Category: India

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sinema Introduces Bill Transferring Ownership of Forest System Land to Tonto Apache Tribe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kyrsten Sinema (Arizona)
    The Senator’s bill would transfer 3,060 acres of culturally significant land to the Tonto Apache Tribe 
    WASHINGTON – Arizona Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly introduced legislation to transfer 3,060 acres of U.S. Forest Service land to the Tonto Apache Tribe, located near Payson, Ariz., to be held in trust as part of their existing reservation. 
    “My legislation transferring culturally significant land to the Tonto Apache Tribe represents our continued work honoring and respecting Tribal sovereignty and protecting culturally significant land,” said Sinema.
    “Transferring this land to the Tonto Apache Tribe is about respecting their history and ensuring their community has the resources to grow and thrive,” said Kelly. “This bill will give them more control over land that holds deep cultural significance, strengthening their community and their connection to their heritage.”
    Sinema’s legislation supports the Tonto Apache Tribe’s proposal to expand their reservation. This land is culturally significant to the tribe and will enable them to build additional housing for community members to reside on the reservation.
    Throughout her time in Congress, Sinema has worked to expand the growth and prosperity of Arizona tribal communities. While in the U.S. House, Sinema championed a La Paz County Land Transfer of 5,900 acres. In 2019, Sinema helped pass that land transfer into law. Sinema’s direct negotiations ensured passage of the Blackwater Trading Post Land Transfer Act and the Old Pascua Community Land Acquisition Act – two pieces of legislation increasing land rights for the Gila River Indian Community and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe – increasing economic opportunities for both tribal communities. 
    Sinema also secured bipartisan passage of critical land and water rights bills for tribes across Arizona, including in part the Hualapai Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the White Mountain Apache Tribe Water Rights Quantification Act – legislation helping secure tribal communities’ and Arizona’s water future.
    Supporters of the Tonto Apache Land Transfer Act are the Tonto National Forest, the Department of Agriculture, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Gila County, and the City of Payson.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB to Help Improve Power Supply in West Bengal, India

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (22 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $241.3 million loan to improve the distribution of power supply in West Bengal, India, which will help enhance people’s quality of life by ensuring they have access to reliable, quality, and sustainable power supply.

    “This ADB program is aligned with the government’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, which aims to strengthen the operational efficiency of power distribution companies,” said ADB Principal Energy Specialist Roka Sanda. “Reliable and sustainable electricity distribution and service is essential to West Bengal’s growth and development.”

    The West Bengal Distribution System Strengthening Program will improve electricity distribution for 8.96 million consumers in seven districts in West Bengal. The program will replace low-tension overhead lines with aerial bundled cables, separate electricity feeders for agriculture and non-agriculture users, and develop an integrated information and operation management system for power supply quality, performance monitoring, and corporate financial management.

    The program will raise the operational efficiency of the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited by building its capacity on asset and financial management, promotion and introduction of renewable energy, tariff rationalization, and on gender equity and social inclusion.

    ADB will help update relevant safety policies and manuals, while supplying health and safety equipment such as first aid kits and personal protective equipment. The program will contribute to awareness-building in communities, particularly on electrical safety, and train district technical and engineering staff on behavioral safety.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New paths for clean energy in Asia-Pacific

    Source: Google

    The path to decarbonization — switching from the use of fossil fuels to renewable energy sources — cannot be treated as a one-size-fits all. Every area has its own energy landscape, geography and regulatory environment, meaning that electric decarbonization requires a tailored solution for each locale.

    In Asia-Pacific, the electricity grid and availability of clean energy resources can vary significantly from country to country. Our progress in the region to advance our 2030 goal for 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) has steadily been gaining momentum. Over the past year, we’ve announced long-term agreements for 275 megawatts of new clean energy generation capacity in the region, in addition to supporting the development of a 1 gigawatt pipeline of new solar capacity in Taiwan.

    Here are three ways we’re working to put more carbon-free energy onto our operated grids in Asia-Pacific.

    Challenges of local constraints

    In densely populated Japan, land for large-scale solar projects is limited. Here, we saw an opportunity to work with partners to develop a network of hundreds of small-scale solar plants on available plots of land across multiple prefectures. The energy aggregated from these small projects supports our data center, cloud region and office operations. This structure can serve as a model for other Asian markets facing similar land constraints.

    And in Singapore, where natural clean energy resources are limited, we worked with our industry partners to purchase power from a first-of-a-kind biomass power plant fueled by domestic waste resources and equipped with pilot technology to capture and use carbon dioxide. In land-constrained regions, ensuring high energy generation productivity is crucial. The annual electricity output from this project is approximately six times that of a comparably sized solar project in Singapore, delivering more power with less space.

    Partnerships for shared goals

    We know that we cannot achieve 24/7 CFE alone, and that industry collaboration is necessary for a sustainable digital future. In Australia and India, we’ve created unique contract structures involving multiple parties, expanding clean energy on each country’s grid and delivering carbon-free power to our cloud regions in Melbourne, Sydney, Mumbai and Delhi NCR.

    Our clean energy efforts also extend beyond our own operations. Through our partnership in Taiwan, we now have an opportunity to offer our semiconductor suppliers and manufacturers in the region a portion of this clean energy capacity so they, too, can advance their own sustainability goals. In turn, we’ll be able to reduce our Scope 3 emissions: the indirect emissions from our value chain.

    Policies for clean energy

    In tandem with our pursuit of new commercial solutions, we’re working to advance policies that promote cost-effective clean energy deployment and regional market integration. As a founding member of the Asia Clean Energy Coalition (ACEC), we’re uniting energy buyers, suppliers and policymakers to accelerate regional decarbonization efforts. ACEC supports regional interconnection through the ASEAN Power Grid, while advocating to expand clean energy supply and a broad portfolio of procurement options.

    As we continue driving progress on our 24/7 carbon-free goal, we’re proving that it’s possible to turn challenges into opportunities in Asia-Pacific and work together to power a cleaner future for everyone. To learn more, visit sustainability.google.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on October 21, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India


    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)

      Volume
    (One Leg)
    Weighted
    Average Rate
    Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 540,586.51 6.46 5.00-6.90
         I. Call Money 9,384.15 6.50 5.10-6.90
         II. Triparty Repo 373,248.65 6.46 6.30-6.85
         III. Market Repo 156,933.71 6.46 5.00-6.85
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,020.00 6.56 6.54-6.70
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 141.30 6.38 6.20-6.50
         II. Term Money@@ 567.50 6.65-6.95
         III. Triparty Repo 713.00 6.62 6.43-6.74
         IV. Market Repo 1,042.10 6.63 6.60-6.75
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Mon, 21/10/2024 1 Tue, 22/10/2024 18,597.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Mon, 21/10/2024 1 Tue, 22/10/2024 88,775.00 6.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -70,178.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 18/10/2024 13 Thu, 31/10/2024 20,073.00 6.49
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    5. On Tap Targeted Long Term Repo Operations Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 250.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 2,275.00 4.00
    6. Special Long-Term Repo Operations (SLTRO) for Small Finance Banks (SFBs)£ Mon, 15/11/2021 1095 Thu, 14/11/2024 105.00 4.00
    Mon, 22/11/2021 1095 Thu, 21/11/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 29/11/2021 1095 Thu, 28/11/2024 305.00 4.00
    Mon, 13/12/2021 1095 Thu, 12/12/2024 150.00 4.00
    Mon, 20/12/2021 1095 Thu, 19/12/2024 100.00 4.00
    Mon, 27/12/2021 1095 Thu, 26/12/2024 255.00 4.00
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       7,222.87  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -9,310.13  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -79,488.13  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on October 21, 2024 992,200.52  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending November 01, 2024 1,016,726.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ October 21, 2024 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on October 04, 2024 488,495.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    As per the Press Release No. 2020-2021/520 dated October 21, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/763 dated December 11, 2020, Press Release No. 2020-2021/1057 dated February 05, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/695 dated August 13, 2021.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    £ As per the Press Release No. 2021-2022/181 dated May 07, 2021 and Press Release No. 2021-2022/1023 dated October 11, 2021.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2024-2025/1349

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Vikram Dev Dutt, 1993-batch IAS officer (AGMUT cadre) assumes charge as Coal Secretary

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 1:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Vikram Dev Dutt assumed the charge as the Secretary of the Ministry of Coal today. A 1993-batch IAS officer of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory (AGMUT) cadre, Shri Dutt previously served as the Director General of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

    He succeeds Shri VL Kantha Rao, who currently serves as the Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and holds additional charge of the Ministry of Coal. Prior to Shri Rao, Shri Amrit Lal Meena served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Coal.

     

    ****

    ST

    (Release ID: 2066631) Visitor Counter : 419

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Dharmendra Pradhan meets Singapore’s Prime Minister H.E. Lawrence Wong: India and Singapore strengthening partnership through ‘Talent, Resource & Market’

    Source: Government of India

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan meets Singapore’s Prime Minister H.E. Lawrence Wong: India and Singapore strengthening partnership through ‘Talent, Resource & Market’

    Indian Education Minister pushes for Overseas Internships and Research Collaboration with Singapore

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan strengthens India-Singapore ties, sets stage for educational collaborations and internships

    India looks at Singapore as trusted knowledge partner in furthering mutual priorities – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 2:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan met the Prime Minister of Singapore, H.E. Lawrence Wong today.

    The Ministers had meaningful conversations on elevating and expanding the bilateral cooperation in school education, vocational education and research, between the two nations. The discussions focused on strengthening the partnership through three key pillars—‘Talent, Resource & Market.’

     

    Shri Pradhan emphasized that India views Singapore as a trusted knowledge partner, particularly in advancing deep tech, startups, and innovation ecosystems. 

     

    Shri Pradhan also highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Mr. Wong have outlined a robust framework to elevate India-Singapore cooperation into a comprehensive partnership, including collaboration in critical and emerging sectors.

    Earlier in the day, Shri Pradhan met his counterpart, Singapore’s Minister for Education, Mr. Chan Chun Sing, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation across various areas of education. Shri Pradhan emphasized the significance of the National Education Policy 2020 in facilitating the internationalization of India’s education system. The two ministers explored avenues for overseas internship programs, allowing Indian students to gain practical experience in Singaporean companies.

     

    To further strengthen cultural connect between students of both countries the possibility of twinning of schools in India and Singapore was discussed. Joint Research collaboration in areas of mutual interest like deep tech, medicine, advance materials, etc. was also discussed.

    They also deliberated on fostering academic and research collaboration through the twinning of schools and universities in both countries. Shri Pradhan highlighted opportunities for collaboration between Singapore’s National Institute of Education and NCERT in areas such as curriculum development, pedagogy, and teacher capacity-building.

    Extending an invitation to Minister Chan to visit India, Shri Pradhan expressed his commitment to advancing shared goals and enhancing educational ties between the two nations.

     

    Shri Pradhan also met with Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Vivian Balakrishnan, to discuss deepening the India-Singapore Knowledge Partnership.

     

     

    Both leaders emphasized the importance of working closely to elevate bilateral cooperation in education and expand collaborative efforts to achieve shared objectives.

    Shri Pradhan also visited the National University of Singapore and met with Prof. Tan Eng Chye, President of the university. They discussed leveraging complementary strengths to build knowledge bridges, strengthen academic and research collaborations, and deepen engagements between NUS and top Indian higher education institutions across all academic fronts.

     

     

    Shri Pradhan emphasized that NUS and Indian HEIs can collaborate to create value in areas such as deep start-ups, healthcare, advanced materials, digitalization, and sustainability, among others. The Minister also highlighted that a key focus area of NEP 2020 is enhancing access to quality higher education for the youth of India and the internationalization of its education system.

    On the first day of his visit on 20th October 2024, Shri Pradhan had engaged with the members of the Indian diaspora in Singapore. He highlighted NEP 2020’s role in upskilling India’s youth and the enormous scale and magnitude of education in India.

    The Minister’s visit to Singapore, followed by a trip to Australia, from 20 to 26 October 2024, aims to foster collaboration, participation, and synergy in critical areas of mutual interest in education.

    *****

    SS/AK

    (Release ID: 2066652) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s address at the first convocation ceremony of Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh State University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 2:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Smt. Anandiben Patel, Hon’ble Governor of Uttar Pradesh, and chancellor of this university, Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh State University. The Governor exemplifies passionate commitment to education. She has brought about big change and I have seen one here, names and certificates and mark sheets all electronically uploaded.

    She is very forward looking and handheld me when I was governor of West Bengal, when it came to the role of Chancellor. The Hon’ble Governor defines the role of chancellor with exemplification of highest virtuosity and commitment. She has been here twice and the state of Uttar Pradesh is lucky to have such an educationist, such a motivational, inspirational governor, particularly for the field of education.

    When I stepped into the premises हमने सबसे पहले एक काम किया महामहिम राज्यपाल ने और मैने ‘मां के नाम एक पेड़’ और जब यहां आकर देखा how thoughtful it was, Vedic chanting related to environment.

    हमें याद रखना पड़ेगा हमारे पास रहने के लिए पृथ्वी के अलावा कोई दूसरी जगह नहीं है इसी का सृजन करना पड़ेगा

    I therefore appeal to every student, every member of the staff, member of the faculty, everyone present here इस premises के अंदर इस प्रांगण में मां के नाम पेड जरूर लगाए यहां देखा है मैंने सब ठीक उन्नति के ऊपर है पर यह पक्ष कमजोर है यह अति शीघ्र होना चाहिए climate change time bomb is ticking we have to act while there is a time.

    Friends, it is an honour to be present at this convocation and for a very special reason. It is named after Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh, a patriot, national hero and freedom fighter. Another very fascinating aspect is being in Brijbhoomi is always spiritually rewarding. My congratulations to all the graduating students, medalists their proud parents also and more importantly, my greetings and congratulations to the members of the faculty.

    My young friends, your high academic qualifications are an asset to the country. In whatever field you work, and the number of fields is now increasing day by day, you will be part of India’s developing growth story. This story of Bharat is full of promises. The next 25 years are with immense potential which you all are required to exploit.

    Friends, the most important component of our youth with high qualifications like you are our spinal strength.

    Our national ambitions are well defined. Our national ambition is well set out and that is to be a developed nation, develop Bharat by 2047.

    Young minds are the most vital stakeholders in this journey. You will define this journey, you will fuel this journey and you will make everyone proud. You are the future leaders, you are the creators of positive change, driving economic, technological and social progress.

    Our national ambitions are well defined, our national ambition is well set out, and that is to be a developed nation, developed part at 2047. Young minds are the most vital stakeholders in this journey, you will define this journey, you will fuel this journey and we will make everyone proud. You are the future leaders, you are the creators of positive change, driving economic, technological, and social progress. You have to be the change you believe in. Don’t be swept by the change. Bring about the change you want as per your aptitude and attitude.

    Friends it is a testament present governance that this university has emerged so well in a such short time with the foundation stone being led by our visionary Prime Minister just 3 years ago.

    This achievement alongside exemplary law and order, highways, infrastructure august well for its northward progress and rise.

    it is a historical fact – Civilizations survive by institutions and ordering their heroes. Imagine in the field of education, Nalanda, Takshashila and many more global beacon of knowledge and education. This university establishment is a step in the right direction to befittingly immortalise Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh, a hero like others who ought to have been given space in our independence movement history, he should have occupied huge space. In 1915, he established first provisional Government of India in Kabul that was two decades before the Britishers could even imagine of the 1935 Government of India Act. It was a very great attempt. It was a thought to proclaim freedom, which we got later on and he had the good occasion to be a Member of Parliament. We thrive in an independent environment today because of sacrifices made by heroes like him.

    These inspiring stories of such great heroes unfortunately have had so far brief or no mention in our textbooks. A painful aberration is the history of independence was manipulated with credit being denied to those undeterred.

    It is our bounden ordainment to make aware our youth of our real heroes of freedom struggle. The next generation of historians should ensure that the sacrifice of multitude freedom fighters inspired this generation. It is soothing in recent times, vigorously we are celebrating all over the country our unsung heroes or well sung heroes.

    Belated conferment of the highest civilian award to Bharat Ratan to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in 1990, to Chaudhary Charan Singh and Karpoori Thakur in 2023 are steps in the right direction. I was privileged on both the occasions to be in the theatre of parliament. In 1990 I was a union minister and now Vice-President, Chairman Rajya Sabha.

    I feel blessed but a cause of concern. Why it took us so long to recognise our heroes?

    Similarly, very good developments have taken place recently. We celebrate 15th November Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to pay tributes to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary. A great tribal freedom fighter, know about him. You will be enthused, motivated, inspired. In the prime of youth he went away but left indelible mark on our freedom movement struggle. The day is dedicated to the memory of brave tribal freedom fighters so that our coming generations and this generation know about their sacrifices, about this country.

    Similarly, another great hero who was denied rightful space. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, gifted with indomitable spirit and selfless service to the nation. The government has decided to celebrate his birthday 23rd January every year as Prakram Diwas and rightly so. I was again privileged and honoured when the main function was held.

