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Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Postmaster General Krishna Kumar Yadav inaugurates National Postal Week; ‘Customer Meet’ held on ‘Mails and Parcel Day’

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Postmaster General Krishna Kumar Yadav inaugurates National Postal Week; ‘Customer Meet’ held on ‘Mails and Parcel Day’

    Letters retains their importance even in the era of Social Media – Postmaster General Krishna Kumar Yadav

    ‘Dak Ghar Niryat Kendra’ playing key role in connecting local entrepreneurs to the global market – Postmaster General Krishna Kumar Yadav

    India Post has taken innovative initiatives in the field of Mails and Parcel – Postmaster General Krishna Kumar Yadav

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 2:46PM by PIB Ahmedabad

    Department of Posts is continuously expanding its service horizons with innovative services and new technologies, reaching out to the last mile in country. Even in this era of mobile, email, and social media, letters retain their significance. Important documents including Government and Court-related letters, Aadhaar cards, passports, driving licenses, voter ID cards, PAN cards, bank cheque books and ATM cards are still being sent through Post offices. Postmaster General of North Gujarat Region, Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav expressed these views while inaugurating the ‘National Postal Week’ and addressing the ‘Customer Meet’ held on ‘Mails and Parcel Day’ at the Regional PMG office in Shahibaug, Ahmedabad. On this occasion, Director Postal Services, Ms. Meeta K. Shah, also told about Postal services and extensive discussions were held with various exporters.

    Postmaster General Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav said that Department of Posts is implementing numerous innovations in the field of mails and parcel services. India Post offers a range of services designed to meet the specific needs of various business sectors, such as Speed Post, Business Parcel, Dakghar Niryat Kendra, Business Post, Media Post, Bill Mail Service, Retail Post, Logistics Post, Direct Post, e-Post, e-Payment, Aadhaar services, and Passport services. Dakghar Niryat Kendras (DNK) are being established as a one-stop solution for exporters to promote commercial exports through postal channel. Products from One District One Product (ODOP), Geographical Indications (GI), and MSMEs are reaching international markets through Dakghar Niryat Kendras, strengthening the concepts of “Vocal for Local” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

    Postmaster General, Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav emphasized on the ease and efficiency of the postal network in connecting local entrepreneurs to global markets. He said that special sorting hubs and nodal delivery centers have been established for sorting and distribution of Speed Post and Business Parcels. Cash-on-delivery service is being provided for e-commerce products. The delivery status of postal items is being updated in real-time through the Postman Mobile Application (PMA). Online track and trace facility has also been provided. A new transport policy has been formulated by Department of Posts for the rapid transmission of mail and parcels. India Post and Indian Railways have jointly launched the ‘Rail Post Gati Shakti Express Cargo Service’ as a joint parcel product. He also mentioned about facility of Click & Book service, Parcel Packaging Units, and Digital Payment through QR codes in post office. PMG Shri KK Yadav further added that for quick transmission of international mail, Foreign Post Office in Shahibaug, Ahmedabad and International Business Center in Surat has been established. On-spot custom clearance is available. International parcel service is available for over 200 destination countries and regions worldwide.

    The program was compered by Marketing Executive Shri Chirayu Vyas, with the welcome speech by Assistant Director Shri M.M. Shaikh, and the vote of thanks by Assistant Director Shri Ritul Gandhi. The program was coordinated by Assistant Superintendent Shri Ravindra Parmar, and the Power Point presentation was delivered by Inspector Shri Bhavin Prajapati.

    On this occasion, Director of Postal Services Ms. Meeta K. Shah, Senior Superitendent of Ahmedabad City Division Shri Govind Sharma, Deputy Superintendent Shri V.M. Vahora, Deputy Chief Postmaster GPO Shri Alpesh Shah, Assistant Director Shri M.M. Shaikh, Shri Ritul Gandhi, Ms. Manjula Patel, Assistant Superintendent Shri Ravindra Parmar, Shri Ronak Shah, Inspector Posts Shri Bhavin Prajapati, Shri Yogendra Rathod, and Marketing Executive Shri Khemchand Rathod, Shri Dipal Mehta along with numerous officials from the North Gujarat Region, Ahmedabad, and representatives from various corporate institutions and departments, were present.

    AP/GP/JD

    (Release ID: 2062784) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Institute of Foreign Trade to open its first overseas campus in Dubai

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 4:05PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 7 October 2024

     

    The iconic India Pavilion at the Expo City in Dubai will host the first overseas campus of Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT). An MoU to this effect was signed on 03 October 2024 by Professor Rakesh Mohan Joshi, Vice Chancellor of IIFT and Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority. IIFT is likely to move into its premises by early 2025 with short and medium-term training programmes, research and eventually with lauch of its flagship programme, MBA (International Business). 

    IIFT, regarded as an academic centre of excellence in international business research, training and education, will establish its first campus outside of India at the former Expo 2020 India Pavilion. The campus will be a boon for the 3.5 million-strong Indian community residing in the UAE. It will also open doorways for the overseas expansion and recognition of the IIFT brand. 

    The MoU between IIFT and Dubai EXPO City builds on a range of bilateral agreements between India and the UAE, including a mechanism to settle trade in local currencies,  the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Bilateral Investment Treaty and others. On 2nd September, 2024, H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, inaugurated the campus of IIT Delhi – Abu Dhabi with its the first B Tech Course. 

    Congratulating the institute, Union Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal said that IIFT’s new campus at Dubai would be a landmark decision in transforming it into a world class institute in real sense. Moreover, with IIFT’s expertise in the area of foreign trade, it would provide opportunity for students, professionals and government officials not only from UAE but from other parts of the world too for training and research in the area of international trade.

    Commerce Secretary and Chancellor of the Institute, Sunil Barthwal expressing his happiness about IIFT’s establishing its maiden overseas campus at Expo City, Dubai, said that institute’s offshore campus in Dubai would be a critical step not only for international expansion of IIFT but it would also facilitate promotion of international trade not only with UAE but also in the entire gulf region and beyond. 

    IIFT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Rakesh Mohan Joshi said that its first offshore campus at Dubai would be a milestone to transform IIFT into a world-class institute with cutting-edge research, training and academic programmes.

     

    About IIFT:

    Established in 1963 as an autonomous body under Ministry of Commerce, Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) has gained Deemed University status and is one of the premier business institutions in India focussing on Foreign Trade  and highly regarded as an academic centre of excellence in international business research, training and education. IIFT will collaborate with Expo City Dubai on research projects and other knowledge-sharing activities focused on sustainability and innovation.

     

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    PIB Mumbai | SR/ SC/ DR

    Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com  /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

    (Release ID: 2062832) Visitor Counter : 40

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) commences operations in GIFT City

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 4:02PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 7 October 2024

     

    Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), the UAE’s largest sovereign wealth fund and one of the largest such funds in the world, has commenced its India operations after obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals and opening its office in the GIFT City. The office is expected to drive further intensification of ADIA’s investment activities in India.

    Ways to leverage its presence in India to further deepen ADIA’s investment profile in India were discussed during the 12th Meeting of the India-UAE High-Level Joint Task Force on Investments in Mumbai today (October 7, 2024). The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Piyush Goyal, Commerce & Industries Minister, Government of India, and His Highness Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority.

    Since its establishment, the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) in Ahmedabad is fast emerging as a leading global financial & technology hub, providing a thriving financial ecosystem to support and expand businesses. 

    During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Abu Dhabi in July 2023, it was announced that ADIA would establish a presence in GIFT City. This was reiterated in the Joint Statement issued during the visit of the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to Ahmedabad in January 2024. Subsequently, ADIA announced setting up an Alternative Investment Fund in GIFT City to hold all its India-related investments. 

    ADIA’s presence in the GIFT City underlines the strong interest from UAE’s institutional investors in India’s growing and dynamic economy. It also buttresses GIFT City’s reputation as a world-class financial services centre, operating under a robust regulatory and legal framework.

    UAE continues to be the largest Arab investor in India, with investments amounting to around US$ 3 billion in FY 2023-24. The UAE was the sixth-largest FDI source for FY 2023-24 and the seventh-largest overall since 2000. Over 70% of all GCC investments come from the UAE. The new India-UAE Bilateral Investment Treaty, which entered into force on August 31, 2024, will further strengthen two-way investment flows.

     

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    PIB Mumbai | SR/ SC/ DR

    Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com  /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

    (Release ID: 2062830) Visitor Counter : 38

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CBDT forms internal committee to comprehensively review Income-tax Act and invites suggestions from stakeholders/experts/public on the Income Tax e-filing portal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 5:14PM by PIB Delhi

    In pursuance of the announcement in the Union Budget 2024-25 by Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has formed an internal committee to oversee a comprehensive review of the Income-tax Act, 1961 (Act). The goal is to make the Act concise, clear, and easy to understand, which will reduce disputes, litigation, and provide greater tax certainty to taxpayers.

    The committee invites public inputs and suggestions in four categories:

    1. Simplification of Language
    2. Litigation Reduction
    3. Compliance Reduction, and
    4. Redundant/Obsolete Provisions

    To facilitate this, a webpage has been launched on the e-filing portal, which can be accessed with the following link:

    https://eportal.incometax.gov.in/iec/foservices/#/pre-login/ita-comprehensive-review

    The above link is live and accessible to the stakeholders/experts/public in the E-filing portal from 06.10.2024. The stakeholders/experts/public can access the page by entering their name and mobile number, followed up by a validation via OTP.

    Suggestions by stakeholders/experts/public should specify the relevant provision of the Income-tax Act, 1961 or Income-tax Rules, 1962 (mentioning the specific section, sub-section, clause, rule, sub-rule, or form number), as the case may be, to which the suggestion relates under the aforementioned four categories.

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    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2062861) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare launches ‘Special Campaign for Disposal of Pending Matters 4.0’

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), Ministry of Defence is undertaking a number of initiatives under the ‘Special campaign for Disposal of Pending matters’ (SCDPM 4.0) between 2-31 October 2024.  The department is carrying out the pan Indian campaign, identifying various sites including the remotest offices having the highest public interface such as various Zila Sainik Boards, Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Polyclinics and Zonal Resettlement Offices. It has identified more than 250 files to be reviewed for the purpose of weeding out. 

    Recognised Ex-Servicemen Associations are also undertaking cleanliness drives through various activities like swachhata rally, minimising single use plastic, village common area cleaning etc. at various locations. Those making significant contributions are also being honoured during the campaign.

    Preparatory phase of the campaign started with Secretary, Ex-Servicemen Welfare, Dr. Niten Chandra administering the ‘Swachhata Pledge’ to head of all the attached offices along with the department officials on 17th September 2024. He urged them to avoid using single-use plastic and create awareness about segregation of waste at source itself in their offices as well as their communities.

    The focus areas of Special campaign 4.0 include removing pendency and improving cleanliness, better record management, improvement in work efficiencies, and enhancement in transparency. Steps are being taken for optimal maintenance of documents and files and getting rid of the obsolete documents. The Campaign seeks to institutionalize Swachata as a matter of habit in the day to day functioning of the department.

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    VK/SR/GC

    (Release ID: 2062867) Visitor Counter : 144

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘National Anubhav Awards Scheme, 2025’

    Source: Government of India

    ‘National Anubhav Awards Scheme, 2025’

    For the first time, Anubhav Awards Scheme covers employees of Central Public Sector Undertakings, including Public Sector Banks

    Last Date for publication of write ups on Anubhav portal will be 31stMarch 2025, all Line Ministries/Departments to reach out to pensioners to make submissions on Anubhav Portal

    National Anubhav Awards Scheme: A treasure trove of experiences for Nation building

    Till date, DOPPW confers 59 Anubhav Awards and 19 Jury Certificates

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 5:33PM by PIB Delhi

    On the directions of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare had launched an online platform named ‘Anubhav’ in March, 2015 to enable ‘eligible’ retiring/retired government employees in sharing their experiences of working with the Government.

    Thereafter, an Annual Awards Scheme was devised in 2015 to incentivize and encourage the submission of the experiences through write ups. Till date, 10,886 write-ups have been published and 78 outstanding write ups have been conferred with 59 Anubhav Awards and 19 Jury Certificates in seven Anubhav Awards Ceremonies.

    Government of India has notified the National Anubhav Awards Scheme, 2025. To participate in the scheme, Central Government employees/pensioners are required to submit their Anubhav write ups. Thereafter, the write-ups published after assessment by the concerned Ministries/Departments up to 31.03.2025 will be shortlisted for five Anubhav Awards and 10 Jury Certificates.

