NewzIntel.com

Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Budget 2025-26 Proposes Framework For Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries from Indian EEZ and High Seas

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Budget 2025-26 Proposes Framework For Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries from Indian EEZ and High Seas

    Budget Announcement Targets Approx 2.5 Lakh Tonnes of Untapped Fisheries Potential in Andaman & Nicobar  and Lakshadweep Islands

    Basic Custom Duty reduced from 30% to 5% on Frozen Fish Paste (Surimi); 15% to 5% on Fish Hydrolysate

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi

    In the Union Budget, tabled today in the Lok Sabha for the year 2025-2026, proposed the highest ever total annual budgetary support of Rs. 2,703.67 crores for the fisheries sector. This overall allocation for the financial year 2025-26 has increased by 3.3% in comparison to the allocation of Rs. 2,616.44 crore (BE) made during last year 2024-25. This includes the allocation of Rs. 2,465 crore for Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana during the year 2025-26 that has increased by 4.8% in comparison to the allocation made for the scheme during the year 2024-25 (Rs. 2,352 crore). Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman in her budget speech, highlighted India’s achievement as a leader in aquaculture and seafood exports. The budget announcement strategically focuses on enhancing financial inclusion, reducing financial burden on farmers by reducing custom duties and furthering development of the marine fisheries.

    The Budget 2025-26 highlights enabling a framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries from Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and High Seas with special focus on Lakshadweep and A&N Islands . This will ensure sustainable harnessing of the untapped potential of the marine fish resources in the Indian EEZ and adjacent High Seas for growth in the marine sector. As India has an EEZ of 20 lakh sq. km and a long coastline of 8,118 km with estimated marine potential of 53 lakh tonnes (2018) and dependence of 50 lakh people for their livelihoods on the marine fisheries sector. This offers an enormous scope and potential for harnessing of high valued tuna and tuna like species in the Indian EEZ, especially around the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. Government will promote Deep Sea Fishing with capacity development and support acquisition of Resource-Specific Fishing Vessels.

    Development of fisheries in Andaman & Nicobar Islands will target harnessing of its EEZ area of 6.60 lakh sq. km (1/3rd of Indian EEZ) with marine fisheries potential of 1.48 lakh tonnes including potential of 60,000 tons for tuna fisheries. For this purpose, development of Tuna Cluster has been notified and activities such as establishment of on-board processing & freezing facilities in tuna fishing vessels, licensing for deep-sea tuna fishing vessels and single window clearances by the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, harnessing opportunities in sea cage culture, seaweed, ornamental and pearl cultivation have been undertaken. The Development of Fisheries in Lakshadweep Islands will target harnessing of its EEZ area of 4 lakh sq. km (17% of Indian EEZ) and lagoon area of 4200 sq mt with potential of 1 lakh tonnes including potential of 4,200 tonnes for tuna fisheries. For this purpose, development of Seaweed Cluster has been notified and activities such as island-wise area allocation and leasing policy with end-to-end value chain by Lakshadweep Administration, formation of women Self Help Group (SHGs) and capacity building through ICAR Institution in collaboration with private entrepreneurs and Lakshadweep Administration, harnessing opportunities in tuna fishing and ornamental fish farming have been undertaken.

    In the Union Budget 2025, the Government of India increased the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) lending limit from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh to enhance credit accessibility for fishers, farmers, processors and other fisheries’ stakeholder. This move aims at streamlining the flow of financial resources ensuring that necessary funds are easily accessible for fulfilling working capital requirements of the sector. Enhanced credit availability will support adoption of modern farming techniques and strengthen rural development and economic stability, reinforcing the government’s commitment to making institutional credit more inclusive and accessible.

    To enhance Indias competitiveness in global seafood market and to increase the share of value -added products in our export basket, Union Finance Minister proposed to reduce Basic Custom Duty (BCD) on frozen fish paste (surimi) from 30% to 5% for manufacturing and export of value-added seafood products like Imitation Crab Meat Sticks, Surimi Crab Claw Products, Shrimp analogue, lobster analogue and other surimi analogue or Imitation products etc. Further, to strengthen the Indian shrimp farming industry globally, import duty reduction from 15% to 5% on fish hydrolysate an important input for manufacturing of aquafeed has been announced. This is expected to lower production costs and increase revenue and profit margins for farmers, thereby improving and increasing exports. 

    Background

    Termed as one of the key ‘sunrise sectors’ of the Indian economy, the Indian Fisheries sector continues to make its mark and grow at a very healthy pace registering the highest average annual decadal growth of 9.08% in value of output (FY 2014-15 to 2022-23) amongst allied sectors under Agriculture (Niti Aayog Report 2024). This growth story is marked by India’s global ranking as 2nd largest fish producing country with ~8% share in global fish production and a record high fish production of 184.02 lakh tonnes (2023-24). India also stands 2nd in aquaculture production with 139.07 lakh tonnes in 2023-24 and is one of the top shrimp producing and seafood exporting nations in the world with a total export value of Rs 60,524 crore (2023-24). The sector provides sustainable livelihoods to over 30 million people within the marginalized and vulnerable communities. With the motto of ‘SabkaSaath, SabkaVikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas’, Government  of India continues to prioritise the development of the fisheries sector as a key driver towards Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    ****

    Aditi Agrawal

    (Release ID: 2098615) Visitor Counter : 70

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Budget boosts Shipbuilding with New Mega Clusters in India: Sonowal

    Source: Government of India

    Union Budget boosts Shipbuilding with New Mega Clusters in India: Sonowal

    Budget Sets Up Maritime Development Fund (MDF) of ₹25,000 crores, propels India’s Maritime Sector

    SBFAP 2.0 revamped to optimise cost disadvantages, boost capacity of Indian Shipyards & spur domestic shipbuilding production

    New Credit Note Scheme for Ship Breaking in Indian Yards – Incentivises buying of new ships in India

    ₹6100 crores to upgrade, modernise & automate Indian Ports operations to upscale efficiency

    Basic Customs Duty (BCD) exemption on inputs for Shipbuilding & Ship Breaking extended for 10 years

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 4:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Budget has placed strong impetus to realise the huge potential of India’s shipping sector. The forward-looking document aims at further enabling India’s shipbuilding industry with spurring & innovative initiatives to drive investment, generate income for the economy, train and employ human capital and create value for the future of the country. The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal welcomed the budget and termed it progressive policy statement towards realising the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    On the occasion, Shri Sonowal said, “I welcome the Union Budget presented in Parliament today. This budget serves as a catalyst for economic growth, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat, Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ I congratulate Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ji for presenting a forward-looking budget that embodies the principles of good governance, progressive reforms, and innovative policymaking. This budget not only strengthens business and trade sentiment but also acts as a springboard for economic expansion, capacity building, and solution-driven holistic development of the society and growth of the economy. By unlocking value and enriching national assets, it lays the foundation for sustained progress and people-centric development. The budget aims to generate wealth, drive welfare initiatives, and foster public participation in nation-building. It safeguards the interests of future generations while elevating the quality of life for the people of Bharat.”

    The Union Budget proposes to set up Maritime Development Fund (MDF) to support India’s Maritime sector by providing financial assistance, via equity or debt securities. The initial corpus of the fund is pegged at ₹25,000 crores – where the Government contribution will be 49%. The remaining balance will be contributed by Major port authorities, other government entities, Central PSEs, Financial Institutions as well as private sector. This fund will directly benefit in financing for ship acquisition. It aims at boosting Indian flagged ships share in the global cargo volume upto 20% by 2047. Further, indigenous fleet will reduce dependability of foreign ships, improve Balance of Payment and secure Strategic interests of the country. By 2030, MDF is aiming at generating upto ₹1.5 lakh crore investment in the shipping sector.

    Speaking on the initiatives for spurring the India’s Maritime sector, the shipping minister, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “It is reassuring to see that the budgetary initiatives for India’s marine sector are focused on unlocking its vast potential and enhancing existing assets through upgrades, modernisation, and automation. A key highlight is our ministry’s development of new shipbuilding clusters of 1.0 to 1.2 Million Gross Tonnage (GT) each. This strategic push is crucial in realising India’s vision of becoming a $30 trillion economy by 2047. By leveraging the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the scheme is designed to attract private investment, promote modernisation, and advance green technologies. These efforts will enhance India’s global competitiveness, drive sustainable growth, and solidify its position as a leading Global Maritime Hub.”

    The Union Budget provided a shot-in-the-arm to India’s domestic shipbuilding industry after it announced new mega shipbuilding clusters in the country. This scheme will provide direct capital support in the form of creating the breakwater along with capital dredging. It also proposes a 10-year rent holiday for the land, if not provided at a nominal rate. Investment is also designed to support creation of trunk infra like roads, utilities, sewage treatment among others. The proposed allocation of ₹6,100 crore aims to support India’s existing shipyards in upgrading, modernising, and automating their operations, enhancing efficiency, utilisation, and overall output.

    The Union Budget has also extended the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) 2.0, aimed at providing direct financial subsidies to Indian shipyards. This initiative seeks to help in securing orders by offsetting operational cost disadvantages, thereby strengthening the domestic shipbuilding industry. To be financed via Budgetary support, the total outlay of the scheme is ₹18,090 crores.

    Another innovative scheme announced in the budget is the Shipbreaking Credit note. This scheme incentivises Ship Scrapping by issuing a Credit Note of 40% of the scrap value which can be reimbursed to buy new Made in India ships.

    Adding further, Shri Sonowal said, “India’s maritime sector has witnessed significant progress since 2014, and with the latest announcements by the Finance Minister, we are confident that the shipbuilding industry will serve as a catalyst for economic growth. While the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) is designed to provide financial incentives to Indian shipyards, the Ship-breaking Credit Note further strengthens the domestic industry by encouraging investment and expansion. These measures are expected to drive capital inflows, create employment opportunities, and enhance sectoral competitiveness. Additionally, a renewed focus on training and human capital development will ensure a skilled workforce, equipping professionals with expertise in modern shipbuilding technologies, automation, and sustainable maritime practices. This holistic approach will not only support industry growth but also position India as a global leader in shipbuilding and maritime innovation.”

    Highlighting the need to develop trained professionals in the sector, the budget allocated specific funds for training and development of human resources in order to leverage India’s position as a global leader in maritime human capital. The budget provided for Shipbuilding Capability Development Centres (SCDC) is aimed propping up platform for development of innovative ship design and engineering solutions as well as testing & evaluation of Shipping projects. An outlay of ₹1200 crores have been earmarked for this. Additional provision of ₹1040 crores have been announced for providing capital and operational assistance to the existing and upcoming shipbuilding design and training centres from the private sector.  A budgetary allocation of ₹610 crores is proposed for a support scheme for Research & Development (R&D) and innovation in ship technology. This initiative will foster development of new and improved shipbuilding technologies. New incentives are projected to generate 11 lakhs of direct or indirect employment.

    In a welcome move for the shipping industry, the Union Budget also proposes include Large Ships of certain size in to the Infrastructure Harmonised Master List (HML). This will make them eligible for benefits such as easier access to long-term financing and tax incentives. This will also attract private investment and enhance fleet modernisation.

    In a boost to the inland waterways in the country, the Tonnage Tax Scheme is now extended to Inland vessels. This will encourage more cargo movement as the vessels will avail tax benefit from its capacity, instead of profit. This will further incentivises shipping companies to invest in inland waterways vessels as it becomes financially more viable. The extension of PM GATI SHAKTI Portal to private players will further bring efficiency in cargo movement via multi modal infra planning at a more economical rate.

    *****

    G.D. Hallikeri/Henry

    (Release ID: 2098573) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mining Identified in the Union Budget 2025-26 as One of the Six Domain Areas for Transformative Reforms

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 4:36PM by PIB Delhi

    In the Union Budget 2025-26 presented by the Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt Nirmala Sitharaman today, Mining has been identified along with five other domain areas, namely Taxation; Power Sector; Urban Development; Financial Sector; and Regulatory Reforms, for transformative reforms, which will augment India’s growth potential and global competitiveness during the next five years.

    To encourage mining sector reforms in States, including those for minor minerals, sharing of best practices and the institution of a State Mining Index has been announced. Further, a policy for recovery of critical minerals from tailings has been announced. Good tailings management will increase domestic availability of critical minerals and also promote the domestic processing industry.

    The budget has also announced the elimination of customs duty on several scrap items, which will promote the recycling industry in the country. The elimination of copper, brass, lead and zinc scraps will benefit the domestic secondary producers by reducing their costs. This will also provide a level playing field vis-à-vis international secondary producers, and enable Indian players to compete globally and increase exports of secondary/downstream products. Duty elimination on scraps of 12 critical minerals (including copper), cobalt powder and lithium ion battery scrap will provide feedstock to the critical mineral recycling industry at a lesser cost, making this industry more competitive, and also promote investments in newer capacity.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2098568) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: World Wetlands Day 2025, themed ‘Protecting Wetlands for our Common Future’, celebrated at Parvati Arga Ramsar Site, in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    World Wetlands Day 2025, themed ‘Protecting Wetlands for our Common Future’, celebrated at Parvati Arga Ramsar Site, in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh

    The celebration of World Wetlands Day here will give Parvati Arga an international recognition: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

    A new nature-culture tourism corridor will be developed between Ayodhya and Devi Patan: MoS (MoEFCC) Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 6:40PM by PIB Delhi

    It was a historic day for Gonda (Uttar Pradesh), as the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) organised the World Wetlands Day 2025 celebrations at the Parvati Arga Ramsar Site, on 2nd February, 2025. The event was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath and the Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, in the presence of senior dignitaries from both the Union and State Governments.