    In Kolkata, I happened to be governor of the state of West Bengal. The honourable Prime Minister inaugurated this great day remembering one of the finest human beings, finest souls, visionary who laid down everything, all comforts to serve the nation.

    Friends, our youth must always remember The fortitude these people exhibited in the face of grave adversity, this will infuse in all of you a fervour for nationalism.

    “शहीदों की चिताओं पर जुड़ेंगे हर बरस मेले।

    वतन पर मरनेवालों का यही बाक़ी निशाँ होगा॥

    कभी वह दिन भी आएगा जब अपना राज देखेंगे।

    जब अपनी ही ज़मीं होगी और अपना आसमाँ होगा॥“

    यह आज चरितार्थ हो रहा है आजादी के लंबे समय बाद इसको हर पल महसूस किया जा रहा है हर दृष्टि से किया जा रहा है।

    My young friends, I have adverted to some of such recent steps to remind you all that our commitment to nationalism should ever be unflinching and uppermost. राष्ट्र से ऊपर कुछ नहीं है। राष्ट्रवाद हमारा धर्म है, निजी हित या कोई भी हित हो राष्ट्रहित से ऊपर नहीं रख सकते यही हमारा संकल्प होना चाहिए, यही हमारी संस्कृति का निचोड़ है।

    Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh was also a visionary educationist who foresaw the need for technical education establishing the Prem Mahavidyalaya.

    Friends, history is proof of it. No country has excelled without being at the forefront of technological revolution. If we want to see Pax Indica becoming a reality, we must lead in technology.

    We are living virtually in the fourth industrial revolution where information is key to all our activities, from agriculture to education to communication. Everything is around communication these days. Technology is a game-changer.

    In our country, it has affected very fortunately, much-needed, transparent, accountable governance, ease of service delivery, and accomplishment of the last in the row, getting benefits.

    As we march towards Viksit Bharat@2047, driven by a knowledge economy, our goal should be to create institutions of excellence, rivalling the best in the world. Because this country had institutions of global excellence and eminence, people from all over the planet swarmed to get enlightenment.

    I appeal to industries and corporates to invest in India’s educational ecosystem. Investment in education is investment in your present, investment in your future, investment for economic growth, investment for peace, investment for harmony.

    This endeavour should be driven, now here is a word of caution by me. I can call it a caveat. We should never make education a commodity, we should never make education commerce. This endeavour, this enterprise, this spirit should not be driven by commodification and commercialisation of education but it should align with our traditional Gurukul system. गुरुकुल में क्या होता था कोई फीस नहीं होती थी, कोई रोक-टोक नहीं होती थी और यही कारण है कि भारत के संविधान निर्माता ने बहुत सोच समझकर जो 22 चित्र संविधान में रखे हैं आपसे अपील करूंगा उन चित्रों का आप अध्ययन कीजिए। आजकल सोशल मीडिया गूगल सब आपकी मदद करेगा उसमें जहां सिटीजनशिप है वहां गुरुकुल का चित्र है, शिक्षा को क्या इंपोर्टेंस दी गई है। They have to be crucibles of character formation, they have to inflame us with the spirit of commitment to our Bharat.

    To those shaping curricula, those who are devising curricula, the members of the faculty, I urge you to make the National Education Policy a success. The honourable Governor and myself have been associated at various stages in the evolution of National Education Policy. Thousands of stakeholders’ inputs have been considered. We have it after more than three decades, it presents a visionary roadmap for transforming our education system. It promotes multidisciplinary learning, skill development, innovation. It does not need a great emphasis on degrees. I want every teacher, every professor, every person associated with education to please go through National Education Policy. You can’t implement it unless you understand it, you have to understand it with a mindset to implement it.

    Our Bharat today, fortunately, and a great development for the world, is emerging as an intellectual powerhouse in terms of technology. My young friends, boys and girls, will know about it.  We rank fifth in terms of patents filed. You know the importance of patents, you know its economic results.  You can realise how it’s a soft diplomatic weapon also and with a significant increase of 25% year-on-year growth, our annual growth in terms of filing patents is 25%.

    In artificial intelligence, India with its dense human interaction and deep technological penetration is poised to lead data set creation. As a matter of fact, our digitisation, our technological penetration, utilisation for service delivery has been accoladed by global institutions, the World Bank, that India is a role model when it comes to service delivery by digitisation but India’s accomplishments in six years are normally not attainable even in more than four decades.

    Friends, we are entering the Amrit Kaal of technological revolution. That has to be driven by young minds, ignited minds like yours. Be the change makers, lead innovation, and find Indian solutions to Indian problems and make available also to the global fraternity.

    To the graduating class of 2024, congratulations on your success. Be inspired by heroes like Radha Mahendra Pratap Singh, who placed national interest above everything else. Exploit the opportunities that new Bharat presents, use your education wisely and for greater good.

    Friends, as you enter and step into the world, you will have challenges, you will have serious challenges, you might get some setbacks also all these are natural.

    It will not be a dream entry for you, it will be fiercely competitive and it should be. Never fear failure. Any failure is a stepping stone to success, if you get a good idea in your mind, don’t harbour it, act on it.

    To the affiliated colleges and academics, my appeal is ensure your activities, prepare graduates for this emerging technological world. Imbibe in them a spirit of nationalism.

    It is no good, you may be brilliant, you may be technologically genius, you may be admired but if your attachment to the nationalism is fragile,

    ‘काट्यो काट्यो कपास हो जाए’ कपास को जब काटते हैं तो धागा बनता है, तो थोड़ा भी मिस डायरेक्शन हो तो वापस कपास बन जाता है। Your efforts go in vain.

    Friends, India, home to one-sixth of humanity, the oldest civilisation on the planet, with exponential economic surge. दुनिया का कोई भी देश 7.5% से 8%, GDP ग्रोथ के साथ आगे नहीं बढ़ रहा है।

    आंखों से देख रहे हैं जिसका सपना लेते हुए भी डर लगता था मेरी उम्र के लोगों को। World class infrastructure of rail, road, connectivity, waterways, digitisation all over the country is happening in this nation.

    It is time for our youth, now my special appeal to you, you are in silos. लगता है नौकरी सरकार की ही है लगता है नौकरियां कहां है थोड़ा सा देखोगे तो पता लगेगा की जो Basket of Opportunities है is enlarging.

    एक जानकारी के अनुसार सिर्फ 10% छात्रों को ही पता है कि कहां संभावनाएं हैं, 90% को नहीं पता है। Please come out of the silos.

    भारत को यदि अगर आज के दिन International Monetary Fund कह रहा है कि it’s a land of opportunity, destination and investment, क्यों? नौकरी के लिए तो नहीं कह रहा। Make most of it, look around you will find your talent can be used in blue economy in the sea, in a space economy.

    चाणक्य के शब्द बताता हूं आपको और चाणक्य का नाम आते ही चाणक्य का नाम लेते ही एक नई ऊर्जा अपने में आ जाती है जो चाणक्य का रोल करते हो वह कैसे बोलते हैं, लगता है चाणक्य कितना महान था। चाणक्य ने कहा था “Education is the best friend, an educated person is respected everywhere.”

    और स्वामी विवेकानंद जी ने कहा था “Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached.” that you should never forget

    To those who are outgoing, stepping out, the cohort and the current students, my very best wishes. You couldn’t be more lucky with an ecosystem and the ecosystem is that you can fully exploit your talent and potential to realise your dreams and aspirations.

    To those who have got degrees today, my one appeal, you are in a very distinguished category, you are the first alumni of this institution. You should take a place to be ever attached to this institution, be in connect with this institution, make annual contributions. Amount does not matter, financial contribution, quantum is immaterial, making financial contribution is all important. Do it. You will find over the years, this will grow like a balloon and help students in need. This will be a great service to the field of education and your institution.

    अंत में एक बात कहूंगा आपको सदैव सचेत रहने के लिए एक सिख दे रहा हूं उसी को सदा याद रखना ‘नायमात्मा बलहीनेन लभ्यः’

    इसका अर्थ है अंग्रेजी में self realisation cannot be achieved by weak willed. हम रिलाइज करना चाहते हैं पर अगर weak willed हैं तो हम नहीं कर पाएंगे। so be strong willed, never be in fear of failure, never suffer from stress and tension because of the fear of failure. It is the earnestness and commitment in efforts that is all important and that was the lesson imparted by Lord Krishna to Arjun at Kurukshetra that should be guiding star for your future working.

    I am honoured to deliver the first lecture, the first convocation address. It will ever be etched in my memory. It is an occasion for me to pay tribute to one of the greatest sons of this soil.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2066642) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A 1993-batch IAS officer (AGMUT) cadre, Shri Vikram Dev Dutt assumes Charge as Coal Secretary

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 1:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Vikram Dev Dutt assumed the charge as the Secretary of the Ministry of Coal today. A 1993-batch IAS officer of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory (AGMUT) cadre, Shri Dutt previously served as the Director General of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

    He succeeds Shri VL Kantha Rao, who currently serves as the Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and holds additional charge of the Ministry of Coal. Prior to Shri Rao, Shri Amrit Lal Meena served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Coal.

    ****

    ST

    (Release ID: 2066631) Visitor Counter : 114

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi commemorates UDAN’s 8th anniversary

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 12:31PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today commemorated the 8th anniversary of UDAN (Ude Desh ke Aam Nagrik) scheme that has revolutisioned India’s avitation sector. 

    Shri Modi also highlighted the major impacts of this flagship initiative. 

    The Prime Minister posted on X:

    “Today, we mark #8YearsOfUDAN, an initiative that has transformed India’s aviation sector. From an increase in number of airports to more air routes, this scheme has ensured crores of people have access to flying. At the same time, it has had a major impact on boosting trade and commerce and furthering regional growth. In the times to come, we will keep strengthening the aviation sector and focusing on even better connectivity and comfort for the people.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/RT

    (Release ID: 2066617) Visitor Counter : 61

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi pays tribute to police personnel on Police Commemoration Day

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 12:36PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid tributes to the valiant police personnel on the occasion of the Police Commemoration Day today. 

    The Prime Minister posted on X:

    “Today, on Police Commemoration Day, we honour the bravery and sacrifice of our police personnel. Their unwavering dedication ensures the safety of our people. They exemplify courage and determination. Their proactive efforts and assistance during humanitarian challenges are equally commendable.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/RT

    (Release ID: 2066618) Visitor Counter : 14

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses NDTV World Summit 2024 in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses NDTV World Summit 2024 in New Delhi

    When the world is immersed in worry, India is spreading hope: PM

    Today India is working in every sector, in every area with unprecedented speed : PM

    India today is both a developing country and an emerging power: PM

    India is one of the youngest countries in the world with the potential of achieving great heights: PM

     India is now moving ahead with a forward looking thinking: PM

    140 crore people of India have joined the resolution of Viksit Bharat , they themselves are driving it: PM

    India has the advantage of double AI power, First AI, Artificial Intelligence, Second AI, Aspirational India: PM

    India does not believe in taken for granted relationships, the foundation of our relations is trust and reliability: PM

    India has shown the world a new path to digital public infrastructure by democratizing technology: PM

    India has shown that digital innovation and democratic values ​​can coexist: PM

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 12:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the NDTV World Summit 2024 in New Delhi today. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister welcomed all dignitaries and said that discussions on a multitude of issues would take place at the Summit. He also acknowledged the presence of global leaders from different sectors who would put forth their views.

    Reflecting on the past 4-5 years, the Prime Minister pointed out that discussions on the concerns of the future have been a common theme. He mentioned that the recent challenges of Covid pandemic, post covid economic stress, inflation & unemployment, climate change, ongoing wars, disruption of supply chains, death of innocents, geopolitical tensions and conflicts had become a point of discussions in all global summits. Drawing parallels with the discussions taking place in India at the time, the Prime Minister underlined that India is deliberating its century. “India has become a ray of hope in this era of global turmoil. When the world is worried, India is spreading hope”, the Prime Minister remarked. He underlined that even though India is affected by the global situation and the challenges before it, there is a sense of positivity that can be experienced.

    “Today, India is working in every sector and area with unprecedented speed”, the Prime Minister said. Noting the completion of 125 days of the third term of the government, Shri Modi threw light on the work done in the country. He mentioned the government’s approval for 3 crore new pucca houses for the poor, initiation of infrastructure projects worth Rs 9 lakh crore, flagging off of 15 new Vande Bharat Trains, foundation stone laying of 8 new airports, a 2 lakh crore package for the youth, Rs 21,000 crore transferred into the bank accounts of farmers, free treatment scheme for citizens above 70 years of age, installation of rooftop solar plants in about 5 lakh homes, plantation of 90 crore saplings under Ek Ped Maa ke Naam campaign, approval for 12 new industrial nodes, SENSEX and NIFTY growing about 5-7 percent, and India’s forex rising to USD 700 billion dollars among others. The Prime Minister also touched upon the global events taking place in India in the past 125 days and mentioned International SMU, Global Fintech Festival, discussion on Global Semiconductor Ecosystem, International Conference for Renewable Energy and Civil Aviation. “This is not merely a list of events but a list of hope associated with India that shows the country’s direction and the world’s hopes”, the Prime Minister said, underlining that these are issues which will shape the future of the world and these are being discussed in India.

    The Prime Minister stated that in the third term, India’s growth has accelerated to such an extent that many rating agencies have raised their growth forecasts. He also pointed out the enthusiasm of experts like Mark Mobius, who advised global funds to invest at least 50% of their funds in India’s share market. “When such seasoned experts advocate for major investments in India, it sends a strong message about our potential”, he added.

    “India of today is both a developing nation and an emerging  power”, the Prime Minister emphasized, stressing that India understands the challenges of poverty and knows how to pave the path of progress. He highlighted the government’s fast-paced policy-making and decision-making processes and new reforms. Addressing the issue of complacency, the Prime Minister said that this mindset does not drive a nation forward. He underlined that 25 crore people have come out of poverty over the past 10 years and 12 crore toilets have been built and 16 crore gas connections have been provided, but it is not enough.

    The Prime Minister further informed that in the last 10 years, India has built over 350 medical colleges and more than 15 AIIMS, established over 1.5 lakh startups and handed out Mudra loans to 8 crore young people. “This is not enough”, the Prime Minister stressed, emphasizing the need for continuous progress of India’s youth. He underlined that India’s potential as one of the world’s youngest nations can take us to great heights, and we have much more to achieve quickly and efficiently.

    Highlighting the nation’s shift in mindset, the Prime Minister noted that Governments often compare their achievements with previous administrations, considering surpassing them as success looking back 10-15 years. He emphasized that India is changing this approach and success is no longer measured by achievements but by course of the future’s direction. The Prime Minister further remarked on India’s forward-looking vision and said that India is now moving ahead with a future-focused approach. “Our goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 is not just a vision of the government but reflects the aspirations of 140 crore Indians. It’s no longer just a campaign for public participation, but a movement of national confidence”, Shri Modi remarked. He mentioned that lakhs of citizens contributed their suggestions when the government began working on the vision document for Viksit Bharat. He informed that debates and discussions were held in schools, colleges, universities and various organizations and the government set the goals for the next 25 years based on these inputs. “Today, discussions on Viksit Bharat are part of our national consciousness and have become a true example of transforming public power into national strength”, he added.

    Talking about AI, the Prime Minister said this is the era of AI and the present and future of the world is linked to AI. He said  India has the advantage of double AI power, the first AI, Artificial Intelligence and the second AI,Aspirational India. Shri Modi said when the power of Aspirational India and Artificial Intelligence combines then it is natural for the pace of development to be faster. Shri Modi underlined that artificial intelligence is not just a technology for India, but a gateway to new opportunities for India’s youth. He mentioned the launch of India AI Mission this year and laid emphasis on increasing the use of AI across sectors like healthcare, education and startups. “India is committed to delivering world-class AI solutions, and through platforms like Quad, we are taking significant initiatives to drive this forward”, he said. Focusing on Aspirational India, the Prime Minister said that the middle class, general citizens, enhancing the quality of life, empowering small businesses, MSMEs, youth, and women is at the heart of the government’s policy making process. The Prime Minister pointed to India’s remarkable progress in connectivity as a prime example of fulfilling national aspirations and said that the government has focused on fast, inclusive physical connectivity which is essential for a developing society, especially in a vast and diverse country like India. Due to this, the Prime Minister said that air travel was given special emphasis. Recalling his vision of affordable air travel, he said those wearing ‘hawai chappal’ should be able to afford air travel and mentioned the UDAN scheme which has completed 8 years in operation. He informed that new airport networks in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities have made air travel affordable for the masses. Highlighting the success of UDAN scheme, the Prime Minister mentioned that around 3 lakh flights have operated under UDAN, carrying 1.5 crore common citizens so far. He further added that there are over 600 routes under this initiative most connecting smaller towns. He pointed out that the number of airports in India have grown to more than 150 compared to around 70 airports in 2014.