    The National Anubhav Awards Scheme, 2025 is the watershed moment in the history of Anubhav Portal as for the first time, apart from the employees of Central Government, employees of Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), including Public Sector Banks, will also be eligible for submitting their write ups. With this, invaluable experiences, insights and best practices prevalent in the strong and vibrant Public Sector of India will also enrich the ever-growing treasure trove of Anubhav Portal. Further, the existing time limit of one year of the retirement within which, the pensioners could submit the write ups, has now been extended up to three years.

    To streamline the assessment process, a new marking system for various pay levels has been introduced.

    For more information, eligible employees or pensioners should visit Anubhav Portal(URL-http://www.pensionersportal.gov.in/anubhav) where relevant FAQs, steps to fill in the Anubhav write up, selected write ups for guidance, short films on Anubhav Awardees and Citation booklets have been put up for reference.

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    NKR/DK

    (Release ID: 2062872) Visitor Counter : 22

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI conducts Regional Workshop on Competition Law in Collaboration with NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad

    Source: Government of India (2)

    CCI conducts Regional Workshop on Competition Law in Collaboration with NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad

    Chairperson, CCI Smt. Ravneet Kaur highlighted the significance of the Competition Amendment Act, 2023 in promoting fair competition and safeguarding consumer interests

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 6:17PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India, in association with NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, successfully organized a Regional Workshop on Competition Law at the NALSAR Campus in Hyderabad today. The Workshop aimed to enhance the understanding of recent developments in competition law and its enforcement.

    The event began with an Inaugural Session where Smt. Ravneet Kaur, the Chairperson of the CCI delivered the keynote address. The Chairperson highlighted the significance of the Competition Amendment Act, 2023, which introduced important changes to India’s competition law framework. The address underscored the role of these amendments in promoting fair competition, safeguarding consumer interests, and ensuring a level playing field for businesses across sectors, including digital markets. Prof. Srikrishna Deva Rao, Vice Chancellor NALSAR delivered the inaugural address.

    Following the inaugural session, two technical sessions were conducted by the Members of CCI viz. Shri Anil Agrawal and Ms. Sweta Kakkar. The first session focused on recent amendments to competition law and their implications for businesses and regulators.

    The second session delved into cartel investigation and enforcement, with special emphasis on the hub-and-spoke model, where coordination between competitors is facilitated by a central entity.

    The workshop attracted a diverse group of participants, including students, researchers and legal professionals, academics. It provided an opportunity for valuable dialogue on the practical challenges of enforcing competition law in India’s rapidly changing economic environment.

    The Chairperson of the CCI remarked that the workshop reflected the CCI’s ongoing efforts to engage with stakeholders and strengthen its enforcement capabilities. The workshop also highlighted the importance of collaboration between regulatory bodies, academia, and industry in addressing the challenges posed by modern markets.

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    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2062902) Visitor Counter : 29

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DefConnect 4.0: Raksha Mantri launches ADITI 2.0 challenges & DISC 12 to foster innovation, entrepreneurship & ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence

    Source: Government of India (2)

    DefConnect 4.0: Raksha Mantri launches ADITI 2.0 challenges & DISC 12 to foster innovation, entrepreneurship & ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence

    ADITI 2.0 features 19 challenges in the fields of AI, Quantum Technology, military communication, anti-drone systems & adaptive camouflage

    DISC 12 presents 41 challenges across UAVs, AI, Networking & Communication domains; Introduces Medical Innovations & Research Advancement initiative

    Rs 1,000 crore procurement orders placed for 26 iDEX products: Shri Rajnath Singh

    RM exhorts private sector to move ahead from imitative to innovative tech to cater to futuristic needs of the Armed Forces

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 5:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched the second edition of Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI 2.0) challenges and the 12thedition of Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC 12) during DefConnect 4.0 at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt. on October 07, 2024.

    ADITI 2.0 features 19 challenges from the Armed Forces and allied agencies in the domains of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Technology, military communication, anti-drone systems customised for military platforms and adaptive camouflage, etc. This scheme offers a grant of up to Rs 25 crore to Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) winners, focusing on critical technological areas crucial for strengthening the defence ecosystem of the country.

    DISC 12 presents 41 challenges across key technology domains, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), AI, Networking and Communication, with grants up to Rs 1.50 crore. Notably, it introduces the Medical Innovations and Research Advancement (MIRA) initiative, featuring nine challenges aimed at fostering the development of medical technologies to meet the medical demands of the Armed Forces. To provide momentum to the iDEX initiative, DISC was launched in partnership with Atal Innovation Mission, aimed at supporting start-ups/MSMEs/Innovators to create prototypes and/or commercialise products/ solutions in the area of national defence and security.

    In his address, Raksha Mantri commended DefConnect for playing a crucial role in developing the culture of innovation in the country. He stated that the platform is bringing a new energy to the defence industrial ecosystem, and making the nation’s talent a partner in strengthening the security apparatus. Terming DefConnect as an important link between all the stakeholders associated with the defence ecosystem, he exuded confidence that the platform will help in realising the vision of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence.

    Enumerating the feats achieved due to the Government’s efforts to promote innovation, Shri Rajnath Singh informed that iDEX has received over 9,000 applications so far, and is currently collaborating with more than 450 start-ups & MSMEs through DISC and Open Challenge. He added that 26 products have been developed under iDEX, for which procurement orders worth more than Rs 1,000 crore have been placed. In addition, Acceptance of Necessity and Request for Proposal worth over Rs 2,380 crore have been issued for 37 products. The ADITI initiative is focusing on over 30 critical and strategic technologies to strengthen the defence ecosystem, he said.

    Raksha Mantri highlighted the vibrant and dynamic ecosystem of innovators, entrepreneurs, scientists & start-ups in the country, stating that the world is acknowledging the strength & talent of India’s youth. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to further enhance the role of the private sector in the defence ecosystem. Their involvement is necessary to achieve self-reliance, he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that as soon as the Goverment, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, came to power in 2014, it identified ‘lack of private sector participation in the defence sector’ as a major hurdle in attaining self-reliance, and strived to increase their contribution in nation building. “There were two major dimensions of self-reliance in the defence sector. First was the manufacturing of arms/equipment, whose technology was available, but there was a lack of production capacity. Second was catering to the needs of high-technology applications in view of the constantly-changing nature of warfare. Earlier, only in-house R&D and organisations like DRDO were working towards the development of such cutting edge technologies. But now, we are witnessing a significant role of the private sector too. There is enhanced synergy between the public & private sectors, the biggest example of which is DefConnect,” he said.

    Raksha Mantri appreciated the ‘SIDBI iDEX Partner Incubator Fund’, stating that the collaboration will meet the critical funding needs of innovators. SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) will allocate Rs 50 crore to 10 leading partner incubators, including Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer at IIT Delhi, Society for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at IIT Bombay, and Technology-Hub Hyderabad, to fund iDEX winners in advancing critical defence technologies.

    On the new technologies being incorporated in wars and conflicts, Shri Rajnath Singh said apart from conventional arms & ammunition, many dual use or purely civilian tech is being weaponised. He called for an in-depth understanding of these technologies, exhorting the innovators to make imaginative use of the advancements for the defence of the nation.

    Stressing on the need to move forward from imitative to innovative and distinctive technologies, Raksha Mantri called upon the private sector to think beyond the solutions to challenges being provided through ADITI & DISC. He urged them to bring forth the tech which is far ahead of the requirements of the Armed Forces and would be beneficial to deal with future threats. He promised the Government’s full assistance to achieve the goal of a strong & self-reliant defence sector.

    On the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh also felicitated the ADITI 1.0 winners, and extended his best wishes for their future endeavours. Leading iDEX winners showcased their cutting-edge solutions related to Munition Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance, Communication Systems & Space Technologies, as part of DefConnect 2024. The winners include QuNu Labs, Sagar Defence Technologies, Astrome Technologies, Zeus Numerix Pvt. Ltd., NewSpace Research and Technologies, Pixxel Space India etc.

    Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, OSD, Department of Defence Shri RK Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, Financial Advisor (Defence Services) Shri Sugata Ghosh Dastidar, other senior officials of Ministry of Defence, industry leaders, academia, young entrepreneurs & innovators attended the event.

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    VK/SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2062888) Visitor Counter : 77

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DefConnect 4.0: Raksha Mantri launches ADITI 2.0 challenges & DISC 12 to foster innovation, entrepreneurship & ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence

    Source: Government of India (2)

    DefConnect 4.0: Raksha Mantri launches ADITI 2.0 challenges & DISC 12 to foster innovation, entrepreneurship & ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence

    ADITI 2.0 features 19 challenges in the fields of AI, Quantum Technology, military communication, anti-drone systems & adaptive camouflage

    DISC 12 presents 41 challenges across UAVs, AI, Networking & Communication domains; Introduces Medical Innovations & Research Advancement initiative

    Rs 1,000 crore procurement orders placed for 26 iDEX products: Shri Rajnath Singh

    RM exhorts private sector to move ahead from imitative to innovative tech to cater to futuristic needs of the Armed Forces

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 5:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched the second edition of Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI 2.0) challenges and the 12thedition of Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC 12) during DefConnect 4.0 at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt. on October 07, 2024.

    ADITI 2.0 features 19 challenges from the Armed Forces and allied agencies in the domains of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Technology, military communication, anti-drone systems customised for military platforms and adaptive camouflage, etc. This scheme offers a grant of up to Rs 25 crore to Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) winners, focusing on critical technological areas crucial for strengthening the defence ecosystem of the country.

    DISC 12 presents 41 challenges across key technology domains, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), AI, Networking and Communication, with grants up to Rs 1.50 crore. Notably, it introduces the Medical Innovations and Research Advancement (MIRA) initiative, featuring nine challenges aimed at fostering the development of medical technologies to meet the medical demands of the Armed Forces. To provide momentum to the iDEX initiative, DISC was launched in partnership with Atal Innovation Mission, aimed at supporting start-ups/MSMEs/Innovators to create prototypes and/or commercialise products/ solutions in the area of national defence and security.

    In his address, Raksha Mantri commended DefConnect for playing a crucial role in developing the culture of innovation in the country. He stated that the platform is bringing a new energy to the defence industrial ecosystem, and making the nation’s talent a partner in strengthening the security apparatus. Terming DefConnect as an important link between all the stakeholders associated with the defence ecosystem, he exuded confidence that the platform will help in realising the vision of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence.

    Enumerating the feats achieved due to the Government’s efforts to promote innovation, Shri Rajnath Singh informed that iDEX has received over 9,000 applications so far, and is currently collaborating with more than 450 start-ups & MSMEs through DISC and Open Challenge. He added that 26 products have been developed under iDEX, for which procurement orders worth more than Rs 1,000 crore have been placed. In addition, Acceptance of Necessity and Request for Proposal worth over Rs 2,380 crore have been issued for 37 products. The ADITI initiative is focusing on over 30 critical and strategic technologies to strengthen the defence ecosystem, he said.

    Raksha Mantri highlighted the vibrant and dynamic ecosystem of innovators, entrepreneurs, scientists & start-ups in the country, stating that the world is acknowledging the strength & talent of India’s youth. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to further enhance the role of the private sector in the defence ecosystem. Their involvement is necessary to achieve self-reliance, he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that as soon as the Goverment, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, came to power in 2014, it identified ‘lack of private sector participation in the defence sector’ as a major hurdle in attaining self-reliance, and strived to increase their contribution in nation building. “There were two major dimensions of self-reliance in the defence sector. First was the manufacturing of arms/equipment, whose technology was available, but there was a lack of production capacity. Second was catering to the needs of high-technology applications in view of the constantly-changing nature of warfare. Earlier, only in-house R&D and organisations like DRDO were working towards the development of such cutting edge technologies. But now, we are witnessing a significant role of the private sector too. There is enhanced synergy between the public & private sectors, the biggest example of which is DefConnect,” he said.

    Raksha Mantri appreciated the ‘SIDBI iDEX Partner Incubator Fund’, stating that the collaboration will meet the critical funding needs of innovators. SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) will allocate Rs 50 crore to 10 leading partner incubators, including Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer at IIT Delhi, Society for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at IIT Bombay, and Technology-Hub Hyderabad, to fund iDEX winners in advancing critical defence technologies.

    On the new technologies being incorporated in wars and conflicts, Shri Rajnath Singh said apart from conventional arms & ammunition, many dual use or purely civilian tech is being weaponised. He called for an in-depth understanding of these technologies, exhorting the innovators to make imaginative use of the advancements for the defence of the nation.

    Stressing on the need to move forward from imitative to innovative and distinctive technologies, Raksha Mantri called upon the private sector to think beyond the solutions to challenges being provided through ADITI & DISC. He urged them to bring forth the tech which is far ahead of the requirements of the Armed Forces and would be beneficial to deal with future threats. He promised the Government’s full assistance to achieve the goal of a strong & self-reliant defence sector.

