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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tribal Homestays under Swadesh Darshan Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Government has approved the initiative to develop tribal home-stays under Swadesh Darshan scheme of the Ministry of Tourism as part of ‘Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan’.  The said intervention includes development of 1000 homestays with support of upto ₹5 Lakh per unit (for new construction), upto ₹3 Lakhs (renovation) and ₹5 lakh for village community requirement.

    The Ministry of Tourism has formulated draft guidelines for the said initiative and circulated to all concerned for consultation.  As per the draft guidelines, the objective of the initiative is to develop homestays in tribal areas to promote responsible tourism and enhance livelihood opportunities for tribal communities.  The draft guidelines also focus on technical up-skilling and training of the Homestay owners.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101364) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Domestic Tourism Growth

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:17PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Tourism has formulated a National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and the following strategic pillars have been identified for development of sustainable tourism:

    i.    Promoting Environmental Sustainability

    ii.   Protecting Biodiversity

    iii.  Promoting Economic Sustainability

    iv.  Promoting Socio-Cultural Sustainability

    v.   Scheme for Certification of Sustainable Tourism

    vi.  IEC and Capacity Building Governance 

    The Ministry also launched the Travel for LiFE Initiative to promote sustainable tourism in the country and to encourage the tourists and tourism businesses to adopt sustainable tourism practices. Travel for LiFE aims to promote sustainable tourism in the country, through mindful and deliberate actions mobilized toward tourists and tourism businesses in the consumption of tourism resources.  The Ministry of Tourism has also revamped its Swadesh Darshan scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) with the objective of developing sustainable and responsible destinations following a tourist & destination centric approach. Through these initiatives, the Government seeks to ensure that tourism contributes positively to the economy while safeguarding the environment and benefiting local communities. The list of projects sanctioned under the schemes of the Ministry in various States/Union Territories including in South India are placed at Annexure.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ANNEXURE

    State wise list of projects sanctioned under PRASHAD Scheme.

    (Rs. in Crore)

    S. No

    Name of State/UT

    No. of Projects

    Sanctioned Amount

    Amount released

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    4

    150.22

    84.55

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    1

    37.88

    21.95

    3

    Assam

    1

    29.8

    29.8

    4

    Bihar

    2

    33.25

    33.25

    5

    Chhattisgarh

    1

    48.44

    32.13

    6

    Gujarat

    4

    152.94

    113.48

    7

    Goa

    1

    16.46

    0

    8

    Haryana

    1

    48.53

    34.68

    9

    Jammu & Kashmir

    1

    40.46

    34.3

    10

    Jharkhand

    1

    36.79

    34.95

    11

    Karnataka

    1

    45.71

    0

    12

    Kerala

    1

    45.19

    45.19

    13

    Madhya Pradesh

    2

    93.92

    78.67

    14

    Maharashtra

    1

    42.18

    29.93

    15

    Meghalaya

    1

    29.29

    24.92

    16

    Mizoram

    1

    44.89

    13.18

    17

    Nagaland

    2

    43.38

    32.24

    18

    Odisha

    1

    50

    10

    19

    Punjab

    2

    37.97

    23.89

    20

    Rajasthan

    1

    32.64

    26.11

    21

    Sikkim

    1

    33.32

    28.31

    22

    Tamil Nadu

    2

    18.85

    18.85

    23

    Telangana

    3

    142.28

    54.32

    24

    Tripura

    1

    34.43

    25.62

    25

    Uttar Pradesh

    6

    130.27

    110.82

    26

    Uttarakhand

    3

    145.28

    83.37

    27

    West Bengal

    1

    30.03

    23.39
     

    Grand Total

    47

    1594.4

    1047.92

     

    State wise list of projects under Swadesh Darshan Scheme till 31.12.2024

     (₹ in crore)

    S. No

    State / UTs

    Swadesh Darshan

    No. of Projects

    Amount Sanctioned

    in ₹ Crore

    Amount Released

    /

    Authorised*

    in ₹ Crore

    Amount Utilised

    in ₹ Crore

    (as per UC submitted by the Implementing agency)

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    3

    152.62

    147.40

    148.81

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh 

    2

    146.49

    139.16

    139.16

    3

    Assam

    2

    185.66

    185.65

    176.36

    4

    Bihar

    5

    262.72

    250.37

    247.03

    5

    Chhattisgarh

    1

    96.10

    94.23

    94.23

    6

    Goa

    2

    197.00

    197.00

    195.24

    7

    Gujarat

    3

    176.97

    165.74

    161.11

    8

    Haryana

    1

    77.39

    76.74

    76.74

    9

    Himachal Pradesh

    1

    68.34

    64.54

    62.56

    10

    Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh

    6

    519.58

    453.46

    423.43

    11

    Jharkhand

    1

    30.44

    28.04

    28.04

    12

    Kerala

    5

    312.47

    259.13

    222.05

    13

    Madhya Pradesh

    4

    349.70

    342.14

    342.14

    14

    Maharashtra

    2

    64.53

    61.29

    55.85

    15

    Manipur

    2

    117.57

    106.65

    104.29

    16

    Meghalaya

    2

    184.10

    184.07

    176.08

    17

    Mizoram

    2

    158.63

    145.35

    145.35

    18

    Nagaland

    2

    195.50

    195.50

    190.63

    19

    Odisha

    1

    70.82

    67.28

    59.47

    20

    Punjab

    1

    85.32

    81.05

    81.05

    21

    Rajasthan

    4

    283.47

    265.88

    275.45

    22

    Sikkim

    2

    193.37

    192.73

    187.96

    23

    Tamil Nadu

    1

    73.13

    71.03

    71.03

    24

    Telangana

    3

    268.39

    241.73

    262.10

    25

    Tripura

    2

    127.68

    113.01

    100.13

    26

    Uttar Pradesh

    8

    490.95

    452.08

    437.39

    27

    Uttarakhand

    2

    145.49

    138.08

    138.11

    28

    West Bengal

    1

    67.99

    65.07

    65.07

    29

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    1

    27.57

    22.13

    22.08

    30

    Puducherry

    3

    142.84

    135.54

    135.34

    31

    Wayside Amenities in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar

    1

    15.07

    14.32

    15.83

    Total

    76

    5287.90

    4956.39

    4840.11

    * Includes amount of authorization to CNA through TSA Model I for Central Sector Scheme.

    List of sanctioned projects under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 as on 31.12.2024

    S. No

    State

    Destination

    Name of the Experience

    Sanctioned Cost

    (₹ Crore)

    Date of Sanction

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    Araku-Lambasingi

    Borra Cave Experience at Araku

    29.87

    05-03-2024

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Nacho

    Unlock Nacho Expedition

    14.02

    05-03-2024

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Mechuka

    Mechuka Cultural Haat

    18.48

    05-03-2024

    4

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Mechuka

    Mechuka Adventure Park

    12.75

    05-03-2024

    5

    Assam

    Kokrajhar

    Kokrajhar Wetland Experience

    26.67

    05-03-2024

    6

    Assam

    Jorhat

    Reimagining Cinnamara Tea Estate

    23.91

    05-03-2024

    7

    Goa

    Porvorim

    Porvorim Creek Experience

    23.56

    20-08-2024

    8

    Goa

    Colva

    Colva Beach Experience

    15.65

    20-08-2024

    9

    Karnataka

    Hampi

    Setting up of ‘Traveller nooks’

    25.64

    29-02-2024

    10

    Karnataka

    Mysuru

    Tonga ride Heritage experience zone

    2.72

    29-02-2024

    11

    Karnataka

    Mysuru

    Ecological Experience Zone

    18.47

    05-03-2024

    12

    Kerala

    Kumarakom

    Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Experience

    13.92

    05-03-2024

    13

    Ladakh

    Leh

    Julley Leh Biodiversity Park

    24.89

    05-03-2024

    14

    Ladakh

    Kargil

    Exploring LOC and Hundarman village Experience

    12.01

    05-03-2024

    15

    Madhya Pradesh

    Gwalior

    Phoolbagh Experience Zone

    16.73

    29-02-2024

    16

    Madhya Pradesh

    Chitrakoot

    Spiritual experience at Chitrakoot

    27.21

    05-03-2024

    17

    Maharashtra

    Pune

    Shivsrushti Historical Theme Park- Phase 3

    76.22

    21-09-2024

    18

    Meghalaya

    Sohra

    Waterfall Trails Experience

    27.84

    05-03-2024

    19

    Meghalaya

    Sohra

    Meghalayan Age Cave Experience

    32.45

    04-03-2024

    20

    Nagaland

    Chumoukedima

    Eco-Tourism Exp at Chumoukedima viewpoint

    7.87

    20-08-2024

    21

    Nagaland

    Chumuoukedima

    Tribal Cultural Experience at Midway Retreat

    21.56

    05-03-2024

    22

    Puducherry

    Karaikal

    Karaikal beach and waterfront experience

    20.29

    05-03-2024

    23

    Punjab

    Kapurthala

    Eco Tourism experience at Kanjli wetland

    20.06

    05-03-2024

    24

    Punjab

    Amritsar

    Border Tourism Experience at Attari

    25.90

    20-08-2024

    25

    Rajasthan

    Bundi

    Spiritual Experience, Keshavraipatan

    17.37

    29-02-2024

    26

    Sikkim

    Gyalshing

    Eco-Wellness Experience at Yuksom Cluster

    15.40

    05-03-2024

    27

    Sikkim

    Gangtok

    Gangtok Cultural Village

    22.59

    29-02-2024

    28

    Tamil Nadu

    Mamallapuram

    Immersive experience at Shore Temple

    30.02

    29-02-2024

    29

    Telangana

    Bhongir

    Bhongir Fort Experiential Zone

    56.81

    29-02-2024

    30

    Telangana

    Ananathagiri

    Eco tourism zone at Ananathgiri forest

    38.00

    05-03-2024

    31

    Uttar Pradesh

    Prayagraj

    Azad Park and Dekho Prayagraj Trail Exp

    13.02

    05-03-2024

    32

    Uttar Pradesh

    Naimisaranya

    Vedic- wellness Experience

    15.94

    05-03-2024

    33

    Uttarakhand

    Pithoragarh

    Rural Tourism Cluster Experience at Gunji

    32.20

    05-03-2024

    34

    Uttarakhand

    Champawat

    Tea Garden Experience

    11.21

    05-03-2024

    TOTAL AMOUNT 

    791.25

     

    List of Destination Identified under Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD), a sub-scheme of Swadesh Darshan scheme

    S. No.

    State

    Destination

    Category

    Funding Amount (₹ Crore)

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    Nagarjuna Sagar

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    Ahobilam Temple

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Kibitho

    Vibrant Village Programme

    5.00

    4

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Bichom Dam Site

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    5

    Assam

    Sivasagar

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    6

    Bihar

    Bhagalpur

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    7

    Bihar

    Saran Dist. (Sonepur Fair)

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    8

    Chhattisgarh

    Mayali Bagicha

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    9

    Goa

    Mayem Village

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    10

    Gujarat

    Porbandar

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    11

    Gujarat

    Thol Village

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    12

    Gujarat

    Vadnagar

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    13

    Himachal Pradesh

    Kaza

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    14

    Himachal Pradesh

    Rakchham, Chhitkul

    Vibrant Village Programme

    5.00

    15

    Jharkhand

    Ramrekha Dham

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    16

    Kerala

    Varkala

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    17

    Kerala

    Thalassery

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    18

    Karnataka

    Bidar

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    19

    Karnataka

    Udupi

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    20

    Ladakh

    Mushkoh Village

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    21

    Lakshadweep

    Lakshadweep

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    22

    Madhya Pradesh

    Mandu

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    23

    Madhya Pradesh

    Orchha

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    24

    Maharashtra

    Ahmednagar

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    25

    Manipur

    Langthabal Konug

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    26

    Meghalaya

    Nartiang Village

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    27

    Meghalaya

    Mawphlang Village

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    28

    Nagaland

    Doyang Reservoir

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    29

    Nagaland

    Impur Village

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    30

    Puducherry

    White Town

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    31

    Punjab

    Ferozpur (Hussainiwala Border)

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    32

    Punjab

    Rupnagar (Anandpur Sahib)

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    33

    Sikkim

    Gnathang Village

    Vibrant Village Programme

    5.00

    34

    Sikkim

    Kabi

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    35

    Tamil Nadu

    Rameswaram Island

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    36

    Tamil Nadu

    Thanjavur

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    37

    Telangana

    Nalgonda

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    38

    Telangana

    Kamareddy

    Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites

    10.00

    39

    Uttar Pradesh

    Mahoba

    Culture & Heritage

    25.00

    40

    Uttarakhand

    Mana Village

    Vibrant Village Programme

    5.00

    41

    Uttarakhand

    Jadung

    Vibrant Village Programme

    5.00

    42

    Uttarakhand

    Kainchidham

    Spiritual Tourism

    25.00

    TOTAL

    800.00

     

    List of Project shortlisted by Ministry of Tourism in consultation with the State Governments on the given parameters and funded by Department of Expenditure for development

     

    S. No.

    State/UT

    Name of the Project

    Sanctioned Cost

    (₹ Crore)

    Date of Sanction

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    Enriching the fort and Gorge Experience in Gandikota

    77.91

    26-11-2024

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    Akhanda Godavari- (Havelok Bridge & Pushkar Ghat) in Raja Mahendravaram,

    94.44

    26-11-2024

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Siang Adventure & Eco-Retreat in Pasighat

    46.48

    26-11-2024

    4

    Assam

    Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden in Guwahati

    97.12

    26-11-2024

    5

    Assam

    Beautification of Rang Ghar in Sivasagar

    94.76

    26-11-2024

    6

    Bihar

    Development of Matsyagandha Lake in Saharsa

    97.61

    26-11-2024

    7

    Bihar

    Karamchat Eco-Tourism and Adventure Hub in Karamchat

    49.51

    26-11-2024

    8

    Chhattisgarh

    Development of Chitrotpala Film City in Raipur

    95.79

    26-11-2024

    9

    Chhattisgarh

    Development of Tribal & Cultural Convention Centre in Raipur

    51.87

    26-11-2024

    10

    Goa

    Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum in Ponda

    97.46

    26-11-2024

    11

    Goa

    Townsquare in Porvorim

    90.74

    26-11-2024

    12

    Gujarat

    Ecotourism Destination at Kerly (Mokarsagar) in Porbandar

    99.50

    26-11-2024

    13

    Gujarat

    Tented City and Convention Centre in Dhordo

    51.56

    26-11-2024

    14

    Jharkhand

    Eco-Tourism Development of Tilaiyya” in Koderma

    34.87

    26-11-2024

    15

    Karnataka

    Ecotourism & Cultural Hub at Roerich and Devika Rani Estate Tataguni in Bengaluru

    99.17

    26-11-2024

    16

    Karnataka

    Development of Savadatti Yallammagudda in Belgavi

    100.00

    26-11-2024

    17

    Kerala

    Ashtamudi Biodiversity and Eco-recreational Hub in Kollam

    59.71

    26-11-2024

    18

    Kerala

    Global Gateway to Malabar’s Cultural Crucible in Sargaalayaa

    95.34

    26-11-2024

    19

    Madhya Pradesh

    Orchha A Medieval Splendour in Orchha

    99.92

    26-11-2024

    20

    Madhya Pradesh

    International Convention Centre for MICE in Bhopal

    99.38

    26-11-2024

    21

    Maharashtra

    INS-Guldar Underwater Museum, Artificial Reef, and submarine Tourism in Sindhudurg