    The event highlighted the critical role of wetlands in environmental conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable livelihoods, aligning with this year’s theme of ‘Protecting Wetlands for our Common Future’. This year’s theme underscores the need for collaboration and foresight, as it calls for valuing and protecting these richly biodiverse, productive ecosystems and taking inspiring action on their behalf – together, we can safeguard our common future and wellbeing.

    Addressing the event, UP CM Yogi Adityanath appreciated Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh’s dedicated efforts towards preservation and conservation of ecology of Gonda District, which is blessed with Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary, and Tikri forest area. He mentioned that due to their proximity to Ayodhya, both the sites have the potential to be developed as eco-tourism hub attracting large number of tourists, providing an opportunity to them to connect to the nature. He also welcomed the initiative of linking the wetland with Sarayu canal for sustaining water flow in the wetland. He pointed out that Parvati Arga has long been known for its rich biodiversity, and now, it is gaining global recognition. Talking about the importance of Ramsar Sites in the country he explained the importance of migratory birds, which travel thousands of kilometers to Parvati Arga, playing a vital role in environmental balance.

    On the occasion of World Wetlands Day 2025, reaffirming Government’s commitment to protect Wetlands for the future, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav took to social media and expressed gratitude towards PM Shri Narendra Modi for his unprecedented emphasis on preserving wetlands. “It is because of this approach that our tally of Ramsar sites has reached 89. With a consistent rise in Ramsar sites, India is showing the commitment to both conserve and enrich nature”, the Minister stated.

    https://x.com/byadavbjp/status/1885951859904675897?t=_0eVPnMO1B6kGwIjN0C1og&s=08

    Addressing the august gathering in Gonda, Union Minister Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh emphasized that the comprehensive development of Parvati Arga is progressing under CM Yogi Adityanath’s leadership. He announced plans for a new nature-culture tourism corridor between Ayodhya and Devi Patan, which will boost employment opportunities. He highlighted the importance of Parvati Arga for aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity and explained that Indian culture has always valued nature conservation. He further mentioned that Gonda district with over 100 wetlands, has strong potential to be recognized as a ‘Wetland City’. He further mentioned that to promote eco-tourism, UP government is developing Tikri Jungle as an open safari zone, which will enhance tourism in the Awadh region.

    During the event the dignitaries on the dais launched four publications including the ‘Integrated Management Plan of Parvati Arga Ramsar Site’, ‘Factbook of India’s 85 Ramsar Sites’, ‘Development of Van Taungya Villages’. The Integrated Management Plan of Parvati Arga Ramsar Site outlines a comprehensive strategy for biodiversity conservation, sustainable wetland management, and community engagement, ensuring an adaptive management approach for wise use of the wetland. The ‘Factbook of India’s 85 Ramsar Sites’ provides information on the values, benefits and threats of 85 Ramsar Sites of India including information about the species of conservation significance.

    During the event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with Amazon and ARGA, an initiative of the Government of Uttar Pradesh, to empower women entrepreneurs in and around Gonda district. As part of the MoU, Amazon will support women-led businesses associated with ARGA through its Saheli program. This includes providing training in digital and performance marketing, product listing optimization, and advertising methods. Women entrepreneurs from the region will also gain access to data-driven insights and metrics to better understand customer expectations and market opportunities. The dignitaries also launched a video on the World Wetlands Day with a call to save the unique ecosystems, the Amrit Dharohars (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJ1dm7FRoPQ)

    The winners of the Painting, Quiz and Nukkad Natak competitions on the theme of ‘Protecting wetlands for our common future’ were also felicitated. The winning team of the Nukkad Natak competition, AP Inter College, Mankapur, Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, performed their skit in front of the dignitaries. The Ramsar Site managers of the newly designated four Ramsar Sites of India namely, Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand, Theerthangal and Sakkarakottai in Tamil Nadu and Khecheopalri in Sikkim were also congratulated and were presented with the Ramsar certificates of these sites.

    The event kicked-off with the inauguration of an exhibition by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh. The exhibition saw participation from over 25 exhibitors representing different States, technical organisations, Government departments. The exhibition included stalls focusing on water hyacinth and bamboo-based products, Mission LiFE, Green Skill Development Programme by the Government, EIACP centres and wetland conservation efforts in India by MoEFCC and knowledge partners. It also showcased the outreach activities conducted by the National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) under the ‘Save Wetlands Campaign’. To showcase the efforts of young minds the winning paintings of the Nation-wide painting competition were also exhibited.

    Regional Workshop for Northern States:
    On the eve of World Wetlands Day, on 1st February, 2025, the Ministry organized a regional workshop for Northern states, with participation from nine States and Union Territories. The workshop brought together knowledge partners and private sector organizations. This was the fourth regional Sahbhagita workshop of 2024-25, after Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Gangtok. The workshop served as a platform to enhance collaborative efforts and highlight innovative approaches to wetland conservation and management. (Press Release: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2098813 )

    About World Wetlands Day (WWD):
    World Wetlands Day is observed on 2nd February every year worldwide to commemorate the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance in 1971. India is a party to the Convention since 1982. India has recently increased its tally of Ramsar sites (Wetlands of International Importance) to 89 by designating four more wetlands as Ramsar sites. Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand, Theerthangal and Sakkarakottai in Tamil Nadu and Khecheopalri in Sikkim. These are the first Ramsar Sites of Sikkim and Jharkhand. With the addition of these wetlands to List of Wetlands of International Importance, the total area covered under Ramsar sites is now 1.358 million ha. Tamil Nadu continues to have maximum number of Ramsar Sites (20 sites) followed by Uttar Pradesh (10 sites).

    About Amrit Dharohar initiative:
    Amrit Dharohar initiative, part of the 2023-24 budget announcement, was launched by MoEFCC during June 2023 to promote unique conservation values of the Ramsar Sites in the country while generating employment opportunities and supporting local livelihoods. This initiative is to be implemented over three years in convergence with various Central Government ministries and agencies, State Wetland Authorities, and a network of formal and informal institutions and individuals, working together for a common cause. The initiative focuses on four key components, Species and Habitat Conservation, Nature Tourism, Wetlands Livelihood and Wetlands Carbon.

    *****

    VM

    (Release ID: 2098981) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INAUGURAL EDITION OF INDIAN NAVY HALF MARATHON

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 6:26PM by PIB Delhi

    The inaugural edition of the Indian Navy Half Marathon was conducted on 02 Feb 25 in New Delhi. The event witnessed more than 10,000 participants competing across three race categories: 21.1 km, 10 km and 5 km runs, making it an inclusive event for runners of all calibres and backgrounds.

    The flagship races – 21.1 km and 10 km runs were flagged off by Hon’ble Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, Dr Mansukh L Mandaviya in the presence of Chief of the Defence Staff, Chief of the Naval Staff, Chief of the Air Staff and senior services and civilian dignitaries.

    The event was hosted at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, with the race route covering India Gate and the historic Kartavya Path and delivered a well-planned and unforgettable experience for all participants.  In addition, the event was also graced by Senior management of the main partner IDFC First Bank, associate partners IOCL and Titan Watches. The presence of distinguished sportspersons made the event more memorable.

    This landmark event aimed to promote health and fitness amongst participants from all walks of life, encouraging them to embrace physical activity and adopt an active lifestyle for overall well-being. The event also fostered a sense of camaraderie and competition, bringing people together to forge stronger bonds with the Indian Navy. It further aimed to inspire the youth to consider joining the Indian Navy, a career synonymous with courage, discipline and service to the nation.

    The resounding success of the Indian Navy Half Marathon was further amplified by the remarkable performances of the participants. Athletes from different age groups and professional backgrounds demonstrated their endurance, determination, and sportsmanship, making the event an inspiring spectacle for everyone. The winners in each category showcased outstanding physical and mental resilience, setting an example for future participants.

    The winner’s (List of first 03 position in each category attached Indian Navy Half Marathon Winners 2025.pdf) are as follows: –

    Indian Navy Half Marathon Winners 2025.pdf

    21.1 km (Half Marathon)

    Men (Open Category): Kulbir Singh (1:04:52)

    Women (Open Category): Vrinda Bhandari (1:37:08)

     

     10 km

     Men (Open Category): Prakash Deshmukh (0:30:22)

     Women (Open Category): Kavita (0:35:36)

     

     5 km

     Men (Open Category): Gaurav Kasana (0:14:14)

     Women (Open Category): Anjali (0:17:37)

    _____________________________________________________________

    VM/SKY                                                                                                  28/25

     

    (Release ID: 2098968) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister congratulates the Indian team on winning the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 6:16PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today congratulated the Indian team on winning the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025.

    In a post on X, he said:

    “Immensely proud of our Nari Shakti! Congratulations to the Indian team for emerging victorious in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025. This victory is the result of our excellent teamwork as well as determination and grit. It will inspire several upcoming athletes. My best wishes to the team for their future endeavours.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2098961) Visitor Counter : 34

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Celebrating India’s Musical Heritage: Akashvani and Ministry of Culture join hands for the launch of Classical Music Series: ‘Har Kanthh Mein Bharat’.

    Source: Government of India

    Celebrating India’s Musical Heritage: Akashvani and Ministry of Culture join hands for the launch of Classical Music Series: ‘Har Kanthh Mein Bharat’.

    Cultural Harmony on AIR: 21 Stations to broadcast this special series everyday at 9:30 am till the 16th of February, 2025

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 4:43PM by PIB Delhi

    On the pious occasion of Basant Panchami, Pt. Ravishankar Music Studio at Broadcasting House, Akashvani came alive to a special function, organized to mark the launch of a new radio programme sereis, ‘Har Kanthh Mein Bharat’, specially curated to showcase myriad shades of Indian Classical Music on the airwaves. 

    Jointly presented by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India and Public Service Broadcaster, Akashvani, this series will be broadcast at 9:30 A.M. simultaneously from 21 stations across India effectively covering almost all parts of the country, everyday till the 16th of February, 2025.

    The function formally commenced at 10:30 A.M., with floral offering to goddess Saraswati, by Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India, Shri Aruneesh Chawla, CEO, Prasar Bharati, Shri Gaurav Dwivedi, Director General, Akashvani, Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur, Joint Secretary Culture, Ms. Ameeta Prasad Sarbhai and Director General, Doordarshan, Ms. Kanchan Prasad.

    In her welcome address, DG, Akashvani, Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur highlighted the celestial significance of the occasion of Basant Panchami this year, that symbolizes the rare confluence of Saraswati and Lakshmi, as the spring season ushers in. Enumerating the concept and the broadcast schedule of ‘Har Kanthh Mein Bharat’, she expressed the hope that this collaborative effort proves fruitful.

    The series ‘Har Kanthh Mein Bharat’ was digitally jointly inaugurated by Shri Aruneesh Chawla and Shri Gaurav Dwivedi amid a standing ovation. In his special inaugural remarks, CEO Prasar Bharti highlighted the stellar, historical role of Akashvani, throughout the country, over the decades.  He expressed optimistically that such creative partnership could help new avenues blossom.

    Performing art forms in the age of AI

    In his keynote speech, Secretary, Ministry of Culture listed minute details of the vision behind this collaboration. He referred to the various initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Culture, and the need to conserve and preserve performing art forms in the present AI age. According to him, involving gen-next with such projects was a solution towards that end.  He also remarked that the Ministry of Culture was looking forward to extrapolating this joint presentation.

    Intermittently, there were live musical performances on stage. While Saraswati Vandana and a vocal rendition in Raag Basant held the audience spellbound, Raag Des played on the Sarod enthralled everyone present in the studio. 

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2098933) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Gene therapy promises individualised management of disease for each patient: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Gene therapy promises individualised management of disease for each patient: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    India’s Bio-Economy Soars from $10B to $130B Under PM Modi’s Leadership, Aims for $300B,Says the Minister

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 4:38PM by PIB Delhi

    JAMMU, February 2 : “Gene therapy promises individualised management of disease for each patient. Even if two individuals suffer from the same condition—be it cancer, kidney disease, or any other ailment—the treatment could be different in each case, guided by the individual’s unique genetic makeup, pre-existing susceptibilities and inherited vulnerabilities.”, stated Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, while inaugurating the Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine at AIIMS Jammu.

    Set up in collaboration with 4 base Care, the Centre aims to usher in a new era of personalised medicine, leveraging cutting-edge genomic research to provide targeted treatment based on individual genetic profiles.