    On the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh also felicitated the ADITI 1.0 winners, and extended his best wishes for their future endeavours. Leading iDEX winners showcased their cutting-edge solutions related to Munition Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance, Communication Systems & Space Technologies, as part of DefConnect 2024. The winners include QuNu Labs, Sagar Defence Technologies, Astrome Technologies, Zeus Numerix Pvt. Ltd., NewSpace Research and Technologies, Pixxel Space India etc.

    Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, OSD, Department of Defence Shri RK Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, Financial Advisor (Defence Services) Shri Sugata Ghosh Dastidar, other senior officials of Ministry of Defence, industry leaders, academia, young entrepreneurs & innovators attended the event.

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    VK/SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2062888) Visitor Counter : 77

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chairs a review meeting on Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in New Delhi today

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chairs a review meeting on Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in New Delhi today

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we will completely eliminate Naxalism by 2026

    Naxalism is the biggest hurdle in the development of tribal areas and an enemy of humanity as a whole

    Due to Naxalism, more than 8 crore people have been deprived of basic amenities, a major violation of human rights

    Since January 2024, a total of 237 Naxalites have been neutralized, 812 arrested, and 723 have surrendered in Chhattisgarh

    A zero-tolerance approach to Left Wing Extremism and full implementation of government schemes will transform LWE-affected areas into fully developed areas

    Modi government is strengthening 3-C i.e Road connectivity, Mobile connectivity and Financial connectivity

    During the Modi government, security spending in LWE-affected states has nearly tripled, reaching Rs. 3,006 crore

    From 2004 to 2014, only 66 fortified police stations were constructed, but the Modi government has built 544 such stations in the last 10 years

    Violent incidents in LWE-affected areas dropped by 53%, from 16,463 cases between 2004 and 2014 to 7,700 in the last 10 years

    Chief Ministers of all LWE affected states should review development and anti-Naxal operations once a month and Director Generals of Police at least once in 15 days

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 6:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chaired a review meeting on Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in New Delhi today. The Chief Ministers of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha and Telangana, Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar and Home Minister of Andhra Pradesh participated in the meeting. Union Ministers from various ministries, who are cooperating with the states to accelerate developmental works in LWE-affected areas, were also present during the meeting. The Union Home Secretary, Director Intelligence Bureau, Deputy National Security Advisor, senior officers of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the central government, Chief Secretaries, Director Generals of Police, and senior officials from LWE-affected states also participated in the meeting.

    In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, all LWE-affected states, working shoulder to shoulder, are committed to completely eliminate Naxalism by March 2026. He mentioned that Prime Minister Modi has set the goal of making India a developed nation by the year 2047, and our 8 crore tribal brothers and sisters have a very important role in it. Shri Shah added that the true meaning of a developed India is that development reaches the 140 crore people of the country, including our 8 crore tribal brothers and sisters. He said that the biggest obstacle in bringing development to remote areas and tribal communities today is Naxalism. He said that Naxalism prevents education, healthcare, connectivity, banking, and postal services from reaching villages. Shri Shah emphasized that in order to ensure that the development reaches the last person in the society, we must completely eliminate Naxalism.

    Union Home Minister said major success has been achieved in the fight against Naxalism from 2019 to 2024. He stated that through the joint efforts of the central and state governments, we aim to replace the darkness created by left-wing extremism with the constitutional rights and start a new era of development and trust instead of the violent ideology of left-wing. Shri Shah emphasized that with a zero-tolerance approach towards left-wing extremism and 100% implementation of government schemes, we want to fully develop the LWE-affected areas.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the government had laid down two rules of law to fight left wing extremism. First, to establish the rule of law in Naxalism-affected areas and completely stop illegal violent activities. Second, to quickly compensate for the loss in those areas which were deprived of development due to the long Naxalite movement.

    Union Home Minister said that for the first time in 30 years, the number of casualties due to Left Wing Extremism (LWE) was below 100 in 2022, which is a significant achievement. He mentioned that from 2014 to 2024, there has been a substantial decline in Naxal-related incidents. He said that 14 top Naxal leaders have been neutralized, and the government welfare schemes have been better implemented to reach to the last man in the queue. Shri Shah said that the fight against LWE is in its final phase, and by March 2026, with everyone’s cooperation, the country will be completely free from this decades-old menace. He further mentioned that areas like Buddha Pahad and Chakarbandha have been completely free from the grip of Naxalism. He added that 85 per cent of the LWE cadre strength in Chhattisgarh has been eliminated, and now the need is to deliver a final blow to Naxalism.

    Shri Amit Shah said that since 2019, the Modi government has implemented a multi-pronged strategy, under which vacuums were identified for the deployment of CAPFs. As a result, more than 194 camps were established in just one year, leading to significant success. Shri Shah mentioned that the filling of security vacuums through 45 police stations, strengthening state intelligence branches, and the excellent performance of state special forces contributed to the success of the strategy. He further said that the provision of helicopters has drastically reduced the number of casualties among our troops. Earlier, there were only two helicopters deployed for the service of the forces, but today, 12 helicopters, 6 from BSF and 6 from the Air Force, are operational.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation complimented Chhattisgarh government for its success in combating Naxalism. He mentioned that since January 2024, a total of 237 Naxalites have been killed, 812 arrested, and 723 have surrendered in Chhattisgarh. Home Minister appealed to the youth involved in Naxalism to abandon the path of violence and join the mainstream of society to contribute to the country’s development. He noted that more than 13,000 people from the Northeast, Kashmir, and LWE affected areas have renounced violence and joined the mainstream. Shri Shah asked the youth engaged in Naxalism, that all states have developed beneficial rehabilitation schemes for them. He emphasized that it has now been fully proven that no one benefits from Naxalism.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Rs 1,180 crore was spent under the security related expenditure scheme from 2004 to 2014, which the Modi Government has increased almost 3 times to Rs 3,006 crore between 2014 to 2024. He said Rs 1,055 crore has been given under the scheme of assistance to central agencies for managing LWE. Shri Shah said that Special Central Assistance is a new scheme under which the Modi Government has spent Rs 3,590 crore in the last 10 years. He said that a total of Rs 14,367 crore has been approved so far, out of which Rs 12,000 crore has been spent.

    Union Home Minister said that 66 fortified police stations were built between 2004 and 2014, whereas 544 fortified police stations have been built between 2014 to 2024. In the 10 years before 2014, 2,900 km of road network was constructed, which has increased to 14,400 km in the last 10 years. He added that no efforts were made for mobile connectivity in the last 10 years from 2004 to 2014, whereas during 2014 to 2024, 6,000 towers have been installed and the work of converting 3,551 towers to 4G has also been completed. Before 2014, only 38 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) were approved, now in the last 10 years, 216 schools have been approved, out of which 165 EMR schools have come into existence. The Home Minister said that all these efforts show with what intensity we have worked to accelerate development.

    Shri Amit Shah said that in the 10 years between 2004 and 2014, 16,463 incidents of violence had occurred which have now come down to 7,700 with a reduction of about 53%. Similarly, the deaths of civilians and security forces have reduced by 70%, 96 districts reporting violence have now come down to 16 with a reduction of 57 percent. Police stations reporting violence have also come down to 171 from 465, out of which 50 police stations are new. Shri Shah said that this success is the result of joint efforts of all the states and the central government. He added that we have to take it forward with more determination and vigor.

    Union Home Minister said that the success achieved in Chhattisgarh against Naxalism inspires all of us. He said that the Chhattisgarh government has launched a new campaign of development in all the districts affected by Left Wing Extremism. A target has been set for 100% saturation of about 300 schemes of central and state governments for personal and family welfare. He added that due to these schemes, grains and medicines at cheaper rates, schools, public health centers etc. have now reached the villages.

    Shri Amit Shah highlighted that since 2019, to fill the security vacuum, 280 new camps have been established, 15 new Joint Task Forces have been created, and six CRPF battalions have been deployed to assist state police in various states. Along with this, an offensive strategy has been adopted by activating the NIA to choke the financing of Naxalites, which has resulted in a shortage of financial resources for them. Home Minister added that multiple long-duration operations were conducted, ensuring that the Naxalites are surrounded, leaving them with no opportunity to escape.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation stated that apart from the flagship schemes, the Modi government has placed significant emphasis on key development areas such as road connectivity, improvement in telecommunications, financial inclusion, skill development, education, health, and nutrition, which have yielded positive results. He mentioned that on October 2, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan’ from the land of Jharkhand. He added that this campaign will be a milestone in providing personal amenities for achieving full saturation in rural areas in over 15,000 villages, benefiting nearly 1.5 crore people in LWE affected areas. Shri Shah emphasized that Modi government is strengthening 3-C i.e Road connectivity, Mobile connectivity and Financial connectivity.

    Union Home Minister emphasized that Naxalism is not only the biggest obstacle to the development of tribal areas but also the enemy of humanity and the greatest violator of human rights. He mentioned that depriving 8 crore people of basic amenities is a major violation of human rights. Shri Shah pointed out that thousands of innocent tribal brothers and sisters are killed by landmines planted by Naxalites, and it is due to Naxalism that development in these areas has been halted.

    Union Home Minister stated that in order to completely eradicate Naxalism, it is essential to give a final push to eliminate this menace once and for all. He urged the Chief Ministers of all affected states to review the progress of development and anti-Naxal operations at least once a month, and requested the Director Generals of Police to conduct such reviews at least once every 15 days.

    Shri Amit Shah said that we must work towards the complete elimination of Naxalism. He emphasized that by April 2026, through the collective strength of the people, we should be able to announce that the states and central government, working together, have fully eliminated the menace of Naxalism. He added that once this is achieved, there will be no obstacle to development, no human right violations, and no violence in the name of ideology.

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    RK/ASH/PR/PS                    

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: First Lady of Maldives Visits FSSAI, Praises Initiatives on Food Safety

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 6:35PM by PIB Delhi

    The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), had the honour of welcoming Her Excellency Madam Sajidha Mohamed, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and her delegation for a meeting held at FSSAI HQ, FDA Bhawan, here today.

     

    During the meeting, H.E. Madam Sajidha Mohamed had an engaging interaction with India’s contact point for the Codex Alimentarius Commission, discussing key aspects of food safety standards and regulatory frameworks. The First Lady was apprised of the laboratory ecosystems established by FSSAI to ensure the highest standards of food safety across the nation. The First lady mentioned that it will be beneficial for Maldives to have a collaboration with India on improving Food Safety Standards of the Maldives.

     

    As part of the meeting, FSSAI arranged a brief demonstration of its flagship initiative, Food Safety on Wheels (FSW), a mobile food testing laboratory that serves as a critical tool for conducting on-the-spot food safety tests and creating awareness about food safety across the country. The First Lady expressed her admiration for this initiative and praised FSSAI’s efforts to ensure food safety at the grassroots level.

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    MV

    HFW/Visit of Maldives First Lady to FSSAI/07th October 2024/3

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Participates in 44th Session of Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

    Source: Government of India

    India Participates in 44th Session of Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

    India Advocates for Updated Probiotic Guidelines and Nutrient Standards at Codex Meeting; Receives Global Support

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 6:37PM by PIB Delhi

    India participated in the 44th session of the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU) held in Dresden, Germany from October 2 to October 6, 2024. As a key contributor, India made pivotal interventions on significant agenda items. It provided valuable insights on nutrient reference values for persons aged 6 to 36 months and extended its support to frame harmonized probiotic guidelines for foods and food supplements. Countries like Canada, Chile, New Zealand, and several others backed India’s views.

    Playing a pivotal part in creating harmonized guidelines for probiotics, India highlighted that the current Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)/ World Health Organization (WHO) documents on probiotics are two decades old and need revision in light of scientific advancements. Additionally, India emphasized the lack of international harmonization in probiotic regulation guidelines, which may impede global trade practices. The Committee agreed to revisit these guidelines and requested FAO and WHO to conduct a review of the documents ‘Health & Nutrition Properties of Probiotics in Food including powder milk with Live Lactic Acid Bacteria’ (2001) & ‘Guidelines for the Evaluation of Probiotics in Food’ (2002), incorporating a literature review of scientific evidence on probiotics and come up with a new work proposal for reconsideration of CCNFSDU.

    In the general principles for establishing nutrient reference values, India opined that the combined NRV-R value for persons from 6-36 months should be determined by calculating the mean value of the two age groups 6 – 12 months and 12 – 36 months, the same was considered and agreed by the committee.