    46.91

    26-11-2024

    22

    Maharashtra

    Development of RAM-KAL PATH in Nashik

    99.14

    26-11-2024

    23

    Manipur

    Loktak Lake Experience in Loktak

    89.48

    26-11-2024

    24

    Meghalaya

    MICE Infrastructure in Mawkhanu

    99.27

    26-11-2024

    25

    Meghalaya

    Redevelopment of Umiam Lake in Shillong

    99.27

    26-11-2024

    26

    Odisha

    Development of Hirakund

    99.90

    26-11-2024

    27

    Odisha

    Development of Satkosia

    99.99

    26-11-2024

    28

    Punjab

    Development of Heritage Street as a tribute to Shaheed-e-Azam, Sardar Bhaghat Singh at Khatkar Kalan in SBS Nagar

    53.45

    26-11-2024

    29

    Rajasthan

    Development at Amber-Nahargarh and Surrounding Area in Jaipur

    49.31

    26-11-2024

    30

    Rajasthan

    Development at Jalmahal in Jaipur

    96.61

    26-11-2024

    31

    Sikkim

    Skywalk, Bhaleydhunga, Yangang in Namchi

    97.37

    27-11-2024

    32

    Sikkim

    Border Experience in Nathula

    68.19

    27-11-2024

    33

    Tamil Nadu

    Development of Nandavanam Heritage Park in Mammallapuram

    99.67

    26-11-2024

    34

    Tamil Nadu

    Garden of Flowers in Devala

    70.23

    26-11-2024

    35

    Telangana

    Ramappa Region Sustainable Tourism Circuit in Ramappa

    73.74

    13-12-2024

    36

    Telangana

    Somasilla Wellness & Spiritual Retreat in Nallamala

    68.10

    13-12-2024

    37

    Tripura

    Shakti Peethas Park at Banduar in Gomati

    97.70

    26-11-2024

    38

    Uttar Pradesh

    Development of Bateshwar in District-Agra

    74.05

    26-11-2024

    39

    Uttar Pradesh

    Integrated Buddhist Tourism Development in Shrawasti

    80.24

    26-11-2024

    40

    Uttarakhand

    Iconic City Rishikesh: Rafting Base Station in Rishikesh

    100.00

    26-11-2024

    TOTAL

    3295.76

     

     

    List of Projects Sanctioned under the Scheme Assistance to Central Agencies

    S. No

    Name of Project

    State

    Agency

    Sanction Date

    Amount sanctioned

    Amount Released

    1

    Sound and Light Show at Dal Lake (Nigeen Lake)

    J&K

    ITDC

    25-06-2012

    500

    400

    2

    Cruise Passenger Facilities Centre in the existing Passenger Terminal at Chennai Port.

    Tamil Nadu

    Chennai Port Trust

    24-09-2012

    1724.66

    1724.66

    3

    Implementation of Multimedia /Laser show at Tilyar Lake 

    Haryana

    ITDC

    30-04-2013

    500

    224.05

    4

    Construction of Interpretation Centre at the World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi.

    Delhi

    Aga Khan Foundation

    04-03-2014

    4944.84

    4944.84

    5

    Cruise Terminal Building at Mormugao Port Trust

    Goa

    Mormugao Port Trust

    24-06-2014

    879.04

    767.18

    6

    Sound & Light Show at Diu Fort, Diu

    Daman & Diu

    ITDC

    28-02-2015

    775.54

    620.43

    7

    Illumination of monuments in Varanasi/Sarnath (Dhamekh Stupa in SarnathChaukhandi Stupa in Sarnath, Tomb of Lalkan in Sarnath and Man Mahal in Banaras).

    Uttar Pradesh

    ITDC

    28-02-2015

    512.43

    381.47

    8

    Development of Kanoji Angre Lighthouse as a tourist Destination

    Maharashtra

    Mumbai Port Trust

    09-08-2016

    1500

    1500

    9

    Development of a Walkway/Promenade on Willingdon Island, Cochin, Kerala

    Kerala

    Cochin Port Trust

    28-10-2016

    901

    826.29

    10

    Central Financial Assistance for upgrading of Births & Backup area of Ernakulam Wharf

    Kerala

    Cochin Port Trust

    31-03-2017

    2141

    1912.8

    11

    Project for Up-gradation of Golf Course at SAI Trivandrum Golf Club by the Sports Authority of India

    Kerala

    SAI

    31-03-2017

    2464.99

    1232.49

    12

    Sound and Light Show at Yadavindra Gardens, Pinjore, Haryana.

    Haryana

    ITDC

    16-10-2017

    600

    300

    13

    Sound and Light Show at Puttaparthy, Andhra Pradesh

    Andhra Pradesh

    ITDC

    27-11-2017

    708.67

    354.34

    14

    Up-gradation/ modernization to International Cruise terminal at Indira Dock, Mumbai. 

    Maharashtra

    Mumbai Port Trust 

    29-12-2017

    1250

    1250

    15

    Illumination of three monuments in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh-
    1. Dashashwamedh Ghat to Darbhanga Ghat (stretch of 300 m)
    2.  Tulsi Manas Mandir
    3. Sarnath Museum

    Uttar Pradesh

    CPWD

    21-12-2017

    293.55

    293.55

    16

    Infrastructural Development at JCP Attari, Wagha Border

    Punjab

    BSF

    12-06-2018

    1312

    1029.59

    17

    Improvement of immigration facility and deepening of existing cruise berth at Mormugao Port Trust

    Goa

    Mormugao Port Trust

    24-08-2018

    1316.4

    658.2

    18

    Developing infrastructure at Cochin Port Cruise Terminal.

    Kerala

    Cochin Port Trust

    12-12-2018

    120.79

    114.17

    19

    Creation of additional tourism facilities at the Cochin Port Trust Walkway

    Kerala

    Cochin Port Trust

    12-12-2018

    466.47

    466.47

    20

    Construction of Cruise-Cum-Costal Cargo Terminal at Channel berth area in Outer Harbour of Visakhapatnam Port

    Andhra Pradesh

    Visakhapatnam Port Trust

    14-12-2018

    3850

    2991

    21

    Restoration/ Renovation of ‘Jallianwala Bagh Memorial’ & Additional work to be taken at Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial at Amritsar, Punjab.   

    Punjab (GFR)

    ASI

    08-03-2019

    2302

    2250

    22

    Sound and Light Show at (Purana Quila) Delhi

    Delhi

    ITDC

    05-08-2019

    1404

    685

    23

    Development of Additional infrastructure in the new Cochin Port Trust Terminal

    Kerala

    Cochin Port Trust

    13-12-2019

    1029.7

    888.62

    24

    Illumination of Building of National Gallery of Modern Art

    Delhi

    NCSM

    19-12-2019

    380

    304

    25

    Development & renovation of selected facilities of National Museum

    Delhi

    NCSM

    26-12-2019

    4373

    2186

    26

    Development of Jetties at 9 main points of embarkation/disembarkation of River Cruize on National Water ways No. 1 & 2

    Assam

    IWAI

    28-04-2020

    2803.05

    700.76

    27

    Tourism Infrastructure at Beltaal Lake, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh by ITDC.

    Madhya Pradesh

    ITDC

    29-09-2020

    2315.30

    1008.27

    28

    Sound & Light Show at Leh, Ladakh & Water Screen Projection Multimedia Show at Tourist Facilitation Centre, Kargil, Ladakh

    Leh & Ladakh

    ITDC

    26-11-2020

    2321.99

    765.99

    29

    3D visual projection mapping of NGMA Building

    Delhi

    NCSM

    31-03-2021

    616.27

    464.58

    30

    Development of Convention Centre and associated Infrastructure at Aizawl.

    Mizoram

    WAPCOS

    31-03-2021

    3994.75

    3057.03

    31

    Development of International and Domestic Cruse Terminal and allied facilities at Murmugao Port Trust, Goa

    Goa

    Mormugao Port Trust

    10-09-2021

    5000

    4000

    32

    Upgradation/Modernization to International Cruise Terminal at Indira Dock, Mumbai Port Trust

    Maharashtra

    Mumbai Port Trust

    20-12-2021

    3750

    3000

    33

    Development of 22 viewpoints in North Eastern State
    (i) Nagaland (2 view points)- Rs.5.77 Crore
    (ii) Meghalaya (3 view points) – Rs.6.26 Crore
    (iii) Mizoram (9 view points)- Rs.12.78 Crore
    (iv) Arunachal Pradesh (4 view points) – Rs.6.25 Crore
    (v) Manipur (3 view points)- Rs.5.93 Crore
    (vi) Sikkim/West Bengal (1 view point)- Rs.3.70 Crore

    NER

    NHIDCL

    11-10-2022

    4444

    3555.4

    34

    Development of Border Tourism at Shri Tanot Complex, Jaisalmer Sector

    Rajasthan

    BSF

    05-07-2022

    1767.66

    883.83

    35

    Multimedia Laser Show with Water Screen and Musical Fountain at Sanjeevaiah Park, Hyderabad, Telangana

    Telangana

    BECIL

    31-10-2022

    5000.04

    4090

    36

    Design, Supply, Installation, Testing & Commissioning of Digital Multimedia Technology and Lightings at Osmania Arts University, Hyderabad Telangana

    Telangana

    BECIL

    22-12-2022

    1179.93

    943.47

    37

    Project ‘Major Upgradation of National Science Centre

    Delhi

    NCSM

    27-03-2023

    3180

    18

    38

    Installation of Musical Fountain & Water Screen Multimedia based projection show at Nawal Sagar Lake, Bundi

    Rajasthan

    ITDC

    04-10-2023

    925.67

    92.57

    39

    Development of Light & Sound and Multimedia Show at Rashtrapati Bhawan

    Delhi

    ITDC

    28-03-2024

    4712.4

    471

    40

    3D Mapping with Aqua Screen Projection and Sound Show at Buxar, Bihar and Dynamic Lighting & Motif at Ram Rekha Ghat, Bihar

    Bihar

    BECIL

    10-06-2024

    599.96

    59.99

     

    Total (Lakhs)

    78,861.10

    51,416.04

     

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101365) Visitor Counter : 70

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Maha Kumbh, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:15PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Tourism is promoting Maha Kumbh 2025 through various initiatives. Ministry has set up an Incredible India Pavilion in Mela area to provide information, and to engage tourists including foreign tourists, media, influencers etc.

    New creatives, a Digital brochure of various tour packages, flight options, accommodation options offered by UPSTDC, IRCTC, Airlines etc. for Maha Kumbh have been prepared and circulated. Additionally, a dedicated Maha Kumbh Tourist Infoline (1800111363) has been established for tourists.

    The promotion of Maha Kumbh is also being done through social media handles of Ministry of Tourism.

    India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), a PSU of Ministry of Tourism has setup 80 Luxury tent accommodation at Tent City, Prayagraj.

    Ministry of Culture has set up a cultural village viz. Kalagram in Mela Area through North Central Zone Cultural Centre, which features Anubhut Mandapam, Artists performances, Food zone, display and sale of traditional Indian Handicrafts and Handlooms etc.

    Organization, Enhancement of infrastructure and facilities including safety, security, and well-being of tourists, pilgrims and other stakeholders is subject of the State Government.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101360) Visitor Counter : 75

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Projects under Swadesh Darshan and Sustainable Tourism Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:14PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Tourism launched its Swadesh Darshan scheme in 2014-15 and sanctioned 76 projects in the country under identified thematic circuits for ₹5287.90 Crore in this scheme. The Ministry revamped the Swadesh Darshan scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 with the objective to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations in the country and has sanctioned 34 projects for ₹791.25 Crore.

    The projects under the scheme are considered for sanctioning in consultation with the concerned State Governments/UT Administrations and on receipt of the project proposals from them, subject to adherence to the scheme guidelines, instructions issued by the Government from time to time, availability of funds, inter-se priority etc. Further, Ministry of Tourism regularly undertakes review meetings with the State Governments at different levels to ensure successful implementation of the sanctioned projects including those sanctioned at lesser known destinations.

    Ministry of Tourism promotes various tourist destinations and products of the country including lesser known destinations in domestic and international markets in a holistic manner under the brand line of ‘Incredible India’. Such promotions are undertaken through various ongoing initiatives such as social media posts, promotional website, organizing events, extending support to tourism related fairs and festivals, participation in road shows etc.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101357) Visitor Counter : 66

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Stakeholder consultation on proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units concludes (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Stakeholder consultation on proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units concludes (with photos)
    Stakeholder consultation on proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units concludes (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The stakeholder consultation on the proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units (BHUs) launched by the Housing Bureau (HB) on December 2, 2024 concluded today (February 10).      Since the establishment of the Task Force on Tackling the Issue of Subdivided Units (SDUs) (the Task Force) in October 2023 until the end of the stakeholder consultation period, under the lead of the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, as the Head and the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, as the Deputy Head, the Government organised and joined nearly 40 engagement sessions, meeting nearly 700 participants and gathering views from political parties, academics, professional bodies, non-governmental organisations, estate agents, renovation services industry and contractors associations as well as concern groups on tackling the SDU issue and the BHU regulatory regime. At the same time, as at 6pm today, we received nearly 2 200 submissions of views (including around 1 600 submissions using six different templates with largely similar contents) mainly through email and post, etc.      The HB will work at full steam to consolidate the views received on the BHU regulatory regime and report to the Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Housing on the summary of views and seek the Panel’s views on the latest proposal on the regulatory regime as soon as possible. Subsequently, the HB will introduce the relevant Bill into the LegCo and strive for its passage within this year. Upon completion of the legislative process, registration for pre-existing SDUs under rental will commence, with applications for recognition as BHUs to be accepted concurrently. A grace period will be granted to landlords of SDUs that have been successfully registered to provide reasonable time for them to discuss tenancy agreements with their tenants and to convert their SDUs to up-to-standard BHUs.      With regard to the new market supply of BHUs as well as the supply of public rental housing, Light Public Housing (LPH), Transitional Housing (TH), etc, the Government will adopt a pragmatic approach and adhere to the people-oriented principle when taking enforcement actions against illegal renting of substandard SDUs in an orderly manner upon completion of registration period to gradually eradicate substandard SDUs. To ensure that SDU households affected by the enforcement actions will not be displaced, the Government will provide assistance on a need basis in identifying other rental accommodation in the private market for relocation, as well as flexibly deploy other housing resources (such as interim housing, LPH, TH, transit centres, etc) to provide temporary shelter for the households in need.      A spokesman for the HB said, “The Government would like to express gratitude to stakeholders for their active expression of views on the BHU regulatory regime, and is glad that different sectors of the society generally support the proposed framework of the BHU regulatory regime while giving suggestions on the implementation and execution details. Opinions from stakeholders are crucial to the policy formulation and legislative process. The Government will carefully consider and study the views collected when formulating the latest proposal of the BHU regulatory regime, and is determined to strive for completing the relevant legislative work this year as planned, with a view to gradually improving the living conditions of SDU tenants and thus tackling the ‘long-standing, big and difficult’ issue of substandard SDUs.”      The current-term Government faces up to the issue of SDUs and acknowledges its complexity and urgency, while understanding that this long-standing issue must be handled with prudence. The Government is determined to work out solutions to eradicate substandard SDUs at their roots and has been widely listening to views from different stakeholders. The Chief Executive announced in the 2024 Policy Address to put in place through legislation, a system on the renting of SDUs in residential buildings under which only up-to-standard SDUs could be recognised as BHUs (the BHU regulatory regime). After legislation, SDUs in residential buildings must comply with a set of minimum standards (including requirements in respect of floor area, headroom, structural and fire safety, ventilation, lighting, hygiene, water and electricity meters, etc.) before being recognised as BHUs and allowed to be rented out, so as to ensure the provision of reasonable and safe living conditions.