    Underscoring the transformative potential of gene therapy, the Minister emphasised that with genomic advancements, doctors would no longer rely on a one-size-fits-all approach but would tailor treatments to maximise efficacy and specificity for each individual.

    The newly launched Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine places AIIMS Jammu among the frontrunners in India’s medical research landscape. By integrating genomic data with AI-driven diagnostics, the centre aims to enhance early disease detection, optimise treatment strategies, and reduce the trial-and-error approach in medical prescriptions. Experts at the event noted that this facility would play a pivotal role in advancing precision oncology, cardiovascular genomics, and genetic screening for rare disorders.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has prioritised technology-driven progress in the healthcare sector. He cited the government’s efforts in promoting indigenous research and biotechnology, highlighting the exponential growth in India’s bio-economy—from a mere $10 billion in 2014 to nearly $130 billion today, with an ambitious target of $300 billion in the near future. He further stated that with over 9,000 biotech startups compared to just 50 in 2014, India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in medical innovation.

    The Minister stressed the need for an India-specific genomic database, highlighting the country’s unique genetic diversity. “India is a subcontinent in itself, with over 4,600 distinct demographic groups. Our gene sequencing efforts, which have already mapped 10,000 healthy individuals across 99 communities, will help create a robust dataset tailored to Indian-specific health challenges,” he said. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing one million genome sequences in the coming years to enable more accurate disease prediction and personalised interventions.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also pointed out the resurgence of infectious diseases alongside the rise in non-communicable diseases, urging a hybrid approach combining traditional diagnostics with genetic insights. “India has already proven itself in preventive healthcare, pioneering innovations like the world’s first DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine and the HPV vaccine. With this new centre, we will further strengthen our ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases using cutting-edge technology,” he said.

    A key objective of the centre is to make precision medicine affordable and accessible to the masses. While personalised treatments have traditionally been costly, AIIMS Jammu aims to leverage indigenous research and government-backed biotech initiatives to bring down costs and integrate precision medicine into public healthcare programs.

    The Minister highlighted initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, which has provided health coverage to millions, and the recently launched Bio-E3 policy, which focuses on biotechnology for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and employment generation. He stated that the government’s National Research Foundation (Anusandhan) will play a crucial role in funding next-generation research in genomics and personalised medicine.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh elaborated on how Precision Medicine could be a game-changer for cancer treatment, enabling doctors to design targeted therapies instead of relying solely on conventional chemotherapy and radiation. He cited India’s recent success in conducting the first-ever genetic therapy trial for haemophilia at CMC Vellore, where patients showed a 60% improvement in clotting factor production, with zero bleeding episodes. The trial, acknowledged globally and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, underscores India’s rising stature in genetic research.

    He also noted that genomic medicine would play a crucial role in tackling lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, which is now affecting younger age groups in India. A recent study found that the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in Jammu is slightly higher than the national average, making AIIMS Jammu’s research even more critical in developing effective intervention strategies.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded his address by reaffirming the government’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, where healthcare is not only curative but also predictive and preventive. “This is just the beginning. The future of medicine is personalised, and India is well on its way to leading the world in genomic healthcare,” he said.

    Earlier, in his welcome address, Director AIIMS Jammu, Dr Shakti Gupta was all praise for Dr Jitendra Singh for the setting up and continuous upgradation of AIIMS Jammu.

    Dr YK Gupta President AIIMS and Dr V Srinivas Director AIIMS New Delhi also spoke on the occasion.

    *****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2098931) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s remarks during Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s remarks during Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia

    The relationship between India and Indonesia is not just geo-political, but is rooted in thousands of years of shared culture and history: PM

    The cultural values, heritage, and legacy are enhancing people-to-people connections between India and Indonesia: PM

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 3:47PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi delivered his remarks during Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia via video message today. He extended warm greetings to His Excellency, President Prabowo Subianto, Chairman of the Murugan Temple Trust Pa Hashim, Managing Trustee Dr. Kobalan, dignitaries, priests and Acharyas of Tamil Nadu and Indonesia, members of the Indian diaspora, all the citizens from Indonesia and other nations who were part of the auspicious occasion, and all the talented artists who had turned this divine and magnificent temple into reality.

    Expressing his fortune to be part of the ceremony, Shri Modi remarked that the presence of His Excellency President Prabowo made the event even more special for him. Although physically distant from Jakarta, the Prime Minister said, he felt emotionally close to the event, reflecting the strong India-Indonesia relationship. He highlighted that President Prabowo recently carried the love of 140 crore Indians to Indonesia, and he believed that through him, everyone in Indonesia could feel the best wishes of every Indian. He extended his congratulations to all devotees of Lord Murugan in Indonesia and around the world on the occasion of the Maha Kumbhabhishegam of the Jakarta Temple. The Prime Minister expressed his wish for the continued praise of Lord Murugan through the hymns of Tiruppugazh and the protection of all people through the mantras of Skanda Shasti Kavacham. He congratulated Dr. Kobalan and his team for their hard work in realizing the dream of constructing the temple.

    “The relationship between India and Indonesia is not just geo-political but is rooted in thousands of years of shared culture and history”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He emphasized that the bond between the two nations is based on heritage, science, faith, shared beliefs, and spirituality. This connection includes Lord Murugan, Lord Ram, and Lord Buddha. He highlighted that when someone from India visits the Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, they experience the same spiritual feeling as in Kashi and Kedarnath. He noted that the stories of Kakawin and Serat Ramayana evoke the same emotions as Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, and Ramcharitmanas in India. He mentioned that Indonesian Ramleela is also performed in Ayodhya, India. Shri Modi stated that hearing “Om Swasti-Astu” in Bali reminds Indians of the Vedic scholars’ blessings in India. He pointed out that the Borobudur Stupa in Indonesia reflects the same teachings of Lord Buddha as seen in Sarnath and Bodh Gaya in India. The Prime Minister mentioned that the Bali Jatra festival in Odisha celebrates the ancient maritime voyages that once connected India and Indonesia culturally and commercially. He added that even today, when Indians travel by Garuda Indonesia Airlines, they see the shared cultural heritage.

    Prime Minister remarked that the relationship between India and Indonesia is woven with many strong threads. He mentioned that during President Prabowo’s recent visit to India, they cherished many aspects of this shared heritage. He highlighted that the new grand Murugan Temple in Jakarta adds a new golden chapter to the centuries-old heritage. He expressed confidence that this temple will become a new center for both faith and cultural values.

    Noting that the Murugan Temple in Jakarta houses not only Lord Murugan but also various other deities, Shri Modi emphasized that this diversity and plurality form the foundation of our culture. In Indonesia, this tradition of diversity is called “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,” while in India, it is known as “Unity in Diversity”, he said. The Prime Minister highlighted that this acceptance of diversity is the reason why people of different faiths live with such harmony in both Indonesia and India. He stated that this auspicious day inspires us to embrace Unity in Diversity.

    “The cultural values, heritage, and legacy are enhancing people-to-people connections between India and Indonesia”, said Shri Modi. He highlighted the joint decision to preserve the Prambanan Temple and the shared commitment to the Borobudur Buddhist Temple. He mentioned the Indonesian Ramleela in Ayodhya and emphasized the need to promote more such programs. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that, with President Prabowo, they will advance rapidly in this direction. He stated that the past will form the foundation of a golden future. He concluded by extending his gratitude to President Prabowo and congratulating everyone on the Maha Kumbhabhishegam of the temple.

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2098915) Visitor Counter : 34

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Gender Budget Allocations in Union Budget of 2025-26

    Source: Government of India

    KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Gender Budget Allocations in Union Budget of 2025-26

    Gender Budget allocation in the total Union Budget increases to 8.86% in FY 2025-26 from 6.8% in 2024-25

    Rs. 4.49 lakh crore allocated for welfare of women and girls in the gender budget statement of FY 2025-26, an increase of Rs. 37.25% over the Gender budget allocation of Rs. 3.27 lakh crore in FY 2024-25

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 3:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26 in Parliament on 1st February,2025. The share of Gender Budget allocation in the total Union Budget has increased to 8.86% in FY 2025-26 from 6.8% in FY 2024-25. 

    An allocation of Rs. 4.49 lakh crore has been reported for welfare of women and girls in the gender budget statement of FY 2025-26. This is an increase of Rs. 37.25% over the GBS allocation of Rs. 3.27 lakh crore in FY 2024-25.

    This year a total of 49 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs have reported allocations as against 38 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs in FY 2024-25. This is the highest number of reporting by the Ministries/Departments in the GBS since its inception. Twelve new Ministries/Departments have reported allocations in the GBS 2025-26 are Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Department of Biotechnology, Department of Food & Public Distribution, Department of Financial Services, Department of Fisheries, Department of Land Resources, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Water Resources, RD & GR, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and Ministry of Railways.

    These 49 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs have reported allocations in Part A, Part B and Part C of the Gender Budget Statement. Rs. 1,05,535.40 crore (23.50% of total GBS allocation) have been reported by 17 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs in Part A (100% women specific schemes); Rs. 3,26,672.00 crore (72.75%) have been reported by 37 Ministries/Departments and 4 UTs in Part B (30-99% allocation for women) and  Rs. 16,821.28 crore (3.75%) have been reported by 22 Ministries/Departments in Part C (below 30% allocation for women).

    Top 10 Ministries/Departments that have reported more than 30% of their allocations in the Gender Budget for FY 2025-26 are Ministry of Women & Child Development (81.79%), Department of Rural Development (65.76%), Department of Food & Public Distribution (50.92%), Department of Health & Family Welfare (41.10%), Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (40.89%), Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (39.01%), Department of Higher Education (33.94%), Department of School Education & Literacy (33.67%), Ministry of Home Affairs (33.47%) and  Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (31.50%).

    *****

     SS/MS

    (Release ID: 2098912) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BSNL’s uninterrupted Communication Services providing relief to pilgrims and security forces at the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj

    Source: Government of India

    BSNL’s uninterrupted Communication Services providing relief to pilgrims and security forces at the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj

    Free SIM distribution and state-of-the-art communication facilities provided in the Mela area

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 3:23PM by PIB Delhi

    Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is playing a key role in strengthening the communication infrastructure at the Mahakumbh 2025, to ensure reliable connectivity. BSNL has set up a dedicated customer service center in the Mela area, where pilgrims and devotees are receiving on-site assistance, complaint resolution, and uninterrupted communication services.

     

    At the Kumbh Mela, pilgrims from different parts of the country are being provided with free SIM cards from their respective circles. If any pilgrim loses or damages their SIM card, they will not need to return to their home state. BSNL has arranged to supply SIM cards from all circles across the country to the Mela area. This service is completely free, ensuring that pilgrims can easily stay in touch with their family and friends. BSNL has set up a camp office at Lal Road Sector-2, from where all communication services are being managed.

    There has been a significant increase in demand for services like fiber connections, leased line connections, and mobile recharges in the Kumbh area. Keeping in mind the convenience of the public, SIM cards from different states have been made available, benefiting not only the pilgrims but also the security forces stationed there. BSNL’s Chief General Manager for the Prayagraj commercial area, Shri B. K. Singh, mentioned that during Amrit snans on Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya, the quality of communication services remained intact, and despite heavy crowds, the network did not experience any disruptions.

     

    To ensure uninterrupted communication services during Mahakumbh 2025, a total of 90 BTS towers have been activated in the Mela area. These include 30 BTS (700 MHz 4G band), 30 BTS (2100 MHz band), and 30 BTS (2G-enabled). Additionally, internet leased lines, Wi-Fi hotspots, high-speed internet (FTTH), webcasting, SD-WAN, bulk SMS service, M2M SIMs, and satellite phone services have also been provided in the Mela area. Through this initiative, BSNL is ensuring seamless communication for millions of pilgrims, administrative officers, security forces, and volunteer organizations, helping in the smooth operation of the event.

    *****

    AD/VM

    (Release ID: 2098907) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DG (Central Bureau of Communication) reviews exhibition showcasing Central government schemes at Mahakumbh 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 3:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Yogesh Kumar Baweja, Director General of the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, visited the multimedia exhibition themed ‘Janbhagidari se Jankalyan’, set up at Mahakumbh, Prayagraj. The exhibition showcases the programmes, policies, schemes and achievements of the Government of India over the past 10 years.

     

     

    After visiting the exhibition, the Director-General said that the exhibition effectively presents the Indian Government’s schemes and achievements. Developed using new technologies like anamorphic walls, LED TV screens, and holographic cylinders, this multimedia exhibition provides the public with better information about various schemes. He added that the goal of the exhibition is to inform people about the government’s efforts and initiatives, so they can benefit from these policies, programmes and schemes.

    During the visit, the Director-General assessed the work being carried out by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting at the Mahakumbh 2025, and held a review meeting with CBC and PIB officials. He instructed them to coordinate effectively and manage communication and promotional activities efficiently.

