisha so far based on the utilization reports submitted by the State Government.

    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 DoF, GoI is implementing fishing ban in India’s EEZ along the east and west coast during the major breeding season of the commercial fish species to ensure successful spawning and strong recruitment for sustaining the fisheries. On the east coast, including the coasts of Odisha, the fishing ban is implemented annually from April 15th to June 15th. The Government of Odisha, through the Orissa Marine Fisheries Regulation Act, 1981, also regulates fishing activities in the state’s territorial waters to support the sustainable management of fisheries along the Odisha coast. 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.

    The DoF, GoI has approved 38 units of cold storages and ice plants, 1125 units of fish marketing facilities including fish kiosks, live fish vending centers, insulated vehicles, refrigerated vehicles, three wheelers with ice box and motor cycles with ice box. Two state-of-the-art Wholesale Fish Markets having processing facilities are also approved at Balasore and Khorda districts of Odisha. Activities such as construction of new ponds for brackish water and fresh water aquaculture, recirculatory aquaculture system (RAS), biofloc and reservoir cage culture are also approved under the PMMSY to increase fish production and export from Odisha. Besides, the DoF, GoI has recently notified development of scampi production and processing cluster in Balasore, Bhadrak, and Mayurbhanj districts of Odisha.

    The DoF, GoI under PMMSY has approved proposals of the Government of Odisha for construction of fishing harbor at Astaranga, Puri at a cost of Rs.179.90 crore. Further, the proposal of Paradip Port Trust for modernization and up-gradation of the Paradip fishing harbor at a cost of Rs.108.91 crore has been approved by DoF, GoI with 100% central share under PMMSY.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on 19th March, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ROADMAP FOR PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP IN THE LIVESTOCK SECTOR

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:09PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) framed the National Livestock Policy in 2013 to address key challenges hindering the growth of the livestock sector. These challenges include shortage of feed and fodder, low productivity, livestock health, livestock and environment, knowledge gap, and inadequate infrastructure for marketing, processing and value addition.

    The policy aims to increase livestock productivity and production sustainably while improving farmers’ livelihoods. It also focuses on strengthening research and development initiatives to improve productivity, biosecurity and profitability in the sector. The policy promotes the conservation and genetic improvement of indigenous livestock and poultry breeds. It also aims to enhance feed and fodder availability to meet livestock nutrition requirements and achieve optimal productivity.

    The National Livestock Mission (NLM) is being implemented since 2014-15 on the lines of the National Livestock Policy 2013 wherein the activities were undertaken for development of feed and fodder by providing financial assistance, conservation of threatened breeds and providing breeding stock to the farmers for livelihood development. Realigned in 2021-22, the NLM has three sub-missions.

    1. Sub-mission on Breed Development of Livestock and Poultry proposes to bring sharp focus on entrepreneurship development and breed improvement in poultry, sheep, goat and piggery through NLM-Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP-NLM) by providing 50 percent capital subsidy for the establishment of breed multiplication farms.
    2. Sub-mission on feed and fodder development is continuing to address the challenges of feed and fodder, the Government is promoting partnership with public and private companies for production of quality (breeder, foundation and certified) fodder seeds, besides promoting Entrepreneurship in fodder development.
    3. The sub-mission on Extension and Innovation is implemented with an activity of Research and Innovation, including Livestock Insurance. The scheme has further been modified in February 2024 to expand its scope by including the conservation and genetic improvement of indigenous breeds of horses, camels, and donkeys; fodder development from waste lands and degraded forest lands, and entrepreneurship in fodder seed processing.

    Furthermore, the Department with cooperation of private industry has adopted a PPP approach for the establishment of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)-free poultry compartments. These compartments are managed by private enterprises that adhere to strict biosecurity protocols, including surveillance measures. This initiative facilitates the export of poultry and poultry products, even during outbreaks in other parts of the country.