    In the discussion on assessing the relative sweetness of carbohydrate sources in the Standard for Follow-up Formula, India disagreed with the EU’s proposal for sensory testing, citing a lack of scientific validation for use in national legislation. Supported by the USA, Canada, and others, India’s stance contributed to the committee’s decision to discontinue the topic for now. It was noted that in the absence of a harmonized method, ISO 5495 or other available methods could still be used.

    Delegates from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Ministry of Women and Child Development advocated for India’s stance on various food safety, consumer health, and trade-related issues. During the adoption of the final report, India’s suggestions were officially incorporated, marking a significant contribution to shaping global food safety and nutrition standards.

    During the session, FAO/WHO announced plans for a Joint Statement on Healthy Diet Principles and shared updates on reviewing the benefits and risks of Alternative Animal Source Foods (A-ASFs). FAO also introduced the new “Food and Diet” domain on its FAOSTAT database. Germany’s Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture, Mr. Cem Özdemir, welcomed delegates, stressing the importance of safe food for global food security. The session was chaired by Ms. Martine Püster, with Dr. Carolin Bendadani as co-chair.

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    MV

    HFW/India Joins 44th Codex Nutrition Session/07th October 2024/2

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Auction for Sale (re-issue) of (i) ‘7.04% GS 2029’ and (ii) ‘7.34% GS 2064’

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 6:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India (GoI) has announced the sale (re-issue) of (i) “7.04% Government Security 2029” for a notified amount of ₹14,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction using multiple price method and (ii) “7.34% Government Security 2064” for a notified amount of ₹15,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction using multiple price method. GoI will have the option to retain additional subscription up to ₹2,000 crore against each security mentioned above. The auctions will be conducted by the Reserve Bank of India, Mumbai Office, Fort, Mumbai on October 11, 2024 (Friday).

    Up to 5% of the notified amount of the sale of the securities will be allotted to eligible individuals and institutions as per the Scheme for Non-Competitive Bidding Facility in the Auction of Government Securities.

    Both competitive and non-competitive bids for the auction should be submitted in electronic format on the Reserve Bank of India Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) system on October 11, 2024. The non-competitive bids should be submitted between 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. and the competitive bids should be submitted between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

    The result of the auctions will be announced on October 11, 2024 (Friday) and payment by successful bidders will be on October 14, 2024 (Monday).    

    The Securities will be eligible for “When Issued” trading in accordance with the guidelines on ‘When Issued transactions in Central Government Securities’ issued by the Reserve Bank of India vide circular No. RBI/2018-19/25 dated July 24, 2018 as amended from time to time.

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    NB/KMN

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FSSAI convenes meeting of Rice Millers and Fortified Rice Kernel manufacturers aimed at strengthening Food Safety Standards and Compliance with Fortification

    Source: Government of India

     FSSAI convenes meeting of Rice Millers and Fortified Rice Kernel manufacturers aimed at strengthening Food Safety Standards and Compliance with Fortification

    The meeting fostered interaction between dignitaries and stakeholders to discuss challenges faced in manufacturing, quality control, storage, and testing

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 6:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) convened a significant meeting with stakeholders from the Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) manufacturing sector and rice millers in Hyderabad, today. The meeting was chaired by CEO Shri G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, with special guests including Sri D.S. Chauhan, Commissioner & Principal Secretary to the Government of Telangana, along with other prominent officials from the Food Safety and Consumer Affairs departments.

    During the meeting, CEO FSSAI highlighted the importance of maintaining stringent standards for FRK and the necessary compliance mechanisms to be adhered to during the fortification process. He reiterated the mandate for third-party audits to be conducted by all FRK manufacturers; failure to comply with these regulations will result in consequences for non-compliance.

    The government’s fortification program, aimed at addressing micronutrient deficiencies such as anaemia prevalent in the Indian population, was also discussed. As the national food regulator, FSSAI has established standards for FRK and FRK premixes to ensure quality, making it mandatory to conduct batch-wise testing.

    Recently, the Prime Minister launched 109 high-yielding, nutritionally fortified varieties of crops. The significance of bioavailability in FRK was also emphasized. Currently, over 900 companies are involved in FRK manufacturing in India.

    Concerns regarding recent non-compliance reports from various stakeholders were raised, particularly regarding manufacturing practices and record-keeping. Special Guest D.S. Chauhan, Commissioner & Principal Secretary to the Government of Telangana, underscored challenges in implementing rice fortification programs, such as contamination, adulteration, and hygiene issues. He noted the presence of duplicate products, particularly concerning rice and tea, while commending the high quality of Telangana rice.

    Shri R.V. Karnan, Commissioner of Food Safety, advocated for district-level awareness programs and training sessions for manufacturers on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). He also emphasized the necessity of identifying key locations within states to establish additional labs for testing FRK samples, which will ensure prompt corrective actions in line with Food Safety and Standards Regulations.

    The meeting fostered interaction between dignitaries and stakeholders to discuss challenges faced in manufacturing, quality control, storage, and testing. Also, CEO FSSAI has ensured to address the major glitches faced by the FRK Manufacturers and Millers

    In conclusion, the CEO of FSSAI reaffirmed the collective commitment of all stakeholders to prioritize food safety and work collaboratively towards ensuring safe and nutritious food for consumers across the country.

    The event was attended by over 150 stakeholders, including representatives from international organizations such as Nutrition International, state officials, senior FSSAI officials, and members from the food and agriculture sectors.

    FSSAI remains dedicated to exploring and implementing measures to enhance the food safety landscape throughout India.

     

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     MV

     HFW/Rice Millers-FRK Manufacturers Stakeholders Meeting/7th  October 2024/1

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India stands as a global voice of reason in its commitment to the pursuit of a sustainable energy future: Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India stands as a global voice of reason in its commitment to the pursuit of a sustainable energy future: Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi Highlights India’s Progress in Renewable Energy and Green Shipping at Hamburg Sustainability Conference in Germany

    Since 2014, India has witnessed a transformative increase in its renewable energy capacity, with a 175% rise from 75 GW to over 208 GW: Union Minister

    India is making significant strides in the green shipping sector, aims to be among the top ten shipbuilding nations by 2030 and the top five by 2047: Union Minister Joshi

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 6:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Emphasizing India’s significant progress in green shipping and energy transition, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi, delivered the keynote address at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference in Germany on 7th October 2024. The Minister remarked that that India stands as a global voice of reason in its commitment to the pursuit of a sustainable energy future that aligns with our growth ambitions and environmental responsibilities.

    Addressing the conference, Union Minister highlighted India’s energy transition and noted that India has achieved significant milestones in its shift to renewable energy. “India is the only G20 country to have met its climate targets ahead of schedule, despite having the lowest per capita emissions among G20 nations,” he remarked. He emphasized that energy security and access remain paramount for India, but this has never hindered the nation’s commitment to energy transition on both national and global scales.

    In this address, Union Minister Joshi noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed a transformative increase in its renewable energy capacity since 2014, with a 175% rise from 75 GW to over 208 GW today. Total RE increased from 193.5 billion units to 360 BU, marking an 86% rise during this period. Solar energy capacity has also grown 33 times in the last 10 years. Shri Joshi also emphasized that International Solar Alliance, supported by over 100 countries, demonstrates India’s leadership in global efforts to combat climate change through solar energy.

    The Minister also drew attention to India’s cultural heritage, noting that the concept of sustainability is deeply rooted in Indian tradition. He recited the Gayatri Mantra from the Rigveda, underlining India’s ancient belief in the harmony between mankind and nature.

    Green Shipping Initiatives:

    Addressing the theme of Green Shipping, Shri Joshi emphasized the crucial role of the maritime sector in global trade and its impact on greenhouse gas emissions. He stated, “As we progress towards achieving net-zero emissions, the necessity for sustainable maritime transport has become very important. India is making significant strides in the green shipping sector, driven by government initiatives, technological advancements, and international collaborations.”

    The Minister detailed how Indian shipyards are being modernized and older dockyards are being evaluated for reopening to expand green shipbuilding capacity. “India is becoming a promising hub for green shipbuilding,” he noted, citing the government’s strong emphasis on alternative fuels and renewable energy sources like biofuels and wind power. India is upgrading its port infrastructure to support green shipping fuels and vessels using hybrid models, with the goal of ranking among the top five shipbuilding nations by 2047.

    The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), launched with an outlay of $2.4 billion, aims to produce 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen annually by 2030, attracting over $100 billion in investments and creating more than 6 lakh jobs. He also invited international stakeholders to collaborate in India’s ambitious green hydrogen and renewable energy projects.

    Pilot projects under the NGHM, with an investment of $14 million, are already exploring the use of green hydrogen in the shipping sector. “We are focusing on converting existing vessels to operate on green hydrogen or its derivatives. The Shipping Corporation of India is currently converting two vessels to run on green methanol,” the Minister explained. India with an investment of approximately $25 million, is setting the stage for development of hydrogen hubs that will transform its energy landscape. Moreover, ports such as Deendayal, Paradip, and V.O. Chidambaranar are being developed into key hydrogen hubs with bunkering and refuelling facilities to support green hydrogen-powered ships.

    Shri Pralhad Joshi concluded his address by reaffirming that, “India’s embrace of innovative technologies, investment in robust infrastructure, and cultivation of international cooperation have elevated us from a mere participant to a leading force in this global transition.”

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    Navin Sreejith

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 12th Meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments

    Source: Government of India (2)

    12th Meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments

    Food parks among areas for greater collaboration and investments between India and UAE: Shri Piyush Goyal

    Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) to establish a subsidiary at GIFT City: Shri Piyush Goyal

    Invest India office to open in UAE: Shri Piyush Goyal

    Interlinking of the two national payment platforms – UPI (India) and AANI (UAE) to facilitate seamless cross-border transactions between the two countries: Shri Piyush Goyal

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 5:09PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai (India), 7 October 2024

     

    The 12th Meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments (HLJTFI) took place in Mumbai today. It was co-Chaired by Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce & Industry, Government of India and His Highness Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA).

    The HLJTFI was established in 2013 to promote trade, investment and economic ties between India and the UAE. Since its formation, it has provided an effective mechanism to discuss opportunities and prospects for further investments in India and the UAE, while acting as a forum to resolve issues faced by investors of the two countries.

    During the 12th HLJTFI meeting, the Co-Chairs acknowledged the continued growth and strengthening of the bilateral relationship between India and the UAE, including on trade and investment related matters. The India-UAE Bilateral Investment Treaty, signed during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UAE in February 2024, has been ratified by both sides and entered into force with effect from 31 August 2024. 

    The Co-Chairs also acknowledged the rapid rise in bilateral trade under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which came into force in May 2022. The Joint Task Force reviewed the working of the India-UAE CEPA, which was one of the fastest-ever negotiated Free Trade Agreements. This landmark agreement designed to stimulate increased trade and boost the trading relationship between the two countries. During the course of the last two years, the CEPA has helped reduce tariffs on the majority of product lines, sought to address other barriers to trade and created new avenues for cooperation. As a result of the deal, bilateral trade has risen consistently, with non-oil trade rising to US$28.2 billion in the first half of 2024, a 9.8% year-on-year increase. The agreement has also spurred FDI – as of 2023, the UAE is India’s fourth largest foreign investor with US$3.35 billion committed across a wide range of sectors, representing a threefold increase on 2022. Indian FDI into the UAE in 2023 totalled US$ 2.05 billion, more than 2021 and 2022 combined. These figures represent real growth with real, on-the-ground impact. Further, it has led to job creation in Indian market and export from labour-oriented sectors is growing rapidly.

    Considering the strategic agreements and initiatives signed during the recent official visit of H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to India, the two sides noted the existing and future investments and projects of UAE entities in key sectors of the Indian economy, including energy, artificial intelligence, logistics, food and agriculture, which total approximately US$100 billion. The meeting also reviewed UAE investments in Indian infrastructure assets.

    During the HLJTFI meeting, the two sides reviewed progress on several key initiatives, including some that were previously announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and expressed satisfaction at the rapid pace of implementation. These initiatives include bilateral trade in local currencies, the integration of payment systems of India and the UAE, cooperation on Central Bank Digital Currencies, the launch of work relating to a Virtual Trade Corridor and the development of a food park in Ahmedabad. 

    Food parks are among areas for greater collaboration and investments between India and UAE. It will lead to higher income for farmers, jobs’ creation in food processing sector, and enhance food security for UAE. Small working groups between Central Government, State Governments and UAE Government will take forward food corridors between the two countries on a mission-mode basis. The strong progress made on these initiatives attests to the high level of commitment from both sides to ensure the implementation of their respective leaders’ visions. 