    The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering India’s youth to become a driving force for global growth and highlighted the government’s focus on education, skill development, research, and employment. He said that the result of the efforts in the last 10 years are now visible and mentioned India’s highest improvement globally in research quality as reflected in the latest Times Higher Education ranking. He noted that the participation of Indian universities in international rankings has grown from 30 to over 100 in the past 8–9 years. The Prime Minister  underlined that India’s presence in the QS World University Rankings has increased by more than 300% in the last ten years while the number of patents and trademarks filed in India is at an all-time high. He said that India is fast becoming a global hub for research and development where over 2,500 companies worldwide now have research centers in India, and the country’s startup ecosystem is undergoing unprecedented growth.

    Highlighting India’s rising global prominence as a trusted friend,  Shri Modi said India is taking the lead in providing direction to global future in several areas. Reflecting on the Covid-19 pandemic, Shri Modi said that India could have earned millions of dollars from its capacity of essential medicines and vaccines. “India would have benefited from that but humanity would have lost. These are not our values. We supplied medicines and life-saving vaccines to hundreds of countries during these challenging times,’ he said, adding,” I am satisfied that India was able to help the world in difficult moments.” Reinforcing India’s commitment towards building strong international relations, the Prime Minister said that the foundation of India’s relationships is trust and reliability ,it does not believe in taking relationships for granted and the world is also understanding this. Referring to India’s harmonious ties with the rest of the world, Shri Modi said, “India is a country whose progress does not invoke envy or jealousy from others. “The world rejoices from our progress because the entire world benefits from it.” Reflecting on India’s rich contribution to the world, Shri Modi said that in the past Bharat has played a positive role in increasing global growth, adding that its ideas, innovations and products left an indelible mark on the world for centuries. The Prime Minister said that Bharat could not take advantage of the industrial revolution due to colonization. “This is the era of Industry 4.0. India is no longer a slave. It has been 75 years since we gained independence, and therefore, now we are ready with our belts tightened,” Shri Modi added. 

    The Prime Minister emphasized that India is working swiftly on the skill sets and infrastructure required for Industry 4.0. He noted that during the past decade, he has participated in various global platforms, including G-20 and G-7 summits significant discussion about India’s Digital Public Infrastructure have taken place. “Today, the whole world is looking at India’s DPI,” he stated, referencing his discussions with Paul Romer, who praised India’s innovations like Aadhaar and DigiLocker. “India did not have the first-mover advantage in the era of the internet”, Shri Modi pointed out, noting that private platforms led the digital space in countries with the advantage. He said that India has provided a new model to the world by democratizing technology and highlighted the JAM trinity—Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile which provides a robust system for faster and leakage-free service delivery. He also touched on UPI facilitating over 500 million daily digital transactions and said that the driving force behind this is not corporations but our small shopkeepers and street vendors. He also mentioned the PM Gati Shakti platform created to eliminate silos in infrastructure project construction which is now helping to transform the logistics ecosystem. Similarly, the ONDC platform is proving to be an innovation that democratizes and enhances transparency in online retail. Shri Modi underlined that India has demonstrated that digital innovation and democratic values can coexist and reinforced the notion that technology is a tool for inclusion, transparency, and empowerment, rather than control and division.

    Shri Modi stated that the 21st century is the most significant period in human history, emphasizing the urgent needs of today’s era: Stability, Sustainability, and Solutions. He noted that these elements are essential for a better future for humanity, with India striving to address them. He noted the unwavering support of the Indian public and said that the people have given a government their mandate for a third consecutive term, sending a strong message of stability for the first time in six decades referring to the recent elections in Haryana where the public reinforced this sentiment.

    The Prime Minister highlighted the global crisis of climate change, stating that this is a crisis faced by all of humanity. Despite India’s minimal contribution to the global climate challenge, the country is taking the lead in addressing it, he said. Shri Modi explained that the government has made green transition a key driver of growth adding that sustainability is at the core of India’s development planning. He gave examples of this commitment and mentioned PM Suryagarh Free Electricity Scheme and solar pump schemes for agriculture, EV revolution, Ethanol Blending Program, large wind energy farms, the LED light movement, solar Powered Airports and Biogas Plants. He further added that every program reflects the strong commitment to a green future and green jobs.

    The Prime Minister highlighted that alongside Stability and Sustainability, India is also focusing on providing Solutions to address global challenges. He said that over the past decade, India has worked on numerous initiatives essential for tackling these challenges, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the India-Middle East Economic Corridor, the Global Biofuel Alliance, as well as efforts in Yoga, Ayurveda, Mission Life, and Mission Millets. “All these initiatives represent India’s commitment to finding solutions to the world’s pressing issues” he stated.

    Expressing pride in India’s growth, the Prime Minister remarked, “As India progresses, the world will benefit even more.” He envisions a future where India’s century becomes a victory for all of humanity. He said that India’s century thrives on everyone’s talent and is enriched by innovations. Shri Modi stressed the significance of India’s efforts in promoting global stability and peace. “This is a century in which India’s initiatives contribute to a more stable world and enhance global peace”, Shri Modi concluded.

    *****

    MJPS/TS/RT

    (Release ID: 2066613) Visitor Counter : 11

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ADMIRAL DINESH K TRIPATHI, CHIEF OF THE NAVAL STAFF ON AN OFFICIAL VISIT TO UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 11:00AM by PIB Delhi

    Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) is visiting UAE from 21 – 24 October 2024. This visit aims to strengthen the defence cooperation between the two countries, in line with the deepening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership across all sectors, and consolidate bilateral maritime relations between India and UAE, and to explore new avenues of cooperation between the two navies.

    The CNS is scheduled to hold discussions with Rear Admiral Pilot Saeed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Commander of the UAE Naval Forces and other senior Government officials of UAE. He is also scheduled to visit the National Defence College of UAE, where he will interact with the Student Officers. During the visit, the CNS will also witness the conduct of 3rd Edition of India-UAE Bilateral Naval Exercise.

    The cooperative engagements between the Indian Navy and the UAE Navy include Operational interactions through Port Calls, Bilateral Naval Exercise & reciprocal visits, Navy-to-Navy Staff Talks, as well as Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC).

    _______________________________________________________________

    VM/SPS                                                                                                        217/24

    (Release ID: 2066585) Visitor Counter : 71

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Sports: Progress of Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 11:45AM by PIB Delhi

    Special Campaign 4.0 has been launched by Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG) for institutionalizing swachhata and minimizing pendency in Government offices from 2nd October to 31st October, 2024. The Department of Sports began Special Campaign 4.0 with the launch of Fit India Swachhata Freedom Run 5.0 on 02.10.2024 at Major Dhyanchand Stadium. The Department of Sports along with the organizations under it which includes Sports Authority of India (SAI), Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE), National Sports University (NSU), National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) and National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) are actively participating in the Special Campaign 4.0.

    This year, like previous years, the Campaign is divided into two phases. Phase-I, from 16th to 30th September 2024, was focused on identifying pending issues such as references from MPs, State Governments, and other Ministries, as well as public grievances. It also involved identifying areas that need cleaning, beautification, and improvement. Phase-II, which runs from 2nd to 31st October 2024, is dedicated to resolving the identified issues and carrying out the cleaning, sprucing up, and beautification of the selected sites.

    In Phase 1 of the campaign, 15 References from MPs, 2 Parliamentary Assurances and 30 Public Grievances were identified for resolution. Additionally, 210 physical files and 220 e-files were set aside for review. Apart from this, 44 Cleanliness drives are to be conducted in organizations under this Department. In the first two weeks of Phase 2 of the campaign, the Department successfully disposed of 8 References from MPs, 2 Parliamentary Assurances and addressed 22 Public Grievances. Additionally, 210 physical files and 130 e-files were reviewed, 29 outdoor cleanliness drives were also conducted.

    The Department is dedicated to disposing all pending matters that are ready for resolution and making sure that the selected sites for cleaning and beautification are well-maintained and cleaned as per the objectives of the campaign. Given below are some of the pictures of cleaning activities being carried out in of office premises/ campus under Special Campaign 4.0 at NDTL, New Delhi and LNIPE, Gwalior.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2066598) Visitor Counter : 48

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address at the inauguration of RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 6:13PM by PIB Delhi

    Har Har Mahadev!

    Shankaracharya of the Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, venerable Jagatguru Sri Shankar Vijayendra Saraswati; Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel; Chief Minister, Shri Yogi Adityanath; Deputy Chief Minister, Brajesh Pathak ji; RV Ramani of the Sankara Eye Foundation; Dr. SV Balasubramaniam; Shri Murali Krishnamurthy; Rekha Jhunjhunwala; and all other distinguished members of the organization, ladies and gentlemen!

    Visiting Kashi during this sacred month is, in itself, a profound spiritual experience. Present here are not only the residents of Kashi but also saints and philanthropists, making this occasion a truly blessed convergence! I am fortunate to meet and receive the prasad and blessings of the revered Shankaracharya ji. It is through his blessings that Kashi and the Purvanchal region have been bestowed with another modern hospital today. In this divine city of Lord Shankar, the RJ Sankara Eye Hospital is dedicated to the people from today. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the families of Kashi and Purvanchal.

    Friends,
    Our scriptures proclaim: “तमसो मा ज्योतिर्गमय:” – meaning, lead us from darkness to light. This RJ Sankara Eye Hospital will remove the darkness from the lives of countless people in Varanasi and this region, guiding them towards the light. I have just returned from visiting this eye hospital, and in every sense, it represents a fusion of spirituality and modernity. This hospital will serve the elderly and give new sight to children. A significant number of poor people will receive free treatment here. Moreover, this eye hospital has created new employment opportunities for the youth. Medical students will be able to do internships and practise here, and numerous individuals will find work as support staff.

    Friends,

    I have had the privilege of being associated with the noble endeavours of the Sankara Eye Foundation in the past as well. During my tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, I was involved in the inauguration of the Sankara Eye Hospital there. I had the honour of undertaking that work under the guidance of your revered Guruji. Today, I once again have the opportunity to contribute under your guidance, and this fills me with immense satisfaction. In fact, Pujya Swami Ji reminded me that I have been blessed in another way. I was fortunate to have received the blessings of Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peethadheepati Jagatguru Shankaracharya Chandrashekharendra Saraswati Mahaswamigal. I had the privilege of sitting at the feet of Param Acharya Ji on numerous occasions and received immense affection from Param Pujya Jagatguru Shankaracharya Shri Jayendra Saraswati Swamigal Ji. I have completed several important projects under his guidance, and now I am blessed with the company of Jagatguru Shankaracharya Shri Shankar Vijayendra Saraswati Ji. In a way, being connected with three Guru traditions is one of life’s greatest blessings. This is something that gives me deep personal satisfaction. Today, Jagatguru has kindly taken time out to come to my parliamentary constituency for this programme. As the representative of the people here, I extend my heartfelt welcome to you and express my profound gratitude.

    Friends,

    On this occasion, it is only natural to remember my dear friend, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala Ji. The world is well aware of his stature in the business community, and much has been said about him in that regard. However, his dedication to social causes is evident here today. His family is now continuing his legacy, and Rekha Ji is devoting considerable time to this noble work. I am pleased to have had the opportunity to meet Rakesh Ji’s entire family today. I recall requesting both the Sankara Eye Hospital and the Chitrakoot Eye Hospital to establish themselves in Varanasi, and I am deeply grateful to both institutions for honouring the wishes of the people of Kashi. In the past, thousands of individuals from my parliamentary constituency have received treatment at Chitrakoot Eye Hospital. Now, the people of this region will benefit from two new modern institutions right here in Varanasi.

    Friends,

    Kashi has long been recognized as a centre of religion and culture. Now, it is also gaining recognition as a major healthcare hub for Uttar Pradesh and the Purvanchal region. Whether it is the trauma centre at BHU, the super-specialty hospital, the enhanced facilities at Deendayal Upadhyay Hospital and Kabirchaura Hospital, specialised hospitals for the elderly and government employees, or the medical college – many healthcare advancements have been made in Kashi over the past decade. Today, Banaras also boasts a modern cancer treatment facility, enabling patients who once had to travel to Delhi or Mumbai to receive quality care locally. Thousands of people from Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and other parts of the country now come here for treatment. Our Mokshadayini Kashi is evolving into a centre of new vitality, offering fresh energy and enhanced healthcare resources.

    Friends,

    During the tenure of previous governments, the healthcare infrastructure in Purvanchal, including Varanasi, was grossly neglected. The situation was so dire that, just 10 years ago, there were no block-level treatment centres for brain fever in Purvanchal. Children would tragically lose their lives, and the media would be filled with reports of this distress. Yet, the former governments did nothing to address the issue. I am gratified that over the past decade, we have seen an unprecedented expansion of healthcare facilities, not only in Kashi but across the entire Purvanchal region. Today, more than 100 centres are operational, providing treatment for brain fever throughout Purvanchal. Over the last 10 years, more than 10,000 new hospital beds have been added to primary and community health centres across the region. In the same period, over 5,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established in the villages of Purvanchal. A decade ago, there were no dialysis facilities in the district hospitals of Purvanchal. Today, more than 20 dialysis units are functioning, offering patients these services free of charge.

    Friends,

    The new Bharat of the 21st century has transformed the outdated thinking and approach to healthcare. Today, Bharat’s healthcare strategy is built on five key pillars. The first is preventive healthcare – taking steps to prevent illness before it occurs. The second is timely diagnosis of diseases. The third is providing free and affordable treatment, including access to inexpensive medicines. The fourth is ensuring quality medical care in smaller towns, addressing the shortage of doctors. And the fifth pillar is the expansion of technology in healthcare.

    Friends,

    Protecting individuals from disease is a top priority of Bharat’s health policy and forms the first pillar of the health sector. Illness only deepens the poverty of the disadvantaged. As you know, over the past 10 years, 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty. However, a serious illness could easily push them back into the depths of poverty. This is why the government is placing significant emphasis on disease prevention. Our government is focusing particularly on cleanliness, yoga and Ayurveda, nutritious food, and related areas. We have also extended the vaccination campaign to as many households as possible. Just 10 years ago, the country’s vaccination coverage stood at only around 60 percent, leaving crores of children unvaccinated. Furthermore, the rate of increase in vaccination coverage was a mere 1 to 1.5 percent annually. At that pace, it would have taken another 40 to 50 years to achieve universal vaccination coverage for every child and every region. You can imagine the great injustice this was doing to the younger generation of the nation. Therefore, upon forming the government, we prioritised child vaccination and expanding its coverage. We launched Mission Indradhanush, involving multiple ministries in this effort simultaneously. As a result, not only did the vaccination rate rise significantly, but crores of pregnant women and children who were previously excluded from it were vaccinated. The strong emphasis Bharat placed on vaccination proved highly beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the vaccination campaign continues to progress rapidly across the country.

    Friends,

    In addition to disease prevention, timely detection of illnesses is equally important. For this reason, lakhs of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established nationwide, enabling early detection of diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Today, we are also building a network of critical care units and modern laboratories across the country. This second pillar of the health sector is saving the lives of lakhs of people.

    Friends,

    The third pillar of healthcare is affordable treatment and inexpensive medicines. Today, the average medical expenditure for every citizen in the country has reduced by 25 percent. People are now able to purchase medicines at an 80 percent discount through PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras. Whether it be heart stents, knee implants, or cancer medicines, the prices of these essential treatments have been significantly reduced. The Ayushman Yojana, which offers free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh for the poor, has become a lifesaver for many. So far, more than 7.5 crore patients across the country have benefited from free treatment under this scheme. Moreover, this service is now being extended to the elderly in every family throughout the nation.

    Friends,

    The fourth pillar of healthcare aims to reduce the dependency on major cities like Delhi and Mumbai for treatment. Over the past decade, we have established AIIMS, medical colleges, and super-specialty hospitals in smaller cities. To address the shortage of doctors in the country, thousands of new medical seats have been added in the last decade. Looking ahead, we have decided to add 75,000 more seats in the next five years.

    Friends,

    The fifth pillar of healthcare is increasing access to health services through technology. Today, digital health IDs are being created, and patients can receive consultations from the comfort of their homes through platforms like the e-Sanjeevani app. I am pleased to share that over 30 crore people have already taken advantage of consultations via the e-Sanjeevani app. We are also advancing towards integrating drone technology with healthcare services.

    Friends, 

    A healthy and capable young generation is essential for achieving the vision of a developed Bharat. I am immensely pleased that in this mission, we are blessed with the support of the revered Pujya Shankaracharya Ji. I pray to Baba Vishwanath that this mission for a healthy and capable Bharat continues to grow stronger. Today, as I sit at the feet of Pujya Shankaracharya Ji, I am reminded of memories from my childhood. When I was young, a doctor from my village would travel to Bihar for a month each year with a group of volunteers. There, he would conduct a large-scale cataract surgery campaign, which he referred to as “Netra Yagna.” He dedicated one month every year to this cause, and many people from my village would accompany him as volunteers. Even as a child, I was aware of the immense need for such services in Bihar. Therefore, today, I make a heartfelt request to Pujya Shankaracharya Ji to consider opening a similar Sankara Eye Hospital in Bihar. Those memories from my childhood remind me of how impactful such a service would be for the people of Bihar. Maharaj Ji has a vision of reaching every corner of the country, and I am confident that Bihar will be given priority and receive your blessings. It would be a tremendous honour to serve the diligent and hardworking people of Bihar, and contributing to their well-being would bring us great fulfilment in life. Once again, I extend my best wishes to all of you, especially our dedicated doctors, paramedical staff, and all the brothers and sisters working in this noble mission. With deep reverence, I bow before Pujya Jagatguru Ji, offering my heartfelt prayers for his continued blessings and guidance. With gratitude in my heart, I conclude my speech.

    Har-Har Mahadev!

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST/IG

    (Release ID: 2066527) Visitor Counter : 427

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address at the laying of foundation stone and inauguration of multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 7:34PM by PIB Delhi

    Namah Parvati Pataye …

    Har Har Mahadev!

    Present on the stage Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji, the esteemed Governors and Chief Ministers of other states who are connected to this event via technology, my colleague in the Union Cabinet, Shri Naidu ji, other members of the Union Cabinet connected via technology, Deputy Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak ji, other ministers of the UP government, members of parliament, and legislators, and my dear brothers and sisters of Banaras!

    Today, once again, I have the opportunity to visit Banaras… today the Nakkataiya Fair is also happening in Chetganj … Dhanteras, Diwali, and Chhath festivals are approaching… and today Banaras is witnessing a celebration of development before these festivals. Heartiest congratulations to all of you.

    Friends,

    Today is an auspicious day for Banaras. I have just inaugurated a big eye hospital and then came here, which is why I was a bit late. The Sankara Eye Hospital will be a great help to the elderly and children. With the blessings of Baba Vishwanath, projects worth thousands of crores of rupees have been either inaugurated or their foundation stones laid. These projects will boost the development of the country and UP to new heights. Today, airports in UP, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh have been inaugurated. This includes not only Babatpur Airport but also airports in Agra and Sarsawa in Saharanpur. In total, projects from education, skill development, sports, health, and tourism sectors have been granted to Banaras. These projects will not only bring convenience but also create numerous employment opportunities for our youth. This land boasts of Sarnath where Lord Buddha gave his teachings. I recently participated in the Abhidhamma Mahotsav. Today, I also had the opportunity to inaugurate development projects worth crores of rupees related to Sarnath, and as you know, we recently recognized some languages as classical languages, including Pali and Prakrit. Both Pali and Prakrit have special connections to Sarnath and Kashi. Their recognition as classical languages is a matter of pride for all of us. I congratulate all my fellow citizens of Kashi and the nation on these development projects.

    Friends,

    When you entrusted me with the responsibility of serving for the third consecutive time, I had promised to work at triple speed. It has not even been 125 days since the government was formed, and in such a short period, projects worth more than 15 lakh crore rupees have been started across the country. Most of this budget has been allocated for the poor, farmers, and youth. Just think, headlines in newspapers were dominated by scams worth lakhs of crores of rupees 10 years ago. The conversation always revolved around corruption worth lakhs of crores of rupees. Today, discussions in every household are about projects worth 15 lakh crore rupees within 125 days. This is the change the country desires. It is our priority that the people’s money is spent on the people, on the development of the country, and spent honestly.

    Friends,

    We have launched a massive infrastructure development campaign in the country in the last 10 years. This infrastructure campaign has two major goals. The first is to increase the convenience of citizens through investments, and the second is to create jobs for the youth through investments. Today, modern highways are being built across the country, new railway tracks are being laid on new routes, and new airports are being built. This is not just about the work of bricks, stones, iron, and iron rods; it is also increasing convenience for people and providing jobs for the country’s youth.

    Friends,

    Look at the Babatpur Airport Highway we built and the modern facilities added to the airport. Did only those travelling to and from the airport benefit from it? No, it provided jobs to many people in Banaras. It boosted agriculture, industry, and tourism. Today, the number of people coming to Banaras has increased rapidly. Some come for tourism, and some come for business, and you are benefiting from it. Therefore, now that the expansion of Babatpur Airport is underway, you will benefit even more. The work on this airport has started today. Once it is completed, more planes will be able to land here.

    Friends,

    In this ‘maha yagna’ of building modern infrastructure, our airports, their magnificent buildings, and the most advanced facilities are being talked about worldwide. In 2014, our country had only 70 airports. And as Naidu ji has explained in detail, today we have more than 150 airports. We are also renovating older airports. Last year, new facilities were built at over a dozen airports across the country—on average, one airport per month. This includes airports in Aligarh, Moradabad, Shravasti, and Chitrakoot. Ayodhya now has a grand international airport, welcoming Ram devotees every day. Remember the time when Uttar Pradesh was mocked for its poor roads. Today, UP is known as the state of expressways. Today, UP is recognized for having the most international airports. A grand international airport is also nearing completion in Noida’s Jewar. I commend Yogi ji, Keshav Prasad Maurya ji, Brajesh Pathak ji, and their entire team for this progress in UP.

    Friends,

    As a Member of Parliament from Banaras, I feel happy when I see the development here. We all have a shared dream of making Kashi a model city for urban development—one where progress is made while heritage is also preserved. Today, Kashi is known for the grand and divine Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the Rudraksh Convention Centre, and infrastructure projects like the Ring Road and Ganjari Stadium. A modern ropeway system is also being built in Kashi. These wide roads, alleys, the beautiful ghats of the Ganga—all are captivating.

    Friends,

    We are making continuous efforts to turn Kashi and the entire Purvanchal region into a major business hub. Just a few days ago, the government approved the construction of a new rail-road bridge over the Ganga. Near the Rajghat Bridge, a grand new bridge will be built. Trains will run underneath, and a six-lane highway will be constructed on top. This will benefit lakhs of people in Banaras and Chandauli.

    Friends,

    Our Kashi is also becoming a major centre for sports. The Sigra Stadium has been renovated and is now in front of you in a new form. The new stadium is equipped for national competitions and for the Olympics as well. Modern sports facilities have been built here. We witnessed the potential of Kashi’s young athletes during the Sansad Khel Pratiyogita. Now, our sons and daughters from Purvanchal have access to excellent facilities for major sports preparations.

    Friends,

    A society develops when its women and youth are empowered. Keeping this in mind, the government has given new strength to ‘Nari Shakti’ (women power). Millions of women have been given Mudra loans to help them start their own businesses. Now we are working to create ‘Lakhpati Didis’ in villages across the country. Today, our sisters from the villages are even becoming drone pilots. And this is Kashi, where even Lord Shiva seeks alms from Mother Annapurna. Kashi teaches us that society prospers when women are empowered. With this belief, we have placed ‘Nari Shakti’ at the centre of every goal for a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana has gifted millions of women their own homes. Many women in Banaras have also benefited from this scheme. You know the government is now planning to build 3 crore more homes. Women in Banaras who haven’t yet received homes under the PM Awas Yojana will soon get them. We have already provided tap water, Ujjwala gas, and piped water to homes. Now, we are launching a scheme for free electricity and earning income from electricity. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana will make the lives of our sisters even easier.

    Friends,

    Our Kashi is a vibrant cultural city. It is home to the sacred Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, Manikarnika, the holy site of Moksha, and Sarnath, the place of knowledge. After so many decades, so much development work is happening in Banaras simultaneously. Otherwise, Kashi was left as if abandoned. So today, I pose a question to every resident of Kashi: What was the mentality that kept Kashi deprived of development? Think about the situation 10 years ago when Banaras was starved for development. The parties that ruled UP for long periods, and those who enjoyed power in Delhi for decades, never cared about Banaras. The answer lies in the politics of dynasties and appeasement. Be it Congress or Samajwadi Party, Banaras’s development was never a priority for such parties, nor will it ever be in the future. These parties even discriminated in development. But our government works with the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’. Our government does not discriminate in any plan. What we say, we do loudly and clearly. A grand Ram Temple is being built in Ayodhya. Today, lakhs of people visit Ram Lalla every day. The reservation for women in assemblies and parliament was stalled for years. This historical work has also been achieved by our government. Many families were suffering due to the evil practice of triple talaq. Our government worked to free Muslim daughters from it. It was the BJP government that gave constitutional status to the OBC Commission, and it was the NDA government that gave 10% reservation to the economically weaker sections without taking away anyone’s rights.

    Friends,

    We have done our work. We implemented policies with good intentions and worked honestly to transform the lives of every family in the country. That is why the nation continues to bless us. We saw how the BJP government was re-elected for the third consecutive time in Haryana. The BJP received a record number of votes in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Friends,

    Today, Bharat faces a significant threat from family-based politics. These dynastic politicians cause the most harm to the youth of the country. They never believe in giving opportunities to young people. That is why, I called upon the nation from the Red Fort that I will bring 100,000 such young individuals into politics who have no family ties to politics. This is a campaign that will change the direction of Indian politics. It is a mission to eradicate corruption and the dynastic mentality. I urge the youth of Kashi and Uttar Pradesh to openly become the pillars of this new political movement. As the Member of Parliament from Kashi, I am committed to bringing the youth of this region forward as much as possible.

    Friends,

    Once again, Kashi has become the launching ground for new standards of development across the country. Kashi has once again witnessed a new surge for the nation. I extend my congratulations to all the states, Hon’ble governors, chief ministers, the people of Kashi, and citizens of the country who are associated with today’s development programs.

    Join me in saying: 

    Namah Parvati Pataye…

    Har Har Mahadev!

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST/VK

    (Release ID: 2066550) Visitor Counter : 368

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Sarbananda Sonowal Dedicates Key Maritime Projects at 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival

    Source: Government of India

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal Dedicates Key Maritime Projects at 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival

    Steps to Enable Coastal Communities around Lighthouses to Preserve, Protect & Promote as Tourist Hubs: Shri Sonowal

    The Union Minister announced Two New Lighthouses at Chaumuck and Dhamra on Odisha’s Coastline

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal dedicates ‘New Kalwan Lighthouse’ in Jamnagar, Gujarat along with Stacker-cum-Reclaimant & a Flyover at the Paradip Port Authority, Odisha, to the nation

    Under the Visionary leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi ji, Lighthouse Tourism soared by more than 400% since 2014: Shri Sonowal

    Shri Sonowal inaugurates multifaceted celebration with beach activities like Sand Art, Boat Art competition, Yoga session

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal leads Swachhata Abhiyan at Niladri Beach, lauds efforts of people’s Participation

    2nd edition of Indian Lighthouse Festival witnessed electrifying performances by noted singers like Papon, Sona Mohapatra among others

    The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi joined Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal at the Valedictory Session of the Festival

    Assam & Odisha share a close spiritual, historical, cultural, commercial ties as Srimanta Sankardeva, Lakshminath Bezbarua & Bholanath Barooah strengthened it over the years: Shri Sonowal

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 7:21PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal dedicated key maritime projects to the nation during the 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival here today. At the valedictory session here, the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also announced that the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Govt of India, would take necessary steps to enable coastal communities around the Lighthouses in order to empower them to preserve & promote the lighthouses – the rich heritage of India’s marine sector. The Union Minister also announced two new lighthouses on Odisha’s coastline – one at Chaumuck at Narayanpur in Balasore district and another at Dhamra in Bhadrak district of the state. The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi joined Sonowal as the second edition of Indian Lighthouse Festival draws a closure here today.

    The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that the coastal communities of the country would be developed as societies in order to enable and empower the communities within the vicinity of lighthouses. The effort is aimed at community engagement to take pride in the lighthouses for their preservation, protection, and promotion. A central association of all these societies would be created to give a national momentum to celebrate the lighthouse as national icons as cultural heritage & legacy of India’s rich maritime sector.

    The new Kalwan reef Lighthouse at Jamnagar in Gujarat as well as two projects in Padadip Port, Odisha; i.e., Stacker-cum-Reclaimant & a Flyover bridge, were inaugurated. The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also inaugurated Sand Art Competition, Boat Art Competition, Beach run, Beach Yoga and many other activities at the second day of the 2nd edition of multifaceted Indian Lighthouse Festival. Sonowal also led a Swachata Abhiyan at the Niladri beach where the collective effort led to removal of garbage.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, said, “The Indian Lighthouse Festival or Bharatiya Prakash Sthamb Utsav has been receiving laurels from all quarters of the country as we continue our effort to further bolster facilities for the tourists – both domestic and foreign – for a memorable experience at these wonderful monuments. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the government is taking all steps to realise the full potential of India’s rich cultural heritage as well as its historical legacy in propelling the economic growth of the country. Modiji’s call for an Atmanirbhar Bharat has resonated well with people and we, the Ministry, remain committed to usher in a new chapter of growth in India’s blue economy. Lighthouse Tourism is part of this vision of Modi ji. It gives me immense pleasure to inform you that a rise of more than 400% footfall of tourists in the lighthouses since 2014. From 4 lakhs in 2014, it reached 16 lakhs tourists in the last fiscal. We have already crossed 9 lakhs in the first half of the current fiscal, and it is evident, that the growing trend of lighthouses as tourists hotspots to continue. For years, the guardians of our shores have remained unnoticed, even while they guided vessels and seafarers through the most challenging nights. The ‘Lighthouse Festival’ is our effort to shift this perception. Our goal is to raise awareness, foster involvement, and enlighten people about the significant contribution these iconic structures have made to our country’s maritime legacy.”

    Highlighting the importance of coastal communities in preservation of the Lighthouses, the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced, “In order to rope in the coastal community, the government is keen to enable and empower them to preserve, conserve, and promote these iconic structures. A national framework is being mooted to ensure that a well thought out system is in place for the coastal communities to preserve, protect & promote the lighthouses as the torchbearers of India’s rich maritime history and legacy.”

    During the festival, the Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi and the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal felicitated eminent personalities from the fields of education, sports and culture. Among them, Odishi dancer, Mamta Ojha; artist Dr Ramesh Prasad Panigrahi; sand sculptor, Om Prakash Sahu; Mariner Nividita Acharya; Oriya Literary figure & poet, Dr Haldar Nath; footballer Sasmita Malik and social worker Sujit Mahapatra, were felicitated. Eight employees of the Directorate General of Lighthouse & Lightships (DGLL) were also felicitated for their good performance.

    Earlier, the 2nd edition of Indian Lighthouse Festival was inaugurated by the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The festival, in its second avatar here, aimed at rejuvenating the rich maritime history of India iconic lighthouses in a culturally vibrant atmosphere. The festival showcased rich flavours of coastal cuisine, amusement park, folk dance & music, coastal hut among many other interesting performances.

    On the historic relationship between Assam and Odisha, Sarbananda Sonowal added, “Assam & Odisha have always shared a close spiritual, historical, cultural, commercial ties through the lives of great saint Srimanta Sankardeva, literary genius Lakshminath Bezbarua & visionary trader Bholanath Barooah which has only strengthened over the years. It is heartening to witness cultural show by the artists of both Assam and Odisha here today celebrating the vibrancy of this festival.”

    The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi joined the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal at the valedictory session of the festival. The event was also attended by Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State, MoPSW; Pravati Parida, the Deputy Chief Minister, Odisha; Suresh Gopi, the Union Minister of State of Tourism & Petroleum and Natural Gas; Sambit Patra, MP as well as TK Ramachandran, IAS, Secretary, MoPSW among others.

    During the first day, the festival witnessed sessions on ‘Lighthouse Tourism & Heritage,’ ‘Preservation and conservation of Lighthouse.’

    The festivities began with the invocation dance, Ganesh Vandana, followed by a captivating medley of traditional Assamese performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Assam. The concluding performance began with the invocation dance, Shiva Stuti, followed folk dance. The festival was enthralled by some electrifying performances by noted singer Papon on the first night of the festival while Sona Mahapatra was slated to perform on the concluding night.

    With an investment of ₹60 crore, 75 iconic lighthouses across 9 coastal states and 1 union territory have been developed under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister. Each lighthouse has become a beacon of both heritage and recreation, with modern amenities such as museums, amphitheaters, children’s parks, and more. In Odisha, five lighthouses—Gopalpur, Puri, Chandrabhaga, Paradip, and False Point—have been developed as part of this initiative to promote lighthouse tourism.

     

    In the fiscal year 2023-24 alone, the 75 dedicated lighthouses attracted an impressive 16 lakh visitors. As of September 2024, the current fiscal year 2024-25 has already welcomed more than 10 lakh visitors. These developments have also resulted in job creation, with 150 direct and 500 indirect employment opportunities emerging in nearby hotels, restaurants, tour operators, transportation services, and local shops and artisans.

    In 2023, the maiden edition of Indian Lighthouse Festival took place in Goa with a spotlight on 75 historical sites to be developed into tourists destinations. The ‘Bharatiya Prakash Sthamb Utsav’ was conceived with an intent to transform these historical sites into tourist destinations with the help of Public Private Partnerships. The key highlights of India’s First Lighthouse Festival were cultural exhibitions, session highlighting maritime history and culture, classical performances, light and sound shows, melodious evenings with celebrity singers, flavours of the coast and community engagements.

    In Odisha, the Sagarmala Programme encompasses 36 projects with a total value of ₹20,200 Cr. Among these, 15 projects, valued at approximately ₹4,330 Cr., have been successfully completed, while 21 projects, totalling around ₹15,850 Cr., are currently in various stages of implementation. One standout achievement of the Sagarmala Programme is the living example of Paradip Port’s growth Story. This Port today is the number one major port in cargo handling. Paradip Port will transform into a mega port with a formidable cargo handling capacity of over 300 MTPA very soon and will exceed 500 MTPA capacity by Amrit Kaal 2047. The mammoth traffic volume growth at the port in the recent years has been due to the successful implementation of Capacity augmentation projects under the Sagarmala projects. The Sagarmala program also envisions uplifting the fishermen community with the Modernization of Paradip Fishing Harbour project, with a project cost of  ₹108 Crores. The modern fishing harbour will be a strong step towards the coastal community development initiative in Odisha. For upliftment of fishermen community, a fishing harbour at Chandipur in Odisha has also been sanctioned under Sagarmala at a cost of ₹50 Cr. Paradip port is also being developed as a green hydrogen hub in the country.

    Odisha, a principal maritime state situated on the eastern coast of India, has a coastline of about 480 km. Paradip Port (290 MTPA Capacity, Cargo handled in 2023-24 – 145.38 MTPA) is the only Major Port in the State under the control of the Government of India. The Government of Odisha has already identified 14 potential sites for the development of Non – Major Ports, out of which, Dhamra (Adani – 100 MTPA Capacity) and Gopalpur (Shapoorji Pallonji & Odisha Stevedore Ltd. – 25 MTPA capacity) are already functioning.

    *****

    NKK/AK

    (Release ID: 2066548) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr Jitendra Singh releases first of its kind, largest ICMR-India Diabetes ‘INDIAB’ Study, all-India survey’s Jammu related data on prevalence of Diabetes in Jammu region

    Source: Government of India (2)

     Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who is also a nationally renowned Diabetologist, today released the Jammu related data of the ‘first of its kind’ world’s largest survey ‘ICMR-India Diabetes ‘INDIAB’ Study to assess the prevalence of Diabetes in India, including Jammu & Kashmir in Jammu today.

    According to the survey, the overall burden of the disease in Jammu region covering its 10 districts is 18.9 percent, with 26.5 percent in urban areas and 14.5 per cent in rural areas which is higher than the national average.

    Expressing concern over the rising cases of Diabetes in the region, Dr Jitendra Singh called upon everyone, including medical institutions, NGOs and the media to create awareness in the society about the disease in order to prevent and control it before it assumes an alarming proportion. He said the study offers an opportunity for prevention and control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). He called for adopting a multi-sectoral approach involving the government, non-governmental agencies, the community at large as well as the individual to slow down or stop the rising tide Diabetes and other NCDs.

    Describing the ICMR- India Diabetes (INDIAB) nationwide study as landmark, he said its findings will help to estimate the health burden due to Diabetes, prediabetes and metabolic NCD. He added that the study will also help in shifting focus to the prevention and control of Diabetes and other NCDs in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

    Dr Jitendra Singh further said that the findings of the study are expected to help policymakers, health professionals and stakeholders to develop targeted interventions for prevention and management of Diabetes and other NCDs in Jammu and across India as it was a national responsibility. He also mentioned the need for early detection of the disease as well as the need to break the chain of passing from one generation to another by focussing diabetic pregnant women.

    The Union Minister said that all-out efforts must be made to prevent the youth from falling prey to this preventable disease. Calling the youth architects of a Vikisit Bharat, the Minister said that proper care of their health and well-being must be taken by all the stakeholders. He said that the energy and potential of youngsters cannot be consigned to this silent killer, but must be nurtured and preserved to realise the goal of a developed India by the year 2047.

    Dr Jitendra Singh informed that the Government is setting up nearly 1,50,000 Health and Wellness Centres all over the country with a focus on prevention and control of NCDs like Diabetes, hypertension and some forms of cancer. The Union Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with bringing in a preventable healthcare ecosystem in the country, saying prior to COVID pandemic, this concept was alien to India. “Credit goes to Prime Minister Narendra for awakening the nation to the virtues of preventable healthcare, using traditional medicines like Ayurveda and Unani, and practising yoga for health”, the Minister noted.

    “It is at the initiative of PM Modi that 1.5 lakh Wellness Centres are to be opened across the country” , the Minister said.

    Dr Jitendra Singh called for tapping the vast expanse of unexplored Himalayan resources of J&K. He said these resources have a huge potential for making value addition to India’s economy. He expressed happiness at the recent impressive economic growth of India and said that India has now joined the league of top five economies of the world while mentioning that the journey from fragile five to top five economies of the world has been momentous.

    Further elaborating Dr Jitendra Singh said if the vast bio resources of J&K are tapped, they will contribute to India’s growth story in the times to come.

    According to the ICMR-INDIAB study, 10.8 per cent of the population in Jammu region is affected by prediabetes, emphasizing the urgent need for action against the growing burden of NCDs in the region.

    The Jammu phase surveyed 1,520 participants across urban and rural areas, providing critical insights into the region’s health landscape. As per the survey, the overall prevalence of hypertension, generalised obesity and abdominal obesity in Jammu is 27.1 %, 41.7 % and 62.7 % respectively. The study was conducted by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation with the collaboration of ICMR and the Department of Health Research.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone and inaugurates multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone and inaugurates multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    Inaugurates and lays foundation stone of multiple airport projects worth over Rs 6,100 crore

    Development initiatives of today will significantly benefit the citizens, especially our Yuva Shakti: PM

    In the last 10 years, we have started a huge campaign to build infrastructure in the country: PM

    Kashi is model city where development is taking place along with preservation of heritage:PM

    Government has given new emphasis to women empowerment ,society develops when the women and youth of the society are empowered: PM

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 6:47PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh today. The projects of today include multiple airport projects worth over Rs 6,100 crore and multiple development initiatives in Varanasi.

    Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that today is a very auspicious occasion for Kashi as he mentioned inaugurating RJ Sankara Eye Hospital earlier today. He said that the Hospital would be very helpful for the elderly and children. Referring to the development projects of today, the Prime Minister mentioned the inauguration of new airport terminals in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh including Babatpur Airport and Sarsawa Airport of Agra and Saharanpur. He emphasized that development projects pertaining to Education, Skill Development, Sports, Healthcare and Tourism among other sectors have been presented to Varanasi today which would not only boost services but also create employment opportunities for the youth. Shri Modi recalled participating in Abhidhamma Diwas a few days ago and mentioned inaugurating multiple development projects worth crores of rupees today related to the development of Sarnath, the land of Lord Buddha’s sermons. The Prime Minister highlighted the association of Sarnath and Varanasi With Pali and Prakrit languages and mentioned granting them the status of classical language recently. He said that it is a matter of great pride that languages used in the scriptures have been granted classical language status. The Prime Minister congratulated the people of Kashi and India for the development projects of today. 

    Recalling his promise to work three times more when he was given the opportunity to serve the people of Varanasi, the Prime Minister remarked that in less than 125 days of the formation of Government, the work on various schemes and projects worth more than Rs. 15 lakh crore had already begun. He added that the maximum budget of these was dedicated to the poor, farmers and the youths. Shri Modi said that today there was a discussion in every household about the work of Rs. 15 lakh crore as against the scams which were being reported in the newspapers a decade ago. He added that the change that the country desired where the money of the people was spent on the people along with the progress of the country with utmost honesty were the top priorities of the Government. 

    The Prime Minister underlined that the government has initiated a huge campaign for infrastructural development in the country in the last 10 years with two main objectives of improving services for the people and creating employment opportunities for the youth through investments. Giving examples of development works of modern highways, laying of railway tracks on new routes and establishment of new airports, the Prime Minister emphasized that it is enhancing convenience for the people and creating employment at the same time. He said that the construction of the highway for Babatpur Airport not only benefited the travelers but also gave a boost to agriculture, industry and tourism. He informed that work is already underway for the expansion of Babatpur Airport to increase its flight handling capacity.  

    Shri Modi highlighted that India’s airports and their magnificent buildings with amazing facilities is a topic of discussion all over the world. Shri Modi said that in 2014, there were only 70 airports, while today, there are more than 150 airports along with the renovation work of the old airports. He added that last year, the construction of new facilities was completed at more than a dozen airports in the country which include Aligarh, Moradabad, Shravasti and Chitrakoot airports. Shri Modi remarked that the grand international airport in Ayodhya was welcoming Ram devotees every day. The Prime Minister highlighted that today UP was known as ‘state of expressways’ as against the past when it was taunted for its dilapidated roads. He added that today UP was also known as a state with the most number of international airports with a grand international airport going to be built soon in Jewar, Noida. Shri Modi lauded the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers of UP along with the entire team for the progress of UP.

    The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the rate of progress as a Member of Parliament from Varanasi and reiterated his dream of making Kashi a model city of urban development where progress and heritage go hand in hand. He said that today Kashi is identified by the grand and divine Dham of Baba Vishwanath, Rudraksh Convention Center, infrastructure projects like Ring Road and Ganjari Stadium and modern facilities like ropeway. “City’s wide roads and beautiful ghats of Ganga ji are captivating everyone today”, he added.

    The Prime Minister said that it is the Government’s constant endeavor to make Kashi and Purvanchal a huge center of trade and business as he mentioned  the construction of a new rail-road bridge over River Ganga a few days ago which would comprise a 6 lane highway and railway lines for several trains. He said that it would hugely benefit the people of Varanasi and Chandauli. 

    “Our Kashi is now becoming a very big center for sports”, said Shri Modi. He added that the revamped Sigra Stadium was in front of the people now and arrangements were made in the new stadium for preparations from national competitions to Olympics along with modern facilities for sports. The Prime Minister highlighted the potential of young players of Kashi, which was evident during the Member of Parliament sports competition and now youngsters of Purvanchal were provided with good facilities for preparing for bigger competitions.

    Underlining that development of society occurs when its women and youth are empowered, the Prime Minister stressed that the government has given new strength to women. He mentioned schemes like Mudra Yojna where crores of women have been facilitated loans to start their own businesses. “Today, efforts are being made to create ‘Lakhpati Didis’ in villages and women are even becoming drone pilots”, PM Modi said. Highlighting the belief in Kashi that even Lord Shiva seeks alms from Goddess Annapurna, the Prime Minister said that this belief has driven the government to place Nari Shakit at the center of every initiative for the goal of Viksit Bharat. He emphasized that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, millions of women have been handed out their own homes including women of Varanasi. The Prime Minister also highlighted that the government is set to construct another three crore houses and assured that those women who have yet to receive homes under the PM Awas scheme will be given their houses soon. In addition to providing piped water, Ujjwala gas, and electricity, PM Modi said that the new PM Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme will further ease the lives of women, allowing them to benefit from free power and even earn from it.

    “Our Kashi is a multi-hued cultural city, with the holy Jyotirlinga of Lord Shankar, a Moksha Tirtha like Manikarnika and also a place of knowledge like Sarnath”, said Shri Modi. He remarked that it was only after decades, that so much work was simultaneously carried out for the development of Banaras. Questioning the previous governments on the poor development and progress of Varanasi, Shri Modi remarked that his Government worked on the mantra of Sabka Saath. Sabka Vikas without any discrimination in any scheme. He added that the Government stuck to its words and cited the example of the grand Ram temple built in Ayodhya, as promised. He also mentioned the historic reservation for women in the Vidhan Sabha and Lok Sabha completed by the government. Shri Modi also mentioned the other achievements of abolition of Triple Talaq, granting constitutional status to the Backward Class Commission and granting 10 percent reservation to the economically backward classes of people.

    “We have done our work with sincerity, implemented policies with good intentions and strive to improve the lives of every family in the country,” said Prime Minister Modi. He emphasized that the nation’s continuous blessings are a result of the government’s efforts as recently seen in Haryana, where the ruling dispensation secured its third consecutive government. He also noted the record number of votes received in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Noting that dynastic politics is a significant danger to the country, especially to the youth, the Prime Minister explained that such form of politics often deprives young people of opportunities. He reiterated his clarion call from the Red Fort to bring one lakh young individuals into politics whose families have no political background. He stressed that this initiative will change the direction of Indian politics eradicating corruption and family-driven mindsets. Encouraging the youth of Kashi and Uttar Pradesh, the Prime Minister said, “I urge the youth to become the pivot of this new political movement. As the Member of Parliament of Kashi, I am committed to bringing forward as many young people as possible.” Concluding the address, the Prime Minister said that Kashi stands as a symbol of new benchmarks of development for the entire nation. He congratulated the states and people of Kashi on the new development programs launched today.

    Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu were present on the occasion among others. 

    Background

    In line with his commitment to boost connectivity, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the expansion of the airport runway and construction of a new terminal building and allied works of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi worth around Rs 2870 crore. He also laid the foundation stone of New Civil Enclave at Agra Airport worth more than Rs 570 crore, Darbhanga Airport worth around Rs 910 crore and Bagdogra Airport worth around Rs 1550 crore.

    The Prime Minister inaugurated new terminal buildings of Rewa Airport, Maa Mahamaya Airport, Ambikapur and Sarsawa Airport worth over Rs 220 crore. The combined passenger handling capacity of these airports increases to more than 2.3 crore passengers annually. The designs of these airports are influenced and derived from the common elements of heritage structures of the region.

    In line with his vision to provide top-quality infrastructure for sports, the Prime Minister inaugurated Phases 2 and 3 of the redevelopment of Varanasi Sports Complex worth over Rs 210 crore under Khelo India scheme and the Smart City Mission. The project aims to create a state-of-the-art sports complex featuring a National Centre of Excellence, players’ hostels, sports science center, practice fields for various sports, indoor shooting ranges and combat sports arenas among others. He also inaugurated 100-bed girls’ and boys’ hostels and a public pavilion at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Sports Stadium, Lalpur.

    The Prime Minister inaugurated tourism development works in Buddhism-related areas in Sarnath. These enhancements include the construction of pedestrian-friendly streets, new sewer lines and upgraded drainage systems and organized vending zones with modern designer vending carts to promote local handicraft vendors, among others. The Prime Minister also inaugurated multiple other initiatives like tourism development works at Banasur Temple and Gurudham Temple along with beautification and redevelopment of parks etc.

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR/TS

    (Release ID: 2066539) Visitor Counter : 26

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KARMAYOGI SAPTAH

    Source: Government of India (2)

    KARMAYOGI SAPTAH

    National Learning Week: A New Era of Capacity Building for Civil Services Under Mission Karmayogi

    Speakers for tomorrow’s Indic Day Webinar Series

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 6:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated the National Learning Week (NLW) on the 19th October, 2024, marking a new chapter in civil service capacity building under the Mission Karmayogi initiative.

    This groundbreaking effort aims to foster continuous skill enhancement and lifelong learning among civil servants, ensuring their competencies align with the country’s evolving goals.

    The National Learning Week will feature the Indic Day Webinar Series, on 21st October, 2024. Esteemed speakers from diverse domains will share insights on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), civilizational development and digital infrastructure, offering a rich understanding of how traditional wisdom and modern innovations intersect.

    Key Highlights of the Day:

    • Mr David Frawley: A Vedic scholar, Mr. Frawley shall explore the Karmayogi philosophy and its emphasis on selfless action as a path to personal and societal excellence.
    • Mr Raghava Krishna: Mr. Krishna shall discuss the importance of Indian Knowledge Systems and the need for a multidisciplinary approach to tackle global challenges.
    • Mr Amritanshu Pandey: Historian, Mr. Pandey shall speak about the enduring influence of Sanskrit and Sanskriti in shaping India’s civilizational heritage and future trajectory.
    • Mr Nandan Nilekani and Mr Shankar Maruwada: Tech innovators such as Mr. Nilekani and Mr. Maruwada shall examine India’s digital public infrastructure and the opportunities for future growth and empowerment.

    This series of webinars will underscore the broader themes of Mission Karmayogi, connecting India’s past wisdom with its future aspirations.

    Details and timings are as follows:

     

     *****

    NKK/AG/GS

    (Release ID: 2066530) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates Saharanpur, Rewa and Ambikapur airports under RCS-UDAN

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates Saharanpur, Rewa and Ambikapur airports under RCS-UDAN

    RCS-UDAN celebrates 08 Years in service of the Nation

    1.44 crore people already flown under RCS-UDAN

    601 UDAN routes operationalized so far

    RCS key element of NCAP 2016 to promote Regional Air Connectivity

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 6:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated three airports, developed under the  Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. These airports are: Rewa in Madhya Pradesh, Ambikapur in Chhatisgarh and Saharanpur in UP. Flights under RCS-UDAN will begin from these airports shortly.

    The RCS- UDAN, a government-backed initiative to improve infrastructure and connectivity in India, especially in remote and underserved regions, completes seven years. It is a vital component of India’s National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016, launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) on October 21, 2016, with a 10-year vision.

    The first RCS-UDAN flight was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on April 27, 2017, connecting Shimla to Delhi. The scheme focuses on improving unserved air routes in underserved regions of the country and fulfilling the aspirations of the common citizens.

    So far, the RCS-UDAN has facilitated travel of more than 144 lakh passengers, demonstrating its success in enhancing air travel accessibility.

    Over the period of 7 years, various versions of UDAN Scheme were launched, as follows:

     

    • UDAN 1.0: Five airlines companies were awarded 128 flight routes to 70 airports (including 36 newly made operational airports)
    • UDAN 2.0: 73 underserved and unserved airports were announced and for the first time, helipads were also connected.
    • UDAN 3.0: In coordination with the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Routes were included. In addition to Seaplanes for connecting Water Aerodromes, several routes in the North-East Region came under the ambit of the scheme.
    • UDAN 4.0: Gave impetus to North-Eastern Regions, Hilly States, and Islands. The operation of helicopters and seaplanes incorporated.

     

    UDAN Version 5 – 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 &5.4

    Following the four successful rounds of bidding, the Ministry of Civil Aviation launched the 5thversion of RCS-UDAN with numerous improvements based on stakeholder feedback.

    UDAN 5.0 where the focus is on Category-2 (20-80 seats) and Category-3 (>80 seats) aircraft. Similarly, the cap of 600 km has been removed and there is no restriction on the distance between the origin and destination of the flight. This round prioritizes the routes that will connect the airports that are ready for operations or will be ready soon, which will lead to quicker operationalization of awarded routes. Consequently, Airlines would now be required to commence operations within 4 months of the award of the route, and they are welcoming this change as this helps them to better plan their operations.

    This was soon followed by UDAN 5.1, This round of RCS-UDAN is designed specifically for helicopter routes by increasing the scope of operations for helicopter operators, enhancing VGF and reducing Airfare Caps. The Scheme will now allow operations on routes provided that at least one origin or destination is in a priority area and at least one origin or destination is a heliport, thereby enhancing the potential range of connectivity. VGF caps have been enhanced to improve viability for operators and airfare caps have been reduced to make flying more affordable for passengers respectively.

    Later, bidding for UDAN 5.2 was launched to further enhance the connectivity to remote and regional areas of the country, achieve last-mile connectivity, and provide impetus to the tourism sector through small aircraft (<20 seats). The Scheme will provide greater operational flexibility to the small aircraft operators, by allowing them to operate a maximum of 40% of annually quoted RCS seats and a minimum of 10% of annually quoted RCS seats in any given quarter.

    The Ministry of Civil Aviation further launched special bidding rounds to operationalize the routes those have been discontinued before completion of tenure or cancelled/terminated due to multiple reasons. In order to further enhance point-to-point air connectivity on such previously identified routes, bids under UDAN 5.3 and UDAN 5.4 were invited from all categories of airline operators. Consequently, UDAN 5.3 was launched in January 2024, while UDAN 5.4 is underway.

    Fueling Growth in the Aviation Industry

    RCS-UDAN is contributing to the growth of the civil aviation industry as many new and successful airlines have come up in the last seven years. The scheme has helped airline operators to start up and develop a sustainable business model. Additionally, it’s providing opportunities to small regional airlines Flybig, Star Air, IndiaOne Air and Fly91 to scale up their businesses and their successful run is evidence of the fact that the scheme is creating an amiable ecosystem conducive to airline business.

    Demand for new aircraft of all sizes

    The scheme’s incremental expansion has generated an escalating demand for new aircraft, concurrently broadening the spectrum of aircraft deployed. This augmentation encompasses a comprehensive range of aircraft and encompasses helicopters, seaplanes, 3-seat propeller planes, and jet planes. Presently, a diversified fleet, including Airbus 320/321, Boeing 737, ATR 42 and 72, DHC Q400, Twin Otter, Embraer 145 and 175, Tecnam P2006T, Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX, Dornier 228, Airbus H130, and Bell 407 is actively serving on the RCS routes. The heightened demand for aircraft is substantiated by Indian carriers’ orders, which exceed 1,000 aircraft slated for delivery over the next 10-15 years, representing a significant augmentation of India’s existing fleet, which currently comprises approximately 800 planes operated by various airlines.

    Promoting tourism

    RCS-UDAN is not solely dedicated to offering last-mile connectivity to tier-2 and tier-3 cities; it also stands as a prominent contributor to the burgeoning tourism sector. UDAN 3.0 introduced tourism routes connecting several destinations in the Northeast region, while UDAN 5.1 is dedicated to expanding helicopter services in hilly regions to stimulate tourism, hospitality, and local economic growth.

    This initiative has successfully connected destinations such as Khajuraho, Deoghar, Amritsar, and Kishangarh (Ajmer), which have substantial relevance in religious tourism. The entire Northeast region’s tourism industry is experiencing a considerable upsurge due to the introduction of Pasighat, Ziro, Hollongi, and Tezu airports, fostering greater accessibility.The Scheme also achieved another milestone by bringingAgatti Island on the Indian aviation map, further boosting tourism in Lakshadweep.

    Boosting air connectivity

    From Mundra (Gujarat) to Tezu in Arunachal Pradesh andKullu in Himachal Pradesh to Salem in Tamil Nadu, RCS-UDAN hasconnected 34 States/UTs across the length and breadth of the country. A total of 86 aerodromes have been operationalized under UDAN. Ten airports have been operationalized in the Northeast regionin addition to two heliports. Many airports that were operationalized under UDAN such as Darbhanga, Prayagraj, Hubli, Belgaum, Kannur, etc. have or may soon become sustainable with many non-RCS commercial flights operating from these airports.

    ******

    PSF/DK

    (Release ID: 2066529) Visitor Counter : 40

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah pays homage to the martyrs on Police Commemoration Day at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah pays homage to the martyrs on Police Commemoration Day at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi

    Police personnel across the country are determined to fulfil Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s dream of building a fully developed India

    Central structure at the National Police Memorial symbolizes the unwavering commitment of our soldiers to duty, their profound patriotism, and willingness to make the supreme sacrifice

    Country will always be indebted to the police personnel who made the supreme sacrifice while performing their duty

    Welfare of police personnel is the priority of Modi government

    Modi Government has introduced many welfare schemes related to health, housing and scholarships for police personnel

    The National Police Memorial built by PM Modi in honour of the sacrifice of the Jawans will continue to inspire our youth and remind citizens that the safety and progress we enjoy today is because of the supreme sacrifice of thousands of soldiers

    In the last decade, due to the dedication of the security forces, Left Wing Extremism, decades-long unrest in Kashmir and the North-East came to an end

    Country is facing challenges like drones, narcotics trade, cybercrime, attempts to spread unrest through AI

    No matter how big the threats and challenges are, they will not be able to stand in front of the unwavering resolve of our soldiers

    Soldiers have given their supreme sacrifice for the country and this is why the country is progressing

    On this day in 1959, 10 CRPF soldiers sacrificed their lives while fighting the Chinese army, that is why this day is celebrated as Police Memorial Day

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 2:52PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah paid homage to the martyrs on Police Commemoration Day at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi today. On this occasion, Shri Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs, Shri Govind Mohan, Union Home Secretary, Shri Tapan Kumar Deka, Director, Intelligence Bureau (IB), senior officers of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and several other dignitaries were present.

    In his address, Union Home Minister said that the Jawans of the police forces safeguard India’s borders from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Kutch to Kibithu. He mentioned that the personnel of the forces are always guarding us and the borders, whether it is day or night, during festivals or disasters, in extreme heat, rain, or cold waves.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the central structure at the National Police Memorial symbolizes the unwavering commitment of our soldiers to duty, their profound patriotism, and their willingness to make the supreme sacrifice. He mentioned that on this very day in 1959, 10 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel bravely faced the Chinese army and sacrificed their lives. Shri Shah said that after becoming Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi decided to build a police memorial in the heart of Delhi to honour the sacrifice of these soldiers. He further stated that this police memorial will continue to inspire our youth and remind citizens that the safety and progress we enjoy today is because of the supreme sacrifice of thousands of these soldiers. He added that 36,468 police personnel have laid down their lives for the safety and security of the country, which has enabled the nation to progress. He also mentioned that in the last one year, 216 police personnel sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, and the country will forever be indebted to these brave soldiers.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that there has been a tradition of our police forces making the supreme sacrifice for the security of the nation. He added that we also have a proud history where brave soldiers, from the icy and treacherous peaks of the Himalayas to the harsh deserts of Kutch and Barmer and the vast oceans, safeguard the country fearlessly, ensuring its security.

    Shri Amit Shah said that there was disruption of peace in Jammu & Kashmir, Left-wing extremism affected areas, and the Northeast for decades, but in the past decade, we have succeeded in establishing peace due to the dedication and efficiency of our security forces. He added that, however, our fight is not over yet. Emerging threats like drones, narcotics trade, cybercrime, attempts to spread unrest through Artificial Intelligence (AI), conspiracies to incite religious sentiments, infiltration, smuggling of illegal weapons, and terrorism are the challenges we face today. Shri Shah stated that no matter how big the threats and challenges are, they cannot stand in the face of the unwavering resolve of our soldiers.

    Union Home Minister said that the police personnel across the country are determined to fulfil Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of building a fully developed India by 2047. He mentioned that the implementation of the three new criminal laws passed by the country’s Parliament has already begun in all the states and union territories. He said that once these laws are fully implemented, our criminal justice system will become the most modern justice system in the world. He further added that in any crime registered in any corner of the country, justice will be served within three years, right up to the Supreme Court. He emphasized that the path to overcoming delays in justice lies in the implementation of these three new laws.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the Modi Government has introduced many schemes for the welfare of police personnel. He mentioned that through Ayushman CAPF scheme, more than 41 lakhs cards have been distributed and 13 lakh claims worth about Rs. 1422 crore have been settled. He said that health of our Jawans and their families is being taken care of anywhere through this card. He said that in the housing scheme also, we have set a target to increase the housing satisfaction ratio. Shri Shah said that the Modi government had approved the construction of 13,000 houses and 113 barracks at a cost of Rs. 3100 crore in 2015, out of which 11,276 houses and 111 barracks have been completed by March 2024. He said through CAPF e-Awas web portal, vacant houses have been allotted. The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme has proved to be a blessing for the children of our police personnel. Along with this, 26 seats in MBBS and 3 seats in BDS have also been reserved for the dependents of CAPF personnel. Increasing the central ex-gratia amount to lump-sum compensation provides great relief to the families of our jawans.

     

    Union Home Minister said that our police personnel, especially the personnel of CAPFs, perform many other tasks in addition to maintaining law and order and ensuring the security of the country. He said that from 2019 to 2024, CAPF personnel have planted about 5 crore 80 lakh 90 thousand saplings and are taking care of them like their own child. Shri Shah said that through the Civic Action Programme, efforts are being made to bring all the schemes of the Government of India and state governments to the citizens in all border districts. Home Minister said that the sacrifice of the jawans who laid down their lives for the country will not go in vain. He said that due to the sacrifices of these soldiers, the security of the country will be ensured and by 2047, India will emerge as a developed nation. He added that this grateful nation will always remember the sacrifices of these jawans with reverence during the centenary of independence.

    *****

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2066653) Visitor Counter : 100

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    The Hospital will remove darkness from the lives of many people in Varanasi and the region, leading them towards light: PM

    Kashi is also now becoming famous as a big health center and healthcare hub of Purvanchal in UP: PM

    Today, India’s health strategy has five pillars – Preventive healthcare, Timely diagnosis of disease, Free and low-cost treatment, Good treatment in small towns and Expansion of technology in healthcare: PM

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh today. The hospital offers comprehensive consultations and treatments for various eye conditions. Shri Modi also took a walkthrough of the exhibition showcased on the occasion.

    Addressing the occasion, the Prime Minister said that visiting Kashi during this auspicious period is an opportunity to experience virtue. He noted the gracious presence of the people of Kashi, saints and philanthropists and mentioned performing darshan and receiving prasadam and blessings with Param Pujya Shankaracharya ji. The Prime Minister emphasized that Kashi and Uttaranchal have been blessed with another modern hospital today and mentioned the dedication of RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in the land of Lord Shankar. Shri Modi congratulated the people of Kashi and Uttaranchal on the occasion.

    Giving an analogy of a quote mentioned in the ancient scriptures of India, the Prime Minister remarked that RJ Sankara Eye hospital would wipe out the darkness and lead many people towards light. Shri Modi said that having just visited the eye hospital, he felt it was an amalgamation of spirituality and modernity and the hospital would serve both the old and young in giving eyesight. He added that the poor would be getting free treatment in the hospital in large numbers. Shri Modi noted that the eye hospital would also create new job avenues for many youths as well as job and internship opportunities for medical students along with jobs for the support staff as well.

    The Prime Minister recalled his association with Sankara Eye Foundation during his time as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and mentioned inaugurating Sankara Eye Hospital in the presence of Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi’s guru. He said that it is a matter of great contentment to receive the blessings of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peethadipathi, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Chandrashekharendra Saraswati Swamigal and mentioned accomplishing several tasks under the guidance of Param Pujya Jagadguru Sri Jayendra Saraswati  Referring to today’s occasion, the Prime Minister said that it is a matter of personal satisfaction being associated with three different traditions of Gurus. The Prime Minister thanked Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi for blessing the occasion and welcomed him as the people’s representative of Varanasi. 

    Shri Modi also reminisced about the service and work of noted entrepreneur, Late Shri, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. He also lauded the latter’s wife Smt Rekha Jhunjhunwala for continuing the heritage and legacy of Shri Jhunjhunwala. The Prime Minister recalled that he had requested both Sankara Eye Hospital and Chitrakoot Eye Hospital to set up their establishments in Varanasi and was thankful to both organizations that both had respected the request of people of Kashi. He noted that in the past, thousands of people from his parliamentary constituency had been treated at Chitrakoot Eye Hospital and now there were two new state-of-the-art eye hospitals within their reach in Varanasi.

    Noting that from time immemorial, Varanasi was identified as the religious and cultural capital, the Prime Minister remarked that now Varanasi was becoming famous as UP and Purvanchal’s healthcare hub as well. Be it the BHU Trauma Center or superspeciality hospital or Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital or strengthening the facilities at Kabir Chaura Hospital or a speciality hospital for the senior citizens and government servants or medical colleges, Shri Modi said there was a lot of work done in the healthcare sector in the last decade. He added that there was a modern health facility even for the treatment of cancer patients in Varanasi. Shri Modi highlighted that the patients were getting good medical treatment in Varanasi itself today as against the visit to Delhi or Mumbai previously. He added that thousands of people from Bihar, Jharkhand and other places were coming to Varanasi for treatment. The Prime Minister remarked that the erstwhile “Mokshadayini” (Salvation giver) Varanasi was transitioning to a  “NavJeevandayini” (New Life giver) Varanasi as well with new energy and resources. 

    Talking about previous governments, the Prime Minister remarked that healthcare facilities in Purvanchal including Varanasi were neglected. He added that the situation was such that 10 years ago, there were no block-level treatment centers for brain fever in Purvanchal leading to the death of Children causing hue and cry in the media. Shri Modi expressed satisfaction that in the last decade, there had been an unprecedented expansion of health facilities not only in Kashi but in the entire region of Purvanchal. He noted that today there were more than 100 such centers working to treat brain fever in Purvanchal and more than 10 thousand new beds have been added in the primary and community centers of Purvanchal in the last decade. He further noted that in 10 years, more than 5 and a half thousand Ayushman Arogya Mandirs were built in the villages of Purvanchal. The Prime Minister also said that there were more than 20 dialysis units working today which were providing free treatment to patients as compared to 10 years ago when there were no dialysis facilities in the district hospitals of Purvanchal.

    The Prime Minister emphasized that India of the 21st century has shed the old mentality and approach pertaining to healthcare. He underlined the five pillars of India’s healthcare strategy namely preventive healthcare, timely diagnosis, free medicines and treatment, better healthcare facilities and adequate doctors in small towns and lastly expansive use of technology in healthcare services.

    Underlining that preventing people from ailments is the highest priority and a first pillar of India’s healthcare policy, the Prime Minister pointed out that diseases tend to make people poorer. Noting that 25 crore people have risen out of poverty in the last 10 years, Shri Modi said that one serious ailment can push them back towards poverty. Therefore, said the Prime Minister, the Government is paying special attention to cleanliness, Yoga, ayurveda and nutrition. Highlighting the expansive reach of the vaccination drive, the Prime Minister pointed out that vaccination coverage remained only around 60 percent ten years ago when crores of children were left out. He lamented the scope of vaccination increasing at a rate of only one to one and a half percent every year and said that it would have taken another 40-50 years to bring every area and every child under the vaccination coverage. He said that the present government prioritized increasing the coverage of vaccination among children and mentioned Mission Indradhanush which involved many ministries working together resulting in an increase in vaccination coverage rate and taking the services to crores of pregnant women and children. He said that the benefits of the Government’s emphasis on vaccination were visible during the covid pandemic while today, this vaccination campaign is going on rapidly across the country.

    The Prime Minister underlined the importance of early detection of disease and mentioned the establishment of lakhs of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across the country to detect many diseases like cancer and diabetes at the very beginning. He said that a network of critical care blocks and modern labs are also being built in the country today. “This second pillar of the health sector is saving the lives of lakhs of people”, he added. 

    Explaining the third pillar of health being low-cost treatment and cheap medicines, the Prime Minister underlined that the average expenditure on the treatment of diseases has been reduced by 25 percent and also mentioned PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras where medicines are available at 80 percent discount. He informed that the price of heart stents, knee implants and cancer medicines have been significantly reduced while Ayushman Yojana provides free treatment for the poor up to Rs 5 lakh proving to be a lifesaver. He informed that more than 7.5 crore patients have so far availed the benefit of free treatment under Ayushman Yojana.  

    Elaborating the fourth pillar of the health sector. Shri Modi noted that it was going to reduce the dependence on big cities like Delhi-Mumbai for treatment. He added that the Government had established hospitals like AIIMS, medical colleges and super speciality hospitals in small cities in the last decade. The Prime Minister also noted that thousands of new medical seats were added in the last decade to overcome the shortage of doctors in the country. He added that the Government had decided to add 75 thousand more seats in the next 5 years.

    The Prime Minister explained the fifth pillar of the health sector was to make health facilities more accessible through technology. He added that today digital health IDs were being created and patients were provided the facility of consultation at home through means like e-Sanjeevani app. Expressing happiness, Shri Modi noted that till now more than 30 crore people had been consulted with the help of e-Sanjeevani app. He added that India was also moving towards connecting health services with drone technology.

    Concluding the address, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that a healthy and capable young generation will fulfill the resolve of a Viksit Bharat. Shri Modi conveyed his best wishes, especially to India’s doctors, paramedics and other staff.

    Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath and Jagadguru Peethadipathi of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, Kanchipuram, Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi were present on the occasion among others. 

     

    /center>

    /center>

    /center>

    /center>

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR/TS

    (Release ID: 2066522) Visitor Counter : 100

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri J.P. Nadda inaugurates the “Medicine Update BJMFCON 2024”, organized by the Bihar & Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri J.P. Nadda inaugurates the “Medicine Update BJMFCON 2024”, organized by the Bihar & Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF)

    Out of total 1.73 lakh high-quality Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in India, 10,716 are in Bihar with a footfall of 8.35 crore and 4.36 crore non-communicable disease (NCD) screenings, 3,825 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in Jharkhand with a footfall of 2.33 crore and 2.12 crore NCD screenings: Shri Nadda

    “Infant Mortality Rate in Bihar came down from 42 to 27 in 2020, and in Jharkhand, from 34 to 25 in 2020”

    “157 District hospitals converted to medical colleges in India, out of which 8 were in Bihar (in Purnia, Saran, Samastipur, Jhajharpur, Siwan, Buxar, and Jamui) and 5 in Jharkhand (in Dumka, Hazaribagh, Palamu, Chaibasa, and Kodarma)”

    “The Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) is being redeveloped into Asia’s second-largest hospital”

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 4:49PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri J.P. Nadda inaugurated the “Medicine Update BJMFCON 2024”, organized by the Bihar & Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF), here today. As the chief guest at the event, Shri Nadda also released the ‘Souvenir and BJMF Directory’.

    Bihar & Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF) is a socio-scientific organization of doctors from the states of Bihar & Jharkhand practicing in the Delhi NCR Region for long and serving the people of the region. The first Medicine Update was held in 2023. The 2ndMedicine Update BJMFCON was held today.

     

     

    Addressing the BJMFCON 2024, Shri Nadda stated that “I am delighted to know that BJMF takes its socio, academic and scientific program ahead. You all have not just become doctors for yourself but also have given back to society. United efforts have been made by you to ensure outreach to society while also enlightening yourself through such conferences, continued medical education, seminars, group discussions, and panel discussions conducted by the BJMF.”

     

     

    Highlighting the government’s efforts in transforming the health landscape of the country, Shri Nadda stated that “under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the government is taking steps to ensure high quality and affordable healthcare facilities to all” and “is committed to implementing a comprehensive health policy that provides holistic, inclusive, preventive, promotive, curative, palliative and rehabilitative care to all.”

     

    Underlining the government’s efforts on preventive aspects of healthcare and early detection of diseases in the country, he stated that, “there are 1.73 lakh high-quality Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in India that go through a digital high-quality assessment. Out of the total Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in India, 10,716 are in Bihar with a footfall of 8.35 crore and 4.36 crore non-communicable disease (NCD) screenings, while there are 3,825 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in Jharkhand with a footfall of 2.33 crore and 2.12 crore NCD screenings.”

     

     

    Highlighting the strides made in mother and child health, he stated that “institutional deliveries increased from 78.9% to 88.6% in first 5 years of Modi Government”, Shri Nadda stated that “the infant mortality rate (IMR) has declined in the country. IMR in India was 28 per 1000 live births in 2020.  In Bihar, it came down from 42 to 27 in 2020, and in Jharkhand, from 34 to 25 in 2020. The under 5 Mortality Rate was 32 per 1000 live births in India in 2020. In Bihar, it came down from 53 to 30 in 2020 and from 44 to 27 in 2020, in Jharkhand.”

     

    He further added that “from 387 before 2014 to 766, an increase of 98% in the number of medical colleges has been ensured under the Prime Minister’s leadership. 157 District hospitals were converted to medical colleges out of which 8 were in Bihar in Purnia, Saran, Samastipur, Jhajharpur, Siwan, Buxar, and Jamui. 5 of these were in Jharkhand in Dumka, Hazaribagh, Palamu, Chaibasa, and Kodarma.” He emphasized that “the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) is being redeveloped into Asia’s second-largest hospital.”

     

    He added that “The number of MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) seats has seen an increase of 125% i.e. from 51,348 before 2014 to 1,15, 412. While there has been an increase of 134% in postgraduate (PG) seats from 31,185 before 2014 to 73,111.”

     

    He also highlighted that “under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) to correct regional imbalances in the availability of affordable/ reliable tertiary healthcare services and also to augment facilities for quality medical education in the country new All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) will be opened up in Patna and Darbhanga in Bihar and at Deoghar in Jharkhand.” He also added that “under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), the world’s largest health insurance scheme, Rs. 86,797 crores worth of treatment has been authorized. As part of its commitment to senior care, the government has extended Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY to all seniors aged 70 and above which facilitates them accessing up to ₹5 lakh of healthcare benefits.”

     

     

    He commended the healthcare providers “for their relentless efforts to ensure the accessibility of healthcare services even in the remotest areas of the country” and highlighted their efforts and service during the COVID-19 pandemic. He concluded his remarks by thanking the doctors for their contribution to providing healthcare to the people and ensuring the achievements of the government in this direction and urged the participants of the programme to come up with concrete recommendations for improving healthcare facilities in the country.

    ****

     MV/AKS

     HFW/HFM inaugurates “Medicine Update BJMFCON 2024”/20th October 2024/1

    (Release ID: 2066513) Visitor Counter : 79

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: World Iodine Deficiency Day

    Source: Government of India (2)

    World Iodine Deficiency Day

    Strengthening Public Health through Awareness and Action

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 4:15PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    World Iodine Deficiency Day, also known as Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day, is observed annually on 21st October. The day aims to raise awareness about the essential role of iodine in maintaining good health and to emphasize the consequences of iodine deficiency. This document outlines the importance of iodine in daily nutrition and its crucial significance in preventing iodine deficiency disorders.

    What is Iodine?

     

    Iodine is an essential component of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism and are crucial for fetal and infant development. Found in foods and iodized salt, iodine exists in several forms, including sodium and potassium salts, inorganic iodine (I2), iodate, and iodide. Iodide, the most common form, is quickly absorbed in the stomach and used by the thyroid for hormone production. Most excess iodide is excreted through urine.

     

    What happens in Iodine Deficiency?

     

    Iodine deficiency has multiple adverse effects on growth and development and is the most common cause of preventable intellectual disability in the world. Iodine deficiency disorders result from inadequate thyroid hormone production secondary to insufficient iodine. During pregnancy and early infancy, iodine deficiency can cause irreversible effects.

    • If a person’s iodine intake falls below approximately 10–20 mcg/day,

    hypothyroidism occurs, a condition that is frequently accompanied by goitre.

    Goitre is usually the earliest clinical sign of iodine deficiency.

    • In pregnant women, iodine deficiency of this magnitude can cause major

     neurodevelopmental deficits and growth retardation in the fetus as well as

     miscarriage and stillbirth.

    • Chronic, severe iodine deficiency in utero causes cretinism, a condition

    characterized by intellectual disability, deaf mutism, motor spasticity,

     stunted growth, delayed sexual maturation, and other physical and

    neurological abnormalities.

    • In infants and children, less severe iodine deficiency can also cause

     neurodevelopmental deficits such as somewhat lower than average intelligence

     as measured by IQ.

    • Mild to moderate maternal iodine deficiency has also been associated with an

    increased risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.

    • In adults, mild to moderate iodine deficiency can cause goiter as well as

    impaired mental function and work productivity secondary to hypothyroidism.

    • Chronic iodine deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of the

    follicular form of thyroid cancer.

     

    National Efforts to Eradicate Iodine Deficiency

    Recognizing the serious health implications of iodine deficiency, the Government of India initiated national efforts to combat the problem through the National Goitre Control Programme (NGCP) in 1962. This program marked a significant step toward addressing iodine deficiency, which was linked to conditions such as mental and physical retardation, cretinism, and stillbirths.

     

    In 1992, the program was broadened and renamed the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) to cover a wider range of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) and ensure its implementation across all States and Union Territories.

     

    Primary goals of NIDDCP include:

    • Reducing the prevalence of IDD to below 5% nationwide.
    • Achieving 100% consumption of adequately iodized salt (with 15 ppm of iodine) at the household level.

     

    To accomplish these goals, the programme focuses on several key objectives:

     

    • Conducting surveys to assess the magnitude of IDD in different districts.
    • Replacing common salt with iodized salt in affected regions.
    • Conducting resurveys every five years to measure the impact of iodized salt on IDD.
    • Monitoring iodized salt quality and urinary iodine excretion through laboratory testing.
    • Promoting health education and public awareness about iodine’s role in preventing IDD.

     

    A major policy decision was made in 1984 to iodize all edible salt in India, which became a phased initiative starting in 1986. By 1992, the country aimed to fully transition to iodized salt. Today, India produces 65 lakh metric tonnes of iodized salt annually, which is sufficient to meet the needs of its population. This ongoing national effort underscores the government’s commitment to eradicating iodine deficiency and improving public health.

     

    Achievements of the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP)

     

    The implementation of the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) has led to significant achievements in the reduction of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) across India:

     

    • Reduction in Total Goiter Rate (TGR): The programme has substantially reduced the Total Goiter Rate, a key indicator of iodine deficiency, across the country.
    • Increased Iodized Salt Production & Consumption: The production of iodized salt has reached 65 lakh metric tonnes (MT) annually, which is sufficient to meet the dietary needs of the Indian population.
    • Regulatory Measures: Under Regulation 2.3.12 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulation, 2011, the sale of common salt for direct human consumption is prohibited unless the salt is iodized, ensuring nationwide use of iodized salt.
    • Establishment of Monitoring Laboratories: A National Reference Laboratory for monitoring iodine deficiency disorders has been established at the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Delhi, along with four regional laboratories at NIN, Hyderabad, AIIH&PH, Kolkata, AIIMS, and NCDC, Delhi. These laboratories conduct training, monitoring, and quality control of salt and urine testing for iodine levels.
    • State-Level Implementation: 35 States/UTs have set up IDD Control Cells within their respective State Health Directorates, and an equal number have established State IDD Monitoring Laboratories to ensure effective implementation of the programme.
    • Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Activities: Extensive IEC campaigns have been carried out to raise public awareness about the importance of regularly consuming iodized salt to prevent IDD.

    Global efforts to combat iodine deficiency

     

    Global efforts to combat iodine deficiency have been significant, with initiatives like Iodine Deficiency Day focusing on raising awareness about the critical role iodine plays in thyroid function, growth, and development. Globally, an estimated 1.88 billion people are at risk of inadequate iodine intake, impacting nearly 30% of school-aged children. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have championed universal salt iodization since 1993, resulting in over 120 countries adopting iodization programs.

    These concerted efforts have led to a significant reduction in iodine deficiency disorders across India, contributing to the improvement of public health.

     

    Conclusion

     

    In conclusion, World Iodine Deficiency Day serves as a reminder of the progress made in preventing iodine deficiency disorders through national initiatives like NIDDCP and global efforts spearheaded by WHO and UNICEF. Continued and monitoring will ensure sustained success, ultimately contributing to healthier populations and improved quality of life worldwide!

     

     

    References

    https://nhm.gov.in/images/pdf/programmes/ndcp/niddcp/revised_guidelines.pdf

    Click here to download PDF

    ******

    Santosh Kumar/Sarla Meena/ Madiha Iqbal

    (Release ID: 2066507) Visitor Counter : 38

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EPFO Adds 18.53 Lakh Net Members During August 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    EPFO Adds 18.53 Lakh Net Members During August 2024

    9.3 Lakh New Members Enrolled with EPFO during August 2024

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 4:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has released provisional payroll data for August 2024, revealing a net addition of 18.53 lakh members in the month of August 2024. This represents a 9.07% year-on-year growth compared to August 2023, signifying increased employment opportunities and heightened awareness of employee benefits, bolstered by EPFO’s effective outreach initiatives.

    New Membership:

    EPFO enrolled around 9.30 lakh new members in August 2024, representing an increase of 0.48% in the new members from the previous year in August 2023. This surge in new memberships can be attributed to growing employment opportunities, increased awareness of emp1oyee benefits, and EPFO ‘s successful outreach programs.

    Group 18-25 Leads New Membership:

    A noticeable aspect of the data is the dominance of the 18-25 age group, constituting a significant 59.26% of the total new members added in August 2024. In addition, the net payroll data for the age group 18-25 for August 2024 is 8.06 lakhs. This is in consonance with the earlier trend which indicates that most individuals joining the organized workforce are youth, primarily first-time job seekers.

    Rejoining Members:

    The payroll data highlights that approximately 13.54 lakh members exited and subsequently rejoined EPFO. This figure depicts year-over-year growth of 14.03% compared to August 2023. These members switched their jobs and re-joined the establishments covered under the ambit of EPFO and opted to transfer their accumulations instead of applying for final settlement thus, safeguarding long-term financial well-being and extending their social security protection.

    Growth in Female Membership:

    Gender-wise analysis of payroll data unveils that out of the new members added during the month, around 2.53 lakhs are new female members. This figure exhibits year-over-year growth of 3.75% compared to August 2023. Also, the net female member addition during the month stood at around 3.79 lakh. It reflects a year over year growth of 10.41% compared to August 2023. The surge in female member additions is indicative of a broader shift towards a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

    State-wise Contribution:

    State-wise analysis of payroll data denotes that net member addition in the top five states/ UTs constitutes around 59.17% of net member addition, adding a total around 10.97 lakh net members during the month. Of all the states, Maharashtra is leading by adding 20.59% of net members during the month. The states/UTs of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Delhi, Gujarat, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh individually added more than 5% of the total net members during the month.

    Industry-wise Trends:

    Month-on-month comparison of industry-wise data displays significant growth in the members working in establishments engaged in the industries viz. Trading – commercial establishments, Engineers – engg. contractors, Building and construction industry, Agriculture farms, Beedi making etc. Of the total net membership, around 40.36% addition is from expert services (consisting of manpower suppliers, normal contractors, security services, miscellaneous activities etc.).

    The above payroll data is provisional since data generation is a continuous exercise, as updating employee record is a continuous process. The previous data gets updated every month. From the month of April 2018, EPFO has been releasing payroll data covering the period October 2017 onwards. In monthly payroll data, the count of members joining EPFO for the first time through Aadhaar validated Universal Account Number (UAN), existing members exiting from coverage of EPFO and those who exited but re-joined as members, is taken to arrive at net monthly payroll.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2066506) Visitor Counter : 6

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 – Pioneering Innovation and Global Collaboration

    Source: Government of India (2)

    ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 – Pioneering Innovation and Global Collaboration

    Highest-ever number of paper received

    Event underscores the India’s role in developing indigenous technologies for global markets

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 5:04PM by PIB Delhi

     

    The 15th ITU Kaleidoscope Academic Conference, themed “Innovation and Digital Transformation for a Sustainable World”, will begin from tomorrow (October 21, 2024) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in global telecommunications research and standards development. Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), this prestigious event runs from October 21 to 23, 2024, and brings together the brightest minds in academia, industry, and government to discuss cutting-edge developments in 5G, AI, IoT, quantum communications, and other transformative technologies.

    Kaleidoscope 2024 stands out as a key platform for fostering innovation and collaboration in digital transformation and telecommunications. This year’s event has attracted the highest-ever number of paper submissions, reflecting the growing global interest in shaping the future of digital infrastructure and telecommunications standards. More than 140 papers have been received, a record-breaking number for the event, showcasing groundbreaking research that addresses global challenges, including sustainability, digital inclusion, and security.

    Key Highlights of Kaleidoscope 2024:

    1. Top Three Papers to Be Awarded with CHF 2000 Each
      The top three selected papers will receive a cash prize of CHF 2000 each, recognizing the most innovative and impactful research contributions in the field of telecommunications. These papers have been carefully chosen by a distinguished committee of experts from across the world. The winning papers explore pivotal advancements in areas like quantum communication, network security, and 5G applications.
    2. Recognition for Young Authors

    In a special effort to promote and encourage the next generation of researchers, ITU will also be recognizing young authors of the selected papers by awarding them with certificates of excellence. This initiative underscores ITU’s commitment to fostering young talent and advancing telecommunications research that contributes to global digital transformation.

    1. Three Days of Thought Leadership
      The conference will feature a series of technical sessions and panel discussions covering a wide range of topics such as network architectures for 6G, AI’s role in healthcare, IoT for smart cities, and quantum cryptography. These sessions will see participation from leading experts and key stakeholders, who will address both the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies.
    2. Focus on Global Standards

    As part of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA-24), Kaleidoscope 2024 will also emphasize the need for international collaboration in setting global standards for next-generation technologies. The event will highlight the critical importance of ensuring that these technologies are implemented in a way that is inclusive, secure, and sustainable for all.

    1. Panel Discussions on Day 3 On October 23rd, the final day of the conference, two panel discussions will take place. The first will focus on “Connecting the remaining 3 billions”. The second will explore the role of youths in global standards development, with objective of enhancing participation & contributions from youths in telecommunications and technology standards.

    India’s Role in the Global Telecommunications Ecosystem

    Hosting this year’s Kaleidoscope, India continues to demonstrate its growing leadership in the global digital ecosystem. Through key initiatives like Digital India and Make in India, the country has positioned itself as a critical hub for innovation in digital infrastructure. Kaleidoscope 2024 not only highlights India’s advancements in 5G deployment but also underscores the country’s role in developing indigenous technologies for global markets.

    As New Delhi becomes the focal point for global discussions on telecommunications, the city is poised to set the agenda for future collaborations that will drive innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in digital technologies worldwide.

    About ITU Kaleidoscope

    ITU Kaleidoscope is an annual event that has been instrumental in bridging the gap between academia and industry, promoting the exchange of ideas that contribute to the global standardization of telecommunications technologies. Since its inception in 2008, Kaleidoscope has become one of the most influential platforms for discussing the future of digital communications, providing a space where researchers and innovators can present their most promising work.

    Visit the official ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 website at https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-T/academia/kaleidoscope/2024/Pages/default.aspx or simply type ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 in google and select the first displayed website for detailed information on the event program, speakers, and sessions.

     

    ******

    SB/DP/ARJ

    (Release ID: 2066519) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Coal to Host Star Rating Awards Ceremony, Stakeholder Consultation on MDOs, and Release of Coal Directory on October 21, 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 3:40PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Coal is organizing the Star Rating Awards Ceremony, Stakeholder Consultation on Mining Developers cum Operators (MDOs), and the Release of the Coal Directory of India on October 21, 2024 at Scope Convention Centre, Scope Complex, Lodhi road, New Delhi. These events aim to recognize the exceptional performance of coal and lignite mines, foster engagement with key stakeholders, and provide valuable insights into the coal sector. Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, with Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, as the Guest of Honour.

    The Star Rating Awards acknowledge the outstanding performance of coal and lignite mines, aiming to promote responsible mining practices, enhance industry standards, and ensure sustainable growth in the sector. The Ministry has established a comprehensive Star Rating mechanism that evaluates mines across seven key modules: Mining Operations, Environmental Factors, Adoption of Technologies-Best Mining Practices, Economic Performance, Rehabilitation & Resettlement, Worker-Related Compliance, and Safety & Security.

    The Star Ratings are awarded on a scale from Five Star to No Star, based on the holistic assessment of each mine’s performance. The ratings cover three categories of mines: Underground Mines (UG), Opencast Mines (OC), and Mixed Mines. For the year 2022-23, total 380 mines have participated in star rating award and 43 mines have qualified for the prestigious Five Star Rating, scoring more than 91%. Among them, 4 mines have been ranked for 1st, 2 mines ranked 2nd, and 6 mines ranked for 3rd prizes. No mines have been qualified under the mixed category for this year.

    The Ministry of Coal will also host a Stakeholder Consultation on Mining Developers cum Operators (MDOs), focusing on streamlining operations, enhancing productivity, and reducing mining costs. The primary objective of this consultation is to engage MDOs to significantly boost coal production, reduce the country’s reliance on imported coal, and introduce cutting-edge technology in the mining sector. Ministry of Coal is committed to advancing the coal sector through enhanced collaboration with key stakeholders, including Mining Developers cum Operators (MDOs). This consultation is a crucial platform for open dialogue between the Ministry and MDOs, ensuring that industry best practices are shared and adopted to achieve a more streamlined and productive coal-mining ecosystem. The stakeholders’ consultation aims to identify and address the operational challenges faced by MDOs, such as logistical bottlenecks, regulatory compliance, and the coordination between public and private stakeholders. By engaging with MDOs, the Ministry of Coal aims to build a robust and forward-looking coal sector that can meet the nation’s growing energy requirements while maintaining high standards of safety, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. This stakeholder consultation serves as a strategic initiative to harness the strengths of MDOs and ensure that India’s coal mining industry remains competitive and resilient in a dynamic global landscape.

    Further, the event will feature the iGOT Awards (Integrated Government Online Training) under the Ministry of Mines. The Ministry of Coal will also release the Coal Directory of India, a comprehensive repository offering insights into coal and lignite production, sectoral dispatches, and other critical aspects of the coal industry. Additionally, Swachhata Awards will be presented during the event. These awards highlight the importance of maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sustainability in the coal industry, in alignment with the Swachh Bharat mission.

    These events underscore the Ministry of Coal’s commitment to enhancing the performance of coal and lignite mines, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring the availability of accurate data for stakeholders. Through these efforts, the Ministry continues to drive the growth and development of the Indian coal sector.

     

    ***

    ST

    (Release ID: 2066499) Visitor Counter : 61

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Khelo India has significantly increased the number of female athletes in national events : Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

    Source: Government of India

    Khelo India has significantly increased the number of female athletes in national events : Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

    Union Minister inaugurates newly constructed 300-bedded girls’ hostel at SAI RC LNCPE

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 3:23PM by PIB Thiruvananthpuram

    Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya today said that Khelo India ASMITA Women league has significantly increased the number of female athletes participating in national events. The minister was inaugurating the newly constructed 300-bedded girls’ hostel at SAI RC LNCPE, Thiruvananthapuram. Union Minister also emphasized that this reflects a significant investment in the future of our young women athletes. He also noted that India is targeting a place in the top 10 of the medal tally at the 2036 Olympics.

    The Minister urged athletes not to view sports as merely a path to a government job, stressing that they should play for the country, win medals, and bring glory to the nation. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Panch Pran underscoring that winning a medal brings honor not just to the individual and their loved ones but to the entire country, which collectively takes pride in such achievements.

    The hostel is constructed under the Khelo India creation and up-gradation of Infrastructure projects. The project, awarded to M/s WAPCOS, was completed within the budget Rs. 32.88 Crores. Since 2014, the Khelo India scheme has successfully completed 202 infrastructure projects, with an additional 121 projects underway. 

    Designed in a pentagon shape, the hostel comprises five blocks, each featuring ground plus three storeys. This innovative architecture maximizes space while fostering a vibrant and welcoming environment. The facility includes a centralized kitchen capable of serving 108 dining guests, along with storage rooms, staff dormitories, and dedicated washing areas.

    As part of the event, Union Minister felicitated sportspersons who have represented India in Olympics, Asiad and other international games. Arjuna awardees Padmini Thomas, S Omanakumari, Geethu Anna Jose, Saji Thomas and V Diju received the honour from the minister.

    Dr. G. Kishore, Principal & Regional Head, SAI RC LNCPE and K.M. Beenamol were also present. Dr. G. Kishore explained about the campus and it’s achievements in the function.

    ***

    SK

    (Release ID: 2066498) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India to become one among the top 10 performing countries in sports : Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

    Source: Government of India

    India to become one among the top 10 performing countries in sports : Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

    Union Minister inaugurates upgraded SAI Trivandrum Golf Course

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 12:50PM by PIB Thiruvananthpuram

    Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya today said that India is set to become one among the top ten performing countries in the world in the field of sports. The minister was inaugurating the upgraded SAI Golf Course at Kowdiar, Thiruvananthapuram. Union Minister also emphasized the significance of the Trivandrum Golf Club as a cherished community and a symbol of sporting excellence.

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya also said that Olympics 2036 in India will nurture the talent in the country. Minister stressed that healthy people will make healthy society, healthy society will be wealthy society. Sports will make people physically, mentaly and culturally fit. Keeping this in mind, we work out from district level through Khelo India programme.

    Union Minister expressed immense pride in the establishment of SAI National Golf Academy, first of its kind in Kerala. The National Golf Academy is equipped with world-class facilities such as a nine-hole international-standard golf course, state-of-the-art fitness centre and modern recreational amenities. 

    The minister visited and examined the upgraded Golf Course after inauguration, and further explored the course by playing golf. The upgraded Golf Course has been established by the approval of the Ministry of Tourism in line with the Government of India’s commitment to enhancing sporting infrastructure, on March 31, 2017. An allocation of Rs. 9.27 crore was made to SAI’s Lakshmibai National College of Physical Education (LNCPE), and the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has successfully completed this ambitious project, further elevating the club’s standards to meet international benchmarks.

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated international athletes of SAI, Thiruvananthapuram, as part of the event. Shri Suresh Gopi, Minister of state for Tourism & Minister of state for Petroleum and Natural Gas, presided over the function. While addressing the audience, thr minister of state said that the Golf club and Tennis club of Trivandrum has brought real talents from the lowest strata of society.

    Smt. Sarada Muraleedharan, Chief secretary, Government of Kerala, Shri. Suman Billa IAS, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Shri S.N. Raghuchandran Nair, Secretary, SAI TGC attended the event.

    ***

    SK

    (Release ID: 2066466) Visitor Counter : 110

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Chem 2024 concludes today in Mumbai

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India Chem 2024 concludes today in Mumbai

    India’s chemical and petrochemical industry is projected to surpass $300 billion by 2028 and is on track to reach $1 trillion by 2040: Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 2:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The three-day event ‘India Chem-2024’ which was inaugurated on 17th concludes in Mumbai today.

    Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, while addressing the keynote session in the august presence of the Chief Ministers of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, highlighted the key role of the chemical and petrochemical sector in the economy, contributing over 9% to manufacturing gross value added and 7% to total exports. Shri Nadda stipulated that India’s chemical and petrochemical industry is projected to surpass $300 billion by 2028 and is on track to reach $1 trillion by 2040. He added that the sector will play a key role towards Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s goal of ‘ViksitBharat@2047”. He emphasized the importance of reducing reliance on imported feedstocks and focusing on alternative feed stocks, while also ensuring that India leads the global shift toward greener technologies. He noted that sustainability is the future of the industry and that India must take the lead in the adoption of circular economy principles. Referring to the need for more emphasis on R&D, safety and skilling, he elaborated upon the various steps being taken by the Government to boost innovation and investment. He assured the industry that the Government shall leave no stone unturned in realizing the full potential of the Indian Chemical and Petrochemical industry.

    Shri Bhupendra Rajnikant Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, remarked on Gujarat’s leadership in exports of chemicals and petrochemicals, and referred to the Government’s efforts to establish India as a leading destination for the chemical industry, fostering collaboration and excellence for a prosperous future. Shri Mohan CharanMajhi, Chief Minister of Odisha, highlighted Odisha’s strategic position as a rising hub for the chemical industry. Alluding to the strong infrastructure and highly skilled workforce available in Odisha, he invited industry leaders to explore the vast opportunities offered by the State. Shri Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, while speaking about his State’s leadership in the sector, highlighted the efforts being made by the State Government to further boost the development of the sector and create more employment opportunities.

    Ms. Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, formally inaugurated the exhibition, which brought together over 150 exhibitors, from different industry segments. In her address at the keynote session, she mentioned that India’s manufacturing sector has shown remarkable growth, fueled by progressive policy reforms and rising domestic demand and that FDI has played a pivotal role in enhancing the growth and competitiveness of India’s chemical sector, which includes petrochemicals and specialty chemicals. The country has become an attractive destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), allowing 100% FDI in manufacturing through the automatic route. Over the past decade, she mentioned that the sector has attracted US $12.48 billion in investments in this sector alone.

    Ms. Nivedita Shukla Verma, Secretary, Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Government of India elaborated on the event theme of ‘Advantage Bharat’ and how the Indian Chemical and Petrochemical sector has been paving the future of the Indian economy towards the goal of Viksit Bharat@2047. She drew attention to the various measures undertaken by the Government towards boosting infrastructure, including railways, roads and ports, logistics infrastructure as well as digital infrastructure as also initiatives to promote green economy and circularity.  All these measures would enhance productivity and boost exports. In this context, she referred to various policy initiatives undertaken by the Department such as the Scheme for Centers of Excellence, PCPIRs, Quality Control Orders etc.,

    Shri Deepak Mehta, Chairman, FICCI National Chemical Committee, stated that India is at a pivotal point of growth, with the chemical industry set to expand significantly. Shri Nikhil Meswani, Executive Director, Reliance Limited, highlighted the importance of chemicals to modern life, stating that it is the backbone of future development in agriculture, electronics, and beyond.

    This was followed by a Global CEOs’ Conclave, presided over by the Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers, wherein industry leaders from across the globe discussed the opportunities and challenges of the Indian chemical industry. The session witnessed insightful discussions and knowledge sharing, addressing key challenges and opportunities within the sector, with discussion on the meaningful discussion on the strengths of the Indian economy and possible interventions which may help propel the sector forward in the coming years.

    The Petrochemicals Forum was presided over by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Government of India. The session was participated in by leading Indian and global industry leaders including Exxon Mobil, Reliance Limited, IOCL and SABIC, amongst others. The Minister said India’s per capita petrochemical consumption is far below developed nations, offering significant opportunities for higher investment in the sector. Stating that Indian companies have committed investments of more than $ 50 billion in the near future, he opined that India’s petrochemicals production is projected to increase from 29.62 million tons to 46 million tons by 2030.

    This event, organized jointly by the Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals and FICCI, provided a platform for brainstorming discussions amongst industry leaders and Government representatives on specific topics of relevance to the sector, facilitating dialogue on investment prospects, regulatory frameworks, and strategic challenges.

    One of the largest exhibition cum conferences for chemical and petrochemical industries not just in India, but in Asia, this edition of India-Chem was held with the theme of “Advantage Bharat: Indian Chemicals and Petrochemicals Paving the Future”.

    The exhibition consisted of pavilions from leading Indian and global companies in the sector, several Indian States including Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, and also saw international participation from about 22 countries, including Belarus, Saudi Arabia, Germany and the Netherlands, with a footfall over more than 7,500 people across 3 days. Netherlands, with whom India shares a robust trade relationship, particularly in the chemical and petrochemical sector, was a partner country for the event.

    There were several sessions on issues ranging from dyes, and agrochemicals, to petrochemicals, which saw discussions on the latest developments in the field, as well as on the importance of innovation and adoption of sustainable practices. Besides, there were dedicated sessions focusing on geography-specific issues including the India-EU, India-East Asia, and India-US Chemicals & Petrochemicals Forums, bringing together key stakeholders from each of these regions. These sessions enabled in-depth discussions on market insights, regulatory landscapes, and investment trends shaping the future of the sector, while also providing an opportunity to the participants to forge possible strategic partnerships which transcend geographical boundaries, thereby exploring new avenues to accelerate growth in the chemical and petrochemical sector.

    On its third and final day, the event hosted an engaging job fair featuring 14 leading chemical companies from different sectors  such as  ABB Instruments Pvt Ltd., Aarti Industries, Dhanuka Agrotech, Atul Limited, Crystal Crop Care, etc. and students from CIPET – Central Institute of Plastic Engineering and Technology, which functions under the ambit of the Department of chemicals and petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers. Institute is responsible for providing skilling through various undergraduate and postgraduate courses to almost 65,000 students per year.  During the job fair, the students of CIPET got an opportunity to interact with the industry to explore possible career prospects. This served as an exciting platform bringing together students and potential employers in the chemical industry, helping the students gain insights into the future of the sector.

     

    *******

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2066478) Visitor Counter : 21

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News