    This digital exhibition has been an innovative platform for informing devotees and visitors about the government’s major schemes, policies, and efforts for national unity. Running from January 13 to February 26, the exhibition is based on the theme ‘Unity is the Strength of Society’, showcasing government initiatives like ‘One Nation, One Tax’, ‘One Country, One Power Grid’ and ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’, to unite the country.

    Additionally, the exhibition highlights schemes related to entrepreneurship, self-employment, and economic empowerment, embodying the spirit of public participation for public welfare. Through LED screens, digital displays, and audio-visual media, this exhibition not only promotes economic and social empowerment but also serves as a medium for connecting the masses using modern technology. Devotees are not only gaining detailed information about government schemes but are also becoming more aware of their role in nation-building.

    *****

    AD/VM

    (Release ID: 2098906) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 250+ Cyclists led by Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Come Together to Support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Message to Fight Obesity

    Source: Government of India (2)

    250+ Cyclists led by Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Come Together to Support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Message to Fight Obesity

    Theme of this week’s Fit India ‘Sundays On Cycle’ Event is ‘Obesity Free India’

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 3:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led a diverse group of cyclists here on Sunday, taking forward Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call to fight obesity in India. This week’s Fit India Sundays on Cycle event at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium saw participation a from myriad group of doctors and nutritionists, who took forward the message.

    Also present was Paris Paralympics medalist Rubina Francis as well as several youngsters from the Bharati College Delhi and the Soniya Vihar Water Sports Club.

    “Obesity is a major issue and a big challenge for the youth. The World Health Organisation (WHO) says one out of eight people are obese. Therefore, exercise and playing sports is very important these days. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi mentioned about the same at the 38th National Games in Dehradun. We have to lessen our oil consumption and be very conscious of our diet. Cycling consistently will play a beneficial role in this fight against obesity. Through Fit India, we can win this fight,” mentioned Dr Mandaviya on Sunday morning.

    Rubina Francis expressed how the Fit India Sundays on Cycle event is a great step in moving towards this fight against obesity. “Initiatives like this makes the country move towards good health and fight against obesity. Not only will cycling or doing yoga early in the morning bring a lot of positivity in life but also help in the mission towards an obesity-free India. As an athlete, this morning routine has helped me a lot and I feel adapting the same will help the general public as well,” said Rubina, bronze medalist in the P2 10m air pistol SH1 event at Paris 2024.

    Dr Tribhuvan Gulati, Diabetes and Obesity specialist, who was a part of the group of riders, shed light on several health risks obesity plays, “Obesity brings along with it 130 different diseases like osteoarthritis, kidney diseases, liver diseases, fatty liver, pre-diabetes, diabetes, PCOD in women, sexual dysfunction in both men and women, and more. WHO has labelled obesity as a disease in 2016. It is not an aesthetic or cosmetic problem. India labelled obesity as a disease in 2018 that should not be left untreated. This is a big health issue.”

    Dr Piyush Jain, senior paediatrician and a member of Indian Medical Association (IMA), mentioned that cycling is a positive step in combating obesity. “There has been a lot of inactivity among the kids today because of mobile phones and no outdoor games. Sensitising the public on this through the cycling movement is very important. Right now, 20% Indian people are diabetic and by 2030, it will be 35%. We are getting away from healthy food and exercise. Once you start cycling or any other exercise, it increases the metabolism of the body. Energy is consumed and from the moment we start losing weight, the person also becomes more motivated,” said Dr Jain.

    Sports nutritionists from SAI National Centre for Sports Science and Research (NCSSR) were also part of the group of riders. Anshu Malik, Sports Nutritionist, SAI NCSSR said, “When we cycle regularly, our heart rate increases. Once it happens, the overall body toning takes places and the overall BMR also increases. When BMR increases, the weight automatically normalises. Therefore, weight management is also taken care of. Apart from that, as a nutritionist I can say that cycling will make you look young forever.”

    Dr Mandaviya launched this unique cycling drive at the same venue on December 17 last year and several cycling drives have been conducted pan-India every week thereafter. The event has been staged at more than 3500 locations across the country with the participation of more than 3 lakh riders. Events are simultaneously held nationwide at SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) and the Khelo India centres (KICs).

    The Fit India Sundays on Cycle, organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) and MY Bharat, promotes cycling as a sustainable, healthy and environment-friendly mode of transportation.

    ****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2098905) Visitor Counter : 10

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Lauds Historic Budgetary Allocation for Labour Welfare; Says Social Security for Gig Workers a Transformative Step

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 2:44PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Budget 2025 marks a landmark initiative in India’s labour welfare landscape with a comprehensive framework to extend formal recognition and social security benefits to gig workers. Lauding the decision, Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, hailed the Government’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of over 1 crore gig workers across the country.

    Gig Workers to Get Social Security Benefits

    Expressing his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for this announcement, Dr. Mandaviya said “The gig workforce is a vital pillar of India’s new-age economy, driving innovation and efficiency across digital platforms. Recognizing their contribution, the Government’s decision to provide them with identity cards, e-Shram registration, and healthcare security under PM Jan Arogya Yojana is a transformative step towards their social security and well-being. This initiative will empower nearly 1 crore gig workers. Beyond this, the Government remains committed to extending social security benefits to workers in other unorganised sectors as well, ensuring dignity, security, and prosperity for every worker in the country,” said Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.

    The rise of digital platforms has revolutionized employment, creating new opportunities for flexible work arrangements. India’s gig and platform economy has witnessed rapid expansion, with NITI Aayog’s report ‘India’s Booming Gig and Platform Economy’ projecting that the workforce in this sector will cross 1 Crore in 2024-25 and grow to 2.35 crore by 2029-30.

    Recognizing this transformation, the Code on Social Security, 2020 (CoSS, 2020) for the first time, defined ‘aggregator’, ‘gig worker’ and ‘platform worker and introduced legal provisions for gig and platform workers for the first time, ensuring their inclusion in social security measures. This framework laid the groundwork for structured welfare initiatives tailored to the needs of this dynamic workforce.

    The Union Budget 2025-26 marks a significant milestone in this journey, with a comprehensive initiative to extend formal recognition and social security benefits to platform-based gig workers. The Hon’ble Finance Minister has announced measures to facilitate their identification through unique identity cards, streamline their registration on the e-Shram portal, and ensure access to healthcare under PM Jan Arogya Yojana. These steps will further strengthen the safety net for over 1 crore gig workers across sectors.

    A pilot initiative has already been undertaken by the Ministry of Labour & Employment to register platform workers and aggregators on the e-Shram portal. An Aggregator Module has also been piloted enabling digital platforms to onboard themselves and their workforce onto India’s national database for unorganised workers. As part of this pilot, four leading aggregators—Urban Company, Zomato, Blinkit, and Uncle Delivery—have already registered.

    The Budget 2025 announcement marks a significant expansion of this initiative, enabling a massive scale-up and institutionalizing these efforts. With enhanced resources, the initiative will ensure that every gig and platform worker has access to essential social security benefits through eShram portal, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of this workforce.

    The Ministry remains focused on the seamless execution of these initiatives, addressing any operational challenges, and strengthening collaboration with digital platforms. By combining early groundwork with large-scale policy support, the Government aims to create a robust safety net for gig workers, ensuring their security and well-being in India’s evolving employment landscape.

    Record Budget Allocation for Labour Welfare & Employment Generation

    Continuing the Government’s focus on labour welfare and employment generation, the Union Budget has allocated a record ₹32,646 crore for the Ministry of Labour & Employment in FY 25-26—the highest ever and almost 80% higher than last year’s revised estimates. Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the significance of this historic allocation, stating:

    “I thank Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji for this historic budget which is the highest ever and almost 80% higher than last year’s revised estimates. Our focus is firmly on the newly announced Employment Generation Scheme (ELI), for which the budgetary allocation has been doubled from ₹10,000 crore to ₹20,000 crore. The allocation under the Employees’ Pension Scheme has been increased by ₹300 crores and under the PM Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana by 37% compared to last year.”

    ******

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2098901) Visitor Counter : 39

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: College of Defence Management Concludes National Seminar on Future-Ready Military Leadership

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 12:54PM by PIB Delhi

    The College of Defence Management (CDM), Secunderabad, hosted its annual National Seminar from January 30-31, 2025, on ‘Developing Military Strategic Authentic Leaders (MISAL): Re-Imagining Concepts and Strategies,’, bringing together senior military officials, strategic experts, and leading academicians to explore evolving leadership frameworks in modern warfare. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan delivered the keynote address, emphasising the critical need for adaptive leadership in an era of disruptive technologies and complex geopolitical shifts.

    A key highlight of the seminar was the session on ‘Strategies for Developing Military Strategic and Authentic Leaders,’ where Vice Adm Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd) and Lt Gen Ajay Chandpuria led discussions on the impact of disruptive technologies, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and the evolving role of strategic military leadership. The seminar featured discussions by various academicians on subjects including leadership evolution, lessons from the Ancient Indian Knowledge System, and competencies required for integrated, cross-service leadership. Senior veterans provided critical insights into modern military challenges and leadership models essential for shaping future-ready armed forces. Commandant CDM Major General Harsh Chhibber, underscored the necessity of re-evaluating military leadership strategies in light of increasing global conflicts, diminishing control mechanisms, and the socio-economic diversity of the Armed Forces.

    The seminar reinforced the urgent need for military leadership to align with national security objectives, leveraging technological advancements and structural reforms within the Armed Forces. The seminar provided a common platform to delve deeply into the construct, concepts and strategies that shape military leadership & explored theoretical frameworks as well as examined real-world experiences in a military context.

    The College of Defence Management (CDM), established in December 1970, remains a premier tri-service institution dedicated to equipping senior military leadership with contemporary management thought, concepts, and best practices. Over the years, its National Seminars have addressed crucial themes ranging from strategic challenges and self-reliance to geopolitical power shifts and leadership transformation, cementing CDM’s role in shaping India’s military future.

    SR/KB

    (Release ID: 2098888) Visitor Counter : 54

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Empowering Tribes Towards Viksit Bharat: A Historic Boost for Tribal Welfare in Union Budget 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Empowering Tribes Towards Viksit Bharat: A Historic Boost for Tribal Welfare in Union Budget 2025

    Union Budget 2025: Transforming Vision into Mission for Tribal Development

    Government’s Commitment to Tribal Welfare: Budget Allocation Surges by 231.83% from ₹4,497.96 Cr in 2014-15 to ₹14,925.81 Cr in 2025-26

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 9:41AM by PIB Delhi

    India, home to over 10.45 crore Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals—comprising 8.6% of the total population—boasts a rich and diverse tribal heritage. Spread across remote and often inaccessible regions, these communities have long been a focal point of the government’s development agenda. Under leadership of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Union Budget 2025-26 reaffirms this commitment with a substantial increase in budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, ensuring holistic and sustainable development for tribal communities across the country.

    Unprecedented Budgetary Support for Tribal Welfare

    • The overall budget allocation for the development of Scheduled Tribes has risen from Rs 10,237.33 crore in 2024-25 to Rs 14,925.81 crore in 2025-26, marking an impressive 45.79% increase.
    • The Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY) has been expanded and subsumed under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) with an outlay of Rs 80,000 crore over five years.
    • The budget outlay for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has seen consistent growth, rising from Rs 7,511.64 crore in 2023-24 to Rs 10,237.33 crore in 2024-25, and now reaching Rs 14,925.81 crore in 2025-26.
    • A long-term perspective reveals significant progress: from Rs 4,497.96 crore in 2014-15 to Rs 7,411 crore in 2021-22, and now a 231.83% increase since 2014-15, demonstrating the government’s sustained focus on tribal welfare.

    Key Allocations and Flagship Initiatives

    • Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Rs 7,088.60 crore, nearly double last year’s Rs 4,748 crore, to provide quality education to tribal students in remote areas.
    • Pradhan Mantri Jan Jatiya Vikas Mission: Rs 380.40 crore, up from Rs 152.32 crore, reinforcing efforts to create year-round income-generating opportunities for tribal communities.
    • Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY): Allocation surged 163% to Rs 335.97 crore, focusing on bridging infrastructural gaps in education, healthcare, and employment.
    • Multi-Purpose Centers (MPC) under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN): Funding doubled from Rs 150 crore to Rs 300 crore, enhancing socio-economic support in Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) dominated habitations.

    Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan: A Game-Changer

    Building upon the success of PM-JANMAN, the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) aims to saturate infrastructural gaps in 63,843 villages with a budgetary outlay of Rs 79,156 crore over five years (Central Share: Rs 56,333 crore, State Share: Rs 22,823 crore). This initiative brings together 17 ministries through 25 targeted interventions, ensuring integrated tribal development in key areas such as health, education, livelihoods, and skill development.

    • The allocation for DAJGUA under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has quadrupled from Rs 500 crore to Rs 2,000 crore in 2025-26, reflecting the government’s commitment to uplifting tribal communities at the grassroots level.

    Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram:“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Union Budget 2025-26 is dedicated to building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. This transformative budget prioritizes the holistic development of villages, the poor, farmers, youth, and women. Heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Ji for presenting this historic budget.”

    Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Shri Durga Das Uikey:“This budget is a testament to our dedication to tribal welfare, with focused investments in education, livelihoods, and infrastructure, paving the way for a brighter future. Our Government is committed to tribal empowerment.”

    Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Shri Vibhu Nayar:“The enhanced budget will enable us to implement transformative programs like PM-JANMAN ,Dharti Aaba Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, EMRS and other programs  creating long-term, sustainable impact for tribal communities across India.”

    Towards a Viksit Bharat with Inclusive Growth

    The Union Budget 2025 marks a paradigm shift in tribal development, with an emphasis on education, healthcare, skill development, and economic empowerment. By integrating targeted interventions across ministries, the government is fostering inclusive growth and paving the way for a Viksit Bharat, where tribal communities are not only beneficiaries but active contributors to the nation’s progress.

    ***

    PSF

    (Release ID: 2098853) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Budget announces Rs. 5272 crores for the Ministry of Textiles for the FY 2025-26

    Source: Government of India

     Budget announces Rs. 5272 crores for the Ministry of Textiles for the FY 2025-26

    Five year Cotton Mission to increase cotton productivity included in the Budget

    Budget adds 2 types of shuttle-less looms to the list of fully exempted textile machinery

    Budget announces reduction in Basic Custom Duty of knitted fabrics

    Nine items including wool polish materials, Sea shell, Mother of Pearl (MOP), Cattle horn etc. added to the list of duty-free inputs

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 8:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Budget 2025-26 was presented by the Union Finance Minister on February 1, 2025. The Budget announced an outlay of Rs. 5272 crores (Budget Estimates) for the Ministry of Textiles for 2025-26. This is an increase of 19 percent over budget estimates of 2024-25 (Rs. 4417.03 crore).

    To address the challenges of stagnant cotton productivity, Union Budget 2025-26 has announced a five year Cotton Mission to increase cotton productivity especially extra long staple varieties. Science & Technology support will be provided to farmers under this Mission. The Mission is in keeping with the 5 F principle and will increase income of the farmers and augment a steady supply of quality cotton. By boosting domestic productivity, this initiative will stabilise raw material availability, reduce import dependence and enhance the global competitiveness of India’s textile sector, where 80% of capacity is driven by MSMEs.

    To promote domestic production of technical textile products such as agro-textiles, medical textiles and geo textiles at competitive prices, two more types of shuttle-less looms added to the list of fully exempted textile machinery.  Duty on Shuttle less loom Rapier Looms (below 650 meters per minute) and Shuttle less loom Air jet Looms (below 1000 meters per minute) for use in textile industry has been made nil from the existing 7.5%. This provision will reduce the cost of high-quality imported looms thus facilitating modernisation and capacity enhancement initiatives in the weaving sector. This will also will boost Make in India in technical textile sector viz. agro textiles, medical textiles, and geo-textiles.

    Basic Custom Duty rate on knitted fabrics covered by nine tariff lines reduced from “10% or 20%” to “20% or Rs.115 per kg, whichever is higher” This will improve competitiveness of Indian knitted fabric manufacturers and curb cheap imports.

    To facilitate exports of handicrafts, time period for export extended from six months to one year, further extendable by another three months, if required Handicraft exports will benefit from this provision extending the list of items and the time period for conversion of duty free raw material imports meant for export production. Nine items including wool polish materials, Sea shell, Mother of Pearl (MOP), Cattle horn etc. added to the list of duty-free inputs.

    80% of India’s textile sector is in MSME. Budget thrust on export, enhanced credit and coverage will uplift textile MSMEs. Other announcements like creation of National Manufacturing Mission, Export Promotion Mission, creating the Bharat Trade Net, Fund of Funds, Measures for Labour-Intensive Sectors to promote employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, revision in classification criteria for MSMEs and others will create conducive environment for the textile sector.

    ****

    Dhanya Sanal K

    Director (M&C)

     

    (Release ID: 2098773) Visitor Counter : 721

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ISLRTC announces the integration of Video Relay Service (VRS) into the National Helpline Number (14456)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 9:44PM by PIB Delhi

    The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, today announced the integration of Video Relay Service (VRS) into the National Helpline Number (14456). The launch event was held virtually by ISLRTC, New Delhi along with staff and students of ISLRTC. A total around 100 participants attended the ceremony.

     

     

    This initiative is a huge step forward in ensuring accessible communication for persons with hearing impairments across India. With VRS, deaf individuals can now connect seamlessly with hearing persons, including government offices, emergency services, and service providers, through real-time interpretation in Indian Sign Language (ISL). This service strengthens accessibility, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for the deaf community across the nation. The VRS can be accessed easily by scanning the QR Code below for quick connectivity.

     

     

    *****

    VM

    (Release ID: 2098822) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MoS (MoEFCC), Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh inaugurates the ‘Regional Workshop on Conservation and Wise Use of Wetlands’ at Ayodhya, under the Sahbhagita Mission for States of North India

    Source: Government of India

    MoS (MoEFCC), Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh inaugurates the ‘Regional Workshop on Conservation and Wise Use of Wetlands’ at Ayodhya, under the Sahbhagita Mission for States of North India

    On World Wetlands Day 2025, a national-level programme to be held at the Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary in Gonda, UP tomorrow

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 9:28PM by PIB Delhi

    In the run up to the celebration of scheduled on 2nd February, Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh presided over the Regional Workshop on Conservation and Wise Use of Wetlands, held in Ayodhya today. The workshop, under the Sahbhagita Mission for States of North India, witnessed the presence of PCCF and Chief Wildlife Warden, Uttar Pradesh, Ms. Anuradha Vemuri; JS (MoEFCC), Shri Rajat Agarwal; and Member Secretary, Uttar Pradesh State Wetland Authority, Shri Neeraj Kumar, along with senior officers from nine States/UTs of North India, Ramsar Site Managers and representatives of various institutions.

    Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, informed that India now has 89 wetlands of international importance (Ramsar Sites), with four new sites added on Friday. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, unprecedented decisions have been made for the conservation and enhancement of wetlands, with a strong focus on their preservation of ecosystem. The Minister also informed that on the occasion of World Wetlands Day, Government of India organizes various national and state-level programmes across the country every year to raise awareness on wetland conservation. This year, the honour goes to the Ramsar site ‘Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary’ in Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh. In this context, the workshop for North India, covering nine states, was held in Ayodhya today, he added.

    MoS Shri Singh further informed that the Ministry initiated ‘Mission Sahbhagita’ in 2022, focusing on mainstreaming wetland conservation in development planning and ensuring sustainable development. India’s wetland conservation approach, through this Mission, focuses on stakeholder involvement and integrating wetland conservation into development programmes. Uttar Pradesh is home to 1,33,434 wetlands, covering 5.16% of the State’s total geographical area. The state has ten Ramsar Sites, including the first Ramsar Site ‘Upper Ganga River’ to the latest ‘Haiderpur Wetland’. UP has the second-largest number of Ramsar Sites after Tamil Nadu. Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is one of the largest wetlands in the natural floodplain area, providing shelter to over a lakh birds. This wetland is rich in vegetation and biodiversity. Under MoEFCC’s National Aquatic Ecosystem Conservation Plan, 13 wetlands are being conserved in UP. The State Wetland Management Committee of Uttar Pradesh has instructed relevant departments to identify and protect important wetlands at the district level, it was informed.

     

    On 2nd February, with the cooperation of the Uttar Pradesh government, a national-level programme will be held at the Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary where Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath will be the chief guest. On this occasion, the UP government will hand over the Integrated Management Plan for Parvati Arga Wetland to the MoEFCC. A nationwide awareness campaign on wetland conservation has been running for the last month, led by the National Museum of Natural History, with over 2,000 school and college students participating in painting, street plays, and quiz competitions. An awareness programme of a similar scale was also held in Gonda. During the workshop, Ramsar Site Managers from five States and four Union Territories of India – Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh – shared their experiences and thoughts. On the occasion, MoS Shri Singh also released a booklet and launched a poster on ‘Seven Steps for Wetland and Pond Conservation’.

     

     

     

    The workshop commenced with the lighting of a lamp by the MoS (MoEFCC). The guests were welcomed by presenting them with Rudraksha plants. Dr. M. Ramesh, Scientist (F), (MoEFCC), welcomed the attendees of the workshop and briefed them about the objectives of the workshop and the upcoming February 2 event at Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary. Following this, Joint Secretary Shri Rajat Agarwal elaborated the importance of wetlands conservation and sustainable use, discussing the various plant and animal species found in wetlands. Following this, Ms. Anuradha Vemuri, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Uttar Pradesh, provided a comprehensive discussion on wetlands conservation and development.

     

    *****

    VM

    (Release ID: 2098813) Visitor Counter : 31

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UNION EDUCATION MINISTER LAUDS HISTORIC BUDGET 2025-26

    Source: Government of India

    UNION EDUCATION MINISTER LAUDS HISTORIC BUDGET 2025-26

    TOTAL BUDGET ALLOCATION FOR MINISTRY OF EDUCATION HAS REACHED ₹128,650 CRORE, MARKING A 6.22% INCREASE OVER BE 2024-25.

    50,000 ATAL TINKERING LABS IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS IN NEXT 5 YEARS

    ALL GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOLS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY UNDER BHARAT NET IN THE NEXT THREE YEARS

    BHARATIYA BHASHA PUSTAK SCHEME TO PROVIDE DIGITAL-FORM INDIAN LANGUAGE BOOKS

    ALLOCATION OF RS 20,000 CRORE TO IMPLEMENT PRIVATE SECTOR DRIVEN RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION

    IITs STARTED AFTER 2014 TO GET NEW INFRASTRUCTURE FOR 6,500 MORE STUDENTS
    PROVISION OF 10,000 FELLOWSHIPS FOR TECHNOLOGICAL RESEARCH IN IITS AND IISC UNDER PM RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP SCHEME

    5 NATIONAL CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE FOR SKILLING TO EQUIP YOUTH FOR “MAKE FOR INDIA, MAKE FOR THE WORLD” MANUFACTURING

    CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR EDUCATION WITH TOTAL OUTLAY OF RS 500 CRORE

    ‘GYAN BHARATAM MISSION’ TO PRESERVE OVER 1 CRORE MANUSCRIPTS

    NATIONAL DIGITAL REPOSITORY OF INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS FOR KNOWLEDGE SHARING TO BE SET UP

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 9:15PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan lauded the Budget 2025-26, emphasizing it as a budget that takes everyone together and prioritizes welfare, well-being, and empowerment of all citizens while firmly placing India on the path to achieving the goal of developed India by 2047. The Minister expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for a visionary and futuristic Budget.

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said that this Budget is aiming to cater to the comprehensive requirements, right from childhood to youth, who would be leading from the front in realizing the Viksit Bharat agenda in 2047 and beyond.

    He further stated that the Budget announcements encompass today’s entire youth demographic, who will lead the nation for the next 25 years. This will strengthen the Bhartiya Gyan Parampara within our education system and foster a global community, he added.

    The Minister highlighted that the Budget 2025-26 emphasizes investing in people and facilitating all-round development of India’s human capital. He noted that with “Gareeb, Yuva, Annadata, and Naari” as the pillars, this budget would uplift sentiments of the poor and middle class, accelerate spending, catalyze investments, and spur growth. He emphasized that it would remove regional imbalances, build rural prosperity, nurture research, innovation and entrepreneurship, invigorate the education and skilling landscape, and lead to employment-led development.

    The Minister expressed gratitude for continuing with bigger and bolder investments in education, skilling, research, and innovation, stating that this budget represents another big leap towards empowering India’s population with more opportunities for world-class education and building capacities of human capital.

    The Minister informed that the total budget allocation for the Ministry of Education has reached ₹128,650 crore, marking a 6.22% increase over BE 2024-25.

    Union Education Minister informed that Fifty thousand Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) will be set up in Government schools in next 5 years to cultivate the spirit of curiosity and innovation, and foster a scientific temper among young minds. With this, students of all Government secondary schools will have access to ATL. The Union Budget also proposes to provide Broadband connectivity to all Government secondary schools and primary health centres in rural areas under the BharatNet project, he added.

    Shri Pradhan informed that the total number of students in 23 IITs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. Additional infrastructure will be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT, Patna will also be expanded, he further added.

    Shri Pradhan said that with the aim to help students understand their subjects better, it is proposed to implement a Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education.

    The Union Minister also informed that five National Centres of Excellence for skilling will be set up with global expertise and partnerships to equip youth with the skills required for “Make for India, Make for the World” manufacturing. The partnerships will cover curriculum design, training of trainers, a skills certification framework, and periodic reviews.

    Shri Pradhan highlighted that the fourth AI Centre of Excellence in Education, envisioned in the Budget 2025-26, aims to revolutionize India’s educational system from pre-primary to professional and research levels. By harnessing artificial intelligence, it seeks to address disparities and inefficiencies, ensuring equitable and high-quality education across the nation. This Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Education will be established with a total outlay of ₹500 crore, he added

    The Minister informed the allocation of Rs 20,000 crore to implement private sector driven Research, Development and Innovation. In the next five years, under the PM Research Fellowship scheme, provision of ten thousand fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc with enhanced financial support is also proposed in the Budget, he added.