    Under the Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) of National Livestock Mission (NLM), the Central Government provides a 50 percent capital subsidy for the establishment of breed multiplication farms. Eligible beneficiaries include individual farmers, Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs), Farmers Cooperative Societies (FCOs), Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), and Section 8 companies. Similarly, 50% subsidy is provided for the establishment of feed and fodder units including silage production, Total Mixed Ration (TMR) plants, and fodder seed processing and grading infrastructure.  Under NLM-EDP, a total of 3295 projects have been approved with a project cost of ₹ 2381.12 crore, with a subsidy of ₹1,098.63 crore. Additionally, to increase the production of quality fodder seed, 100 percent financial support is available for Central Government and other credible institutions engaged in producing certified, foundation, and breeder seed.

    In addition, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) is implementing the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) to promote private-sector investments. This fund incentivizes investments by individual entrepreneurs, private companies, MSMEs, Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs), Section 8 companies, and dairy cooperatives. Under AHIDF, the Central Government provides a three percent (3%) interest subvention on loans, allowing eligible entities to avail term loans up to 90 percent of the project cost from any scheduled bank, NABARD, NCDC, or NDDB. The AHIDF supports the establishment of dairy processing and value addition infrastructure, meat processing and value addition infrastructure, animal feed plants, breed improvement and multiplication farms for cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat, and pig, veterinary vaccine and drug production facilities, animal waste-to-wealth management (agri-waste management), and primary wool processing infrastructure. The AHIDF actively encourages private sector investment in veterinary drugs and vaccine infrastructure, further strengthening India’s animal health and production ecosystem. Till date, an interest subvention of ₹293 crore has led to the leveraging of a total investment of ₹16582 crore in 353 projects under AHIDF.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on 19th March, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government to introduce Supplementary Medical Professions (Amendment) Bill 2025 into LegCo

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government to introduce Supplementary Medical Professions (Amendment) Bill 2025 into LegCo 
    　　In recent years, supplementary medical professions have been playing increasingly important roles in the healthcare system, particularly in primary healthcare development. To recognise their professional status and promote cross-disciplinary collaboration, the Bill proposes to rename “supplementary medical professions” as “allied health professions”; remove obsolete restrictions while providing a legal framework to facilitate cross-disciplinary collaborations, include allowing patients to accept physiotherapy and occupational therapy services without a doctor’s referral under specified circumstances, and enable allied health professionals to accept referrals from Chinese medicine practitioners (CMPs). In addition, to further enhance the manpower resources of allied health professions, the Bill introduces a new pathway to admit qualified non-locally trained allied health professionals to practise in designated institutions in order to address the manpower shortage of specific allied health professions within the public healthcare system. The Bill also introduces continuing professional development (CPD) as a mandatory requirement for all allied health professionals, with a view to ensuring the overall professional standard of allied health professions. To promote the development of allied health professions, the Bill proposes to enhance the composition and structure of the Supplementary Medical Professions Council (to be renamed as the Allied Health Professions Council) (the Council) and its five constituent Boards to ensure better performance of their regulatory roles, and further enhancing representativeness and credibility. 
     
    Renaming “supplementary medical professions” as “allied health professions”
     
    Since the enactment of the Supplementary Medical Professions Ordinance (Cap. 359) (the Ordinance) in 1980, the term “supplementary medical professions” has been used for over 40 years. In view of the increasingly important and specialised roles played by these five professions under the Ordinance in Hong Kong’s healthcare system, the Bill will rename “supplementary medical professions” as “allied health professions” to reflect their important function and enhanced professional status within the healthcare system, particularly primary healthcare.
     
    Accepting physiotherapy and occupational therapy services without a doctor’s referral
     
    　　At present, physiotherapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) may only provide services to patients upon a doctor’s referral, except in emergency or other specified situations. To address the new challenges to the healthcare system posed by an ageing population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, the Government is committed to developing primary healthcare, encouraging members of the public to seek early medical intervention in the community for common illnesses. Allowing patients to access physiotherapy and occupational therapy direct under specified conditions for early treatment is one of the key elements.
     
    　　The healthcare sector generally agrees that, on the premise of ensuring patient safety and enhancing risk management, allowing patients to seek assistance directly from PTs and OTs can expand access to primary healthcare by members of the public, thereby achieving the goals of streamlining processes and reducing costs, and further promoting the development of primary healthcare. The Bill sets out three circumstances under which patients may seek physiotherapy and occupational therapy services directly without a doctor’s referral:
     
    (1) Clinical protocol or cross-disciplinary collaboration arrangement
     
    　　Citizens may seek services directly from PTs or OTs for health conditions covered by recognised clinical protocols. PTs and OTs must adhere to the recognised clinical protocols at all times, including timely referral of patients to doctors for diagnosis and treatment if specific “red-flag” symptoms are detected. Regarding cross-disciplinary collaboration arrangements, PTs and OTs registered under the future Primary Care Register will be allowed to provide direct services to patients under the arrangements of the Primary Healthcare Commission (PHC Commission). They must record the patient’s condition and, if necessary, notify the patient’s registered family doctor via the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHealth) to ensure that patients can receive timely follow-up treatment when needed.
     
    (2)  Diagnosis by a registered doctor or CMP within the past 12 months

    　　Patients may seek direct physiotherapy or occupational therapy services for health conditions diagnosed by a registered doctor or CMP within the past 12 months without obtaining a new referral letter each time. Patients must provide proof of the diagnosis. Apart from a referral letter, the proof can also be in the form of outpatient records, follow-up consultation records, or discharge summaries.
     
    (3) Emergency or other situations approved by the Council
     
    PTs and OTs may provide direct services to patients without a doctor’s referral in emergency or other situations (applicable to PTs and OTs) and community services (applicable to OTs) approved by the Council. The details of these designated situations will be set out in the two professional codes of practice issued by the Council.
     
    Allowing allied health professionals to accept referrals from CMPs
     
    Chinese medicine is an integral part of Hong Kong’s healthcare system, and the Government has long been committed to strengthening its role in primary healthcare, supporting the development of Chinese medicine and integrated Chinese-Western medicine services in secondary and tertiary healthcare, and encouraging the cross-disciplinary collaboration between healthcare professions. There are practical needs for CMPs to refer patients in accordance with clinical needs for other treatments and modern diagnostic technologies, which can improve clinical diagnostic accuracy and monitor treatment effectiveness, thereby further enhancing the quality of healthcare services.
     
    To further Chinese medicine as a constituent part of Hong Kong’s healthcare system, the Bill provides a legal framework for allied health professionals to accept referrals from CMPs under suitable conditions. The Chinese medicine profession and relevant allied health professions must reach a consensus on professional standards regarding knowledge, skills, professional competencies and conduct, in order to formulate implementation details and update the relevant codes of practice. In view of the practical clinical and operational needs of The Chinese Medicine Hospital of Hong Kong (CMHHK), the Bill also allows relevant allied health professionals to accept referrals from CMPs within the hospital, supporting the hospital’s phased commencement of services from the end of this year.
     
    Admitting non-locally trained allied health professionals
     
    In view of the persistent manpower shortages in certain allied health professions within the public healthcare system, the Bill introduces a new limited registration pathway to admit qualified non-locally trained allied health professionals to practise in designated institutions within their specialised fields on the premise of not compromising professional standards. Applications will be subject to approval by the Council. These designated institutions include the Department of Health, the Hospital Authority, the PHC Commission, the CMHHK, and institutions offering allied health profession training programmes. The Council may impose conditions on an applicant’s practice to confine them to a specific scope of practice. Allied health professionals under limited registration will not be eligible for migration to full registration.
     
    Meanwhile, the Government also proposes a new temporary registration pathway to enable non-locally trained allied health professionals to come to Hong Kong for academic exchanges and clinical demonstrations. A temporary registration will be valid for no more than 14 days and is not renewable.
     
    Other amendments
     
    The Bill introduces CPD as a mandatory requirement for allied health professionals to maintain and enhance the overall professional standards of the allied health professions. It also amends the composition and structure of the Council and its five constituent Boards to better regulate the professions and promote cross-disciplinary collaboration. The Bill includes other technical amendments, such as extending the validity of the existing practising certificates to three years and adjusting various fees under the Ordinance. 
    Issued at HKT 16:45

    NNNN

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Inland fisheries promotion in Kerala

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Fisheries, Government of India (DoF, GoI) through its schemes, policies and programs has been taking several initiatives towards holistic development of both marine and inland fisheries sector in all States and Union Territories including Kerala. Promotion of fish production and strengthening of fisheries value chain system have been the core of these initiatives.

    The DoF, GoI is implementing flagship scheme ‘Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana’ (PMMSY) in all the States and Union Territories of India including Kerala for a period of 5(five) years from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25. The PMMSY inter-alia aims at harnessing of fisheries potential including inland fisheries in a sustainable manner, enhancing fish production and productivity through expansion, intensification, diversification and productive utilization of land and water, strengthening of value chain, doubling fishers and fish farmers incomes and generation of employment and also ensuring social & economic security for fishers and fish farmers.

    During last four years (2020-21 to 2023-24) and current financial year (2024-25) under PMMSY, the DoF, GoI has accorded approvals to the fisheries developmental proposals of Government of Kerala amounting Rs.1358.10 Crore.  The approved activities inter alia included inland fisheries development activities like assistance towards construction of freshwater finfish hatcheries (05 Nos), new rearing & grow-out ponds for fish culture (89 ha.), fish feed mills (05 Nos), ornamental fish rearing and breeding units (798 Nos), cage culture in reservoirs (750 Nos), high-tech culture systems like Re-circulatory Aquaculture System (646 Nos), Biofloc culture units (850 Nos), pen culture units (31 ha.), integrated development of reservoirs (07 Nos), boats and nets to traditional fishermen (200 Nos), extension and support services under ‘Matsya Seva Kendras’ (10 Nos).

    The approved activity also included cold chain and marketing activities like iceplants/cold storages (16 Nos), fish transportation vehicles (468 Nos), live fish vending centre (77 Nos), value added enterprises (10 Nos), fish retail markets (05 Nos), whole sale fish markets (02 Nos) and also referral lab and disease diagnostic labs (02 Nos) for timely disease diagnostics. Awareness campaigns and capacity building programs have been also taken up in Kerala through National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) in various areas of inland fisheries. Besides, the GoI has also extended facilities of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to the fisheries and fish farmers from FY 2018-19 to meet their working capital requirement in all States/UTs including Kerala.

    Further, Government of Kerala has informed that under the State plan scheme, Janakeeya Matsya Krishi, includes different schemes like diversification of species & aquaculture practices, Kerala reservoir fisheries development programme for effective utilization of potential in reservoirs, ranching, establishment of fish/clam protected areas. It is also informed that hi-tech fish marts in various districts of Kerala are established through Matsyafed wherein the fresh fish are directly procured from fishers/farmers and supplied to consumers. It is further informed that due to changing food habits and enabling convenience, easy to cook/ready to eat kind of value added products like fish curry, fish cutlets, fish pickles are sold through Matsyafed in some districts.

    Government of Kerala has informed that due to these interventions from Centre and State the inland fish production has increased from 2.05 lakh tonnes in 2019-20 to 2.51 lakh tonnes in 2023-24.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on 19th March, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fund for fisheries sector in Kerala

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 2:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Fisheries, Government of India (DoF, GoI) through its schemes, policies and programs has been taking several initiatives towards holistic development of fisheries sector in all States/UTs including Kerala. The major initiatives include Blue Revolution Scheme implemented during 2015-16 to 2019-20, extending Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to fisheries (since 2018-19), creation of Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) (2018-19 to 2025-26) enabling concessional financing in fisheries, flagship scheme ‘Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana’ (PMMSY)’ (2020-21 to 2024-25). Enhancing fish production, strengthening of value chain, employment generation, ensuring safety & security of fisheries and ensuring sustainability of the resources have been the core of these initiatives.

    Under the flagship scheme ‘Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana’ (PMMSY) during last four years (2020-21 to 2023-24) and current financial year (2024-25)  the Department of Fisheries, GoI has accorded approval to the fisheries developmental proposals of Government of Kerala worth Rs.1358.10 Crore with central share of Rs. 574.90 Crore. Central funds of Rs.344.15 Crore has been also released to Kerala during this period.  

    The approved activities included support for fish production oriented activities like establishment of brood bank (01), hatcheries (09 Nos), rearing & grow of ponds (89 ha.), brackish water culture (172 ha.), establishment of ornamental rearing units (798 Nos), cage culture in reservoirs (750 Nos), Re-Circulatory Aquaculture System (RAS) (646 Nos), Biofloc units (850 Nos), integrated development of reservoirs (07 Nos), and deep sea fishing vessels (20 Nos). The approval also included support for infrastructure and cold chain activities including upgradation of fishing harbors (11 Nos), iceplants/cold storages (16 Nos), fish transportation vehicles (468 Nos), live fish vending centres (77 Nos), value added enterprises (10 Nos), fish retail markets (05 Nos), whole sale fish markets (02 Nos) and also referral lab and disease diagnostic labs (02 Nos) for timely disease diagnostics. Further, activities like pen culture in open water bodies (31 ha.), stocking of fish seeds (10 ha.), bivalve cultivation units (1140 Nos), boats & nets to traditional fishermen (200 Nos) are also approved under the PMMSY.

    In addition, under the PMMSY, Integrated Modern Coastal Fishing Villages (09 Nos), Climate Resilient Coastal Villages (06 Nos), Artificial Reefs (42 units), extension support services like Matsya Seva Kendras (10 Nos), Sagar Mitras (222 Nos) are also approved to Kerala. Besides livelihood and nutritional support to 1,79,316 fishers during fishing ban period are also approved to Kerala. Awareness campaigns and capacity building programs have also been taken up in Kerala through National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) in various areas of inland fisheries. Government of Kerala has informed that within the State Plan Scheme, the State has taken up initiatives towards aquaculture, diversification, increasing seed production, conservation & management of resources, regular patrolling, coaching programmes for fishermen students for higher education, interest free loans to fisher women, group insurance scheme including pension schemes.  

    There is no such special scheme announced exclusively for riverine fisheries. However, the schemes implemented by the Department of Fisheries, GoI already comprises of activities for development of riverine fisheries like pen culture, stocking of fish seeds, boats & nets to traditional fishermen, ranching programmes etc. In addition. Government of Kerala has informed that as part of riverine fisheries, embankment and pen culture activities in rivers, canals and other suitable water bodies are taken up. Under the State plan project regarding ‘Integrated Fishery Management in Inland Aquatic Ecosystem’ implemented since FY 2022 ranching of fish & shrimp seeds, establishment of fish/clam protected areas have also been implemented. The Government of Kerala has informed that during last five years, funds amounting to Rs.20.07 crore is allocated for the same wherein, Rs.8.54 crore has been disbursed and Rs.7.24 crore has been utilized.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on 19th March, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Students with dependent visa being admitted to local schools

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Lam Chun-sing and a reply by the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, in the Legislative Council today (March 19):

    Question: 
    (2) According to the JUPAS Office, the number of dependants admitted to UGC-funded FYFD programmes through the JUPAS route in the three years from the 2022-23 to 2024-25 academic years are 62, 68 and 185 respectively.

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