    The two sides welcomed the announcement of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) establishing a subsidiary at GIFT City. This underlines the strong interest from UAE’s institutional investors in India’s growing and dynamic economy, and GIFT City’s reputation as world-class financial services centre, operating under a strong regulator and a robust legal framework.

    To augment the relationship, National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), via its international subsidiary NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) is collaborating with Al Etihad Payments (AEP), to enable creation of domestic card scheme JAYWAN in UAE. The JAYWAN card scheme is an outcome of deep collaboration between NIPL and AEP. It is based on the RuPay card stack (developed and deployed at great scale by NPCI in India), which is shared with the AEP to enable UAE be sovereign in the area of digital payments. The two governments are now working on interlinking the two national payment platforms – UPI (India) and AANI (UAE), which will facilitate seamless cross-border transactions between the two countries. This will benefit over 3 million Indians residing in UAE enabling them use power of UPI and AANI, for real-time cross-border remittance, which is aligned with the vision of bringing speed, transparency, accessibility and cost efficiency in cross-border remittances.

    The Government of India has also decided to open an office of Invest India in Dubai, UAE to serve as a dedicated point of contact for potential UAE investors seeking to invest in India. The issue was discussed during the India-UAE HLJTFI meeting today. This will be the first such overseas office of Invest India in the Middle East region and its second overseas office overall after Singapore.

    In course of the HLJTFI meeting, the Co-chairs Shri Piyush Goyal, Commerce & Industry Minister of India, and His Highness Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, also expressed satisfaction on the progress being made by Bharat Mart. Work on the ground has commenced, and design work on the layout of retail spaces and warehousing is making rapid progress.

    The HLJTFI provides a forum to deliberate on ways and incentives for encouraging further growth in investment flows from both sides. In this context, the Indian side shared opportunities for investments in priority sectors like renewable energy, green hydrogen, pharmaceuticals and genomics, among others. The UAE side also raised opportunities for investment in India’s aerospace sector, due to the rapid growth of its aviation market.  

    Issues related to investments from both sides, as well as specific challenges faced by companies from both countries, were also discussed during the meeting, with a view to removing obstacles and facilitating their resolution. The Co-Chairs directed both teams to work together and with the relevant government entities to address these issues in a timely and mutually acceptable manner. 

    The HLJTFI meeting was attended by Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India; Shri Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE, H.E. Dr. Abdulnasser Jamal Alshaali, Ambassador of the UAE to India, and a number of senior officials from both the governments.

    Shri Piyush Goyal, Commerce and Industries Minister, Government of India, and Co-Chair of the HLJTFI said: “India-UAE partnership stands on the pillars of innovation, investment and sustainable development. The Joint Task Force meeting today was useful to take a stock of all the laudable initiatives that India and the UAE have jointly undertaken, such as local currency settlement, virtual trade corridor, Bharat Mart, and so on. With the strong framework now provided by India-UAE CEPA and Bilateral Investment Treaty, I encourage stakeholders to further explore investment opportunities and trade possibilities.”

    His Highness Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Co-Chair of the HLJTFI, said: “The India-UAE CEPA, signed in 2022, has been a major catalyst for strengthening economic ties and enhancing cross-border trade between the UAE and India. Against this positive backdrop, the Joint Task Force continues to play an important role as a forum to explore new investment opportunities, remove impediments to further cooperation and work together in pursuit of shared goals.”

     

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    PIB Mumbai | SR/ SC/ DR

     

    Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com  /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Dharmendra Pradhan presides over signing of Letter of Engagement between NCERT and Amazon

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan presides over signing of Letter of Engagement between NCERT and Amazon

    NCERT to triple-fold publication of books by publishing 15 crore books this year – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

    Books will be made available at MRP across nearly 20,000 pin codes nationwide– Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

    MoU will ensure access to original NCERT textbooks on major e-commerce platforms

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan lauds NCERT’s partnership with Amazon, calls it a step towards enhancing ease of living and accessibility to education

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 6:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, presided over the signing of the Letter of Engagement (LoE) today between NCERT and Amazon Seller Services Pvt Ltd. This is the first such tie-up, which will ensure access to original NCERT textbooks at the printed price on major e-commerce platforms. Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Shri Sanjay Kumar; Joint Secretary, (DoSEL), Smt. Prachi Pandey; Director, NCERT, Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani; Vice President, Amazon, Shri Saurabh Shrivastava; Director, Public Policy, Amazon, Shri Aman Jain, other dignitaries and officials were also present at the event.

    While addressing the audience, Shri Pradhan stated that today’s initiative will strengthen NEP2020’s vision of making education inclusive, accessible, and affordable. He added that with the increasing digital footprint across the country, this initiative will also support the Government’s vision of ‘ease of living.’ Shri Pradhan noted that NCERT has been shaping India’s education landscape by publishing textbooks since 1963, with a total of around 220 crore books and journals. He emphasized that NCERT is a major think tank for the country. Furthermore, he announced that these books will be made available across nearly 20,000 pin codes nationwide. He emphasized that these books should be available at MRP.

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan lauded NCERT’s partnership with Amazon calling it a step towards enhancing ease of living and accessibility to education. NCERT to triple-fold publication of books and publish 15 crore books this year, he added.

    He also informed the audience that NCERT has been entrusted with the responsibility of developing 21st-century textbooks.

    Stressing the importance of making learning joyful for the 300 million students of the Amrit Kaal, he urged the development of e-books that are interactive and AI-driven, featuring innovations like talking books. Expressing his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he underscored the significance of books in all 23 languages, declaring that books will be the real soft power of India.

    Highlighting the significance of textbooks in education, Shri Sanjay Kumar emphasized the need to strengthen the supply chain for these essential resources. He stressed that textbooks, which account for nearly 96% of the total volume of book sales in the country, should be made available through e-commerce platforms like Amazon to enhance accessibility for students.

    NCERT textbooks of all grades shall be made available on the Amazon NCERT storefront (http://amazon.in/ncert), which was also launched today. The textbooks shall be retailed at a price not more than the rate printed on the textbooks. Only original NCERT textbooks shall be retailed on this platform, thereby helping curb the sale of pirated NCERT textbooks. Amazon will help NCERT monitor and take down unauthorized sellers who distribute counterfeit or overpriced books.

    Through Amazon’s vast delivery network, students and schools, even in the most remote areas, will be able to purchase textbooks at the prescribed prices. This would address the challenges of supply gaps, delayed availability, and regional shortages of textbooks, ensuring equitable access to education.

    This tie-up shall also enable NCERT to leverage customer reviews and feedback to improve the quality of its textbooks and other educational material. Moreover, anonymised sales and usage data will be shared with NCERT to facilitate informed decision-making regarding future print orders, distribution strategies, and selection of new distributors in States/districts where the demand for NCERT textbooks is more.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Story of the Indian Air Force: A Journey Through Time

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 7:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Read More:-   The Story of the Indian Air Force: A Journey Through Time

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sheetal Angral/ Ishita Biswas

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    Read this release in: Urdu

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint National Workshop of Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of Tribal Affairs for Training of Trainers on Forest Rights Act and PESA issues to start tomorrow at Jabalpur

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 7:28PM by PIB Delhi

    In alignment with the provisions of the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA), Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Ministry of Panchayati Raj are collaborating for focused Capacity Building & Training of tribal communities, particularly the members of the District Level Committees, Sub Division Level Committees and Elected Panchayat Representatives in the PESA areas with the aim of strengthening of Gram Sabhas in Areas covered by Panchayat Extension in Scheduled Act (PESA) and effective implementation of Forest Rights Act (FRA). The Training of Trainers (TOT) workshop being jointly organised by Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of Tribal Affairs, at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (MGSIRD&PR), Jabalpur, on 8th and 9th October 2024 on PESA subject of Control over Money Lending and on various issues related with implementation of FRA. Approximately 150 State and District level Master Trainers from across 21 States and UTs (having Forest Rights Act in force) will be trained in the workshop.

    The aforesaid Special Capacity Building Campaign will be implemented within the framework of Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA). While the Scheme of Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan is being implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) will provide support for Special Capacity Building Campaign and Training under its flagship Scheme Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA). It will include State, District and Block level Training Programmes.

    The Special Capacity Building Campaign had started with a joint workshop of Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of Tribal Affairs in June 2024 at NIRD&PR to finalize the Instruction Material for Training on PESA issues and FRA. After finalization of Instruction material State and District level Master Trainers have been identified in States & UTs for imparting training to the Elected Representatives and other stakeholders of PRIs in the PESA areas and FRA implementing States. Training of these Trainers (ToT) is in progress, four ToTs on PESA subjects have been conducted by the MoPR.

    In the workshop, training would be provided on various aspects of FRA such as Institutional Mechanisms; Process of Claims under Individual Forest Rights, Community Forest Rights and Community Forest Resource Rights; challenges in filing claims and grievance redressal etc.

    Senior officers from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Tribal Affairs and from the Panchayat & Rural Development and Tribal Welfare Departments of Government of Madhya Pradesh would be present to guide the participants towards next course of action to attain the mandate of the Joint Advisory and the collaboration through training of grassroots level trainers, PRIs and various implementation stakeholders.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Health Minister Unveils Key Initiatives to boost Nutrition Support for TB Patients and their Families

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Health Minister Unveils Key Initiatives to boost Nutrition Support for TB Patients and their Families

    Monthly support under Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana increased from the existing ₹500 per month to ₹1000 per month for all TB patients: Shri J P Nadda

    Government approves additional allocation of ₹ 1040 crores to Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana as nutritional support for all TB patients

    All household contacts of TB patients to be covered under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and will be eligible to receive social support from the community

    “Till date, ₹ 3,202 crores, have been disbursed to 1.13 crore beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer under Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana”

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 7:09PM by PIB Delhi

    In alignment with its commitment to accelerate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to TB elimination, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri J P Nadda, announced several key initiatives aimed at enhancing nutrition support for TB patients and their household contacts.

    Underscoring India’s resolute commitment to end TB, Shri Nadda announced that Nutrition support under Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) has been increased from existing Rs. 500 per month/patient to Rs. 1,000/month/patient for entire duration of the treatment. “The government has also decided to introduce energy dense nutrition supplementation for all patients with BMI<18.5 and to permit expansion of scope & coverage of Ni-Kshay Mitra initiative under Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA) to the family members (household contacts) of TB patients”, he said.

    All TB patients will now receive a nutritional support of ₹ 3,000 to ₹ 6,000 under Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY). While enhancement of NPY support will benefit all 25 lakh TB patients in a year, introduction of Energy Dense Nutritional Supplementation (EDNS) would cover approximately 12 lakh underweight patients (BMI less than 18.5 kg/m2at the time of diagnosis). EDNS would be provided to all eligible patients for the first two months of their treatment. “This move will cost the Government of India approximately an additional ₹1,040 crores to be shared between the center and states on 60:40 basis”, Shri Nadda said.

    Further, the Union Health Ministry has approved demand on expanding scope of nutritional support to household contacts of TB patients. In addition to TB patients, Ni-kshay Mitras will adopt the household contacts of TB patients for distribution of food baskets with a view to improve the immunity of the family members of TB patients. This would lead to a significant reduction in out-of-pocket expenses (OOPE) incurred by TB patients and their families.

    The Union Health Minister stated that till date, ₹3,202 crores have been disbursed to 1.13 crore beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer under Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana.

    These measures are expected to aid nutritional recovery, improve response to treatment and outcomes and reduce mortality due to TB in India.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi meets with UNDP Assistant Secretary-General Ms. Kanni Wignaraja in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 8:28PM by PIB Delhi

    Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare welcomed a UNDP delegation led by Ms. Kanni Wignaraja, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi today. The meeting centered around ongoing collaboration between the Ministry and UNDP, particularly in the areas of agricultural insurance and credit, aimed at enhancing risk resilience in the agriculture sector. The partnership, initiated in 2018 was extended in 2023 for another four years, until 2026. Discussions also explored potential avenues for further cooperation between UNDP and other relevant departments.

    Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi highlighted the Government of India’s key priorities in agriculture, including achieving self-sufficiency in oilseeds and pulses, promoting the Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM), advancing climate-resilient agriculture, and improving crop insurance and agricultural credit systems. He emphasized India’s success in implementing the world’s largest crop insurance scheme, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), which has seen significant growth in farmer and land coverage. He noted that several countries have sought India’s technical expertise to develop their own crop insurance programs based on this model.

    Ms. Kanni Wignaraja expressed UNDP’s strong interest in collaborating on initiatives such as the Food and Agriculture Commodity System (FACS), value chains for oilseeds, pulses, and millets, as well as in climate-resilient agriculture and solar storage solutions. She also commended India’s leadership in sharing its experience in crop insurance and agricultural credit with other nations, particularly in promoting South-South cooperation.

    The Secretary reiterated that areas for future collaboration could include expanding climate-resilient agriculture practices, integrating digital technology through the Digital Agriculture Mission within the PMFBY framework, enhancing agricultural credit systems, and strengthening millet value chains.

    Ms. Wignaraja thanked Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi for the fruitful discussion and assured UNDP’s continued support to the Ministry in achieving shared goals, including poverty eradication, promoting inclusive governance, and fostering sustainable development.

    The meeting was attended by Dr. P.K. Meherda, Additional Secretary and other senior officers of DA&FW besides Ms. Angela Lusigi, Resident Representative of UNDP India, Ms. Isabelle Tschan, Deputy Resident Representative.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India to host ITU-WTSA24 during October 14th- 24th in New Delhi : The first ever in Asia Pacific region

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India to host ITU-WTSA24 during October 14th- 24th in New Delhi : The first ever in Asia Pacific region

    World leaders and technology experts from more than 190+ countries will join to shape the future of technology standards

    Inauguration of AI Bharat 5G/6G Hackathon phase-2 by Member (Technology)-the first pre-event of WTSA-2024

    Phase-2 of the Hackathon begins with National & International Teams tacking to achieve Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs) using AI in Telecom Innovations

    Global Innovators compete to design the cutting-Edge Solutions in 5G and 6G — Smart City Transit, Flood Monitoring, and Autonomous Networks Among Top Solutions at AI Bharat Hackathon

    “The solutions you create here have the potential to shape the future of global telecommunications.”: Ms. Madhu Arora, Member (Technology)

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 7:50PM by PIB Delhi

    The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) of International Telecommunication Union (ITU) will be held in New Delhi from October 14 to 24, 2024. This will be the first time in the history of ITU that this prestigious global tech event is happening in Asia-Pacific region. Over 3,000 world leaders and technology experts  from 190+ countries will collaborate to shape the future of technology standard in areas like 6G, AI, IoT, Big Data, cybersecurity, M2M communications, and quantum technologies.

    As part of many WTSA side events, the second phase of AI Bharat 5G/6G Hackathon, organized in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, started today.

    The two-day in-person coding competition kicked off today at Bharat Mandapam, with 12 shortlisted teams—seven Indian and five international—coming together to compete. Over the next two days, these teams will develop cutting-edge AI and machine learning (AI/ML) solutions for next-generation 5G and 6G networks. The hackathon is supported by an elite panel of Indian and international mentors, including 12 Indian and two international experts, along with guidance from an ITU Programme Officer.

    This event, open to both Indian and international participants, provides an exceptional platform for collaboration.

    The first phase, which took place from 7th August to 30th September 2024, was launched by the Secretary, Department of Telecom in the presence of senior ITU officials, and experts from IIT Delhi. During this online phase, participants from diverse backgrounds, including international teams, competed in a series of challenges aimed at integrating AI/ML into 5G/6G infrastructures. Five mentoring sessions were conducted, with all teams submitting detailed project repositories. Primarily sessions were scheduled every Wednesday from August 7, 2024 to August 28, 2024. Additionally, there were a half-hour session as part of the WTSA outreach program on September 26, 2024, in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bangalore.

    The Hackathon focuses on two problem statements:

    1.         AI Bharat 5G/6G Sandbox – Build Your Own AI/ML Model for 5G/6G: Teams will develop AI/ML pipelines leveraging ITU recommendations, including ITU-T Y.3172 and ITU-T Y.3061, with the aim of creating innovative use cases for 5G/6G.

    2.         AI Bharat 5G/6G Sandbox – Build Your Own xApp for Autonomous 5G/6G: Participants will create xApps to enhance autonomous 5G/6G networks, guided by ITU experts.

    Inaugurating the second phase, Ms. Madhu Arora, Member (Technology), Digital Communication Commission warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, participants, and winners of the first phase, saying,”This international hackathon is a platform for young innovators to turn their visions into reality and make a tangible impact on society.”

    Member (T) also emphasized the hackathon’s importance, stating, “The integration of AI/ML into 5G and 6G technologies opens up limitless possibilities, and I eagerly anticipate the innovative solutions that will emerge from this initiative.”

    Participants are working on critical challenges with real-world applications, including smart city transit, flood monitoring, traffic optimization, womens safety with “AuratRaksha”,

     “Sim Fraud Protection” and network reliability, using AI/ML technologies integrated with 5G and 6G networks. Teams have access to cutting-edge resources such as cloud credits, simulators, and compute servers. The event also features expert talks from global leaders in AI and telecommunications.

    The hackathon’s use cases span a wide range of fields, including:

    • Next Gen: A 5G-enabled smart city public transportation system for seamless data flow and real-time updates.
    • Vajra IITB: A flood monitoring and alerting system for real-time emergency response in urban areas.
    • BLAZE-IITJ: A 5G-enabled drone resource scheduling framework using AI for ultra-reliable low-latency communications.
    • IIITA ECE: A waste management system to prevent riverbed pollution.
    • Tech Rangers: An AI-driven initiative to reduce the 6G standards barrier for African contributors.
    • HexaCore: A women’s safety platform, “AuratRaksha,” designed for real-time alerts in unsafe situations.
    • Neural Nomads: AgriShield – AI-Driven 5G/6G Solutions for Small-Scale Farmers is focused on improving agricultural resilience for small-scale farmers in Zimbabwe and Africa. The platform uses AI-powered crop monitoring and predictive analytics to provide real-time insights, while also streamlining farm-to-market logistics through an integrated AI marketplace., empowering farmers with data-driven decision-making tools.

     Ms. Madhu Arora concluded by encouraging participants to push the boundaries of innovation, “The solutions you create here have the potential to shape the future of global telecommunications.”

    As the event progresses, participants will continue refining their projects, leading to the announcement of winners, who will be awarded and recognized at the closing ceremony.

    Prizes: The top three teams ($1,000, $700, $500). Special recognition will be given to the Best Student Team, Best Start-up, and Best Female Team, each receiving $500.

    The AI Bharat 5G/6G Hackathon has become a hub for innovation, bringing together students, startups, and technology enthusiasts from India and across the globe. It will help shape the future of AI and next-generation telecommunications.

    (For further updates on the hackathon, please visit:

    https://challenge.aiforgood.itu.int/match/matchitem/95.)

    About WTSA2024:

    The prestigious World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) will be held in New Delhi from 15th – 24th Oct 2024, marking a significant step towards the advancements of 5G and 6G networks. It also marks the country’s growing importance in the global technology landscape. The WTSA is a quadrennial event and serves as the governing conference of the ITU (International Telecommunication Union) Standardisation Sector (ITU-T). It is one of the three world conferences organized by the International Telecommunication Union, an entity within the United Nations system. This event plays a pivotal role in setting global telecommunication standards, making India’s hosting of the WTSA a significant milestone.

    It will bring together more than 3,000 delegates from 150+ countries, including over 1,000 foreign delegates and 50 global ministers representing telecom, digital, and ICT sectors. WTSA 2024 will pave the way for bridging the digital divide through universal and affordable connectivity, focusing on critical areas like 6G, AI, IoT, Big Data, cybersecurity, M2M, Broadcasting, Satcom, and quantum technologies.

    WTSA will be preceded by the Global Standards Symposium (GSS) on October 14, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.  The GSS is a high-level forum for policy debates on ICT standardization, addressing its evolving dynamics and technical implications.

    The WTSA 2024, will be accompanied by other related initiatives such as the ITU Kaleidoscope conference, ITU exhibitions, Network of Women and AI for Good to enrich the discourse and promote inclusivity in the sector.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh meets Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 8:29PM by PIB Delhi

    The Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Shri Vishnu Deo Sai met the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today.

    The Prime Minister’s Office handle in a post on X wrote:

    “CM of Chhattisgarh, Shri @vishnudsai, met Prime Minister @narendramodi.”

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy Reviews IBM, JNARDDC Operations, Inaugurates Advanced Scanning & XRD Facilities in Nagpur

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 8:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, visited the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) headquarters in Nagpur, where he reviewed the progress of key initiatives, launched digital innovations, and underscored the government’s commitment to advancing India’s mineral exploration and processing capabilities.

    During the visit, Shri G. Kishan Reddy visited IBM’s state-of-the-art Modern Mineral Processing Lab at Hinga, Nagpur. The lab is pivotal to India’s strategic mineral mission. The lab’s advanced technologies in critical mineral processing and beneficiation were showcased, with Shri Sanjay Lohiya, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines and Controller General of IBM, highlighting the lab’s role in promoting efficiency, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

    Shri G Kishan Reddy inaugurated the Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESM) and Digital X-ray diffraction (XRD) facilities at the Modern Mineral Processing Laboratory of IBM. These advanced technologies will enhance mineral analysis capabilities, contributing to India’s strategic mineral mission by improving accuracy, efficiency, and sustainability in mineral processing.

    Minister also chaired a review meeting with Shri Sanjay Lohiya and other officials from IBM, focusing on streamlining operations, enhancing mineral exploration efforts, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to improve transparency and efficiency in the mining sector.

    Shri Lohya briefed the Minister on Star Ratings System for Sustainable Mining Practices and Mining Tenement System.

    Shri G. Kishan Reddy also chaired a review of the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminum Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC) within the IBM premises, where he emphasized the importance of research and innovation in aluminum processing and its contribution to India’s self-reliance in mineral resources.

    The Union Minister planted saplings at the IBM headquarters, symbolizing the commitment to environmental sustainability and green initiatives in the mining sector.

    The visit reinforces the Ministry’s dedication to fostering self-reliance in mineral resources and advancing India’s position in the global mineral sector.

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    (Release ID: 2062980) Visitor Counter : 40

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy Reviews IBM, JNARDDC Operations, Inaugurates Advanced Scanning & XRD Facilities in Nagpur

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 8:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, visited the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) headquarters in Nagpur, where he reviewed the progress of key initiatives, launched digital innovations, and underscored the government’s commitment to advancing India’s mineral exploration and processing capabilities.

    During the visit, Shri G. Kishan Reddy visited IBM’s state-of-the-art Modern Mineral Processing Lab at Hinga, Nagpur. The lab is pivotal to India’s strategic mineral mission. The lab’s advanced technologies in critical mineral processing and beneficiation were showcased, with Shri Sanjay Lohiya, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines and Controller General of IBM, highlighting the lab’s role in promoting efficiency, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

    Shri G Kishan Reddy inaugurated the Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESM) and Digital X-ray diffraction (XRD) facilities at the Modern Mineral Processing Laboratory of IBM. These advanced technologies will enhance mineral analysis capabilities, contributing to India’s strategic mineral mission by improving accuracy, efficiency, and sustainability in mineral processing.

    Minister also chaired a review meeting with Shri Sanjay Lohiya and other officials from IBM, focusing on streamlining operations, enhancing mineral exploration efforts, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to improve transparency and efficiency in the mining sector.

    Shri Lohya briefed the Minister on Star Ratings System for Sustainable Mining Practices and Mining Tenement System.

    Shri G. Kishan Reddy also chaired a review of the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminum Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC) within the IBM premises, where he emphasized the importance of research and innovation in aluminum processing and its contribution to India’s self-reliance in mineral resources.

    The Union Minister planted saplings at the IBM headquarters, symbolizing the commitment to environmental sustainability and green initiatives in the mining sector.

    The visit reinforces the Ministry’s dedication to fostering self-reliance in mineral resources and advancing India’s position in the global mineral sector.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 3rd edition of Kautilya Economic Conclave 2024 (KEC2024) concludes in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    3rd edition of Kautilya Economic Conclave 2024 (KEC2024) concludes in New Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave a special address at the KEC2024 to the participants, evoking enthusiasm in its ongoing effort to make India a developed economy by 2047

    The Prime Minister emphasised India’s emergence as a preferred global investment destination due to substantial reforms over the last decade

    Union Finance Minister gave an overview of India’s high economic growth, fiscal management and investment on infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology while reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and reforms

    Dr. Jaishankar stressed on the emergence of AI and its far-reaching impact on economic and social activities

    Prof. Jagdish Bhagwati lauded the Prime Minister for his leadership, emphasising his timely intervention with a shift from inward-looking policies to a more open, productive economy

    KEC2024 showcased India’s new role in setting the global agenda, particularly in areas like green energy, technology, and trade reform, and highlighted India’s aspirations for inclusive growth and its evolving role as a strategic leader of the Global South

    Over 150 prominent economists, policymakers, and academic pioneers from India and around the globe participated in the KEC2024

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 8:37PM by PIB Delhi

    The third edition of the Kautilya Economic Conclave 2024 (KEC2024) held between October 4-6, 2024, in New Delhi, was successfully concluded yesterday. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, addressed the KEC2024 with a special address to the participants, evoking enthusiasm in its ongoing effort to make India a developed economy by 2047.

    Over 150 prominent economists, policymakers, and academic pioneers from India and around the globe participated in the KEC2024, organised by the Institute of Economic Growth (IEG) in partnership with the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance (MoF). It featured 11 Plenary Sessions, 12 interactive sessions and bilateral discussions on contemporary economic and social challenges facing both India and the world.

    The Prime Minister’s vision for a Viksit Bharat is predicated on continued economic growth, structural reforms and harnessing the cutting edge of technology.

    In his address, the Prime Minister emphasised India’s emergence as a preferred global investment destination due to substantial reforms over the last decade, including advancements in banking, taxation, and infrastructure, and also discussed India’s commitment to green energy, highlighting initiatives like the green hydrogen mission and the Global Biofuel Alliance, which were critical outcomes of India’s G20 Presidency.

    Earlier, the KEC 2024 kicked off with an inaugural address by Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, who emphasised India’s robust macroeconomic fundamentals and its abilities to address multiple uncertainties.

    Smt. Sitharaman also gave an overview of India’s high economic growth, fiscal management and investment on infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology while reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and reforms.

     

     

    The KEC2024 concluded with the Union Minister for External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar in conversation with Mr. N.K. Singh, President of the Institute of Economic Growth, where they discussed India’s strategic role in the Global South.

    Dr. Jaishankar highlighted how India is seen as a “trusted and articulate member” and spoke on the increasing importance of alternative global frameworks such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which are shaping global collaboration beyond traditional structures like the UN. Dr. Jaishankar also stressed on the emergence of AI and it’s far reaching impact on economic and social activities.

    A key highlight was the participation of Prof. Jagdish Bhagwati, one of India’s most respected economists, who praised India’s transformation from “taking advice” from global institutions like the World Bank to now “giving advice” to them. He lauded the Prime Minister for his leadership, emphasising that his timely intervention shifted from inward-looking policies to a more open, productive economy given the complexities, strategies have been nibble to grasp new opportunities while addressing ongoing challenges.

    Throughout the KEC2024, experts delved into several critical topics like the challenges affecting factors of productivity such as skilling to enhance employment, and growth enhancing strategies; the urgent need to address climate change and strategies for a green transition; best international and domestic practices in industrial policy; the challenges and consequences of geo-economic fragmentation; reforming the international financial architecture; and artificial intelligence and its potential effects on jobs and the economy, to mention a few.

    The KEC2024 featured a wide array of distinguished participants, both from India and abroad. Key international participants included, among others, Bhutan’s Finance Minister Mr. Lyonpo Lekey Dorji; Ms. Amelie de Montchalin, Frech Permanent Representative of OECD & former French Minister; Mr. Albert Park, Chief Economist and Director General, Asian Development Bank; Mr. Masood Ahmed, President Emeritus of the Centre for Global Development; Mr. Justin Yifu Lin, Dean of the Institute of New Structural Economics at Peking University; Mr. Erik Berglof, Chief Economist at the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank; Lord Nicholas Stern, IG Patel Professor of Economics and Government, London School of Economics; and mr. John Lipsky, Senior Fellow at the Foreign Policy Institute, Johns Hopkins University. Among the Indian participants, notable figures included Mr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission; Mr. Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog; Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran, Chief Economic Advisor, and Secretaries from the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of External Affairs.

    These discussions spanning over three days – centred around the theme of “the Indian Era”. There were sessions on topics such as “Relationship between climate and development goals”; “Geo-economic fragmentation and the implications for growth”; “Financing the green transition”; “The rise of Asia and its implications for development economics”, etc.

    The deliberations at the conclave showcased India’s shift from following global directives to setting the global agenda, particularly in areas like green energy, technology, and trade reform, and highlighted India’s aspirations for inclusive growth and its evolving role as a strategic leader of the Global South, while reinforcing its ambition to become a developed economy by 2047.

    ****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Haryana records 67.9% turnout in Assembly elections 2024; scores 3% higher than Lok Sabha voting

    Source: Government of India

    Haryana records 67.9% turnout in Assembly elections 2024; scores 3% higher than Lok Sabha voting

    Urban Apathy continues to drag down overall state turnout

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 8:46PM by PIB Delhi

    A voter turnout of 67.9% has been recorded across the 90 Assembly Constituencies (ACs) in the Haryana Assembly Elections 2024, reflecting significantly higher voter response compared to last Lok Sabha elections which recorded 64.8% voting in the state. The turnout nearly touches the figures of Assembly Elections in 2019, which stood at 68.3%. Voters across rural areas turned up at polling stations with greater vigour. The gender wise voter turnout figures are given below:

    Single Phase

    Male Turnout

    Female turnout

    Third gender turnout

    Overall turnout

    90ACs

    68.93%

    66.73%

    25.27%

    67.90%

     

    2. The disturbing trend of Urban Apathy, however, continues to significantly impact overall state voter turnout, with many urban constituencies in Haryana recording turnout rates 10% below the state average.

    Voter turnout at polling stations in some prominent urban ACs in Haryana

    Name of AC

    Turnout in 2024 Assembly Elections

    Difference in %turnout

    from 2024 LA state average (67.9%)

     

    Turnout in 2019 Assembly Elections

    Difference in % turnout

    from 2019 LA state average (68.3%)

    Gurgaon

    51.81%

    16.09%

    52.36%

    15.9%

    Faridabad

    53.74%

    14.16%

    49.56%

    18.7%

    Panchkula

    59.37%

    8.53%

    60.03%

    8.3%

    Ballabhgarh

    53.27%

    14.63%

    51.42%

    16.9%

    Sonipat

    57.67%

    10.23%

    61.86%

    6.4%

    Karnal

    56.37%

    11.53%

    52.29%

    16.01%

    Badshahpur

    54.26%

    13.64%

     

    57.61%

    10.7%

     

    3. This trend of low urban participation mirrors similar patterns seen in previous assembly elections in Karnataka, Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. Countrywide various initiatives were undertaken by the Commission in the previous elections to motivate and engage the urban voters. Ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, special consultations with Municipal Commissioners and DEOs from select districts and introduction of TIP (Turnout Implementation Plan) were undertaken. However, despite the Commission’s intensive efforts to engage and motivate urban voters, the participation continues to be subpar. Recently, during the review visit in Maharashtra, CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar had again emphasised on all DEOs and MCs to work on improving voter turnout, especially in urban areas. The Commission, while expressing concerns over the discernible lower turnout in urban areas in Haryana and in J&K, has resolved to further strengthen measures and innovative outreach to deal with urban apathy in the upcoming elections in predominantly urban states like Maharashtra.

    4. Voting turnout trends at the polling stations on the poll day was facilitated by the Commission through its Voter turnout App, every two hours starting 9:30 am onwards. CEO Haryana has confirmed that all polling parties have returned safely and scrutiny has completed in the presence of the candidates/their authorised agents. The Assembly Constituency and gender wise voter turnout data for Haryana Assembly Elections is given at Table 1. Further, a copy of Form 17C is also provided to the candidates through their polling agents.

    5. The voter turnout given in Table 1 is at the polling stations and final votes polled will be available post-counting with counting of postal ballots. Postal Ballots include Postal Ballots given to service voters, absentee voters (85+, PwD, Essential Services etc.) and Voters on Election Duty. Daily account of such Postal ballots received, as per established guidelines, are given to all candidates.

    Table 1: AC wise and Gender wise Voter turnout at polling stations for Haryana Assembly Elections

    AC No.

    AC Name

    Registered Elector

    Voter Turnout Percentage

    Total

    Male

    Female

    TG

    Total Percentage

    1

    KALKA

    202052

    73.95%

    70.03%

    20.00%

    72.07%

    2

    PANCHKULA

    236193

    60.99%

    57.58%

    12.50%

    59.37%

    3

    NARAINGARH

    191954

    74.57%

    71.95%

    44.44%

    73.33%

    4

    AMBALA CANTT.

    206271

    65.64%

    63.15%

    18.18%

    64.45%

    5

    AMBALA CITY

    262199

    64.23%

    61.70%

    10.00%

    63.02%

    6

    MULANA

    224118

    72.06%

    69.88%

    33.33%

    71.04%

    7

    SADHAURA

    220596

    79.62%

    77.54%

    Nil

    78.65%

    8

    JAGADHRI

    233840

    79.43%

    77.09%

    100.00%

    78.34%

    9

    YAMUNANAGAR

    243023

    68.43%

    65.88%

    0.00%

    67.24%

    10

    RADAUR

    208812

    73.75%

    72.08%

    0.00%

    72.97%

    11

    LADWA

    196536

    74.85%

    75.07%

    0.00%

    74.96%

    12

    SHAHBAD

    171536

    71.41%

    69.33%

    50.00%

    70.42%

    13

    THANESAR

    218409

    64.68%

    65.38%

    28.57%

    65.01%

    14

    PEHOWA

    186944

    67.54%

    69.59%

    50.00%

    68.53%

    15

    GUHLA

    192364

    68.66%

    69.97%

    75.00%

    69.29%

    16

    KALAYAT

    214107

    74.65%

    74.00%

    33.33%

    74.34%

    17

    KAITHAL

    222913

    75.41%

    74.62%

    50.00%

    75.04%

    18

    PUNDRI

    192443

    70.04%

    70.21%

    50.00%

    70.12%

    19

    NILOKHERI

    233507

    64.93%

    61.96%

    75.00%

    63.50%

    20

    INDRI

    218716

    72.26%

    70.16%

    0.00%

    71.25%

    21

    KARNAL

    266616

    57.96%

    54.68%

    40.00%

    56.37%

    22

    GHARAUNDA

    242271

    73.15%

    70.55%

    40.00%

    71.91%

    23

    ASSANDH

    242385

    68.43%

    64.79%

    25.00%

    66.70%

    24

    PANIPAT RURAL

    289385

    69.84%

    68.76%

    60.00%

    69.34%

    25

    PANIPAT CITY

    234020

    64.52%

    60.49%

    25.00%

    62.62%

    26

    ISRANA

    183606

    71.75%

    68.45%

    0.00%

    70.20%

    27

    SAMALKHA

    229240

    74.96%

    71.47%

    0.00%

    73.33%

    28

    GANAUR

    194344

    73.26%

    70.96%

    Nil

    72.18%

    29

    RAI

    199861

    71.19%

    68.48%

    12.50%

    69.94%

    30

    KHARKHAUDA

    177128

    65.49%

    61.98%

    22.22%

    63.85%

    31

    SONIPAT

    251087

    59.04%

    56.18%

    20.00%

    57.67%

    32

    GOHANA

    195124

    67.87%

    64.98%

    18.18%

    66.52%

    33

    BARODA

    188907

    69.41%

    67.58%

    Nil

    68.57%

    34

    JULANA

    184665

    74.66%

    74.67%

    0.00%

    74.66%

    35

    SAFIDON

    195528

    74.85%

    74.24%

    0.00%

    74.56%

    36

    JIND

    203721

    66.81%

    64.75%

    33.33%

    65.83%

    37

    UCHANA KALAN

    218507

    75.39%

    75.50%

    Nil

    75.44%

    38

    NARWANA

    224432

    71.63%

    69.67%

    100.00%

    70.71%

    39

    TOHANA

    231884

    77.86%

    76.86%

    66.67%

    77.39%

    40

    FATEHABAD

    258978

    75.91%

    73.82%

    40.00%

    74.92%

    41

    RATIA

    227487

    73.16%

    70.62%

    14.29%

    71.95%

    42

    KALANWALI

    184203

    76.94%

    74.78%

    33.33%

    75.92%

    43

    DABWALI

    207722

    78.88%

    76.84%

    33.33%

    77.92%

    44

    RANIA

    189408

    76.68%

    75.04%

    25.00%

    75.91%

    45

    SIRSA

    232026

    68.88%

    66.52%

    54.55%

    67.76%

    46

    ELLENABAD

    195547

    81.52%

    79.58%

    66.67%

    80.61%

    47

    ADAMPUR

    178650

    76.24%

    74.59%

    50.00%

    75.47%

    48

    UKLANA

    215906

    68.03%

    64.62%

    50.00%

    66.44%

    49

    NARNAUND

    214830

    76.35%

    76.24%

    Nil

    76.30%

    50

    HANSI

    203214

    70.97%

    67.83%

    0.00%

    69.50%

    51

    BARWALA

    189112

    74.27%

    72.76%

    0.00%

    73.56%

    52

    HISAR

    182083

    62.76%

    59.98%

    33.33%

    61.44%

    53

    NALWA

    180375

    71.85%

    70.46%

    50.00%

    71.19%

    54

    LOHARU

    206663

    79.22%

    80.15%

    0.00%

    79.66%

    55

    BADHRA

    197966

    72.02%

    71.62%

    100.00%

    71.83%

    56

    DADRI

    208350

    68.39%

    66.38%

    Nil

    67.44%

    57

    BHIWANI

    236537

    62.18%

    59.23%

    0.00%

    60.77%

    58

    TOSHAM

    221442

    72.38%

    72.09%

    0.00%

    72.24%

    59

    BAWANI KHERA

    215564

    71.13%

    69.67%

    Nil

    70.45%

    60

    MEHAM

    199898

    74.54%

    73.63%

    50.00%

    74.12%

    61

    GARHI SAMPLA – KILOI

    221912

    69.21%

    64.51%

    Nil

    67.02%

    62

    ROHTAK

    199738

    61.63%

    58.18%

    0.00%

    59.96%

    63

    KALANAUR

    216156

    67.14%

    64.41%

    100.00%

    65.86%

    64

    BAHADURGARH

    245974

    65.22%

    63.63%

    0.00%

    64.47%

    65

    BADLI

    187603

    71.39%

    68.51%

    0.00%

    70.02%

    66

    JHAJJAR

    190025

    65.67%

    62.75%

    0.00%

    64.27%

    67

    BERI

    183266

    65.66%

    62.91%

    20.00%

    64.37%

    68

    ATELI

    202985

    70.70%

    70.45%

    Nil

    70.58%

    69

    MAHENDRAGARH

    209992

    72.40%

    73.26%

    Nil

    72.81%

    70

    NARNAUL

    156372

    68.29%

    65.86%

    0.00%

    67.14%

    71

    NANGAL CHAUDHRY

    165930

    69.85%

    71.07%

    0.00%

    70.42%

    72

    BAWAL

    229170

    69.54%

    66.21%

    Nil

    67.95%

    73

    KOSLI

    249851

    70.52%

    69.83%

    100.00%

    70.19%

    74

    REWARI

    253892

    67.61%

    63.95%

    50.00%

    65.86%

    75

    PATAUDI

    254780

    64.79%

    58.26%

    0.00%

    61.67%

    76

    BADSHAHPUR

    520958

    56.30%

    51.96%

    23.53%

    54.26%

    77

    GURGAON

    443102

    53.50%

    49.95%

    14.29%

    51.81%

    78

    SOHNA

    286119

    73.06%

    68.55%

    33.33%

    70.95%

    79

    NUH

    207841

    74.87%

    73.90%

    33.33%

    74.42%

    80

    FEROZEPUR JHIRKA

    247350

    73.02%

    73.25%

    0.00%

    73.13%

    81

    PUNAHANA

    206279

    70.53%

    71.16%

    0.00%

    70.81%

    82

    HATHIN

    240643

    78.63%

    76.98%

    36.36%

    77.87%

    83

    HODAL

    196672

    73.28%

    70.58%

    11.11%

    72.02%

    84

    PALWAL

    267983

    73.15%

    70.06%

    42.86%

    71.70%

    85

    PRITHLA

    226202

    76.25%

    71.47%

    66.67%

    74.02%

    86

    FARIDABAD NIT

    321159

    61.47%

    58.59%

    16.67%

    60.18%

    87

    BADKHAL

    332125

    50.34%

    45.86%

    8.33%

    48.27%

    88

    BALLABGARH

    274743

    54.10%

    52.25%

    0.00%

    53.27%

    89

    FARIDABAD

    265869

    55.38%

    51.86%

    12.50%

    53.74%

    90

    TIGAON

    374454

    56.35%

    51.90%

    4.00%

    54.34%

    Total

    20354350

    68.93%

    66.73%

    25.27%

    67.90%

    *NIL means there are no registered third gender electors

    *******

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Darjeeling’s Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo’s Red Panda Program Selected as Finalist for 2024 WAZA Conservation Award

    Source: Government of India

    Darjeeling’s Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo’s Red Panda Program Selected as Finalist for 2024 WAZA Conservation Award

    Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo Strengthens Conservation with Biobanking Facility to Preserve Red Panda Genetic Resources for Future

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 8:50PM by PIB Delhi

    Red Panda Conservation Breeding and Augmentation Programme of Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling has been shortlisted as one of the top three finalists by World Association of Zoos and Aquariums for the 2024 WAZA Conservation & Environmental Sustainability Awards. Winner will be announced at 79th WAZA Annual Conference at Tarongo Zoo, Sydney, Australia on 7th Nov 2024. Between 2022 and 2024, nine captive-bred red pandas (seven females and two males) were released into Singalila National Park (SNP) in West Bengal. Of the seven released females, three gave birth to five cubs in wild.

    PNHZP, in collaboration with the Wildlife Wing of the Government of West Bengal, has undertaken several habitat restoration initiatives in Singalila National Park and Darjeeling division. PNHZP is taking several in-house and collaborative research works related to Red Panda with institutions like CCMB, IISER and WII.

    PNHZP’s conservation efforts are further strengthened by its Biobanking and Genetic Resource Facility, wherein gametes, tissues, and DNA of Red Pandas and other endangered species will be preserved for future use.

    These initiatives will be further continued in future for long term augmentation and conservation of Red Pandas in their natural habitat.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi expresses heartfelt gratitude on completion of 23 years as head of government

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi expresses heartfelt gratitude on completion of 23 years as head of government

    During my 13 years as Chief Minister, Gujarat emerged as a shining example of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’: PM

    Over 25 crore people have been freed from the clutches of poverty. India has become the fifth largest economy: PM

    India’s developmental strides have ensured that our country is being viewed with utmost optimism globally: PM

    I will not rest till our collective goal of a Viksit Bharat is realised: PM

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 9:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed his heartfelt gratitude for completing 23 years as the head of a government. Shri Modi recalled his time as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and said that Gujarat emerged as a shining example of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,’ ensuring prosperity for all sections of society. Reflecting on the past decade, the Prime Minister said that India’s developmental strides have ensured that our country is being viewed with utmost optimism globally. He reassured the citizens he would keep working tirelessly and not rest till the collective goal of a Viksit Bharat is realised.

    The Prime Minister posted a thread on X:

    “#23YearsOfSeva…

    A heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has sent their blessings and good wishes as I complete 23 years as the head of a government. It was on October 7, 2001, that I took on the responsibility of serving as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. It was the greatness of my Party, @BJP4India, to task a humble Karyakarta like me with the responsibility of heading the state administration.”

    “When I assumed office as CM, Gujarat was facing numerous challenges – the 2001 Kutch Earthquake, before that a Super Cyclone, a massive drought, and the legacy of many decades of Congress misrule like loot, communalism and casteism. Powered by Jana Shakti, we rebuilt Gujarat and propelled it to new heights of progress, even in a sector like agriculture, for which the state was not traditionally known.”

    “During my 13 years as Chief Minister, Gujarat emerged as a shining example of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,’ ensuring prosperity for all sections of society. In 2014, the people of India blessed my Party with a record mandate, thus enabling me to serve as Prime Minister. This was a historic moment, as it marked the first time in 30 years that a party secured a full majority.”

    “Over the past decade, we have been able to address several challenges our nation faces. Over 25 crore people have been freed from the clutches of poverty. India has become the fifth largest economy and this has particularly helped our MSMEs, StartUps sector and more. New avenues of prosperity have opened for our hardworking farmers, Nari Shakti, Yuva Shakti and the poor as well as marginalized sections of society.”

    “India’s developmental strides have ensured that our country is being viewed with utmost optimism globally. The world is keen to engage with us, invest in our people and be a part of our success. At the same time, India is working extensively to overcome global challenges be it climate change, improving healthcare, realising SDGs and more.”

    “Much has been achieved over the years but there is still more to be done. The learnings over these 23 years enabled us to come up with pioneering initiatives which have made an impact both nationally and globally. I assure my fellow Indians that I will keep working tirelessly, with even more vigour in service of the people. I will not rest till our collective goal of a Viksit Bharat is realised.”

     

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Textiles celebrates ‘World Cotton Day’ 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Textiles celebrates ‘World Cotton Day’ 2024

    Adoption of best farm practice can increase yield of Cotton: Textiles Minister

    Industry signs several Memorandum of Understandings to promote Indian Kasturi Cotton Brand

    Posted On: 07 OCT 2024 10:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Minister of Textiles, Shri Giriraj Singh attended the celebration of World Cotton Day 2024 here today. The Ministry of Textiles jointly hosted the conference with Confederation of Indian Textile Industries (CITI) and Cotton Corporation of India focusing on the theme of “Megatrends Shaping Cotton Textile Value Chain”.

    The Textiles Minister while addressing the august gathering reiterated the commitment of the government to achieve the target of USD 350 billion by 2030 including export target of USD 100 billion. This could only be achieved, if all the stakeholders in the cotton value chain join hands together. He also shared the experience that how adoption of best farm practice  like high density planting, closer spacing, drip fertigation etc., can increase the yield to even 1500 Kgs per hectares as against the present national average yield of about 450 kgs. Therefore, there is dire need to adopt best farm practices on saturation mode. The outcome of this pilot project will encourage the farmers of other area to adopt these practices for better yield.

    He also expressed his concern about the problem of weed management in cotton farming which increases labour cost to cotton farmers. Further, cotton being predominantly grown in black soil causes difficulties in wet soil to have timely weed management. The efforts be made to help cotton farmers to overcome weed management problem by adopting suitable new seed varieties and he appealed to take this issue with all seriousness and examine the suitability of this new seed technology available in the world like HT BT for adoption in our country.

    Smt Rachna Shah, Textiles Secretary in her address mentioned about the importance of cotton economy, which provides livelihood to six million cotton farmers directly and another employment to 45 million people engaged directly or indirectly in various other activities in the cotton value chain. She mentioned about the share of cotton fibre to the total fibre in the country at about 60%, where the same is at 23% in the world. However, she urged that all the stakeholders of the cotton value chain to concentrate in increasing cotton productivity, as India ranks 35th in terms of yield. She appealed all stakeholders to adopt collaborative approach to address this serious challenge of productivity, being faced by entire cotton value chain.

    Smt. Shubha Thakur, Additional Secretary, MoA&FW while discussing on the initiatives of the government in increasing yield of cotton, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to work in close coordination with Ministry of Textiles, in adopting best farm practice by the farmers so as to improve livelihood of the farmers.  

    Smt Prajakta Verma Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textiles while delivering key note address informed that enhancing sustainability is paramount and therefore Ministry has encouraged collaborative approach through formation of Textile Advisory Group (TAG) where the challenges of Textile Industry are being addressed through participative approach. She also highlighted inter-ministerial coordination in launching initiative of holistic plan to increase cotton production and yield which enable the farmers to increase their income.

    The Union Minister of Textiles along with the dignitaries of the event visited to various exhibitor stalls who showcased Kasturi cotton products, recycled textiles, products of scrap fabrics, Handloom products etc.

    The one day conference in commemoration of World Cotton Day 2024, highlighted best practices and sustainable farming methods, traceability, ESG data points for connecting farm to fashion, targeting technology like HDPS,  spanning from Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign. Brainstorming sessions addressed crucial topics, including “Enhancing Sustainability & Traceability”, “Decent work in cotton supply chain”, “Evolving Trends in Cotton Farming” and “Cotton Trading and Risk Management “for Enhancing Quality & Productivity of Cotton”.

    During inaugural session Shri Rohit Kansal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Textile highlighted that the country has set a target of creating Textile Ecosystem of USD 350 bn by 2030 from current USD 176 bn. He urged the stakeholders of cotton textile value chain to be cognisant of the challenges that are being posed by current and potential competing fibres so that cotton will be legacy sector of Indian Textile Industry, further he emphasised the sustainability is a sine qua non for cotton textile value chain. 

    Shri Lalit Kumar Gupta, CMD CCI highlighted the important role being played by CCI as central nodal agency in empowering cotton farmers by use of technology and provides an alternate market channel for selling their produce.

    Shri Rakesh Mehra, Chairman CITI emphasized that cotton being the oldest fibre in the textile industry plays a significant role in driving economic growth, employment generation, provides livelihood to farmers, women empowerment. He urged that the cotton to be produced more and more and increase the productivity so that the industry gets the raw material at competitive price.

    The various other eminent speakers shared their experience and valuable insights during the occasion.

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