    The Minister informed that a Gyan Bharatam Mission for survey, documentation and conservation of our manuscript heritage with academic institutions, museums, libraries and private collectors will be undertaken to cover more than 1 crore manuscripts. A National Digital Repository of Indian knowledge systems for knowledge sharing will also be set up.

    D/o School Education & Literacy

    • The Budget Allocation for the FY 2025-26 of ₹ 78572 Cr is the highest ever for the Department of School Education & Literacy.
    • There has been an overall increase of ₹ 5074 Cr (7%) in the Budget Allocation of Department of School Education and Literacy in the FY 2025-26 from BE 2024-25. As compared to RE of FY 2024-25, there has been an increase of ₹ 11,000 Cr (16.28 %).
    • The highest ever Budget Allocation may be seen in the Autonomous Body of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) at Rs. 9,503 Cr. Allocation in KVS has increased by ₹ 201.17 Cr as compared to Budget allocation of FY 2024-25. There has been an increase of ₹ 776 Cr (9%) as compared to RE of FY 2024-25.
    • Budget Allocation of FY 2025-26 in Flagship Schemes have increased i.e Samagra Shiksha (by ₹ 3750 Cr), PM-POSHAN (by ₹ 32 Cr) and PM-SHRI (by ₹ 1450 Cr) with respect to Budget Allocation (BE) of FY 2024-25. As compared to RE 2024-25, allocation in Samagra Shiksha has increased by ₹ 4240 Cr (11%), allocation in PM-POSHAN has increased by ₹ 2500 Cr (25 %) and allocation in PM-SHRI has increased by ₹ 3000 Cr (66%).
    • Out of the overall Budget Allocation in FY 2025-26 of ₹ 78,572 Cr, the Scheme allocation is ₹ 63,089 Cr and Non-Scheme Allocation is ₹ 15,483 Cr.
    • Increase in Scheme Allocation in BE 2025-26 is ₹ 5284 Cr (9.14 %) as compared to BE 2024-25. As compared to RE 24-25, increase in Scheme Allocation is ₹ 10248 Cr (19%) and non-Scheme allocation has increased by ₹ 752 Cr (5%) in BE 2025-26.
    • Fifty thousand (50,000) Atal Tinkering Labs (ALT) will be set up in Government schools in next five years to cultivate the spirit of curiosity and innovation, and foster a scientific temper among young minds.
    • Broadband connectivity will be provided to all Government secondary schools under BharatNet project in the next three years.

    Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education

    • The overall Budget Allocation in FY 2025-26 is Rs. 50077.95 Cr out of which Scheme allocation is Rs. 6990.88 Cr and Non- Scheme allocation is Rs. 43087.07 cr.
    • There has been an overall increase of Rs. 2458.18 Cr (5.16%) in the Budget Allocation of Department of Higher Education in the FY 2025-26 with respect to FY 2024-25.

    Allocations to Major Autonomous Bodies under Higher Education

     

    • The total Allocation of Autonomous Bodies in 2025-26 increased to Rs. 42732 Cr from Rs. 39777.40  in 2024-25. There is increase of 7.42%
    • Allocation in Central Universities has been kept at Rs. 16691.31 Cr, against Rs. 15928 Cr in 2024-25 which is  Rs 763.31 Cr more i.e.  4.79 % increase.
    • UGC has been allocated Rs.3335.97 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 2500 Cr in 2024-25 which is Rs. 835.97 Cr more i.e. 33.44 % increase.
    • IITs have been allocated Rs. 11349.00 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 10324.50 Cr in 2024-25 which is Rs. 1024.50 Cr more i.e. 9.92% increase.
    • For NITs, Rs.5687.47 Cr has been allocated in FY 2025-26, against Rs.5040 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 647.47 Cr i.e. 12.85% increase.
    • Deemed Universities have been allocated Rs.604 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.596 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 8 Cr i.e. 1.34% increase.
    • IIMs have been allocated Rs.251.89 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 212.21 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 39.68 Cr i.e. 18.70% increase.
    • IIITs have been allocated Rs.407.00 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.315.91 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 91.09 Cr i.e 28.83 % increase.
    • Grants for Promotion of Indian Languages have been allocated Rs.347.03 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.310.10 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 36.93 Cr i.e. 11.91% increase.                                                                                 

    *****

    MV/AK

    (Release ID: 2098805) Visitor Counter : 90

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Infrastructure Development in India

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 8:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    Public infrastructure is the backbone of economic development, enhancing connectivity, trade, and overall quality of life. India, the world’s fifth-largest economy, has made remarkable progress in infrastructure development over the past decade.

    The total infrastructure investment in India has significantly increased, with public and private sector contributions shaping the growth trajectory. India’s total infrastructure spending has grown exponentially, with budget allocations rising to ₹10 lakh crore in 2023-24.

    PM Gati Shakti

    The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (NMP), launched in 2021, is designed to bring together various Ministries, including Railways and Roadways, to ensure integrated planning and coordinated execution of infrastructure projects. The initiative aims to provide seamless and efficient connectivity for the movement of people, goods, and services across various modes of transport, thereby enhancing last-mile connectivity and reducing travel time. This project has onboarded 44 Central Ministries and 36 States/UTs and a total of 1,614 data layers have also been integrated, by October 2024. A milestone of assessing 208 big-ticket infrastructure projects worth Rs. 15.39 lakh crores, of various Ministries adhering to PM Gati Shakti principles has been achieved.

    India’s World Bank Logistics Performance Index (LPI) ranking improved by 6 places from 44 in 2018 to 38 out of 139 countries in 2023. To complement PM GatiShakti, National Logistics Policy was launched in September 2022. 26 states have notified their State-level logistics policy, so far.

    Highways and Roads

    India has the second largest road network in the world and its National Highways span a total length of 1,46,145 km, forming the primary arterial network of the country. The Government of India has undertaken several initiatives to enhance and strengthen the National Highways network through flagship programmes such as the Bharatmala Pariyojana which includes the subsumed National Highway Development Project (NHDP), the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for the North-East Region (SARDP-NE), and many more ongoing projects.

    • India’s National Highway (NH) network expanded from 65,569 km in 2004 to 91,287 km in 2014 and 1,46,145 km in 2024.
    • NH stretches with four or more lanes grew 2.6 times from 18,371 km in 2014 to 48,422 km in 2024.
    • Operational High-Speed Corridors increased from 93 km in 2014 to 2,138 km in 2024.
    • NH construction pace rose 2.8 times from 12.1 km/day in 2014-15 to 33.8 km/day in 2023-24.
    • Capital expenditure (including private investment) surged 5.7 times from ₹53,000 crore in 2013-14 to ₹3.01 lakh crore in 2023-24 (highest ever).

    Bharatmala Pariyojana

    Launched in 2017, the Bharatmala Pariyojana envisages development of about 26,000 km length of Economic Corridors, which along with Golden Quadrilateral (GQ) and North-South and East-West (NS-EW) Corridors are expected to carry majority of the freight traffic on roads. It also envisages development of ring roads / bypasses and elevated corridors to decongest the traffic passing through cities and enhance logistic efficiency. A total of 18,926 km of roads have been completed under project by November 2024.

    Further network of 35 Multimodal Logistics Parks is planned to be developed as part of Bharatmala Pariyojana, with a total investment of about Rs. 46,000 crore, which once operational, shall be able to handle around 700 million metric tonnes of cargo.

    Pradhan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojana

    The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), was launched by the Government of India, in 2000, to provide connectivity to unconnected habitations as part of a poverty reduction strategy.

    In 2006–2007, 1,07,370 km of roads were completed under the PMGSY, with a total expenditure of ₹10,769 crore. In 2014-15, 4,19,358 km of roads were completed with a total expenditure of ₹130,149 crore and in 2024-25, 7,71,950 km of roads were completed with a total expenditure of ₹ 331,584 crore.

    Civil Aviation

    India’s aviation sector is experiencing a meteoric rise, fueled by soaring demand and the government’s unwavering commitment to its growth through supportive policies. This dynamic shift has propelled India to the forefront of the global aviation ecosystem, becoming the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world.

    • The number of operational airports in India in 2014 were 74. By September 2024, the number had increased to 157.
    • Over 15% of India’s pilots are women, significantly higher than the global average of 5%.
    • Marking a new record, domestic air passenger traffic crossed 5 lakhs for the first time in a single day on November 17, 2024.
    • The number of Flying training organisations (FTOs) in June 2016 was 29. This number increased to 38 with 57 bases by December 2024.
    • In terms of aircrafts, the numbers have increased from around 400 in 2014 to 723 in 2023, despite the impact of Covid-19.

    Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik)

    By reviving existing airstrips and airports, UDAN, launched in 2016, aims to bring essential air travel access to previously isolated communities and boost regional economic development. With a ten-year operational plan, UDAN intends to ensure equitable access to air travel for all Indians. As of 31 Dec 2024-

    • 147.53 lakh passengers have availed of the benefits of the scheme.
    • More than 2.93 lakh flights have operated under the UDAN scheme so far.
    • 619 RCS routes have so far commenced operations connecting 88 airports including 13 heliports & 2 water aerodromes.

    Shipping and Ports

    The Maritime Sector in India comprises of Ports, Shipping, Shipbuilding, Ship repair and Inland Water Transport Systems. In India, there are total 12 government owned major ports and approximately 217 minor and intermediate ports. Indian Shipping Industry has over the years played a crucial role in the maritime sector of India’s economy. Approximately 95% of the country’s trade by volume and 70% by value is moved through Maritime Transport.

     

    • Cargo handling capacity has increased from 800.5 million tonnes per annum in 2014 to 1,630 million tonnes per annum in 2024. Vis-à-vis 2014, this is an 87% improvement.
    • India has reached 22nd rank in International Shipment category as against 44th rank in 2014.
    • Turn Around Time (TRT) of major Ports has reduced from around 94 hours in FY-2013-14 to only around 48.06 hours in FY 2023-24.
    • The average ship berth-day output vis-a-vis FY 2014-15 have improved by 52%.
    • Tourist footfall in 2022-23 for ocean cruise has risen to 3.08 Lakhs and for light house has risen to 12.3 lakhs compared to the year 2014-15.
    • Capacity at major ports stood at:

     

    S. No.

    Year

    Port Capacity

    Traffic Handled

    1

    2004-05

    397.50

    383.75

    2

    2014-15

    871.52

    581.34

    3

    2023-24

    1629.86

    819.23
    • The number of ships/vessels increased from 1,250 in 2014-15 to 1,526 in 2023-24, culminating in a 22% increase.
    • Number of employed sea-farers are:

    Railways

    Indian Railways achieved a historic milestone, transporting over 3 crore passengers in a single day on November 4, 2024. On this day Indian Railways carried a record number of 120.72 lakh non-suburban passengers. This included 19.43 lakh reserved passengers and 101.29 lakh unreserved non-suburban passengers. Similarly, the suburban traffic reached a record 180 lakh passengers, making it the highest single-day passenger figure of the year.

    • The manufacturing of Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) coaches has increased from 2,209 coaches in year 2006-2014 to 31,956 coaches in year 2014-2023.
    • The provision of Bio-toilets in coaches has been increased from 3,647 coaches in year 2006-2014 to 80,478 coaches in year 2014-2023.
    • The Production units of Indian Railways are producing only LHB coaches from April-2018 onwards and trains operated with ICF coaches are being converted so as to run with LHB coaches.
    • In 2005-06, 33,540 km and in 2014-15, 41,038 km of running tracks were electrified.
    • During 2004-14, 14,985 RKM of rail track work was done whereas during 2014-23, 25,871 RKM of track laying work has been done. In the year 2022-23, per day 14 km track was laid.
    • Rail connectivity to four states of Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur & Mizoram provided after 2014 (Meghalaya in November 2014, Arunachal Pradesh in February 2015, Manipur (Jiribam) in May 2016 & Mizoram (Bhairabi) in March 2016).
    • Before 2014, the number of stations equipped with CCTV surveillance facilities was 123 whereas during 2014-23, CCTVs were installed across 743 railway stations. By December 2024, CCTV coverage was increased to a total of 1051 stations.

     

     

    Urban Affairs and Housing

    • Under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), total projects are 8,076, amounting to ₹1,64,706 crore, of which 7,401 projects amounting to ₹1,54,351 crore have been completed, as per the data provided by 100 Smart Cities.
    • Under Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban 2.0, there has been a 97% increase in the urban waste collection from 2014-15 to 2024-25.
    • The waste processing percentage has increased from 18% in 2014-15 to 78% in 2024-25.
    • During 2004-14, 13.46 lakh houses were approved under schemes like JnNURM & RRY. This increased substantially (9 times) in 2015-2024, when 118.64 lakh houses were approved under PMAY-U.
    • During 2004-14, 8.04 lakh houses were built and marking a 11x increase, during 2015-24, 88.32 lakh houses were completed.