     
    Ends/Monday, February 10, 2025Issued at HKT 20:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SUSTAINABLE URBAN GROWTH MEASURES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    As per 12th Schedule of the Constitution of India, urban planning including urban planning & urban development is the function of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)/ Urban Development Authorities. Government of India supplements the efforts of the States through schematic interventions/ advisories. It provides financial and technical support to the States.

    The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Government of India has issued Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and Implementation (URDPFI) Guidelines, 2014 (https://mohua.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/URDPFI%20Guidelines% 20Vol%20I(2).pdf). The Chapter – 6 “Sustainability Guidelines” of URDPFI guidelines 2014 deals with various aspects of sustainable urban development.

    Under Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), a sub-Scheme ‘Formulation of GIS based Master plans for 500 AMRUT cities’ is being implemented by MoHUA. The Sub-Scheme aims at geo data base creation and formulation of GIS based Master Plans. At present, 461 AMRUT Cities in 35 States including Maharashtra are on boarded under the scheme and Master Plans for 229 towns have been finalized so far, which include 44 towns of Maharashtra. Under AMRUT 2.0, the sub-scheme Formulation of GIS based Master Plans has been extended to cover Class-II Towns with population of 50,000 – 99,999. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with National Remote Sensing Centre and Survey of India for creation of geo database.

    MoHUA is supporting States/ Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in capacity building activities through various Schemes of the Ministry such as AMRUT, for improving the capacities of ULB functionaries, elected representatives, etc., Under AMRUT, against the target of 45,000 functionaries, 57134 functionaries have already been trained so far. Under AMRUT 2.0, capacity building programs are conducted for all stakeholders including contractors, plumbers, plant operators, students, women and citizens.

    MoHUA has designated 4 Institutes in different regions as Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Urban Planning and Design, which inter alia impart certified trainings/ certified courses to Civil Servants, State Town Planners, Municipal Officials, practitioners/professionals, young students etc. These centres have been provided endowment funds of ₹ 250 crore each.

    Besides, MoHUA has also designated 6 institutes as AMRUT Funded Centre of Urban Planning for Capacity Building. The role envisaged for these institutes inter alia includes subject specific trainings to Municipal officials/ Town and Country Planning officials, augmenting capacity building of State / Local authorities and hand hold them in urban planning.

    All States/ UTs including Maharashtra can avail the training facilities of these centres.

    The Government has announced the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SSASCI) in 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25, under which States are incentivized for taking the urban planning reforms. The details of urban planning reforms under SSACI are as under:

    Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2022-23 – Part – VI (Urban Planning Reforms). The reform components included Modernization of Building Bylaws by removing contradictions and optimizing land use, Adoption of modern urban planning tools like Transferrable Development Rights (TDR), Implementation of Local Area Plans (LAP) and Town Planning Schemes (TPS), Implementation of Transit-oriented Development (ToD). Further States were incentivized for Creation of Sponge Cities, Removing Taxation for running the Buses for Public Transport.

    Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2023-24 – Part – III (Urban Planning Reforms). The reform components included Augmentation of human resources by hiring qualified urban planners, Implementation of Town Planning Scheme (TPS)/ Land Pooling Scheme, Modernization of Building Bylaws, Promoting in-situ slum rehabilitation, Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), Transferable Development Rights as planning tool, Strengthening natural ecosystems of urban areas through urban planning, development of waterfronts etc.

    Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2024-25 – Part – XIII (Urban Planning Reforms). The reform components include implementation of Town planning Schemes / Land Pooling Scheme, rationalization of Building Bye-laws/ Zoning initiatives, comprehensive parking paradigm, creative re-development of cities, Planning of Peri Urban areas, Transit Oriented Development, Technology based reforms, climate sustainability through urban planning, comprehensive mobility plan for ease of transit in NE/ Hilly states etc.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri. Tokhan Sahu, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

    Jane Namchu/Sushil Kumar

    (Release ID: 2101370) Visitor Counter : 9

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ADVANCEMENTS AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS INCORPORATED IN METRO SYSTEMS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:19PM by PIB Delhi

    At present, about 1011 kms of metro rail network including RRTS is operational in 23 cities across the country.

    A number of advancements and technological innovations have taken place during the recent years in various Metro Rail operational in the country. Some of the noteworthy technological advancements are:

    1. Introduction of Namo Bharat Train- India’s first State of Art Namo Bharat train with design speed of 180 kmph and operational speed of 160 kmph has been introduced on priority section between New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South Depot on Delhi- Meerut RRTS corridor;
    2. European Train Control System (ETCS) – World’s first State of Art ETCS level II with Hybrid level-III radio based train signalling system on LTE backbone has been introduced on Namo Bharat trains running between New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South Depot on Delhi- Meerut RRTS corridor  enhancing passenger safety to a new level.
    3. Platform Screen Door (PSD) –  For improved safety and to reduce the risk of accidents, PSD has been jointly developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) with National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC);
    4. National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) – One Nation-One card i.e. NCMC work on all NCMC enabled transport systems in the country;
    5. QR based Ticketing – QR based ticketing system has facilitated booking of tickets from Mobile based apps;
    6. Unmanned Train Operations (UTO) – For improved efficiency and quality of service including better utilisation of resources, UTO is functional in many stretches of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation;
    7. Indigenous Automatic Train Supervision system (i-ATS) – India’s first Indigenously built Automatic Train Supervision System developed by the combined efforts of DMRC and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has been implemented on Red Line of Delhi Metro.

     ‘Urban planning’ is a State subject. Therefore, the respective State Governments are responsible for planning, initiating and developing urban transport infrastructure including integration amongst various modes of public transport. As per Metro Rail Policy, 2017, the Central Government considers financial assistance for Metro Rail proposals in cities or urban agglomerates based on the feasibility of the proposal and availability of resources, as and when posed by the concerned State Government.

    Solar power panels have been installed by Metro companies that help in reduction of CO2 emissions. Metro Rail projects have adopted the regenerative braking system in rolling stock. Adoption of Regenerative Braking Systems by metro projects are resulting in power saving and reutilisation. Setting up solar panels leads to considerable reduction in power consumptions and savings in expenditure and power which contributes significantly making metro projects sustainable and environment friendly.

    Central Government has formulated National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP), 2006, Metro Rail Policy, 2017 and Transit Oriented Development Policy, 2017, which act as a guide to State Governments for integrated planning and implementation of urban transport systems in most sustainable and viable manner. The policy also envisages necessarily inclusion of feeder systems, last mile connectivity through pedestrian pathways, Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) infrastructure, and induction of facilities for Para transit modes etc. to incentivize metro rail ridership.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri. Tokhan Sahu, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

    Jane Namchu/Sushil Kumar

    (Release ID: 2101366) Visitor Counter : 8

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing boy in Kwai Chung (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Police today (February 10) appealed to the public for information on a boy who went missing in Kwai Chung.

    Ma Kin-hei, aged 14, went missing after he was last seen at Kwai Chung Interchange yesterday (February 9) morning. His family made a report to Police.

    He is about 1.61 metres tall, around 50 kilograms in weight and of thin build. He has a pointed face with yellow complexion and short black hair. He was last seen wearing a black jacket, a pair of brown trousers and white sports shoes.

    Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing boy or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of New Territories South on 3661 1176 or 9415 4495, or email to rmpu-nts-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EMPOWERMENT OF URBAN STAFF FOR BETTER CITY PLANNING MANAGEMENT

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) is implementing Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), which was launched on 25 June 2015. Smart elements, components and technologies are part of AMRUT projects and this aims to promote sustainable urban development. AMRUT guidelines provides for smart elements such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) as part of the water supply and sewerage projects. As reported by States/ Union Territories (UTs), 230 Water supply projects and 146 Sewerage projects have been implemented with SCADA

    Technology Sub-Mission is an important component of AMRUT 2.0 to encourage start-up ideas and private entrepreneurship, and commissioning them into the pilot projects. As reported by States/UTs under AMRUT 2.0, 1482 water supply projects, 241 Sewerage projects are approved with SCADA.

    MoHUA is supporting States/ Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in capacity building activities through various Schemes of the Ministry such as Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), for improving the capacities of ULB functionaries, elected representatives, etc., which includes all sections of the society including women. Under AMRUT, against the target of 45000 functionaries, 57134 functionaries have already been trained so far. Under AMRUT 2.0, capacity building programs are conducted for all stakeholders including contractors, plumbers, plant operators, students, women and citizens.

    MoHUA has designated 4 Institutes in different regions as Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Urban Planning and Design, which inter alia impart certified trainings/ certified courses to Civil Servants, State Town Planners, Municipal Officials, practitioners/professionals, young students etc. These centres have been provided endowment funds of ₹ 250 crore each.

    Besides, MoHUA has also designated 6 institutes as AMRUT Funded Centre of Urban Planning for Capacity Building. The role envisaged for these institutes inter alia includes subject specific trainings to Municipal officials/ Town and Country Planning officials, augmenting capacity building of State / Local authorities and hand hold them in urban planning.

    Under AMRUT 2.0, Ministry has also launched AMRUT Mitra initiative which involves women Self Help Groups (SHGs) in water demand management, water quality testing, water infrastructure operations, and other water sectoral projects. So far, 1762 projects worth ₹140 crore have been approved under this initiative.

    Under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), two cities, viz. Rourkela and Bhubaneswar have been selected in the State of Odisha. Bhubaneswar was selected in Round-1, while Rourkela was selected in Round-2 of selection process.

    As per SCM Guidelines, Central Government is to provide financial support to the extent of ₹48,000 crore to 100 Cities under SCM, i.e., on an average of ₹ 500 crore per city. The Central Government has released 100% of the permissible Government of India funds to both the cities selected under SCM in the State of Odisha.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri. Tokhan Sahu, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

    Jane Namchu/Sushil Kumar

    (Release ID: 2101369) Visitor Counter : 7

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Project to remove four fish barriers on the Olympic Peninsula scheduled to begin Feb. 24

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Two-year project includes long-term closures on US 101, SR 116

    PORT ANGELES – A project to remove four barriers to fish in Clallam and Jefferson counties is scheduled to begin Monday, Feb. 24.

    Three of the barriers, Tumwater, Lees, Ennis creeks, are beneath US 101 in the Port Angeles area. The fourth is Chimacum Creek on State Route 116 in Port Hadlock-Irondale.

    The Washington State Department of Transportation will replace several outdated culverts at these locations with new structures to improve fish migration. 

    At Tumwater and Chimacum creeks, travelers will see long-term road closures with detours. These closures shorten the overall timeline of the project

    US 101 Tumwater Creek

    Construction at Tumwater Creek in Port Angeles starts Monday, Feb. 24, when US 101 near West Nicholas Road will close for 80 days. A signed detour will lead travelers around the closure.

    This closure may be rescheduled depending on the weather. WSDOT will announce the closure date when it is confirmed.

    Work at this location is expected to take about a year.

    US 101 Lees and Ennis Creeks

    Work at Lees and Ennis creeks is scheduled to begin in March 2025. The creeks are on US 101 just east of Port Angeles, between South Del Guzzi Drive and South Brook Avenue. The exact date of the start of construction will be announced in advance.

    Travelers will see nighttime lane closures early in the project as contractors set up the work zone. There will be no daytime lane closures on US 101. Instead, there will be shifted lanes and a speed limit reduction to 25 mph.

    Construction will last approximately two years at Lees and Ennis Creeks.

    Chimacum Creek

    Construction on SR 116 just east of Rhody Drive (SR 19) in Port Hadlock-Irondale is scheduled to begin in summer 2025. 

    Travelers will see a long-term closure of SR 116 between Shotwell Place and Chimacum Creek Drive.

    The exact closure date and length will be announced in advance. Signs will route travelers (JPG 50KB) around the closure using Rhody Drive, Irondale Road and Chimacum Road.

    Work at Chimacum Creek will take approximately one year.

    Travelers can receive email updates about roadwork on state highways in Jefferson and Clallam Counties. Real-time information is available via the WSDOT app and WSDOT Travel Center Map.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Measuring the Pulse of Indian Education

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Budget 2025-26 Unveils Transformative Initiatives

    “Education is not only the foundation upon which our civilization has been built, but it is also the architect of humanity’s future.”

    ~Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

     

     

    Education has always been a key priority for the government and with the vision to make India a global education hub, the Union Budget 2025-26 introduces innovative initiatives. Focused on expanding medical seats, enhancing skilling infrastructure and growing IITs, these measures aim to provide more opportunities and equip youth with essential skills for the future.

    Announcements for a Smarter, Inclusive India

     

    1. Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme: To provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education. This aims to help students understand their subjects better. 
    2. National Centres of Excellence for Skilling: Building on the July 2024 Budget, five National Centres of Excellence for skilling will be established with global partnerships to equip youth with skills. These centres will focus on curriculum design, trainer training, skills certification, and regular reviews.
    3. Expansion of Capacity in IITs: Additional infrastructure will be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT, Patna will also be expanded. Total number of students in 23 IITs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. 
    4. Centre of Excellence in AI for Education: A Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education will be set up with a total outlay of 500 crore.
    5. Expansion of Medical Education: The government had added almost 1.1 lakh UG and PG medical education seats in ten years, an increase of 130 per cent. In the next year, 10,000 additional seats will be added in medical colleges and hospitals, towards the goal of adding 75,000 seats in the next 5 years.

    Inside India’s Education System

     

    The Indian education system has undergone significant transformation over the years. Serving 24.8 crore students across 14.72 lakh schools, it is supported by a dedicated workforce of 98 lakh teachers, as reported by the UDISE+ (Unified District Information System for Education Plus 2023-24). Government schools form the backbone of the system, comprising 69% of the total, enrolling 50% of students and employing 51% of teachers. On the other hand, private schools make up 22.5% of institutions, catering to 32.6% of students and employing 38% of teachers. This growing structure reflects the dynamic changes in the Indian education landscape, paving the way for continuous improvements in enrollment and access over the years.

    Enrollment Trends in India

    The NEP 2020 aims for a 100% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) by 2030. The GER is near universal at the primary (93 %) and the efforts are underway to bridge the gaps at the secondary (77.4 %) and higher secondary level (56.2 %), driving the nation closer to its vision of inclusive and equitable education for all. In the realm of higher education, India has seen a dramatic rise in student enrollment. The total number of students enrolled in higher education reached 4.33 crore in 2021-22, a 26.5% increase from 3.42 crore in 2014-15. The Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for the 18-23 age group also rose from 23.7% to 28.4% in the same period.

     

    Women’s participation in higher education has also witnessed significant growth, with female enrollment rising from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 to 2.07 crore in 2021-22, marking a 32% increase. This progress is especially evident in fields like Medical Science, Social Science, and Arts, where women are now leading the charge in enrollment.

    Decline in Dropout Rate

    However, challenges still persist and the dropout rate remains a critical concern. While there has been a steady decline in dropout rates. School dropout rates have steadily declined in recent years, standing at 1.9 per cent for primary, 5.2 per cent for upper primary and 14.1 per cent for secondary levels. According to AISHE report the dropout rate at the secondary level has also decreased significantly from 21% in 2013-14 to 13% in 2021-22.

    Transforming India’s Education Landscape

    Over the years, India has seen a remarkable transformation in its higher education ecosystem. The number of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) has grown significantly, increasing by 13.8% from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23. This expansion reflects the country’s commitment to making higher education more accessible and diverse.

    • Growth in Medical Education and Workforce:  Medical Colleges grew from 499 in FY19 to 780 in FY25.
    • Candidates aspiring to study MBBS increased from 16 lakh in 2019 to 24 lakh in 2024.
    • MBBS Seats increased from 70,012 in FY19 to 1,18,137 in FY25.
    • Postgraduate Medical Seats grew from 39,583 in FY19 to 73,157 in FY25.
    • Doctors Available: 13.86 lakh registered practitioners as of July 2024, with a current ratio of 1:1263 per person. The WHO norm of 1:1000 could be met by 2030 with an annual increase of 50,000 doctors.
    • Growth of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): The number of IITs increased from 16 in 2014 to 23 in 2023.
    • Growth of Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs):The number of IIMs grew from 13 in 2014 to 20 in 2023.

     

    • Expansion of Universities:The number of Universities grew from 723 in 2014 to 1,213 in 2024, marking a 59.6% increase.
    • Increase in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs): Total HEIs increased by 13.8%, from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23.

     

    Progress in Basic Facilities

    Education infrastructure has significantly improved, with a rise in the number of higher education institutions. Key areas like medical check-ups, sanitation, and ICT availability have also seen substantial upgrades, highlighting positive progress in school facilities to enhance the quality of education. From 2019-20 to 2023-24, there have been notable improvements in school infrastructure. The percentage of schools with girls’ toilets increased slightly from 96.9% to 97.2%, while access to libraries/reading rooms rose from 84.1% to 89%.  The availability of electricity improved from 83.4% to 91.8%, and computers in schools increased from 38.5% to 57.2%. Additionally, internet access grew significantly from 22.3% to 53.9%, marking a positive shift toward better-equipped schools.

    Conclusion

    The education sector in India is being strengthened through various government initiatives aligned with NEP 2020. Programs like Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, PM SHRI (Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India) and PM POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman) are driving improvements in infrastructure, teacher training and learning outcomes. The Economic Survey highlights the progress and the government’s commitment to making education more inclusive and accessible.

    References

    Click here to download PDF

    *******

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria

    (Release ID: 2101363) Visitor Counter : 40

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Quality And Integrity for Projects Outsourced for “Adopt a Heritage” Scheme

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

    The Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Program was launched to create a framework for engaging with private/public sector companies and NGOs/ Trusts/ Societies, etc. to develop/provide defined amenities at protected monuments to enhance visitors’ experience and make them visitor-friendly, through their own funds. No funds are allocated by the Government to such entities for this purpose.

    The work of providing amenities is carried out by the partnering entities only with the approval of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and under its close supervision so as to ensure the quality.The list of monuments available for adoption under the Adopt a Heritage 2.0 programme is displayed on a dedicated portal, where interested entities are required to register.

    The programme has a provision whereby the proposals received from interested entities are evaluated by an “Approval and Implementation Committee”. The execution of the work is carried out by the partnering entities only when approval is received from the said committee, and the work is executed under close supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Further, under the programme, all revenues generated through semi-commercial activities are required to be deposited in a dedicated account which is utilize to sustain, develop, operate and maintain the adopted monument only. The partnering entities are required to produce on half-yearly basis, a duly audited statement of account for the same.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101349) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Allocation of Grants to Autonomous Bodies

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Details of Grants allocated to various Autonomous Bodies under the administrative control of the Ministry of Culture is annexed at Annexure –I.

    There have been the demands of excess budget during the said period by some Autonomous Bodies and the same have been met. Autonomous Bodies are continuously advised to enhance their internal revenue generation to meet the excess demand. Details of the excess demand and the reasons there for is at Annexure-II.

    Grants are allocated to Autonomous Bodies keeping in view the overall allocation of the Ministry and their proposed programmes/activities during the year. Additional grants sought by the Autonomous Bodies are met through the Supplementary demands as per the GFR provisions. However, Autonomous Bodies are continuously encouraged to enhance their internal revenue generation to meet the excess demand.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    Annexure-I

    AUTONOMOUS BODIES BE/RE FROM F.Y. BE 2021-22 TO 2023-24                                                                                                (Rs. in lakh)

    S.No.

    Organizations

    BE 21-22

    RE 21-22

    BE 22-23

    RE 22-23

    BE 23-24

    RE 23-24

    I

    Support to Akademies

     

     

     

     

     

     

    1

    Sangeet Natak Akademi

    5925.00

    6087.00

    6315.00

    6660.52

    6555.00

    6855.00

    2

    Sahitya Akademi

    3910.00

    3787.00

    3920.00

    4198.16

    3805.00

    4055.00

    3

    Lalit Kala Akademi

    2620.00

    2558.00

    2650.00

    3310.80

    2855.00

    3255.00

    4

    National School of Drama

    7065.00

    6445.00

    6975.00

    4333.52

    4855.00

    5955.00

    5

    Centre for Cultural Resources and Training

    2555.00

    2455.00

    2495.00

    2495.00

    2545.00

    2545.00

    6

    Indira Gandhi National Culture for the Arts

    5005.00

    5330.00

    5505.00

    19005.00

    10010.00

    10010.00

    7

    Kalakshetra Foundation

    1767.00

    1872.00

    1927.00

    1977.00

    2452.00

    2662.00

    8

    Zonal Cultural Centers

    5310.00

    6419.00

    6748.00

    6748.00

    7050.00

    8208.00

     

    Total- Support to Akademies

    34157.00

    34953.00

    36535.00

    48728.00

    40127.00

    43545.00

    II

    Support to Museum

     

     

     

     

     

     

    9

    Victoria Memorial Hall

    3377.00

    3029.00

    3099.00

    2877.00

    3134.00

    3134.00

    10

    National Council of Science Museum

    13186.00

    13187.00

    13902.00

    14592.00

    17260.00

    20460.51

    11

    Allahabad Museum

    1077.00

    937.00

    967.00

    877.00

    962.00

    962.00

    12

    Indian Institute of Heritage (IIH)-NMI

    2057.00

    2057.00

    2087.00

    1902.00

    1222.00

    1222.00

    13

    Salarjung Museum

    2397.00

    2397.00

    2487.00

    2397.00

    2522.00

    2522.00

    14

    Indian Museum

    2457.00

    2392.00

    4040.00

    3282.00

    4042.49

    4042.49

    15

    Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sanghralaya

    1772.00

    1652.00

    1702.00

    1977.00

    2355.00

    2355.00

    16

    Prime Minister Museum & Library

    3058.00

    3058.00

    3248.00

    3608.00

    4242.00

    4242.00

     

    Total- Support to Museum

    29381.00

    28709.00

    31532.00

    31512.00

    35739.49

    38940.00

    III

    Support to Libraries

     

     

     

     

     

     

    17

    Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation

    2707.00

    2707.00

    2752.00

    3319.00

    3367.00

    3287.00

    18

    Delhi Public Library

    3627.00

    3237.00

    3367.00

    3252.00

    3558.00

    3538.00

    19

    Asiatic Society Library

    2342.00

    2342.00

    2541.50

    2261.50

    2437.00

    2237.00

    20

    Khuda Baksh Oriental Public Library

    632.50

    544.50

    580.50

    595.50

    622.00

    622.00

    21

    Rampur Raza Library

    702.00

    651.50

    672.00

    652.00

    662.00

    662.00

     

    Total- Support to Libraries

    10010.50

    9482.00

    9913.00

    10080.00

    10646.00

    10346.00

    IV

    BTI and Memorials

     

     

     

     

     

     

    22

    Gandhi Smriti Darshan Samiti

    1402.00

    1302.00

    1366.00

    1602.00

    1560.00

    2010.00

    23

    Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian Studies

    465.00

    465.00

    477.00

    492.00

    653.50

    653.50

    24

    Nava Nalanda Mahavihara

    1309.00

    1609.00

    1678.00

    2177.00

    2555.00

    3804.50

    25

    Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh.

    2946.40

    2576.40

    2706.50

    3338.50

    3198.00

    3545.00

    26

    Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies,Sarnath

    5401.70

    6283.90

    4908.50

    3935.50

    3902.00

    4032.00

    27

    Central Institute of Himalayan Cultural Studies, Dahung

    1190.70

    1151.70

    1166.00

    1211.00

    1222.00

    1352.00

    28

    Tabo

     

     

    2.00

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

        (Rs. in lakh)

    S.No.

    Organizations

     

    BE 21-22

    RE 21-22

    BE 22-23

    RE 22-23

    BE 23-24

    RE 23-24

     

     

    Total- BTI and Memorials

    12714.80

    13388.00

    12304.00

    12756.00

    13090.50

    15397.00

     

    Total- Autonomous Bodies

    86263.30

    86532.00

    90284.00

    103076.00

    99602.99

    108228.00

                   

    STATEMENT REFERRED TO PART(b) & (c) OF THE QUESTION NO. 1126 REGARDING ‘ALLOCATION OF GRANTS TO AUTONOMOUS BODIES’

    (Rs. in lakh)

    Annexure-II

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    1

    Sangeet Natak Akademi

    5925.00

    6087.00

    5716.87

     

    6315.00

    6660.52

    6505.52

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    6555.00

    6855.00

    7105.00

    Additional requirement is for fellowship awards for the year.

    2

    Sahitya Akademi

    3910.00

    3787.00

    4369.77

    For payment to the CPWD Bengaluru towards construction of the sales-cum-godown and setting up of Metro Book Shop at their Kempe Gowda Metro Station

    3920.00

    4198.16

    4381.96

    For conducting various programmes/activitiesb

    3805.00

    4055.00

    4356.59

    For Festival of Letters was conducted at the large scale involving more than 1100 writers from across the nation, due to which amt of more than Rs. 4 crore was incurred and the bills are pending i.r.o. honorarium and TA to the writers and various vendors

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    3

    Lalit Kala Akademi

    2620.00

    2558.00

    3022.57

    For renovation work of old building of Regional Centre of Kolkata & Chennai and infrastructure development of newly built building at Regional Office, Kolkata, etc.

    2650.00

    3310.80

    3110.80

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    2855.00

    3255.00

    3530.00

    For maintenance of all regional centre and pension to staff for the month of Feb, 2024/salary to outsourced staff etc.

    4

    National School of Drama

    7065.00

    6445.00

    5593.58

     

    6975.00

    4333.52

    4333.52

     

    4855.00

    5955.00

    6255.00

    For pending payment of bill related to BRM

    5

    Centre for Cultural Resources and Training

    2555.00

    2455.00

    3114.36

    Rs. 2cr. To CCRT towards payment of construction of CCRT Regional Centre building of Udaipur & purchase of new furniture/fixture & equipment

    2495.00

    2495.00

    2511.20

    For conducting various programmes/activities.

    2545.00

    2545.00

    2595.00

     

    6

    Indira Gandhi National Culture for the Arts

    5005.00

    5330.00

    5330.00

    To meet committed liabilities during the year

    5505.00

    19005.00

    23208.82

    For recoupment of advance taken of Rs.56.60 crore from Contingency fund of India in r/o IGNCA for parliament art works

    10010.00

    10010.00

    10910.00

    For Prerna School, Digitization of Sampurnand Sanskrit Vishwavidyalya and G20 Summit

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    7

    Kalakshetra Foundation

    1767.00

    1872.00

    1872.00

    To meet committed liabilities during the year

    1927.00

    1977.00

    2127.00

    For project sanitization, language moderation by third party agency for Mera Estimated exp. of Rs.

    2.50 cr. By Kalakshetra foundation till 31.03.2023

    2452.00

    2662.00

    2662.00

    For creation of EL Fund with LIC

    8

    Zonal Cultural Centers

    5310.00

    6419.00

    6499.56

    To meet committed liabilities during the year

    6748.00

    6748.00

    6746.00

     

    7050.00

    8208.00

    11019.00

    For organizing program on Cultural Components(Anant Sutra,Vande Bharatam and Tableau)during 75th Republic Day Celebrations,2024

     

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    9

    National Council of Science Museum

    13186.00

    13187.00

    13287.00

     

    13902.00

    14592.00

    14230.50

    For development of Planetarium software by NCSM

    17260.00

    20460.51

    20650.51

     

    10

    Indian Institute of Heritage(IIH)-NMI

    2057.00

    2057.00

    2057.00

     

    2087.00

    1902.00

    1934.90

     

    1222.00

    1222.00

    1578.75

    For expenditure towards special projects and enhanced expenditure on IIH campus such as security, housekeeping, horticulture, AMC of building, generator expenses etc.

    11

    Salarjung Museum

    2397.00

    2397.00

    3046.00

    To meet the committed liabilities during the year

    2487.00

    2397.00

    2397.00

     

    2522.00

    2522.00

    2522.00

     

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    12

    Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya

    1772.00

    1652.00

    1729.10

    To meet the expense of DCRG fund, open air and indoor exhibition and other routine expense

    1702.00

    1977.00

    1942.00

    IGRMS for EPF  arrears, DCRG fund

    2355.00

    2355.00

    2545.25

    For

    Wages, Tagore Scholarship,Biennale2023-24, Audit fee,

    EPF Interest payable etc.

    13

    Prime Minister Museum & Library

    3058.00

    3058.00

    3366.62

    To incur the expenditure towards water, electricity charges and other general expenditure, to Tagore National Fellowship for Culture Research Scheme for local TA/Honorarium, stationery, travel project staff, accommodation, misc., software and on account of financial impact of implementation of 7th CPC benefits for the pensioner

    3248.00

    3608.00

    3555.00

    Rs. 1.50 cr. for office expenses of PM Museum, electricity bill, etc. by PMM&L

    4242.00

    4242.00

    7938.00

    To facilitate the payment of property tax/ service charges to NDMC under the Grant-in-aid General head.

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    14

    Delhi Public Library

    3627.00

    3237.00

    3256.07

     

    3367.00

    3252.00

    3252.00

     

    3558.00

    3538.00

    3638.00

    For payment of communication to 12 pensioners, reimbursement of medical expenses to pensioners

    15

    Asiatic Society Library

    2342.00

    2342.00

    2402.05

    Additional Fund  given by the Ministry under the Object Head ‘GIA-General’ to meet expenses on account of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsava  and Digitization Project.

    2541.50

    2261.50

    2189.50

     

    2437.00

    2237.00

    2024.30

     

    16

    Khuda Baksh Oriental Public Library

    632.50

    544.50

    544.50

     

    580.50

    595.50

    608.50

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    622.00

    622.00

    700.47

    For

    Payment of corporation tax and repairing of Old A. C. Plant

     

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    17

    Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian Studies

    465.00

    465.00

    465.00

     

    477.00

    492.00

    602.00

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    653.50

    653.50

    763.50

    For repair & renovation of Azad Bhawan premises of MAKAIAS

    & to conduct seminar/workshop/symposium/lecture session

    liability

    18

    Nava Nalanda Mahavihara

    1309.00

    1609.00

    2291.57

    To Nav Nalanda Mahavihara for upgradation of existing Residential Complex and administrative building, etc

     

    1678.00

    2177.00

    2177.72

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    2555.00

    3804.50

    3804.50

     

    19

    Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh.

    2946.40

    2576.40

    2704.23

    To central Institute of Buddhist Studies for clearing  existing liabilities of CPWD, etc.

    2706.50

    3338.50

    3044.30

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    3198.00

    3545.00

    3845.00

    For CIBS to razzing and finishing of compound wall at new campus, repair and renovation of guest house and vertical extension of senior secondary school building another storey of classroom

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    20

    Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath

    5401.70

    6283.90

    6129.40

    For maintenance of Sowa Rigpa Bhawan (academic & hospital) under Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath, Varanasi

    4908.50

    3935.50

    4347.58

     

    3902.00

    4032.00

    4032.00

    For maintenance of Sowa Rigpa Bhawan (academic & hospital) under Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath, Varanasi

    21

    Central Institute of Himalayan Cultural Studies, Dahung

    1190.70

    1151.70

    1146.83

     

    1166.00

    1211.00

    1216.40

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    1222.00

    1352.00

    1352.00

    To meet the committed liabilities during the year
                                 

     

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101353) Visitor Counter : 48

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Science Centres Established Under SPoCS Scheme

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Culture

    Science Centres Established Under SPoCS Scheme

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi

    National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), an autonomous organization under Ministry of Culture, Government of India is the implementing agency of the Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science (SPoCS) of Govt. of India, under which Science Cities, Science Centres, Digital Planetarium, Innovation Hubs are set up across the country based on the proposals received from different State Government and UTs desirous to set up Science Cities, Science Centre, Digital Planetarium, Innovation Hub etc.

    North Bengal Science Centre, Siliguri in Darjeeling district was inaugurated on 17th August, 1997 and the centre is being operated and managed by NCSM. An Innovation Hub at North Bengal Science Centre, Siliguri in the Darjeeling district was inaugurated on 16th February, 2018 and is being operated and managed by NCSM.

    A Sub-Regional Science Centre at Kalimpong in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, has been set up by NCSM under Science Cities scheme (Erstwhile). The Centre was handed over to State Government on 11th September, 2007 for its operation and management and it was inaugurated on 2nd October, 2008. An Innovation Hub at Kalimpong Science Centre, Kalimpong in Kalimpong district (erstwhile in Darjeeling district) was inaugurated and handed over on 25th February, 2017 by NCSM to respective State Government.

    The details of the specific programs or events organized under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science by NCSM, Kolkata to promote hands-on scientific learning and experimentation for school and college students at North Bengal Science Centre, Siliguri is attached at Annexure-II.

    The complete guidelines of Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science have been provided in the websites of Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India and NCSM, Kolkata. The details of activities undertaken under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science have been highlighted every-year in the Annual Report publication of NCSM and all the achievements under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science have been updated on the website of NCSM to raise public awareness about SPoCS and its programmes to increase participation and outreach.

    The details of number of beneficiaries and the outcomes of initiatives under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science as of January 2025, is attached at Annexure-III.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Annexure-‘I’

    The details of the Science Centres that have been established under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science (SPoCS) initiatives (State-wise)

    Sl. No.

    Located in State/UT

    Science Centers/Museums

    Year of Establishment
    1.  

    A & N Island

    Science Centre, Port Blair

    May 30, 2003
    1.  

    Mizoram

    Mizoram Science Centre, Aizwal

    July 26, 2003
    1.  

    Nagaland

    Nagaland Science Centre, Dimapur

    September 14, 2004
    1.  

    Manipur

    Manipur Science Centre, Manipur

    May 18, 2005
    1.  

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Arunachal Pradesh Science Centre, Itanagar

    Dec 3, 2005
    1.  

    Meghalaya

    Shillong Science Centre, Shillong, Meghalaya

    February 27, 2006
    1.  

    Sikkim

    Sikkim Science Centre, Gangtok

    February 22, 2008
    1.  

    West Bengal

    Sub-Regional Science Centres, Kalimpong

     

    October 2, 2008
    1.  

    Maharashtra

    Sub-Regional Science Centre, Solapur

    February 14, 2010
    1.  

    Pimpri Chinchwad Science Centre, Pune

    February 8, 2013
    1.  

    Jharkhand

    Regional Science Centre, Ranchi

    November 29, 2010
    1.  

    Chhattisgarh

    Chhattisgarh Science Centre, Raipur

    July 13, 2012
    1.  

    Rajasthan

    Regional Science Centre, Jaipur

    December 29, 2012
    1.  

    Sub Regional Science Centre, Jodhpur

    August 17, 2013
    1.  

    Assam

    Jorhat Science Centre & Planetarium

    July 6, 2013
    1.  

    Tamilnadu

    Regional Science Centre, Coimbatore

    May 6, 2013
    1.  

    Karnataka

    Dharwad Regional Science Centre

    February 27, 2012
    1.  

    Regional Science Centre, Pilikula, Mangalore

    October 01, 2014
    1.  

    Puducherry

    Dr. Abdul Kalam Science Centre & Planetarium, Puducherry

    May 03, 2015
    1.  

    Odisha

    Bargarh Science Centre, Bargarh

    January 21, 2020
    1.  

    Tripura

    Udaipur Science Centre, Tripura

    February 28, 2021
    1.  

    Kerala

    Kottayam Science Centre, Kerala

    May 11, 2022 (Handed over)
    1.  

    Bihar

    Bodhgaya Science Centre, Bodhgaya

    July 20, 2023
    1.  

    Uttarakhand

    Regional Science Centre, Dehradun

    Feb 03, 2016
    1.  

    Manaskhand Science Centre, Almora

    March 10, 2024
    1.  

    Himachal Pradesh

    Palampur Science Centre, Palampur

    May 14, 2022
    1.  

    Andhra Pradesh

    Rajamahendravaram Science Centre, Rajamahendravaram

    Completed and ready for inauguration

     

    The details of the Innovation Hubs that have been established under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science (SPoCS) initiatives (State-wise)

    Sl. No.

    Located in State/UT

    Innovation Hub

    (Location/Name of the Centre)

    Year of Establishment

    (Date of Inauguration)
    1.  

    Delhi

    National Science Centre, Delhi

    23rd January, 2014
    1.  

    Assam

    Regional Science Centre, Guwahati

    4th February, 2014
    1.  

    Jorhat Science Centre & Planetarium, Jorhat

    Inaugurated on 15th August, 2022.

     
    1.  

    Maharashtra

    Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai

    24th February, 2014
    1.  

    Raman Science Centre & Planetarium, Nagpur

    14th February, 2017
    1.  

    BVB’s Muktangan Exploratory Science Centre, Pune

    28th February, 2018
    1.  

    Solapur Science Centre, Solapur

    18th February, 2022
    1.  

    West Bengal

    Birla Industrial & Technological Museum, Kolkata

    23rd August, 2013
    1.  

    Bardhaman Science Centre, Bardhaman

    10th July, 2015
    1.  

    Kalimpong Science Centre, Kalimpong

    25th February, 2017
    1.  

    North Bengal Science Centre, Siliguri

    16th February, 2018
    1.  

    Digha Science Centre & National Science Camp, Digha

    26th February, 2019
    1.  

    District Science Centre, Purulia

    17th December, 2019
    1.  

    Kerala

    Regional Science Centre & Planetarium, Calicut

    1st October, 2015
    1.  

    Kerala State Science & Technology Museum, Trivandrum

    17th February, 2016
    1.  

    Uttar Pradesh

    Regional Science City, Lucknow

    4th January, 2016
    1.  

    Uttarakhand

    Regional Science Centre, Dehradun

    3rd February, 2016
    1.  

    Manaskhand Science Centre at Almora

    10th March, 2024
    1.  

    Andhra Pradesh

    Agastya International Foundation, Kuppam

    23rd February, 2016
    1.  

    Regional Science Centre, Tirupati

    21st May, 2017
    1.  

    Science Centre at Rajahmundry

    Completed and ready for inauguration
    1.  

    Tamilnadu

    Tamilnadu Science & Technology Centre, Chennai

    5th August, 2016
    1.  

    District Science Centre, Tirunelveli

    6th September, 2017
    1.  

    Regional Science Centre, Coimbatore

    28th October, 2021
    1.  

    Anna Science Centre, Trichi

    28th October, 2021
    1.  

    Bihar

    Shrikrishna Science Centre, Patna

    6th November, 2016
    1.  

    Sub-Regional Science Centre, Bodhgaya

    20th July, 2023.
    1.  

    Rajasthan

    Birla Science Centre, Pilani

    11th April, 2017
    1.  

    Sub-Regional Science Centre, Udaipur, Rajasthan

    Completed and ready for inauguration
    1.  

    Regional Science Centre, Jaipur

    23rd September, 2024
    1.  

    Sub-Regional Science Centre, Jodhpur

    Completed and ready for inauguration
    1.  

    Karnataka

    Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum, Bangalore

    5thDecember, 2013
    1.  

    District Science Centre, Gulbarga

    29th June, 2017
    1.  

    Pilikula Regional Science Centre, Mangaluru

    7th March, 2024
    1.  

    Madhya Pradesh

    Regional Science Centre, Bhopal

    1st September, 2017
    1.  

    Punjab

    Pushpa Gujral Science City, Kapurthala

    30th November, 2017
    1.  

    Gujarat

    Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre, Ahmedabad

    27th March, 2018
    1.  

    District Science Centre, Dharampur

    26th October, 2018
    1.  

    Meghalaya

    Shillong Science Centre, Shillong

    14th June, 2019
    1.  

    Nagaland

    Nagaland Science Centre, Dimapur

    28th September, 2018
    1.  

    Odisha

    Regional Science Centre, Bhubaneswar

    11th July, 2018
    1.  

    Sikkim

    Sikkim Science Centre, Gangtok

    20th November, 2020
    1.  

    Tripura

    Sukanta Academy, Agartala

    9th October, 2021
    1.  

    Mizoram

    Mizoram Science Centre, Aizawl

     11th September, 2018
    1.  

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Arunachal Pradesh Science Centre, Itanagar

    8th December, 2018
    1.  

    Manipur

    Manipur Science Centre, Imphal

    16th March, 2020
    1.  

    Goa

    Goa Science Centre, Panaji

    1st July, 2019
    1.  

    Himachal Pradesh

    Palampur Science Centre, Palampur

    14th May, 2022
    1.  

    Puducherry

    Dr. Abdul Kalam Science Centre & Planetarium, Puducherry

    18th May, 2022
    1.  

    A & N Islands

    Science Centre, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair)

    24th October, 2024
    1.  

    Telangana

    Regional Science Centre, Warangal

    Completed and ready for inauguration

     

    Target for the Science Centres to be established under SPoCS scheme over the next five years (State wise)

     

    State

    Project

    Arunachal Pradesh

    1. Science Centre (Category-II), Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh

    2. Science Centre (Category-II), Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh

    Assam

    1. Guwahati Science City, Assam

    2. Kokrajhar Science Centre (Sub-Regional), Assam

    Chandigarh

    1. Science Centre (Category-II), Chandigarh

    Haryana

    1. Ambala Science Centre (Category-II), Haryana

    Jammu & Kashmir

    1. Srinagar Science Centre (Category-II), Jammu & Kashmir

    Karnataka

    1. Shivamogga Science Centre (Category-II), Karnataka

    2. Science Centre (Category-III), Yadgiri, Karnataka

    3. Science Centre (Category-II), Raichur, Karnataka

    4. Science Centre (Category-III), Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka

    Madhya Pradesh

    1. Ujjain Science Centre (Category-II), Madhya Pradesh

    2. Jabalpur Science Centre (Category-II), Madhya Pradesh

    Puducherry

    1. Science Centre (Category-III), Thirunallar, Puducherry

    Rajasthan

    1. Ajmer Science Centre (Category-II), Rajasthan

    2. Kota Science Centre (Category-II), Rajasthan

    3. Udaipur Science Centre (Category-II), Rajasthan

    4. Bikaner Science Centre (Category-II), Rajasthan

    Telangana

    1. Science Experience Centre (Category-I), Hyderabad, Telengana

    Tripura

    1. Science City, Agartala, Tripura

    Uttarakhand

    1. Dehradun Science City, Uttarakhand
         

     

    Target for the Innovation Hubs to be established under SPoCS scheme over the next five years (State-wise)

     

     

    Sl. No.

    State/Union Territory

    Name of the Science City/Centre/Museum where Innovation Hub is located
    1.  

    Kerala

    Regional Science Centre, Chalakkudy
    1.  

    Karnataka

    Dharwad Regional Science Centre, Dharwad
    1.  

    Jharkhand

    Ranchi Science Centre, Ranchi
    1.  

    J & K

    Srinagar Science Centre, Srinagar
    1.  

    Madhya Pradesh

    Jabalpur Science Centre, Jabalpur

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101348)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Preservation of Indigenous Languages and Cultural Heritage

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India, through its autonomous institutions under the Ministry of Culture is actively engaged in promoting and preserving India’s indigenous languages and cultural heritage. Sahitya Akademi recognizes contributions to unrecognized and tribal languages through the Bhasha Samman and supports them via writer exchanges, publications, book exhibitions, and the Annual All India Tribal Writers’ Meet. It also operates centers for folk and tribal literature and conducts outreach programs like Loka: The Many Voices and Gramalok. The details of programs from 2021-2024 are at Annexure.

    Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) imparts training to individuals in 100 dying art forms through the Kala Deeksha program and the Guru-Shishya Parampara. It maintains a National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), and 15 elements from India are inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of ICH of Humanity under the 2003 Convention.

    IGNCA undertakes documentation, digitization, research, and awareness programs to safeguard India’s linguistic and cultural heritage. Key initiatives include Bharat Vidya Pariyojana (BVP) for Indigenous knowledge systems, the Vedic Heritage Archive for Vedic texts, and Loka Parampara for oral traditions and folklore. The Adi Drishya Programmestudies Indigenous languages and rock art, while the Kala Nidhi Digital Library preserves rare manuscripts and ethnographic records. The North-East India Documentation Project records oral histories and linguistic structures of communities like the Nagas, Bodos, Mizos, and Khasis. Additionally, the National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) is documenting regional languages, art forms, and customs while mapping 6 lakh villages nationwide.

    The Sahitya Akademi (SA) collaborates with State-level institutions to organize local and regional programs, including seminars and workshops to promote indigenous languages and literature.

    The Lalit Kala Akademi (LKA) focuses on tribal visual arts through exhibitions, art camps, and workshops, providing a platform for tribal artists to showcase their talents at national and international levels. It also offers gallery spaces to connect artists with buyers and collectors. Recently, under its Public Art of India (PARI) Project, LKA featured folk and tribal artists from across the country during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) conference in Delhi.

    The Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) actively collaborate with State Governments to conduct cultural programs. During the Republic Day Parade 2025, Ministry of Culture, through Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA), presented one of the largest dance choreographies featuring 5,000 folk and tribal artists selected from across the country.

    Other major initiatives include the National Manuscripts Mission (NMM) for preserving ancient manuscripts focusing on the unique linguistic and cultural heritage. Additionally, the National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) is systematically documenting regional languages, art forms, rituals, and customs across India’s villages, reinforcing the government’s dedication to cultural preservation.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    ANNEXURE

    Details of programs conducted by Sahitya Akademi between 2021 and 2024

    S.No.

    Name of Event

    Date of Event

    Place of Event

    1

    All India Bodo Women Writers’ Meet

    30 June 2021

    Online

    2

    Symposium on the Present Status of Tiwa Poetry

    19 July 2021

    Online

    3

    Symposium on Tribal Language and Literature

    29 July 2021

    Online

    4

    Conference on Exploring Indigenous Poetry

    9-11 August 2021

    Online

    5

    Symposium on Story Telling Tradition in Tribal Odisha

    31 October 2021

    Koraput, Odisha

    6

    Symposium on Tribal Consciousness in the Odia Short Stories

    28 November 2021

    Balasore, Odisha

    7

    Symposium on Tribal Language and Culture (Gothra Languages)

    11 March 2022

    Wayanad, Kerala

    8

    Seminar on Tribal Literature in Western region

    27 March 2022

    Mumbai, Maharashtra

    9

    Symposium on Darrangi Folk Culture and Folk Literature

    8 January 2022

    Guwahati, Assam

    10

    Gramalok: Folk Literature-Culture-Lecture

    3 February 2022

    Kalaburgi, Karnataka

    11

    Literary Forum: “Folk Languages of North Odisha”

    15 August 2022

    Balasore, Odisha

    12

    National Seminar in Maithili: “Contribution of Folk Songs and Folk Epics to the Enrichment of Maithili Literature”

    20-21 November 2022

    Jamshedpur, Jharkhand

    13

    Symposium: Present Scenario of Rajasthani Folk Literature

    18 January 2023

    Udaipur, Rajasthan

    14

    Marathi Seminar: Tribal Folk Literature of Maharashtra

    16-17 February 2023

    Palghar, Maharashtra

    15

    Literary Forum on “Folk Elements in Bengali Literature”

    23 February 2023

    Kolkata, West Bengal

    16

    Gramalok: Folklore in Creative Literature

    27 June 2023

    Puducherry

    17

    Loka: The Many Voices (Konkani Siddi Folk Dances)

    6 August 2023

    Mangalore, Karnataka

    18

    Saora Language Convention

    22-23 April 2023

    Odisha

    19

    Kurmali Language Convention

    6-7 December 2023

    Ranchi, Jharkhand

    20

    Kharia Language Convention

    5-6 July 2024

    Ranchi, Jharkhand

    21

    Korku Language Convention

    15-16 July 2024

    Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

    22

    Baigani Language Convention

    23-24 August 2024

    Raipur, Chhattisgarh

    23

    Nyishi Language Convention

    27-28 September 2024

    Doimukhi, Arunachal Pradesh

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

     

    (Release ID: 2101347) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Culture implements a “Global Engagement Scheme” to promote India’s rich cultural heritage

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:07PM by PIB Delhi

    To organize cultural programmes of India at International level, Ministry of Culture signs Cultural Exchange Programmes (CEPs) for disseminating Indian art and culture across the globe. The Cultural Exchange programmes promote India’s soft power for developing and strengthening India’s inter-cultural relations with other countries. The CEPs facilitate cultural exchanges with other countries in different areas like music and dance, theatre, museums & science museums, libraries, archives, protection and conservation of historic monuments and archaeological sites, literature, research and documentation, festival, among others.

    Ministry of Culture also implements a scheme titled “Global Engagement Scheme” to promote India’s rich cultural heritage and enhance India’s image in the global arena in a concerted manner. The objective of the Scheme is to provide artists practicing Indian art forms, an opportunity to perform abroad under the banner of ‘Festival of India’. Under the Scheme, artists from diverse cultural fields such as Folk Art including Folk Music, Folk Dance, Folk Theatre & Puppetry, Classical and Traditional Dance, Experimental/ Contemporary Dance, Classical/ Semi Classical Music, Theatre etc. perform in the ‘Festivals of India’ abroad. Ministry of Culture has empanelled 627 artists/groups under various art forms for performing in the Festivals of India abroad.

    Besides, Ministry of Culture promotes Indian folk art, culture and music abroad through Grant-in-aid to Indo-foreign Friendship Cultural Societies in Foreign countries for organizing different cultural programmes and activities. Ministry of External Affairs has a programme called Promotion of Cultural Ties with Diaspora (PCTD) under which limited amount of funds are extended to Indian Missions/Posts abroad to encourage the Indian Diaspora overseas to organise cultural programmes with a view to connect them to their roots. The scheme aims to nourish and strengthen the cultural bonds between India and its Diaspora and to reinforce the cultural identity of the persons of Indian origin.

    The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), an autonomous organization under Ministry of External Affairs, promotes Indian culture worldwide through its Cultural Centres and Missions/ Posts abroad. Activities conducted by them include inter-alia, teaching of Yoga, Dance, Music (vocal and instrumental), Sanskrit and Hindi; organising/ supporting Conferences/ Seminars/ Workshops in different fields of Indian culture; supporting Chairs of Indian Studies in  foreign universities; gifting of busts/ statues of Mahatma Gandhi and other national icons, exchanging visual arts exhibitions, celebrating  International Day of Yog, Ayurveda Day and Indian festivals, promoting Indian films, hosting visitors under various Visitors Programmes (Academic/ Distinguished/ Important/ Gen. Next Democracy Network) and sponsoring scholarships to foreign students under different scholarship schemes. ICCR has also concluded MoUs with various State Governments to promote their culture abroad and to facilitate cultural exchanges with foreign countries. ICCR also hosts incoming foreign cultural troupes to enable Indians to discover various foreign countries.

    To organize cultural programmes at national level and to protect, preserve & promote various forms of folk art and culture, the Government of India has set up seven Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) with headquarters at Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolkata, Dimapur and Thanjavur. These ZCCs organize various cultural activities and programmes like Shilpgram Utsav, Orange City Craft Mela, Octave-Festival of North East, Salangai Naadam, Geeta Jayanti Mahotsav, National Crafts Fair, Rashtriya Shilp Mela, Fete-de-Puducherry, Chandigarh National Crafts Mela, Sindhu Darshan Festival, Purbanchalia Lok Mohotsav etc. throughout the country on regular basis.

    In addition, the Ministry of Culture also organizes Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsavs (RSMs) in the country and since 2015, the Ministry has organized 14 RSMs and 04 Zonal Level RSMs through its ZCCs up till now. These RSMs aim at bringing together the cultural diversity of India and reconnecting the younger generation to their roots and also make them aware about cultural heritage and ancient cultural values of the country by way of providing an effective platform to a large number of artists from all over India who display their talents during these programmes.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101346) Visitor Counter : 51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Religious Institutions Benefitted Under Seva Bhoj Yojana

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:06PM by PIB Delhi

    Seva Bhoj Yojana was launched by the Ministry of Culture in August, 2018. Under the Seva Bhoj Yojana, Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Central Government’s share of Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) paid on purchase of specific raw food items by the eligible Charitable/Religious Institutions for distributing free food to at least 5000 people in a calendar month are reimbursed to these organizations by the Government of India through the concerned GST Authority. The State-wise details of the charitable and religious institutions that have been benefitted under the Seva Bhoj Yojana as of January, 2025 are Annexed.

    As per the guidelines of Seva Bhoj Yojana, a Certificate from District Magistrate indicating that the Charitable/Religious Institution is involved in Charitable/Religious activities and is distributing free food to public/devotees etc. since last three years at least on daily/monthly basis is mandatorily required, as one of the eligibility criteria, for these institutions in order to get enrolled on the CSMS Portal of the Ministry of Culture. However, the details of individuals benefitted indirectly through the free meals are not sought by the Ministry while providing the benefit of reimbursement, as mentioned at Sl. No. (a) above under the Seva Bhoj Yojana from Charitable /Religious Institutions.

    Under the Seva Bhoj Yojana, Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Central Government’s share of Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) paid on purchase of specific raw food items by the eligible Charitable/Religious Institutions for distributing free food to public are reimbursed to these organizations by the Government of India through the concerned GST Authority. The following procedure is adopted to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilization of funds granted under the Seva Bhoj Scheme: –

    (i)    Upon registration with NGO Darpan Portal of NITI Aayog, the Charitable/Religious Institutions enrol and submit their application in CSMS Portal of the Ministry of Culture.

    (ii)   After enrolment with the Ministry of Culture, the applicant submits its application along with a copy of the registration certificate issued by the Ministry of Culture to the Nodal Central Tax Officer in their concerned State/UT.

    (iii)  The Nodal Central Tax Officer on receipt of the application and registration certificate generates a Unique Identity Number (UIN).

    (iv)  Thereafter, the concerned GST Authority forward the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Central Government’s share of Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) claims verified and passed by them in respect of the eligible Charitable/Religious Institutions to the Ministry for releasing the same.

    (v)   The Ministry provides fund to the concerned GST Authority who further reimburses to these Charitable/Religious Institutions.

    It has been the constant endeavour of the Ministry to promote all the schemes including Seva Bhoj Yojana and raise its awareness through various platforms viz. website of the Ministry, social media platforms etc. so that benefit of the scheme reaches to various types of eligible Charitable/Religious organizations situated across the country thereby leading to equitable representation of all religions and communities as the beneficiaries of the scheme.

    The application and reimbursement process as mentioned at Sl. No. (c) above already ensures ease and faster reimbursement to the eligible Charitable/Religious Institutions.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Annexure

                                                                                                                                           (Rs.in lakhs)

    Sl. No.

     

    Financial Year

    Name of Organizations

    State

    Fund Released
     
    1.  

    2019-2020

    Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Amritsar

    Punjab

    171.00

     

    Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, Tirupati

    Andhra Pradesh

     

    19.63

     

    Sri Venkateswara Annaprasadam Trust, Tirupati

    5.27
    1.  

    2020-2021

    Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)

    Punjab

     

    159.39

     

    Dreams & Beauty Charitable Trust, Ludhiana

    1.22

     

    Durgiana Temple, Amritsar

    8.84
    1.  

    2021-2022

    Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)

    Punjab

     

     

    149.83

     

    Dreams & Beauty Charitable Trust, Ludhiana

    0.28

     

    Durgiana Temple, Amritsar

    4.81
    1.  

    2022-2023

    Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)

    Punjab

     

     

    140.44

     

    Dreams & Beauty Charitable Trust, Ludhiana

    0.80

     

    Durgiana Temple, Amritsar

    1.76
    1.  

    2023-2024

    Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)

    Punjab

     

    142.12

    Durgiana Temple, Amritsar

    3.88

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101345) Visitor Counter : 48

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kalagram at Mahakumbh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Culture has set up a cultural village viz. Kalagram in Sector-7 of Maha Kumbh district through North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC) located at Prayagraj, an autonomous organization of the Ministry. The main features of Kalagram are:

    • Main Entrance: 635 ft wide, 54 ft high, depicting 12 Jyotirlingas and the story of Lord Shiva consuming Halahal, a confluence of art and spirituality.
    • A stage 104 feet-wide & 72 feet-depth on the theme of Char-Dham.
    • Artist and Performance: 14,632 artists will perform on various stages including Kalagram.
    • Anubhut Mandapam: 360° immersive experience narrating Ganga descent from heaven to earth.
    • Aviral Shashwat Kumbh: Digital display by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), National Archives of India (NAI) and Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
    • Food Zone: Satvik cuisine from all Zonal Cultural Centres apart from the local cuisine of Prayagraj.
    • Sanskriti Angans: Display and sale of traditional Indian handicrafts and handlooms in the courtyards by 98 artisans of the seven Zonal Cultural Centres.

    For the performance, 45 artists belonging to 03 art forms and for stalls 06 artisans from Karnataka have been deputed to Kalagram at Maha Kumbh-2025 by South Zone Cultural Centre (SZCC), Thanjavur, an autonomous organization under Ministry of Culture.The Kalagram has been set up at Maha Kumbh-2025 on the request of Government of Uttar Pradesh. A Kalagram, though on a smaller scale had been set up during 2019 Kumbh Mela too.To make these experiences accessible to audiences who cannot attend in person, Ministry of Culture alongwith NCZCC, Prayagraj is uploading the content on their various social media handles like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram etc.

    North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC), Prayagraj and South Central Zone Cultural Centre (SCZCC), Nagpur organize a number of cultural programmes at various venues in their member States including Sidhi (Madhya Pradesh) as decided by their Programme Committees.  Sangeet Natak Akademi, an autonomous organization under Ministry of Culture, invited two major theatre groups from Sidhi viz. Rangdoot and Indravati Natya Samiti for a performance in Amrit Yuva Kalotsav held at Bhopal and Lucknow.

    SCZCC, Nagpur had also invited artists from Indravati Natya Samiti, Sidhi (Madhya Pradesh) during organization of theatre presentation of Eklavya-Bagheli Theatre at Shilpgram, Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh)

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101344) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Acting Chief Executive meets Director-General of Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Acting Chief Executive, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, met with the visiting Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Dr Qu Dongyu, today (February 10). The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, and the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Mr Mickey Lai, also attended the meeting.

         Mr Chan welcomed Dr Qu’s visit to Hong Kong with his delegation. Mr Chan said that the FAO has 194 Member Nations launching work worldwide, leading international efforts to eradicate hunger. It plays a pivotal role in global food security, promoting the development of distinctive agricultural products in various countries and regions, advancing the development of fisheries and aquaculture, and preventing and controlling major animal diseases. Its achievements are widely recognised.

         Mr Chan said that Hong Kong is promoting the upgrading and transformation of the overall agriculture and fisheries industry towards modernisation and sustainable development. The Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture and Fisheries formulated in Hong Kong earlier has also set out specific work targets in this regard. In addition, Hong Kong has consistently engaged in various collaborations with the FAO. For example, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department earlier participated in the drafting of a series of FAO guidelines on African Swine Fever (ASF) to assist smallholder pig farmers in the Asian region to respond to ASF, and the relevant guidelines have now been widely adopted by Asian countries/regions. 

         Mr Chan further said that he looks forward to greater co-operation between Hong Kong and the FAO to strengthen knowledge exchange, promote regional co-operation, and make further contributions to global food security and sustainable development. Dr Qu thanked the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s support of the FAO and said he looks forward to engaging in closer collaboration in the future.   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Labour & Employment and FoundIt Signs MoU in Presence of Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Labour & Employment and FoundIt Signs MoU in Presence of Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

    MoU with FoundIt to Bring 10 lakh Job Opportunities Annually on NCS portal: Dr. Mandaviya

    NCS Portal has become a crucial gateway, connecting millions of job seekers with employers at national and international levels – Union Minister

    Partnership to Boost International Job Opportunities on NCS Portal

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 4:48PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant move to enhance job creation and expand opportunities for young job seekers, the Ministry of Labour & Employment signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FoundIt (Formerly Monster), a leading job portal in New Delhi today. The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and aims to enhance international & domestic employment opportunities for job seekers registered on NCS portal.

    Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the NCS Portal’s transformative role in bridging the gap between job seekers and employment opportunities, both within India and abroad. “The NCS Portal has become a crucial gateway, connecting millions of job seekers with employers at the national and international levels. With the addition of 3,000 to 4,000 job postings daily, this MoU is expected to bring 1.25 lakhs international vacancies and over 10 lakhs domestic vacancies to NCS each year, significantly boosting employment prospects for Indian youth,” he stated.

    He further emphasized the NCS Portal’s role as a robust employment-generation platform, connecting job seekers across diverse industries. “With over 40 lakh employers registered, the portal has facilitated the mobilization of more than 4.40 crore vacancies since its inception. At any given time, nearly 10 lakh job vacancies are available, ensuring a steady flow of opportunities for the youth,” he added.

    Expanding its global reach, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the NCS Portal’s integration with the e-Migrate platform, under which more than 500 active Recruitment Agencies (RAs) registered with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have been onboarded. “This initiative has opened doors for Indian professionals to secure jobs with credible, verified employers abroad,” he noted.

    Calling the NCS Portal a vital resource for job seekers, Dr. Mandaviya urged the youth to register on the platform and take full advantage of the numerous career opportunities available. He mentioned that NCS portal is integrated with My Bharat, SIDH portal which is bridging the skill gap among the youth to make them more employable.

    Secretary MoLE, Smt. Sumita Dawra stated that countries like Germany, Finland, and nations across the Middle East are actively seeking skilled workers for both blue-collar and white-collar jobs. This MoU will enable NCS to facilitate these vacancies and enhance career prospects for Indian job seekers, she added.

    V. Suresh, CEO of FoundIt, lauded the partnership, stating that it aligns with the Modi Government’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ by fostering inclusive employment opportunities. “Employment is the key to economic growth, and the government’s commitment to creating better career prospects is reflected in the continued success of the NCS Portal, which connects millions of job seekers with opportunities in India and abroad,” he said.

    Benefits of the MoU between MoLE and FoundIt:

    1. Expanded Job Opportunities: Job seekers registered on the National Career Service (NCS) Portal will gain access to vacancies not only within India but also in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, significantly broadening their employment prospects.
    2. Seamless Job Integration: FoundIt will post job opportunities on the NCS Portal, enhancing employment prospects for job seekers. It will gather job demand from employers across India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia looking to hire in both the formal and informal sectors. Relevant job listings will be integrated into the NCS Portal via APIs for seamless access.
    3. Inclusive Hiring Practices: The NCS Portal is committed to providing employment opportunities for women and persons with disabilities. This partnership with FoundIt will promote a fair and inclusive hiring process, ensuring equal job opportunities for underrepresented groups.
    4. Access to a Diverse Talent Pool: Through this MoU, FoundIt will gain access to a large and diverse pool of candidates from the NCS Portal, including women and persons with disabilities. The Ministry of Labour & Employment will facilitate database integration, enabling FoundIt to connect with a broad talent base via a seamless technology interface, accessible both online and offline.

    *******

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2101338) Visitor Counter : 85

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Listen to the Beat – Heart Health Month at NHB

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Take heart.

    There are several heartfelt static displays, informative presentations and knowledge-based exhibitions throughout Naval Hospital Bremerton acknowledging February as Heart Health Month.

    Whether it’s operational readiness or household responsibilities, from the deckplate to the domestic, cardiovascular endurance is a must.

    At any age.

    “Take steps now to adopt a healthier lifestyle to keep your heart healthy and avoid heart disease,” said Patricia Skinner, NHB/NMRTC Bremerton’s Health Promotion and Wellness coordinator. “While heart disease is often viewed as something to worry about when you get older, about six in 10 preventable heart disease and stroke deaths happen to people under age 65.”

    There is a crucial need to remind every age group on having a healthy heart. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the number one cause of death in the U.S., with one person dying every 33 second from cardiovascular disease, with over 700,000 fatalities in 2022.

    “Heart disease is a topic for adults of any age, including young adults,” Skinner continued. “Take steps now to reduce the risk of developing this disease which can negatively affect someone’s military career and compromise mission readiness,”

    Although cardiologists note that there are a number of factors which can lead to heart disease, there are overlapping lifestyle indicators which are the usual suspects, such as tobacco usage, excessive alcohol intake, lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating habits and carrying extra weight. All puts a stress on the heart and entire cardiovascular system.

    Skinner is helping lead the educational cardiovascular charge tailored for all age groups, advocating that everyone should choose a healthy eating plan, be physically active and learn the warning signs of a heart attack and stroke.

    “Take care of your heart whatever age you are,” stressed Skinner, “Each age group is impacted differently by heart disease and can be prevented by establishing health habits early, like getting in regular physical activity in childhood, maintaining healthy weight, monitoring cholesterol levels and blood pressure in middle age and managing any chronic medical conditions to ensure a healthy lifestyle across all stages of life.”

    Health Promotion and Wellness recommends the following for each age group:

    In the 20s, people should find a doctor and ensure they have regular health [and dental] wellness exams. They also need to avoid nicotine products and steer clear of secondhand smoke.

    “Smoking impacts the cardiovascular system in a number of ways from narrowing and thickening the arteries to raising blood pressure and heart rate to reducing oxygen supply,” Skinner said.

    In the 30s, goals towards improved health should be to manage stress, be aware of family medical history and make heart-healthy living a family affair.

    “There are a number of simply and effective ways to manage stress which include getting eight hours of sleep [preferably uninterrupted], daily exercise and focusing on nutritious eating habits,” stated Skinner.

    In the 40s, people need to [continue to] watch their weight, find a workout routine they enjoy, and have their blood sugar level checked.

    In the 50s, people need to get smart on warning signs. Heart attack symptoms in women can be different than a man. People also need to follow their treatment plan regarding lifestyle and diet change(s) and medication needs.

    “Women can feel dizziness, upper back pressure, check discomfort, shortness of breath, feeling of indigestion, occasional neck, teeth or jaw discomfort, and fainting or extreme fatigue,” explained Skinner. “Men can feel a cold sweat, chest pressure or pain, shortness of breath or dizziness and pain in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw and abdomen.”

    In the 60s, people need to watch their blood pressure, cholesterol and other related numbers closely. They also need to continue to exercise on a regular basis, consume smaller portions of nutrient-rich foods to maintain a healthy weight.

    Health Promotion and Wellness is based upon the three foundational principles of nutrition, wellness and fitness. Food consumption plays a sizable role in heart health. In accentuating the nutritional aspect, Machinist’s Mate, Nuclear Power 2nd Class Grace McCracken created a display showcasing a variety of multicolored foods, each offering a wide range of nutrients.

    Red colored foods, such as strawberry and apples are considered good for the heart.
    Orange colored foods like carrots and tangerines help eyesight.
    Yellow foods like a yellow pepper can help a body heal cuts.
    Brown fruits and vegetables give the body energy.
    Blue foods – like blueberries – have nutrients and antioxidants to help reduce high blood pressure.
    Green foods from kiwis to peas to broccoli help to combat germs.

    Skinner noted that even though February is designated as heart health month and some New Year resolutions for getting back into shape include developing healthy heart habits, that enthusiasm can fade.

    “It’s a concern all year,” exclaimed Skinner.

    Skinner gave heart in summing up their campaign theme, “Bringing awareness about heart disease to those who are concerned about their health is gratifying, especially when those same individuals share their progress in losing weight, reducing their cholesterols levels, or getting their blood pressure under control. It’s a step in the right direction for those who take their heart health seriously and maintain consistent healthy habits throughout the year.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Tells GOP: Hands Off Medicaid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    02.10.25
    Cantwell Tells GOP: Hands Off Medicaid
    House Republicans recently revealed proposal to cut $2.3 trillion from Medicaid to pay for Trump policy priorities
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Committee on Finance and ranking member of the Commerce Committee, joined a letter with 46 Senators calling on Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson to reject any legislation or budget proposals that would make cuts to Medicaid.
    “Republicans are proposing cuts to the Medicaid program from hundreds of billions to multiple trillions of dollars,” the Senators wrote. “States simply cannot absorb these massive funding cuts without hurting children, seniors, people with disabilities, tribal populations, patients with chronic illnesses, and many other Americans who rely on Medicaid.”
    “Given that levels of abuse and waste within Medicaid are not commensurate to cutting billions from the program, President Trump and Congressional Leadership should uphold this commitment to enhance, rather than gut, Medicaid. The American people should be assured that Medicaid will be protected. We urge you to reject proposals that use Medicaid as a piggy bank for partisan priorities and continue to defend the importance of this vital program,” the Senators concluded. 
    More than 1.8 million Washingtonians are enrolled in Medicaid (Apple Health). One in six adults, two in five children, three in five nursing home residents, and three in eight people with disabilities in Washington are covered by Medicaid. Any cuts in federal Medicaid funding would not only reduce the number of enrollees, it would potentially exacerbate Washington state’s budget deficit as states would have to make up for the shortfall by lowering coverage levels or cutting services.
    Sen. Cantwell is a longtime advocate for expanding and protecting Medicaid and Medicare. Rather than cutting Medicaid payments, Sen. Cantwell has introduced legislation to generate cost savings for American taxpayers. Sen. Cantwell has championed the Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) Transparency Act to crack down on PBMs and ban “spread pricing,” the PBM practice of charging a health insurance plan more to process a prescription than it reimburses the pharmacy and pocketing the difference – the spread. According to a recent CBO report, eliminating spread pricing in just the Medicaid program would result in approximately $900 million in savings over 10 years.
    Sen. Cantwell has also introduced legislation to expand Medicaid payments for low-barrier fentanyl treatment programs and rural hospitals’ labor and delivery units.
    The full text of the letter is HERE and below.
    Dear Majority Leader Thune and Speaker Johnson,
    As we begin a new Congress, we seek to pursue policies that improve the lives of Americans across this country. However, we are deeply concerned about recent reporting on Republican plans to use the budget reconciliation process to advance President Trump’s reckless agenda.  While we disagree on these costly and misguided policies, we are hopeful that there is bipartisan understanding of Medicaid’s importance for millions across the country, that the Medicaid program should be enhanced rather than cut, and that Republican policies should not be paid for at the expense of working-class Americans losing their health care.  
    Medicaid is a lifeline for communities across the country. Nearly 80 million Americans get their health insurance through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which provide services Americans rely on to remain healthy, go to school, and thrive at work. Medicaid pays for nearly half of all births in the U.S., provides health insurance coverage to nearly half of all of America’s children, provides care to 3 in 5 nursing home residents, and provides peace of mind to 17 million women of reproductive age. Medicaid is also a lifeline for rural communities, with children and non-elderly adults in rural areas more likely to be covered by Medicaid compared to those in urban areas.
    Republicans are proposing cuts to the Medicaid program from hundreds of billions to multiple trillions of dollars. [1] Cuts to Medicaid through drastically changing the program’s financing structure or imposing additional barriers to coverage are dangerous to the millions of people who rely on the program. These proposals will also force states to make difficult decisions that will result in millions getting kicked off their coverage and providers struggling to keep their practices open. States simply cannot absorb these massive funding cuts without hurting children, seniors, people with disabilities, tribal populations, patients with chronic illnesses, and many other Americans who rely on Medicaid.
    Speaking about Medicaid last week, President Trump said, “We’re not going to do anything with that, unless we can find some abuse or waste.  The people won’t be affected. It will only be more effective and better.”[2]
    Given that levels of abuse and waste within Medicaid are not commensurate to cutting billions from the program, President Trump and Congressional Leadership should uphold this commitment to enhance, rather than gut, Medicaid. The American people should be assured that Medicaid will be protected. We urge you to reject proposals that use Medicaid as a piggy bank for partisan priorities and continue to defend the importance of this vital program. 
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee to Chair Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) issued the following statement upon taking the gavel as Chairman of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights:
    I am honored to reclaim the gavel from my colleague Senator Klobuchar and resume my role as Chairman of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights for the 119th Congress.  Antitrust and competition policies are fundamental to maintaining dynamic markets and ensuring the strength of our American economy. Capitalism thrives on competition, which fuels innovation, efficiency, and consumer benefits.
    As Chairman, I remain committed to holding Big Tech accountable for anticompetitive conduct and advancing critical legislation, such as the AMERICA Act, to break up monopoly power in the advertising technology sector and unlock competition. In addition to big tech—sectors such as healthcare, media, and airlines have seen increased consolidation and raise competitive concerns. I look forward to examining solutions to reinvigorate competition for the benefit of consumers.
    Additionally, across many industries government regulations can create entry barriers that stifle innovation and entrench dominant players. Ensuring that consumers benefit from innovation and competitive economy call for evaluating and removing regulatory obstacles that prevent new entrants from challenging entrenched incumbents.
    The goal is to ensure that the free market remains a vibrant arena, where competition thrives, ideas flourish, and innovation prospers, benefiting consumers. I am eager to work with my colleagues on both sides to accomplish these goals for the American people. 
    ***
     For more information on the Judiciary Committee and the Antitrust Subcommittee, please click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Group President Calviño in Kyiv on first official visit outside EU to announce new major projects for critical energy infrastructure, basic services for citizens and investment in SMEs across Ukraine

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The EIB President is leading the EIB delegation to Ukraine on her first visit outside the EU since taking up office last year.
    • Calviño stressed the EIB Group’s long-term commitment to Ukraine in talks with the government and business leaders in Kyiv.
    • The projects announced under EU’s €50 billion Ukraine Facility include €420 million in investment for the public sector to restore and protect energy supplies, and for water, heating, housing and other critical infrastructure.
    • The support also includes new loan and guarantees for SMEs, unlocking almost €500 million of new finance.
    • The EU 112 emergency call system will be rolled out in Ukraine with EIB backing.
    • A €16.5 million grant provided by the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action to an EIB International Climate Initiative Trust Fund has been signed for renewable energy in Ukraine.
    • There are plans for close cooperation to advance social housing in the country.

    On her first official visit outside the European Union since taking up office a year ago, European Investment Bank (EIB) Group President Nadia Calviño is visiting Kyiv today to meet top Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. The objective of the visit is to agree on new financing operations for Ukraine and stress Europe’s long-term commitment to the country. President Calviño is leading the delegation that also features EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska and EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová.

    The package – part of the European Union’s €50 billion Ukraine Facility – includes €420 million for new public-sector projects to restore and protect energy supplies, heating systems and other critical infrastructure that has been damaged since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. The EIB and the European Commission are set to finalise the approval of a €2 billion EIB contribution under the Facility.

    The latest round of European funding announced today will also benefit Ukraine’s private sector, with the aim of bolstering thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the country’s economy. It combines a €100 million loan and guarantees aimed at unlocking around €400 million in lending to SMEs through key Ukrainian banks – including Ukreximbank, ProCredit Bank and Ukrgasbank – with which the EIB has signed agreements today.

    Another element of the package is the planned rollout of the European Union’s common 112 emergency number and call system across Ukraine to enhance public safety. President Calviño visited an operating centre in Kyiv that will run the new system to mark the signing of a €40 million EIB loan for the initiative, which is complemented by a €12 million EU grant and funding from Member States under the EU for Ukraine Fund.

    “This is my first official visit outside the European Union since  taking up office as President of the EIB Group last year. Support for Ukraine is a top priority and that is why I am so pleased to be here to announce new major projects for SMEs, energy, water and other essential services that will help people to continue with their daily lives and support the country’s economic resilience, while also laying the foundation for a stronger Ukraine on its path to EU membership,” said EIB Group President Nadia Calviño.”

    “The financing package that we have announced reflects our ongoing and unwavering commitment, since the very first day of this war, to help Ukraine recover, rebuild, and thrive despite the immense challenges it faces. This is a joint effort of Team Europe made possible through close collaboration with the European Commission and EU Member States,” added EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska, who oversees the Bank’s operations in Ukraine.

    “This support package, developed with the EIB, further demonstrates the European Union’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. With the Ukraine Facility, we are restoring vital infrastructure and helping businesses grow – crucial projects as Ukraine defends itself against Russian aggression. Together, we will continue to support Ukraine, working on key areas, such as energy, housing, and public safety to build a stronger and more sustainable future,” said EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová.

    Today, four projects worth €420 million were announced under the EU’s Ukraine Facility. They will help to restore critical infrastructure and services and ensure a stable energy supply. The projects include the €100 million “Ukraine Recovery III”, €100 million “Ukraine Water Recovery”, and the €100 million “Ukraine District Heating”, which will be channelled through Ukreximbank. These initiatives aim to ensure that millions of Ukrainians in more than 100 communities across the country have access to heating, water, hospitals, schools and housing for internally displaced people. The €120 million “Support of Ukrhydroenergo Stability and Recovery” loan to the largest hydropower generating company in Ukraine will help to restore hydropower plants and thus reinforce the Ukrainian energy system.

    Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine — Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine Oleksii Kuleba said: “We deeply value the strong cooperation with the European Investment Bank, in particular under the recovery programmes, which are playing, since 2014 a key role in supporting more than 100 communities across the country. We are grateful for the support to the communities that are de-occupied or close to the front line. The provision of social, medical, logistical, educational and other infrastructure is essential to ensuring our communities remains strong and resilient. Today we sign €100 million of the multi-sector Ukraine Recovery III loan for the restoration and modernization of critical infrastructure, such as heating, hospitals and housing for IDPs and we sign €100 million of Ukraine Water Recovery dedicated to water and wastewater. Our collaboration on social housing is another key component, reflecting our shared commitment to providing essential infrastructure and stability for those in need. The grant for renewable energy, which we also signed today, will play a vital role in ensuring that critical buildings, like hospitals, can continue serving the population amidst power cuts. Together, these initiatives not only accelerate our recovery but also help us build a more resilient and sustainable future for our country.”

    The financing provided for the 112 call system in Ukraine will expand data centres across the country and upgrade their technological capacity, ensuring that critical services are reliable and efficient.

    “Implementing and developing the 112 emergency call system has become a crucial component in enhancing public safety in Ukraine and in aligning our infrastructure to European standards. Thanks to the EIB loan and support from European partners, we will be able to improve cooperation between emergency services, particularly through the automatic detection of the caller’s geolocation. We will strengthen our ability to assist individuals with hearing and speech impairments, as well as foreign citizens. This project is about enhancing the safety of our citizens and providing timely assistance to those in need,” said Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Ihor Klymenko.

    The EIB is also signing a €16.5 million grant from the German government with the Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine to promote renewable energy. The grant comes through the EIB’s International Climate Initiative Fund and is part of the Ukraine Energy Rescue Plan announced by the EIB in October 2024.

    The grant will help integrate renewable energy systems into public buildings undergoing renovation works under EIB municipal loans. This will upgrade social infrastructure and make energy more reliable, cleaner and less costly. The grant will also help to decentralise energy generation, ensuring that critical public buildings in towns and villages are less reliant on electricity supplies from large power stations, making them less vulnerable to blackouts in the event of an airstrike.

    Berthold Goeke, Director-General for Climate Action, German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) said: “Through the Renewable Energy Solutions Programme, the International Climate Initiative (IKI) is helping smaller Ukrainian communities — those most affected by the war and in urgent need — to implement climate-friendly technologies. This support enables Ukraine to reduce energy costs and modernize outdated infrastructure in public buildings, laying the foundation for a stable and renewable energy future. In this way, the German government is addressing two critical challenges in Ukraine’s energy system. First, we are supporting the development of a decentralized and resilient energy supply, particularly for essential public infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and kindergartens. Given the ongoing Russian aggression and the destruction of central energy infrastructure, this is vital for ensuring stability and security. Second, our initiative contributes to Ukraine’s long-term energy transition by promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency measures, paving the way for a climate-neutral energy system.”

    Social housing is one of the most pressing issues in Ukraine, with 10% of the country’s housing stock damaged as a result of the war. The EIB is supporting the government in drafting a new housing code and exploring the possibility of financing the construction of homes that are publicly owned.

    Background information

    EIB in Ukraine 

    The EIB Group has been supporting Ukraine’s resilience, economy and efforts to rebuild since the very first day of Russia’s full-scale invasion. In 2024, we supported projects aimed at securing Ukraine’s energy supply, repairing critical infrastructure that has been damaged, and ensuring that essential services continue to be delivered across the country. This brings the total amount of aid we have disbursed since the start of the war to over €2.2 billion. This funding has played a crucial role in ensuring that vital services continue to be delivered to people in Ukraine. For example, this year we inaugurated the water supply facility in Bucha that was rebuilt, and which provides clean water to 9 000 residents. We also opened five new schools in Vinnytsia, Dnipropetrovsk, and Ternopil Oblasts, helped build a department for children’s infectious diseases at a hospital in Zhytomyr Oblast, and significantly improved sanitation through the upgraded sewerage collector in Vinnytsia Oblast. Furthermore, our investments have helped modernise street lighting in Dnipro, benefitted the reclamation of the Hrybovychi landfill in Lviv, and helped to upgrade water infrastructure in Mykolaiv. We have also strengthened Ukraine’s transport networks to ensure resilient and sustainable mobility for businesses and residents. With our support, cities such as Lviv, Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Odesa, and Sumy have purchased new buses, trolleybuses, and trams. In addition, we have funded the reconstruction of the M01 Kyiv-Chernihiv-Novi Yarylovychi section of road that had been damaged in the war. To enhance Ukraine’s energy resilience, we have launched the Energy Rescue Plan, securing €600 million in EU-backed financing, including €86 million to build anti-drone shelters to protect critical electricity transmission infrastructure. These measures are crucial to maintaining stable power supply across the country amid ongoing challenges. In 2024, we signed over €250 million in new investment for projects to further enhance social infrastructure and support businesses that are the backbone of Ukraine’s economy.

    The EU for Ukraine Fund (EU4U) was established in 2023 as part of a larger EU for Ukraine initiative. The fund aims to accelerate EIB Global’s support for Ukraine’s most urgent infrastructure needs and help sustain its economy. The Fund supports both public and private sector projects to rebuild critical municipal infrastructure and improve access to finance for entrepreneurs.

    The International Climate Initiative (IKI) Fund was established in 2019 in partnership with the government of Germany, with the aim of catalysing investment for ambitious climate change mitigation and adaptation projects in developing and emerging countries. The IKI Fund seeks to do this by providing investment grants, financial instruments and technical assistance to public and private sector beneficiaries, as well as advisory services to central banks and financial institutions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Protecting citizens from the devious practices of news networks – E-000387/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000387/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

    A number of news networks have been accused of presenting different content in the EU and their countries of origin, with the intention of manipulating Europeans. Studies have identified differences in political tone between Al Jazeera’s English-language and Arabic-language channels, as well as between Arabic and non-Arabic speakers. These differences are evident in terms of content selection, presentation and editorial position. For example, studies comparing the network’s coverage of the US-Al Qaeda conflict found that the Arabic-language website often presented more critical views, while the English-language website adopted a rather neutral tone.

    In addition, Al Jazeera English takes a different approach to the Arabic-language channel, with differences in tone, topic selection and overall coverage. These differences suggest that Al Jazeera adapts its content to meet the distinct needs of its English-speaking and Arab-speaking audiences, resulting in variations in political tone and coverage. Similar complaints have been made about the Turkish broadcaster TRT, which the Turkish Government is trying to use as a tool of social and political manipulation on Turkish people located in the EU.

    Does the Commission have a strategy to effectively address these differences and to enhance the accountability of large news networks operating within the EU?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    Last updated: 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Presence of British Bases in the Republic of Cyprus – E-000388/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000388/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

    The United Kingdom (UK) appears to be pursuing an institutional rapprochement with the EU. We must be the ones to define the negotiating framework.

    The British Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs) in Cyprus were created in 1960 with the Zurich-London Agreements, for the independence of the Republic of Cyprus (RC), on the agreement that the UK would be a guarantor power for the RC, a role it completely failed to fulfil in 1974 when it ignored the illegal Turkish invasion. In contrast, the UK has used the SBAs for military operations in Iraq, Syria and Somalia, which is completely incompatible with its presence there. It does not even inform the Republic of Cyprus about these operations. At the same time, Türkiye often confirms its expansionist attitude towards the RC[1] and increases its military presence in the – illegally – occupied Cypriot territories.[2] In the debate on strengthening the EU’s European military role[3] there have been no references to the protection of the RC, despite the Turkish occupation/threat.

    In view of the above, can the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy answer the following:

    • 1.How many times and in what circumstances has she raised the issue of the withdrawal of British troops from Cyprus, in discussions with the UK?
    • 2.Does she plan to call for the replacement of the British military presence in Cyprus with a European military force to defend the independence and sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    • [1] https://gr.euronews.com/2024/03/19/proklitiki-anafora-erdogan-gia-tin-kypro-an-eixame-piesei-pros-ton-noto-kypros-diki-mas
    • [2] https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/local/turkey-expands-military-presence-in-cyprus-with-bases-and-radar-installations/
    • [3] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/europe%E2%80%99s-demosthenes-moment-putting-defence-centre-eu-policies_en
    Last updated: 10 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The ongoing conflict in Sudan – E-002569/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The implementation of the arms embargo is the responsibility of Member States. T he export (outside of the EU) of military technology and equipment is subject to the Common Position 2008/944/CFSP[1], revised in 2019, which is binding for all Member States.

    The competent authorities of Member States take the final decision on a case-by-case basis whether to authorise or deny an individual export or transit license of military equipment in accordance with the criteria of the Common Position 2008/944/CFSP.

    These criteria cover inter alia the risk of violations of human rights and humanitarian law, the risk of diversion (notably via unauthorised re-export), and the behaviour of the recipient country with regard to terrorism, the nature of its alliances and the respect of international law.

    Where licences are granted, conditions are generally attached to them, for instance on end-use, storage and on re-exportation. The conditions can be adjusted to the level of risk of the recipient countries.

    The EU has maintained an arms embargo on the whole of Sudan since 1994, prohibiting the sale, supply, transfer, or export of arms and related materiel to the entire country[2].

    Thus, the EU has already implemented the recommendation of the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission[3] to expand the United Nations arms embargo (currently applying only to Darfur) to the entire country and will continue encouraging others to follow suit.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/compos/2008/944/oj/eng
    • [2] See current EU legislation in Council Decision 2014/450/CFSP (OJ L 203 11.7.2014, p. 106).
    • [3] See the report of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for the Sudan (A/HRC/57/CRP.6), https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/hrbodies/hrcouncil/sessions-regular/session57/A-HRC-57-CRP-6-en.pdf
    Last updated: 10 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protection of European maritime interests in the Red Sea – E-002807/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 19 February 2024, the EU deployed its Naval Force Operation EUNAVFOR ASPIDES in the Red Sea, with a mandate to protect ships under attack, to accompany vessels and to reinforce maritime situational awareness, in cooperation with international partners.

    Between 19 February 2024 and 19 January 2025, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES has contributed to uphold the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and beyond by protecting and monitoring more than 500 merchant vessels and their crews during their transits under missiles and drones threats. In addition, it has established in a record time a network of cooperation with the shipping industry.

    Over 2024, more than 25 meetings in Brussels and more than 8 trips to the region ensured that the activities of the operation were understood by EU partners and that the defensive posture would fit in the complex regional environment.

    The diplomatic outreach has facilitated the political regional buy-in, the necessary daily logistics and the informal clearance of ad hoc access to partners’ infrastructures in case of emergency.

    When the Houthis hit MV Sounion, risking a large oil spill, the European External Action Service reached out to all regional actors to allow the removal of the vessel and avoid a major environmental catastrophe.

    The Commission provides maritime surveillance and situational awareness services through the integrated maritime services hosted by the EU Maritime Safety Agency.

    These efforts support the ongoing monitoring of safety, security, and pollution prevention in the affected areas. Additionally, the Commission closely monitors economic impacts, such as increased rerouting costs and reduced traffic to Mediterranean ports and stays in close contact with relevant industry stakeholders.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Farmland bought by private investment funds – P-000546/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000546/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rosa Serrano Sierra (S&D), Cristina Maestre (S&D), Marcos Ros Sempere (S&D)

    The number of large foreign investment funds buying up farmland has shot up in recent years, increasing the cost of land of that kind in many regions, in both Spain and other Member States.

    As a result, it is becoming increasingly difficult for small and medium-sized farms to access land and extremely difficult for young people to join the industry. This new model for land ownership in rural areas may pose a threat to the family farming model that underpins our rural areas and may undermine those areas’ future.

    In the light of this state of affairs:

    • 1.What can the Commission do to prevent a substantial portion of farmland from being bought up by large investment funds?
    • 2.When does it intend to launch the land price observatory it announced and what other measures is it considering taking to curb rising prices?

    Submitted: 5.2.2025

    Last updated: 10 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Air quality in Italy – E-000385/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000385/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Valentina Palmisano (The Left), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Benedetta Scuderi (Verts/ALE), Mario Furore (The Left), Gaetano Pedulla’ (The Left), Ignazio Roberto Marino (Verts/ALE)

    The European Environment Agency estimates that, in 2022, air pollution from fine particulate matter caused 239 000 premature deaths in Europe, including 48 600 in Italy[1].

    Directive 2008/50/EC, which Italy transposed by means of Legislative Decree No 155/2010[2], lays down that the limit value of 50 μg/m³ of PM10 may not be exceeded more than 35 times a year[3]. However, many sampling points in Italy recorded a much higher number of exceedances of PM10 limits than that[4]. Those breaches come after the Court of Justice of the European Union, in its judgments of 10 November 2020 in case C-644/18[5] and of 12 May 2022 in case C-573/19[6], had already established that Italy had violated Directive 2008/50/EC by exceeding the PM10 and nitrogen dioxide limit values and had taken action in that regard.

    In view of the above, what further steps does the Commission intend to take to ensure that Italy keeps to the limits established in Directive 2008/50/EC?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    • [1] EEA, Europe’s air quality status 2024, https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/europes-air-quality-status-2024.
    • [2] Legislative Decree of 13 August 2010, No 155, https://www.normattiva.it/uri-res/N2Ls?urn:nir:stato:decreto.legislativo:2010-08-13;155.
    • [3] Annex XI, point B, Directive 2008/50/EC, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:02008L0050-20150918
    • [4] For example, Lazio’s regional environmental protection agency, ARPA Lazio recorded 68 exceedances at the Frosinone Scalo monitoring point, 54 in Cassino and 77 in Ceccano. ARPA Lazio, weekly bulletins: https://www.arpalazio.net/main/aria/sci/basedati/bollettini/bs.php?year=2024.
    • [5] Judgment of the Court of 10 November 2020 – European Commission v Italian Republic (Case C-644/18), https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:62018CJ0644.
    • [6] Judgment of the Court of 12 May 2022 – European Commission v Italian Republic (Case C-573/19), https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:62019CA0573.
    Last updated: 10 February 2025

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