     

    • Achievements in the field of metro rail in the last ten years are:

    PARAMETERS

    Upto 2014

    2014-24

    Total Operational Metro Rail Network

    248 Km

    993 Km

    Average Metro Rail Lines Commissioned per month

    0.68 Km / Month

    6 Km / Month

    Average Daily Ridership

    28 Lakh

    Over 1 Crore

    Annual Budget

    Rs 5798 (2013-14)

    Rs 24844 (2024-25)

    Total Cities with Operational Metro Rail

    5

    23

     

    • The number of buses sanctioned from 2004-2014 were 14,405 and this increased to 19,752 during 2014-24.

    AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation)

    Launched in 2015, AMRUT aims at ensuring every household has access to a tap with the assured supply of water and a sewerage connection, increasing the amenity value of cities by developing greenery and well–maintained open spaces (e.g. parks) and reducing pollution by switching to public transport or constructing facilities for non-motorized transport (e.g. walking and cycling). As of February 1, 2025, there are:

    Jal Jeevan Mission

    The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was launched on August 15, 2019, with the ambitious goal of providing tap water supply to every rural household. At the time of its inception, only 3.23 crore (17%) of rural households had tap water connections. As of February 1, 2025, the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) has successfully provided tap water connections to 12.20 crore additional rural households, bringing the total coverage to over 15.44 crore households, which accounts for 79.74% of all rural households in India. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the mission.

    Kindly find the pdf file 

    ****

     

    Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2098788) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRDO successfully conducts successive flight-trials of Very Short-Range Air Defence System off the Odisha coast

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 8:32PM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted three successive flight-trials of Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) from Chandipur off the coast of Odisha. These tests were carried out against high-speed targets flying at very low altitude.

    During all the three flight-tests, the missiles intercepted and completely destroyed the targets having reduced thermal signature mimicking low flying drones at different flying conditions. The flight-tests were carried out in final deployment configuration where in two field operators carried out weapon readiness, target acquisition and missile firing.

    The flight data captured by various range instruments like Telemetry, Electro-Optical Tracking System and Radar deployed by Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, confirmed the pin-point accuracy and established the unique capability of VSHORADS missile system in neutralizing drones along with other classes of aerial threats. The flight-tests were witnessed by senior officials of DRDO, Armed Forces and development and production partners.

    VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence system designed and developed indigenously by Research Center Imarat in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Development cum Production Partners. The missile system has the capability to meet the needs of all the three branches of the Armed Forces, viz. Indian Army, Navy and Air Force.

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO, Armed Forces and the industries for the successful flight tests, terming it as a great success.

    Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat also congratulated the entire DRDO team, users and the industry partners.

    ****

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2098784) Visitor Counter : 29

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UNION BUDGET 2025-26 PROPELS AVIATION TO NEW HEIGHTS

    Source: Government of India

    UNION BUDGET 2025-26 PROPELS AVIATION TO NEW HEIGHTS

    MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR CIVIL AVIATION IN BUDGET

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 8:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented Union Budget 2025-26 in the Parliament today. The Ministry of Civil Aviation welcomes the significant announcements made in the Budget, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening regional connectivity in the country.

    Union Minister for Civil Aviation Sh. Ram Mohan Naidu while appreciating Budget’s focus on Connectivity and Tourism remarked, “This Budget propels us toward our vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity with the idea of ‘Ease of Travel.’ UDAN, a transformative initiative envisioned by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, has revolutionized air travel, making it more accessible to the middle-class. UDAN is more than just a transportation initiative; it is about bringing aspirations and opportunities closer to people. Having already enabled 1.5 crore passengers to experience affordable air travel, our target is to extend this benefit to 4 crore more in the next decade.”

    So far, the scheme has operationalized 619 routes and connected 88 airports across the country. Building on this success, a revamped UDAN initiative will be launched to further enhance regional connectivity, adding 120 new destinations. Additionally, the scheme will focus on supporting helipads and smaller airports in remote, hilly, and aspirational districts, including the North Eastern region.

    The number of air passengers annually has surpassed 350 million, positioning India as the third-largest aviation market globally. Over the past ten years, domestic air passenger traffic has been growing at an annual rate of 10-12%, and the number of airports has more than doubled to 159. And we are committed to developing 50 more airports in the next 5 years. To cater to rising passenger demand in the eastern region, Greenfield airports will be facilitated in Bihar to meet the future needs of the State. These will be in addition to the expansion of the capacity of Patna airport and a brownfield airport at Bihta.

    The finance minister in her address also underscored the government’s focus on upgrading air cargo infrastructure. India’s air cargo sector is growing at over 10% annually, with airport cargo handling capacity reaching 8.0 million MT in FY24. There is a special focus on air cargo warehousing, particularly for perishables, opening up greater market opportunities for Indian producers and enhancing both exports and domestic trade efficiency. Streamlining cargo screening and customs protocols will enhance efficiency and promote ease of doing business in the sector.

    *****

    PSF/DK

    (Release ID: 2098780) Visitor Counter : 58

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Budget announced Rs. 5272 crores for the Ministry of Textiles for the FY 2025-26

    Source: Government of India (2)

     Budget announced Rs. 5272 crores for the Ministry of Textiles for the FY 2025-26

    Five year Cotton Mission to increase cotton productivity included in the Budget

    Budget adds 2 types of shuttle-less looms to the list of fully exempted textile machinery

    Budget announces reduction in Basic Custom Duty of knitted fabrics

    Nine items including wool polish materials, Sea shell, Mother of Pearl (MOP), Cattle horn etc. added to the list of duty-free inputs

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 8:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Budget 2025-26 was presented by the Union Finance Minister on February 1, 2025. The Budget announced an outlay of Rs. 5272 crores (Budget Estimates) for the Ministry of Textiles for 2025-26. This is an increase of 19 percent over budget estimates of 2024-25 (Rs. 4417.03 crore).

    To address the challenges of stagnant cotton productivity, Union Budget 2025-26 has announced a five year Cotton Mission to increase cotton productivity especially extra long staple varieties. Science & Technology support will be provided to farmers under this Mission. The Mission is in keeping with the 5 F principle and will increase income of the farmers and augment a steady supply of quality cotton. By boosting domestic productivity, this initiative will stabilise raw material availability, reduce import dependence and enhance the global competitiveness of India’s textile sector, where 80% of capacity is driven by MSMEs.

    To promote domestic production of technical textile products such as agro-textiles, medical textiles and geo textiles at competitive prices, two more types of shuttle-less looms added to the list of fully exempted textile machinery.  Duty on Shuttle less loom Rapier Looms (below 650 meters per minute) and Shuttle less loom Air jet Looms (below 1000 meters per minute) for use in textile industry has been made nil from the existing 7.5%. This provision will reduce the cost of high-quality imported looms thus facilitating modernisation and capacity enhancement initiatives in the weaving sector. This will also will boost Make in India in technical textile sector viz. agro textiles, medical textiles, and geo-textiles.

    Basic Custom Duty rate on knitted fabrics covered by nine tariff lines reduced from “10% or 20%” to “20% or Rs.115 per kg, whichever is higher” This will improve competitiveness of Indian knitted fabric manufacturers and curb cheap imports.

    To facilitate exports of handicrafts, time period for export extended from six months to one year, further extendable by another three months, if required Handicraft exports will benefit from this provision extending the list of items and the time period for conversion of duty free raw material imports meant for export production. Nine items including wool polish materials, Sea shell, Mother of Pearl (MOP), Cattle horn etc. added to the list of duty-free inputs.

    80% of India’s textile sector is in MSME. Budget thrust on export, enhanced credit and coverage will uplift textile MSMEs. Other announcements like creation of National Manufacturing Mission, Export Promotion Mission, creating the Bharat Trade Net, Fund of Funds, Measures for Labour-Intensive Sectors to promote employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, revision in classification criteria for MSMEs and others will create conducive environment for the textile sector.

    ****

    Dhanya Sanal K

    Director (M&C)

     

    (Release ID: 2098773) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India is the sixth-largest exporter of textiles and apparels: Economic Survey

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India is the sixth-largest exporter of textiles and apparels: Economic Survey

    India exported textile items worth USD 34 billion in 2023: Economic Survey

    Over 45 million people employed directly, Textile sector is one of the largest employment generators: Economic Survey

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 8:08PM by PIB Delhi

    In its assessment of the textile sector, the Economic Survey highlights that India is the sixth largest exporter of textiles and apparel globally, contributing significantly to the Gross Domestic Product of the country, industrial production and exports. The sector is also one of the largest employment generators, with over 45 million people employed directly, including many women and the rural population. As further evidence of the inclusive nature of this sector, nearly 80 % of its capacity is spread across Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) clusters in the country.

    The Survey stated that India exported textile items worth USD 34 billion in 2023, with apparel constituting 42% of the export basket, followed by raw materials/semi-finished materials at 34% and finished non apparel goods at 30%. Europe and the US consumed nearly 66% of India’s apparel exports, 58% of finished non-apparel goods and 12% of raw materials/semi-finished materials. Other prominent destinations include the UK (8%) and the UAE (7%). The Survey points out that textile exports remained resilient throughout the COVID-19 period (2020 to 2022).

    The Survey concludes that Government programs like PM MITRA through creating textile parks with world-class plug-and-play infrastructure would support integrated supply chains, and also attract foreign direct investments into the textile sector. It adds that as MMF products require heavy research and development suited to different use cases, the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) has been approved with an outlay of ₹1,480 crore with research as a key component. During 2024, 168 research projects have been approved under the NTTM mission. It adds that Scheme for Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies has also been extended up to 31 March 2026 to encourage exports. The Economic Survey concludes that India’s textile sector has several tailwinds working in its favour that augur well for the sector.

    ***

    Dhanya Sanal K

    Director(M&C)

    (Release ID: 2098770) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hails Budget 2025 as a blueprint for the Modi government’s vision for building a developed and premier India in every sector

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hails Budget 2025 as a blueprint for the Modi government’s vision for building a developed and premier India in every sector

    The middle class is always in PM Modi’s heart

    Now, no tax will have to be paid on income upto Rs.12 lakhs

    This budget, encompassing every sector from farmers, poor, middle class to education of women and children, nutrition, and health, as well as startups, innovation and investment, is the roadmap for Modi Ji’s vision of an AatmaNirbhar Bharat

    The budget is a reflection of the Modi government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers

    Budget-2025 gives wings to the dreams and aspirations of the youth

    Budget 2025 breathes new energy into life and development in cities through the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund

    Budget 2025 is a new opportunity and means for the prosperity of gig workers,Now, they will not only receive an identity card by registering on the e-Shram portal, but also get benefits of health facilities

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation congratulates Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Ji for the inclusive and farsighted budget

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 7:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hailed Union Budget 2025 as a blueprint for the Modi government’s vision for building a developed and premier India in every sector.Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah congratulated Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for this inclusive and farsighted budget.

    In a series of posts on X platform, Shri Amit Shah said that Union Budget 2025 as a blueprint for the Modi government’s vision for building a developed and premier India in every sector. He said that this budget, encompassing every sector from farmers, poor, middle class to education of women and children, nutrition, and health, as well as startups, innovation and investment, is the roadmap for Modi Ji’s vision of an AatmaNirbhar Bharat.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, the middle class is always in PM Modi’s heart. The Budget announcedzero income tax till ₹12 Lakh Income. The proposed tax exemption will go a long way in enhancing the financial well-being of the middle class, he added.

    Shri Amit Shah said, the budget reflects the Modi government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers. He said, the announcement of the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana aims at increasing production capacity in the 100 lowest crop productivity districts, benefiting nearly 1.7 crore farmers. Additionally, Pulses Self-Reliance Mission and Cotton Productivity Mission will promote the prosperity of farmers and enhance nutritional security.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, from budget to the Cabinet, farmers are at the core of the Modi government’s schemes and policies. He said, in order to achieve self-reliance in urea production, the government has decided to set up a urea plant in Assam with a capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tons in Budget 2025. Along with this, the decision to increase the loan amount under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh will provide significant relief to farmers.

    Shri Amit Shah congratulated MSME sector for the doubling of the credit guarantee cover, adding ₹1.5 lakh crore. He said this will scale up start-ups and foster manufacturing hubs. Shri Shah said that the budget’s focus on footwear, leather and toy manufacturing industries will spur jobs in the grassroots, advancing PM Modi Ji’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.

    Union Home Minister said, the UDAN scheme is proving to be beneficial in providing air connectivity to new cities and promoting affordable transportation. Shri Shah said, in Budget2025, the scheme will be expanded with 120 new airports to be developed across the country. He said that this will increase the capacity to accommodate an additional 4 crore air passengers and further enhance transportation in remote areas.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, PM Shri Narendra Modi gives new wings to the dreams and aspirations of our youth in the Union Budget 2025. He said that the goal to add 75,000 medical seats in five years, accommodate 6,500 more students in 5 IITs, and grant 10,000 research fellowships through IITs and IISc will refuel the growth engine of our nation with the technological prowess of our youth.

    Shri Amit Shah saidthat in order to further enrich the scientific mindset and aspirations for research among the youth of the country,Budget 2025 is extremely significant. Home Minister said that the decision to establish 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools over the next five years will promote innovation among the new generation. He said that the announcement to set up 5 National Centres of Excellence for skill enhancement of the youth is commendable.

    Union Home Minister said,in Budget 2025, the Modi government has given important gifts to the people of Bihar. Shri Shah said, the establishment of the Makhana Board, the Western Koshi Canal Project in Mithilanchal, the expansion of IIT Patna, the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, and decisions related to the greenfield airport will make Bihar a hub for education, business, connectivity, farmer welfare, and employment in the coming years.

    Shri Amit Shah said, in Budget 2025, the announcement of making books available in digital format in Indian languages through the ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Yojana’ will breathe new life into Indian languages. This decision will prove to be crucial in connecting the new generation with Indian languages and making education more inclusive.

    Union Home Minister said, the Union Budget 2025 breathes new energy into life and development in cities through the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund. While the fund will revitalise our cities as the cradles of growth and quality life, the announcement of ₹1.5 lakh crore 50-year interest-free loans to states and a ploughback of capital of ₹10 lakh crore will further strengthen the purpose, he added.

    Shri Amit Shah said, the Budget 2025 unleashes Bharat’s gigantic strength in the power sector by announcing a mammoth ₹20,000 crore Nuclear Energy Mission. He said, the mission will impel Bharat to produce 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047 while developing 5 indigenous small modular reactors. Also, the amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act will revitalise the industry with private sector investments.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, Budget 2025 equips our maritime and shipping industries with the winning edge. He said, with the ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund and the extension of the exemption of BCD on raw materials, components, consumables, or parts for the manufacturing of ships for another ten years, these sectors are poised to dominate the competition in the global markets.

    Shri Amit Shah said, the Budget 2025 brings the healing touch to the lives of the ailing by providing full exemption from Basic Customs Duty on 36 lifesaving drugs & medicines and proposing day care cancer centres in all district hospitals in the next 3 years and 200 of them in 2025-26 alone.

    Union Home Minister said, Budget 2025 is also a new opportunity and means for the prosperity of gig workers. He said, now, gig workers will not only receive an identity card by registering on the e-Shram portal, but they will also get benefitsof health facilities. He said that with the expansion of the PM Svanidhi Yojana, street vendors will be able to link with UPI and avail credit cards up to ₹30,000, as well as receive more loans from banks.

    ****

    Raj Kumar/Vivek/ Ashutosh/Priyabhanshu/ Pankaj

    (Release ID: 2098739) Visitor Counter : 82

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Coast Guard celebrates its 49th Raising Day

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 7:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Coast Guard (ICG) celebrated its 49th Raising Day on February 01, 2025, marking nearly five decades of dedicated service to the nation. On the occasion, the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister and Raksha Mantri have extended their heartfelt congratulations to ICG, recognising its remarkable achievements and significant role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests. To mark the day, ICG’s Director General Paramesh Sivamani laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, New Delhi and paid homage to the bravehearts who laid down their lives in the service of the nation.

    From its humble beginnings in 1977 with just seven surface platforms, the ICG has grown into a formidable force, now comprising 151 ships and 76 aircraft. By 2030, the ICG is poised to achieve its target force levels of 200 surface platforms and 100 aircraft, solidifying  its position as one of the world’s premier Coast Guard services.

    With its motto ‘Vayam Rakshamah’ (We Protect), the ICG has consistently ensured the safety and security of India’s maritime zones. Since its inception, the service has saved over 11,730 lives, including 169 in the past year alone. This unwavering commitment highlights ICG’s vital role in safeguarding seafarers, fishermen, and vessels across the vast 4.6 million sq-km, Indian Search and Rescue Region.

    ICG maintains round-the-clock vigilance, deploying 55-60 surface platforms and 10-12 aircraft daily to monitor and protect India’s vast maritime domain. In addition to search and rescue operations, the ICG has played a pivotal role in preventing and combating illegal activities at sea. It has seized contraband worth Rs 52,560.96 crore, including a record seizure of 6,016 kgs of narcotics in a single catch in the Andaman Sea. The ICG’s disaster response capabilities are also a testament to its strength and resolve, with notable operations such as rescue during Cyclone ASNA in Gujarat, flood rescue and relief in Gujarat and Wayanad, besides coordinating complex night-time medical evacuation operations.

    The ICG’s proactive approach extends to marine environment protection as the designated authority for oil spill response in Indian waters. The ICG has also led key national exercises, including the National Pollution Response Exercise, a series of Regional and state level exercises, further enhancing its preparedness.

    The ICG’s commitment to self-reliance and modernisation is evident through its continued embrace of indigenous capabilities. Under the Make-in-India initiative, contracts have been signed for state-of-the-art air cushion vehicles, advanced communication systems, new generation patrol vessels and helicopters. Approvals have been granted for the procurement of Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft, Dorniers, and additional helicopters, enhancing the ICG’s ability to respond to emerging maritime threats.

    ICG has partnered with leading Indian manufacturers for indigenous shipbuilding, ensuring the use of the highest quality materials for maritime safety and security. Additionally, as part of its infrastructure development more than 1,000 meters of jetty is under construction.

    Embracing technological advancements, the ICG has launched the Automation of Service Healthcare Administration (ASHA) app to streamline medical examinations and e-health records for personnel. The foundation has also been laid for the Tier-III Data Centre as part of its Digital Coast Guard initiative, enhancing its technological infrastructure. The establishment of new facilities such as the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, Chennai, and the Coast Guard Air Enclave in Puducherry, further strengthens ICG’s response capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region.

    In line with the Government’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the ICG organised the International Coastal Clean-up Day on September 21, 2024, mobilising efforts across coastal states and Union Territories to promote cleanliness and environmental stewardship.

    ***

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2098736) Visitor Counter : 22

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSIR-IIIM organised one day Skill development Training program on Research Methodology, Science Communication and IPR

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 6:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) organized a Skill development training program on Jan 31, 2025 at its Jammu campus. The event was designed to impart knowledge about Research Methodology, Science Communication & Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) which gathered participants from all domains of Science and technology and also from other domains like management, law etc. The event was attended by students, research scholars, scientists, and other professionals who would get benefit from this program.

    The event was inaugurated by Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director CSIR-IIIM. In his inaugural address, he shed light on the importance of research methodology, science communication and IPR to enrich the scientific ecosystem of the country.

    During the inaugural session, Dr. Kancherla Prasad, Coordinator & Senior Scientist, CSIR-IIIM welcomed all the guests and participants. Dr. Nasir Ul Rasheed, Senior Scientist, CSIR-IIIM introduced the participants with the theme of the skill development program and provide an overview of the benefits and key outcomes of the program.

    The inauguration was followed by talks from experts of domains of science communication and IPR. During the first session, Dr. Manish Mohan Gore, Senior Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR, New Delhi presented a talk on the occasion where he highlighted the significance of science communication in bringing out research outcomes of Indian labs to make people aware about scientific developments in the country.

    Dr. Kancherla Prasad delivered his talk on another important aspect of science which let the scientist reap the benefits of their research and motivated them regarding the IPR. Dr. Prasad discussed the importance of IPR and detailed about application part through citing various examples.

    In the next session, Dr. Lipika Patnaik, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR- IPU, New Delhi continuing the discussion on IPR, elucidated the process of Patent filing and the processes that are required to safeguard the innovations.

    Dr. Love Sharma, Scientist, RMBD&IST, CSIR-IIIM, Jammu during his talk discussed the basics of science communication and shared the examples of few writings to highlight the skills needed for effective science communication that can send the appropriate message to scientific people as well as general public for wider impact.

     Dr. Zabeer Ahmed also unveiled the calendar 2025 in the event. The calendar, a visual journey through 2024, highlights the institute’s contributions to research and development, skill development, entrepreneurship, international collaborations and its commitment to societal welfare.

    In the valedictory session, Er. Abdul Rahim, Head RMBD & IST, CSIR-IIIM, Jammu took the feedback of participants and also facilitated the distribution of certificates to the participants. Dr. Nasir proposed vote of thanks to all the guests and participants for their warm presence at the event and wish for more such kind of events in future.

    ****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2098721) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Paris Paralympics medalist Rubina Francis, Union Sports Minister to join Fit India Sundays on Cycle event

    Source: Government of India

    Paris Paralympics medalist Rubina Francis, Union Sports Minister to join Fit India Sundays on Cycle event

    Cycling ride will carry Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call to fight obesity in India

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 6:49PM by PIB Delhi

    The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative will continue this Sunday with Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya joining a diverse group of riders. Paris Paralympics bronze medalist in the P2 10m air pistol SH1 event, Rubina Francis will also be taking part.

    The theme of the cycling ride will be on the need of combating obesity in India. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi made the clarion call for the same at the opening ceremony of the 38th National Games in Dehradun. He called for a fight against obesity that is affecting all age groups, both young and old.

    The 2-km cycling ride this Sunday in the national capital will start and end at Major Dhyanchand Stadium.

    Over 250 riders will join Dr. Mandaviya and Rubina, including prominent doctors, nutritionists, students from Bharati College Delhi, members of the Soniya Vihar Water Sports Club, and social activist Mahesh Kumar.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2098717) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Amazing” Union Budget, says Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw; Thanks Prime Minister & Finance Minister for continued big allocation in a row to Railways with a focus on safety

    Source: Government of India (2)

    “Amazing” Union Budget, says Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw; Thanks Prime Minister & Finance Minister for continued big allocation in a row to Railways with a focus on safety

    200 new Vande Bharat trains, 100 Amrit Bharat trains, 50 Namo Bharat rapid rail & 17,500 general non AC coaches to revolutionize travel experience for masses in next 2 to 3 years.

    Indian Railways to become the second highest freight carrying Railways in the world aiming to touch target of 1.6 billion tonnes of cargo by the end of this fiscal

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 6:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Thanks to the big allocation in Union Budget, Indian Railways is all set to expand faster, safer & comfortable rail travel for all across the country. The country can expect 200 new Vande Bharat trains, 100 Amrit Bharat trains, 50 Namo Bharat rapid rail and 17,500 general non AC coaches in next two to three years time. Terming Union budget “amazing”, the Union minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw thanked Prime Minister and Union Finance Minister for allocating the big amount of 2,52,000 crore rupees for the financial year (FY) 2025-26 as gross budgetary support to Ministry of Railways, second time in row. The new trains & modern coaches will go a long way in serving the low & middle class people, he added.

    Union Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, electronic & IT, said that Union Budget is a roadmap for Viksit Bharat. This year’s Budget mentions infrastructure development projects of railways to the order of four lakh sixty thousand crore rupees. Focusing on safety, budget allocates one lakh sixteen thousand crore rupees for expenditure in this year to augment the safety of Indian Railways through various projects. Talking to media in Rail Bhawan, after presentation of Union Budget in Lok Sabha, he said that it not only seeks to create employment by means of investment but gives a big relief to middle class with reduced income tax burden.

    Earlier, Government besides allocating Indian Railways, same allocation of Rs. 2,52,000 crore as was done in last fiscal year also provided for Rs. 10,000 crore from extra budgetary resources to meet its expenses & modernize it, thus taking the Capital Expenditure, Capex to Rs. 2,62,000 crore. This means expenditure on assets, acquisition, construction and replacement will be met out of funds from not only Gross Budgetary Support (including Railway Safety Fund and Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh), but the General Revenues of Indian Railways. Provision of Rs. 200 crore out of Nirbhaya Fund is also there in the budget. Railways will mobilize additional Rs. 3,000 crore rupees from its internal resources.

    Reimbursement of losses on operation of strategic lines has been kept at 2739.18 crore in Budget Estimate 2025-26 as against 2602.81 crore in last fiscal’s Revised Estimates 2024-25. An amount of 706 crore is provided in this fiscal year towards debt servicing of market borrowings for National Projects. With this, the net revenue expenditure of Indian Railways is placed at Rs. 3,02,100 crore in this year’s Budget Estimate as against 2,79,000 crore in revised estimate of last fiscal. This fiscal’s gross budgetary support is almost 9 times of what it was only Rs. 28,174 cr. in 2013-14.

    Talking to media, Union Minister said that Indian Railways is all set to become the second highest freight carrying Railway touching 1.6 billion tonnes of cargo by the end of this fiscal. On the high speed trains, he said India aims to have 7000 km of high speed rail network supporting the speed of 250 km per hour by 2047. Talking about sustainability, Railway Minister mentioned that India Railways will achieve 100 percent electrification by the end of FY 2025-26. Besides as the Budget announced Small Modular reactors as a source of non fossil energy, Indian Railways will take lead in our electrification efforts.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

    For more press releases & official information, follow PIB Railway’s Channel

    https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VazSgdR9Bb64al4PWN1g

    (Release ID: 2098714) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –