In exercise of the powers conferred by section 14 of the Customs Act, 1962 (52 of 1962), and in supersession of the notification of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs No.91/2019-CUSTOMS (N.T.), dated 19^th December, 2019 except as respects things done or omitted to be done before such supersession, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and  Customs hereby determines that the rate of exchange of conversion of each of the foreign currencies specified in column (2) of each of Schedule I and Schedule II annexed hereto, into Indian currency or vice versa, shall, with effect from 3^rd January, 2020, be the rate mentioned against it in the corresponding entry in column (3) thereof, for the purpose of the said section, relating to imported and export goods.

SCHEDULE-I

Sl.No.	Foreign Currency	Rate of exchange of one unit of foreign currency equivalent to Indian rupees
(1)	(2)	(3)
		(a)	(b)
		(For Imported Goods)	(For Exported Goods)
1.	Australian Dollar	51.15	48.90
2.	Bahraini Dinar	195.25	183.15
3.	Canadian Dollar	55.90	53.90
4.	Chinese Yuan	10.40	10.05
5.	Danish Kroner	10.90	10.50
6.	EURO	81.50	78.45
7.	Hong Kong Dollar	9.30	9.00
8.	Kuwaiti Dinar	243.05	227.60
9.	New Zealand Dollar	49.25	47.00
10.	Norwegian Kroner	8.25	7.95
11.	Pound Sterling	95.85	92.55
12.	Qatari Riyal	20.10	18.85
13.	Saudi Arabian Riyal	19.65	18.40
14.	Singapore Dollar	53.90	52.05
15.	South African Rand	5.25	4.95
16.	Swedish Kroner	7.75	7.50
17.	Swiss Franc	75.05	72.15
18.	Turkish Lira	12.35	11.60
19.	UAE Dirham	20.05	18.80
20.	US Dollar	72.15	70.45

 

SCHEDULE-II

Sl.No.	Foreign Currency	Rate of exchange of 100 units of foreign currency equivalent to Indian rupees
(1)	(2)	(3)
		(a)	(b)
		(For Imported Goods)	(For Export Goods)
1.	Japanese Yen	66.85	64.35
2.	Korean Won	6.35	5.95

 

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi distributed Agriculture Minister’s Krishi Karman Awards for Progressive Farmers and Commendation Awards to the states at a public meeting in Tumkur, Karnataka today. He also released the 3rd installment of PM Kisan (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) of Rs 2000 for the period December 2019 – March 2020. This will benefit approximately 6 crore beneficiaries and distributed Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) to select farmers of Karnataka.  Prime Minister will also hand over Certificates to beneficiaries under PM Kisan from 8 States / UTs. Prime Minister also handed over the keys of Deep Sea fishing Vessels and Fishing Vessel Transponders to select farmers of Tamil Nadu.

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that it is a great privilege for him to see Annadata – our peasant brothers and sisters, in the new year, the beginning of a new decade. On behalf of 130 crore countrymen, the Prime Minister thanked ther country’s farmers for their toil.

The Prime Minister said that the land of Karnataka also witnessed a historic moment when money under the PM-Kisan scheme has been distributed directly into the personal accounts of nearly 6 Crore Farmers in the country. Prime Minister said a total of Rs 12 Thousand Crores has been deposited under the 3rd tranche of the scheme.

He hoped that the States that haven’t implemented the ‘PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana’, will do it and political parties will rise over politics to help the farmers in their States.

PM recalled that there was also a period in the country, when one rupee was sent for the poor in the country and only 15 paise out of it reached the beneficiaries. And now he said that the money is reaching the poor directly without the intervention of the middlemen.

Prime Minister said that the irrigation projects that have been stalled for several decades are now being implemented. He also said that the centre has always given priority to the interests of our farmers with the schemes like crop insurance, soil health cards and 100% neem coated urea.

Prime Minister said that due to the efforts of the government, both the production and export of spices from India has increased considerably. “Spice production in India has increased by more than 2.5 million tons, so the export has also increased from about Rs 15 thousand crore to about Rs 19 thousand crore.”

He said that apart from horticulture, South India also has a large share in the production of pulses, oil and coarse grains.

Prime Minister said, “Seed hubs have been built to promote pulses production in India, of which more than 30 centers are located in Karnataka, Andhra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana itself.”

Referring to the Government’s efforts on Fisheries sector, Prime Minister said the government is working at three levels to strengthen the sector.

First – Encouraging fisheries in villages through financial assistance to fishermen.

Second- Modernizing the fishing boats under the Blue Revolution Scheme.

And third – Constructing modern infrastructure related to fish trade and business.

Prime Minister said, “fishermen have been linked to the Kisan Credit Card facility. New fishing harbors are being built in large rivers and in the sea for the convenience of fish farmers. A special fund of Rs 7.50 thousand crore has also been created for modern infrastructure. Fishermen’s boats are being modernized for deep sea fishing and navigation devices are being installed in boats for the protection of fishermen with the help of ISRO.”

Keeping in view the nutritional security of the country, PM requested to create a new category in the Krishi Karman Award, for Nutri Cereals, Horticulture and Organic Agriculture. This will give impetus to people and states doing better work in these areas, he added.

On the occasion, the Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar informed that a toll-free number for the beneficiaries of PM-Kisan Yojana, 155261 has been started at which the farmers will be able to know their payment status. He added that it shows the Government’s commitment to social security for small and marginal farmers, that two important welfare schemes – PM-Kisan which provides income support and PM- Kisan Maandhan-Yojana (PM-KMY) for pension assistance are being implemented. The Minister added that a mobile application is also being developed for ease of access of PM Kisan Portal facilities for farmers.

*****

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has extended his greetings on the occasion of Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Prakash Parv today.

“We bow to the venerable Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on his Prakash Parv.

ਦਸਮ ਪਿਤਾ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ ਪੁਰਬ ਮੌਕੇ ਅਸੀਂ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਅੱਗੇ ਸੀਸ ਝੁਕਾਉਂਦੇ ਹਾਂ।“, Prime Minister said.

****

पूजनीय श्री सिद्धलिंगेश्वरा स्वामी जी, कर्नाटका के मुख्यमंत्री श्री बी एस येदियुरप्पा जी, केंद्रीय मंत्रिमंडल के मेरे साथी श्री डी वी सदानंद गौड़ा जी, श्री प्रह्लाद जोशी जी, कर्नाटका सरकार के मंत्रिगण, यहां उपस्थित आदरणीय संत समाज, श्रद्धालुगण, देवियों और सज्जनों, आप सभी को नमस्कार। तुमकुरू में डॉक्टर शिवकुमार स्वामी जी की धरती, सिद्धागंगा मठ में आकर मुझे बहुत प्रसन्नता हो रही है। सबसे पहले आप सभी को नव वर्ष की शुभकामनाएं।

वर्ष 2020 की आप सभी को मंगलकामनाएं !

ये मेरा सौभाग्य है कि साल 2020 की शुरुआत तुमकुरू की इस पावन धरा से, आप सभी के बीच से कर रहा हूं। मेरी कामना है कि सिद्धागंगा मठ की ये पवित्र ऊर्जा समस्त देशवासियों के जीवन को मंगलकारी बनाए।

साथियों, आज कई वर्ष बाद यहां आया हूं तो एक सूनापन सा भी अनुभव हो रहा है। पूज्य स्वामी श्री श्री शिवकुमार जी की भौतिक अनुपस्थिति हम सभी महसूस करते हैं। मैंने तो साक्षात अनुभव किया है कि उनके दर्शन मात्र से ही जीवन ऊर्जा से भर जाता था। उनके प्रेरक व्यक्तित्व से ये पवित्र स्थान दशकों से समाज को दिशा देता रहा है। विशेषतौर पर एक शिक्षित और समान अवसरों वाले समाज के निर्माण की गंगा यहां से निरंतर बहती रही है। अपने जीवनकाल में, स्वामी जी ने जितने लोगों की जिंदगी पर प्रभाव डाला, वैसा कम ही देखने को मिलता है।

ये मेरा सौभाग्य है कि श्री श्री शिवकुमार जी की स्मृति में बनने वाले म्यूजियम का शिलान्यास करने का अवसर मिला। ये म्यूजियम, न सिर्फ लोगों को प्रेरणा देगा, बल्कि समाज और देश के स्तर पर हमें दिशा देने का भी काम करेगा। मैं पूज्य स्वामी जी को पुन: स्मरण करते हुए उनके चरणों में नमन करता हूं।

साथियों, मैं यहां ऐसे समय में आया हूं जब कर्नाटका की धरती से एक और महान संत का साथ छूट गया है। पेजावर मठ के प्रमुख विश्वेश तीर्थ स्वामी का देहावसान भारत के समाज के लिए एक कमी पैदा कर गया है। हमारे आध्यात्मिक और सामाजिक जीवन के ऐसे स्तंभों का हमारे बीच से जाना, एक बड़ा शून्य छोड़ जाता है। हम शारीरिक जीवन की इस गति को तो नहीं रोक सकते, लेकिन हमारे इन संतों के दिखाए मार्ग को सशक्त ज़रूर कर सकते हैं, मानवता की सेवा और मां भारती की सेवा में खुद को समर्पित कर सकते हैं।

साथियों, ये इसलिए भी अहम है क्योंकि भारत ने नई ऊर्जा और नए उत्साह के साथ 21वीं सदी के तीसरे दशक में प्रवेश किया है। आपको याद होगा कि बीते दशक की शुरुआत किस तरह के माहौल से हुई थी। लेकिन 21वीं सदी का ये तीसरा दशक उम्मीदों की, आकांक्षाओं की मजबूत नींव के साथ शुरु हुआ है।

ये आकांक्षा नए भारत की है। ये आकांक्षा युवा सपनों की है। ये आकांक्षा देश की बहनों-बेटियों की है। ये आकांक्षा देश के गरीब, दलित, वंचित, पीड़ित, पिछड़े, आदिवासियों की है। ये आकांक्षा क्या है? भारत को समृद्ध, सक्षम और सर्वहितकारी विश्वशक्ति के रूप में देखने की है। दुनिया के नक्शे पर भारत को अपने स्वाभाविक स्थान को प्रतिष्ठापित होते हुए देखने की।

साथियों, इसी आकांक्षा को पूरा करने के लिए, राष्ट्र के रूप में बड़े बदलावों को देश के लोगों ने सर्वोच्च प्राथमिकता दी है। अब ये हर भारतीय का मानस बन चुका है कि विरासत में जो समस्याएं हमें मिली हैं, उनको हल करना ही होगा। समाज से निकलने वाला यही संदेश हमारी सरकार को भी प्रेरित करता है, प्रोत्साहित करता है। यही कारण है कि 2014 के बाद से ही सामान्य भारतीय के जीवन में सार्थक परिवर्तन लाने वाले अभूतपूर्व प्रयास देश ने किए हैं।

बीते साल ने तो एक समाज के रूप में, एक राष्ट्र के रूप में हमारे उन प्रयासों को शिखर पर पहुंचाया है। आज, देश को खुले में शौच से मुक्ति का संकल्प सिद्ध हो रहा है। देश की गरीब बहनों को धुएं से मुक्ति का संकल्प सिद्ध हो रहा है। देश के हर किसान परिवार को सीधी मदद, खेत मजदूरों, श्रमिकों, छोटे व्यापारियों को सामाजिक सुरक्षा का, पेंशन जैसी व्यवस्था से जोड़ने का संकल्प सिद्ध हो रहा है।

आतंकवाद के विरुद्ध भारत की नीति और रीति में बदलाव का संकल्प भी सिद्ध हो रहा है। जम्मू कश्मीर से आर्टिकल 370 को हटाकर वहां के जीवन से आतंक और अनिश्चितता को दूर करने का, जम्मू-कश्मीर और लद्दाख के लोगों की अगुवाई में विकास के नए युग की शुरुआत का संकल्प भी सिद्ध हो रहा है। और इन सबके बीच, भगवान राम के जन्मस्थान पर एक भव्य मंदिर का मार्ग भी पूरी शांति और सहयोग से प्रशस्त हो चुका है।

साथियों, कुछ हफ्ते पहले ही हमारे लोकतंत्र की सबसे बड़ी संस्था, हमारी संसद ने सिटिजनशिप अमेंडमेंट एक्ट बनाने का भी ऐतिहासिक कार्य किया है। लेकिन कांग्रेस के लोग, उनके साथी दल और उनका बनाया इकोसिस्टम, भारत की संसद के खिलाफ ही उठ खड़ा हुआ है। जिस तरह की नफरत वो हम लोगों से करते हैं, वैसा ही स्वर अब देश की संसद के खिलाफ दिख रहा है। इन लोगों ने भारत की संसद के खिलाफ ही आंदोलन शुरू कर दिया है। ये लोग पाकिस्तान से आए दलितों-पीड़ितों-शोषितों के ही खिलाफ आंदोलन कर रहे हैं।

साथियों, पाकिस्तान का जन्म धर्म के आधार पर हुआ था। देश धर्म के आधार पर बंटा था। और बंटवारे के समय से ही पाकिस्तान में दूसरे धर्म के लोगों के साथ अत्याचार शुरू हो गया था। समय के साथ पाकिस्तान में चाहे हिंदू हों, सिख हों, ईसाई हों, जैन हों, उन पर धर्म के आधार पर अत्याचार बढ़ा ही है। हजारों ऐसे लोगों को वहां से अपना घर छोड़कर शरणार्थी के रूप में भारत आना पड़ा है।

पाकिस्तान ने हिंदुओं पर जुल्म किया, सिखों पर जुल्म किया, जैन और इसाइयों पर जुल्म किया, लेकिन कांग्रेस और उसके साथी, पाकिस्तान के खिलाफ नहीं बोलते। आज हर देशवासी के मन में सवाल है कि जो लोग पाकिस्तान से अपनी जान बचाने के लिए, अपनी बेटियों की जिंदगी बचाने के लिए यहां आए हैं, उनके खिलाफ तो जुलूस निकाले जा रहे हैं लेकिन जिस पाकिस्तान ने उनपर ये जुल्म किया, उसके खिलाफ इन लोगों के मुंह पर ताले क्यों लगे हुए हैं?

हमारा ये फर्ज बनता कि पाकिस्तान से आए शरणार्थियों की मदद करें, उनके साथ खड़े नजर आएं। हमारा ये फर्ज बनता है कि पाकिस्तान से आए हिंदुओं को, दलितों-पीड़ितों-शोषितों को उनके नसीब पर न छोड़ें, उनकी मदद करें। हमारा ये फर्ज बनता है कि पाकिस्तान से आए सिखों को उनके नसीब पर न छोड़ें, उनकी मदद करें। हमारा ये फर्ज बनता है कि पाकिस्तान से आए जैन और ईसाइयों को उनके नसीब पर न छोड़ें, उनकी मदद करें।

साथियों, जो लोग आज भारत की संसद के खिलाफ आंदोलन कर रहे हैं, मैं उन्हें कहना चाहता हूं कि आज जरूरत अंतरराष्ट्रीय स्तर पर पाकिस्तान की इस हरकत को बेनकाब करने की है। अगर आपको आंदोलन करना ही है तो पाकिस्तान के पिछले 70 साल के कारनामों के खिलाफ आवाज उठाइए।

अगर आपको नारे लगाने ही हैं तो पाकिस्तान में जिस तरह अल्पसंख्यकों पर अत्याचार हो रहा है, उसे जुड़े नारे लगाइए। अगर आपको जुलूस निकालना ही तो पाकिस्तान से आए हिंदू-दलित-पीड़ित-शोषितों के समर्थन में जुलूस निकालिए। अगर आपको धरना देना ही है, तो पाकिस्तान के खिलाफ धरना दीजिए।

साथियों, हमारी सरकार, देश के सामने चली आ रही दशकों पुरानी चुनौतियों का समाधान करने के लिए दिन रात एक कर रही है। देश के लोगों का जीवन आसान हो, ये हमारी प्राथमिकता है। देश के हर गरीब के पास पक्की छत हो, हर घर में गैस कनेक्शन हो, हर घर में पाइप से पानी पहुंचे, हर व्यक्ति को स्वास्थ सुविधा सुलभ हो, हर व्यक्ति के पास बीमा सुरक्षा कवच हो, हर गांव में ब्रॉडबैंड हो, ऐसे अनेक लक्ष्यों पर हम काम कर रहे हैं।

साल 2014 में जब मैंने आपसे स्वच्छ भारत अभियान में भागीदारी की प्रार्थना की, तो आपने पूरे सामर्थ्य के साथ हाथ आगे बढ़ाया था। आप जैसे करोड़ों साथियों के सहयोग के कारण ही गांधी जी की 150वीं जयंति पर भारत ने खुद को खुले में शौच से मुक्त कर दिया।

आज मैं संत समाज से 3 संकल्पों में सक्रिय सहयोग चाहता हूं। पहला- अपने कर्तव्यों और दायित्वों को महत्व देने की अपनी पुरातन संस्कृति को हमें फिर मजबूत करना है, लोगों को इस बारे में निरंतर जागृत करना है। दूसरा, प्रकृति और पर्यावरण की रक्षा। और तीसरा, जल संरक्षण, जल संचयन के लिए जनजागरण में सहयोग।

साथियों, भारत ने हमेशा संतों को, ऋषियों को, गुरुओं को सही मार्ग के लिए एक प्रकाश स्तंभ के रूप में देखा है। न्यू इंडिया में भी सिद्दागंगा मठ, आध्यात्म और आस्था से जुड़े देश के हर नेतृत्व की भूमिका अहम है।

आप सभी संतों का आशीर्वाद, हम सभी पर बना रहे, आपके आशीर्वाद से हम अपने संकल्पों को सिद्ध करें, इसी कामना के साथ मैं अपनी बात समाप्त करता हूं।

आप सभी का बहुत-बहुत आभार!

भारत माता की जय !

*****

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited the Shri Siddhaganga Mutt in Tumkuru, Karnataka and laid the foundation stone for a memorial museum of Shri Shri Shivakumar Swamiji.

PM Modi while addressing at Shri Siddhaganga Mutt in Tumkuru, said he is fortunate that he is beginning the year 2020 from such pious land; He wished that the sacred energy of Sree Siddaganga Mutt enriches the lives of the people of our country.

He said, “We all feel the physical absence of Pujya Swami Shri Sri Shivkumar ji. I have personally experienced that his mere gaze was enriching and inspiring. With his inspiring personality this holy place has been giving direction to the society for decades”.

 

He said, “It is good fortune that I got an opportunity to lay the foundation stone of the museum to be built in the memory of Shri Shri Shivakumar Ji. This museum will not only inspire people, but will also serve to give direction to the society and country.”

Prime Minister said that India has entered the third decade of the 21st century with new energy and renewed vigor.

He asked the nation to remember how the last decade began. In contrast, he said, the third decade of the 21st Century has started on a strong footing of expectations, aspirations.

He said “The aspiration is for a new India. This aspiration is of young dreams. This is the aspiration of the sisters and daughters of the country. This aspiration is for the poor, downtrodden, deprived, afflicted, backward, tribals of the country”.

“This aspiration is to see India as a prosperous, capable and all-encompassing world power.It has now become the psyche of every Indian that the problems we have inherited have to be solved. This message emanating from the society also inspires, encourages our government.”

Prime Minister said that people fled from Pakistan to India, to save their lives, to save the lives of their daughters.

He further said that every countrymen has a question as to why people don’t speak against Pakistan and instead processions are being taken out against these people.

To those who are agitating against the Parliament of India, Prime Minister said, “If you have to agitate, raise your voice against the exploits of Pakistan in the last 70 years. Now the need is to expose this action of Pakistan at the international level. If you have to raise slogans, then raise slogans related to the way minorities are being tortured in Pakistan. If you have to take out a procession then take out a procession in support of Hindu-Dalit-victim-exploited from Pakistan”.

Prime Minister sought active support from Sant Samaj in 3 resolutions.

First, to reinforce India’s ancient culture of giving importance to every individual’s duties and obligations.

Second, to protect nature and the environment.

And third, to cooperate in public awareness for water conservation, water harvesting.

He said that India has always viewed saints, sages, gurus as a lighthouse for the right path.

 

***

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi distributed Agriculture Minister’s Krishi Karman Awards for Progressive Farmers and Commendation Awards to the states at a public meeting in Tumkur, Karnataka today. He also released the 3rd installment of PM Kisan (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) of Rs 2000 for the period December 2019 – March 2020. This will benefit approximately 6 crore beneficiaries and distributed Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) to select farmers of Karnataka.  Prime Minister handed over the Certificates to beneficiaries under PM Kisan from 8 States / UTs. Prime Minister also handed over the keys of Deep Sea fishing Vessels and Fishing Vessel Transponders to select farmers of Tamil Nadu.

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that it is a great privilege for him to see Annadata – our peasant brothers and sisters, in the new year, the beginning of a new decade. On behalf of 130 crore countrymen, the Prime Minister thanked the country’s farmers for their toil.

The Prime Minister said that the land of Karnataka also witnessed a historic moment when money under the PMKISAN scheme has been distributed directly into the personal accounts of nearly 6 Crore Farmers in the country. Prime Minister said a total of Rs 12 Thousand Crores has been deposited under the 3rd tranche of the scheme.

He hoped that the States that haven’t implemented the ‘PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana’, will do it and political parties will rise over politics to help the farmers in their States.

PM recalled that there was also a period in the country, when one rupee was sent for the poor in the country and only 15 paise out of it reached the beneficiaries. And now he said that the money is reaching the poor directly without the intervention of the middlemen.

Prime Minister said that the irrigation projects that have been stalled for several decades are now being implemented. He also said that the centre has always given priority to the interests of our farmers with the schemes like crop insurance, soil health cards and 100% neem coated urea.

Prime Minister said that due to the efforts of the government, both the production and export of spices from India has increased considerably. “Spice production in India has increased by more than 2.5 million tons, so the export has also increased from about Rs 15 thousand crore to about Rs 19 thousand crore.”

He said that apart from horticulture, South India also has a large share in the production of pulses, oil and coarse grains.

Prime Minister said, “Seed hubs have been built to promote pulses production in India, of which more than 30 centers are located in Karnataka, Andhra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana itself.”

Referring to the Government’s efforts on Fisheries sector, Prime Minister said the government is working at three levels to strengthen the sector.

First – Encouraging fisheries in villages through financial assistance to fishermen.

Second- Modernizing the fishing boats under the Blue Revolution Scheme.

And third – Constructing modern infrastructure related to fish trade and business.

Prime Minister said, “fishermen have been linked to the Kisan Credit Card facility. New fishing harbors are being built in large rivers and in the sea for the convenience of fish farmers. A special fund of Rs 7.50 thousand crore has also been created for modern infrastructure. Fishermen’s boats are being modernized for deep sea fishing and navigation devices are being installed in boats for the protection of fishermen with the help of ISRO.”

Keeping in view the nutritional security of the country, PM requested to create a new category in the Krishi Karman Award, for Nutri Cereals, Horticulture and Organic Agriculture. This will give impetus to people and states doing better work in these areas, he added.

***

VRRK/AK

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate 107^th Indian Science Congress at University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru on Friday 3 January 2020.  Prime Minister Modi will deliver the inaugural address on the occasion and also launch I-STEM Portal on the occasion.  The Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri B. S. Yediyurappa and other dignitaries including Union Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan will be present on the occasion.

The Theme of the India Science Congress (ISC) this year is “Science and Technology: Rural Development”. More than 15,000 participants, including Nobel Laureates, Scientists, intellectuals, academicians, police makers, researchers, students and delegates from different institutions are expected to participate in the event.  Complete details about the event can be accessed on a Mobile App “ISC 2020 UASB”.  The App is available in Google play store https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.indiansciencecongress&hl=en_IN.

***

VRRK/AK

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation 5 Young Scientists Laboratories of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in Bengaluru today.

DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs) are located in five cities viz, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Each lab will work on a key advanced technology of importance to the development of futuristic defence systems viz, Artificial intelligence, Quantum technologies, Cognitive technologies, Asymmetric technologies and Smart materials.

The inspiration to start such laboratories came from the Prime Minister on the occasion of DRDO award function held on August 24, 2014. Shri Narendra Modi had then asked DRDO to empower the youth, by giving them decision making powers and challenging research opportunities.

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Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said these labs would help in

shaping the pattern of research and development in the field of emerging technologies in the country.

Prime Minister asked the scientists to prepare a definite roadmap for the new decade where DRDO should be able to set the direction and pace of scientific research in various fields in India.

Addressing the scientists, Prime Minister said India’s Missile programme is one of the outstanding programmes in the world. He also appreciated the Indian Space Programme and air defence systems.

Prime Minister said India cannot be left behind in the field of scientific research. He said the Government is willing to walk the extra mile with the scientific community so that it can invest time in emerging technologies and innovations for national security.

He said DRDO’s innovations would play a huge role in strengthening programmes like Make in India and in promoting a vibrant defence sector in the country.

The establishment of the five DRDO Young Scientist Labs lays down the foundation for research and development of futuristic technologies. It will be a big leap forward for DRDO from the goal of making India self reliant to future ready in defence technologies.

Research in the area of rapidly evolving Artificial Intelligence will be carried out at Bengaluru. The all-important area of Quantum Technology will be based out of IIT Mumbai. The future is dependent on Cognitive Technologies and IIT Chennai will house the lab embarking in this area of research. New and futuristic area of Asymmetric Technologies, which will change the way wars are fought, will be based out of the campus of Jadavpur University, Kolkata. The research in the hot and critical area of Smart Materials and their applications will be based out of Hyderabad.

***

कर्नाटका के मुख्‍यमंत्री श्रीमान येदियुरप्पा जी,  DRDO के चेयरमैन डॉ जी. सतीश रेड्डी जी, DRDO के अन्‍य शीर्ष अधिकारीगण, Apex Committees के Members! Young scientists के labs directors

साथियो, आप सभी को सबसे पहले नववर्ष की बहुत-बहुत शुभकामनाएं। Happy New Year… ये संयोग ही है कि अब से कुछ समय पहले मैं किसानों के कार्यक्रम में था तुमकुर और अब यहां देश के जवान और अनुसंधान की चिंता करने वाले आप सभी साथियों के बीच में हूं। और कल मुझे साइंस कांग्रेस में जाना है। एक प्रकार से कर्नाटका का मेरा ये प्रवास और 2020 का ये मेरा पहला प्रवास,  जय जवान, जय किसान, जय विज्ञान और जय अनुसंधान इसकी न्यू इंडिया की भावना को एक प्रकार से समर्पित है। और ये भी हम सबके लिए बहुत गौरव का विषय है कि ये आयोजन Aeronautical Development Establishment में हो रहा है, जहां हम सभी के श्रद्धेय डॉ. ए पी जे अब्दुल कलाम DRDO से जुड़े थे।

 

साथियो, ये दशक न्यू इंडिया के रूप में तो महत्‍वपूर्ण है ही है। क्‍योंकि जब 2020 है तो वो एक नया साल नहीं पूरा दशक हमारे सामने आया है। और आने वाले वर्षों में भारत की ताकत क्‍या होगी, विश्‍व में हमारा स्‍थान कहां होगा। ये decade ये भी तय करने वाला है। ये वो दशक है जो पूरी तरह से युवा सपनों का है, हमारे युवा Innovators का है। विशेष तौर पर वो Innovators जो 21वीं सदी में या तो पैदा हुए हैं या फिर 21वीं सदी में युवा हुए हैं। जब मैंने आपसे आग्रह किया था कि DRDO को rethink और खुद को reshape करना चाहिए। 21वीं सदी की चुनौतियों से निपटने के लिए नई ऊर्जा के साथ काम करना चाहिए। तो इसके पीछे यही मेरी एक सोच थी कि इसका मतलब ये नहीं कि जो 36 का हो गया वो बेकार हो गया… इसके पीछे मेरी भूमिका यही है कि जो 60 साल, 50 साल, 55 साल इतनी तपस्‍या करके वहां पहुंचे हैं अगर उनके कंधे पर वो 35 से कम आयु वाले को बिठा देते हैं तो दुनिया को एक नए भारत के दर्शन होते हैं। ये जो पुराने लोग हैं उनकी मजबूती के बिना नए का ऊपर जाना संभव नहीं है। और इसलिए ये एक Combination बहुत आवश्‍यक है। और इस विचार के पीछे मेरा अपना भी एक अनुभव है। मैं राजनीतिक जीवन में बहुत देर से आया हूं और शुरू में मैं मेरा पार्टी का organization का काम देखता था। election or moment उन चीजों को करता था। तो मैं जब गुजरात में मैंने शुरुआत की और मेरे सामने पहला एक बड़ा चुनाव की जिम्‍मेवारी आई। मैं बिल्‍कुल नया था, और उस समय अखबारों ने इस चीज को बड़े विस्‍तार से लिखा था। क्योंकि उस समय करीब 90 लोग मेरे ऑफिस में, मेरी मैनेजमैंट में काम करते थे। पूरा चुनाव पूरे राज्‍य भर में लड़ा जाता था लेकिन ऑफिस  मैनेजमैंट करीब 90 लोग थे। और Volunteer के रूप में आए थे वो 2-3 महीने के लिए काम करने वाले थे। लेकिन अखबार वालों ने ढूंढ कर निकाला था। ये जो 90 लोग हैं इस पूरी टीम की average age 23 है यानी 23 की average age ग्रुप से मैं चुनाव लड़ा था, और लड़वाया था और हम पहली बार विजयी हुए थे।

युवा में restricting capacity बहुत होती है। आप कितने ही अच्‍छे कबड्डी के खिलाड़ी हो, कितने ही बढि़या लेकिन और जीवन में मानो 20 साल तक कबड्डी खेले हैं। National, International खेले हैं लेकिन 60-70 साल की आयु के बाद एक कबड्डी का खेल चल रहा है और आप वहां सिर्फ देखने के लिए गए हैं। क्‍योंकि पूरी जिंदगी कबड्डी खेलें हैं और कोई 18-20 साल का नौजवान जिस तेजी से मूवमेंट करता है, उठता है, पटकता है, तो आप बाहर बैठे मन में अरे-अरे गिर जाएगा, अरे-अरे चोट न लग जाए…. आप खुद भी तो कभी ये करके आए हैं। लेकिन अब वो देख नहीं पाते लगता है अरे-अरे कहीं गिर न जाए। ये साइको‍लॉजी काम करती होगी। ये युवा मन और अनुभवी मन के बीच में एक अंतर होता है। और इसलिए एक मनो‍वै‍ज्ञानिक परिवर्तन विश्‍व की चुनौतियों को स्‍वीकार करने के लिए DRDO में इन दोनों का combination कैसे हो। कभी-कभार एक बहुत बड़े वृक्ष के नीचे छोटा पौधा पनप नहीं पाता है। दोष बड़े वृक्ष का नहीं है। पौधे को भी रहता है कि इनके सामने मुझे ऐसा ही रहना चाहिए। किसी का दोष नहीं है। लेकिन अगर उसी पौधे को कहीं खुले में छोड़ दिया जाए तो देखते ही देखते वट वृक्ष भी गर्व करेगा वाह ये भी मेरे साथ पनप रहा है। इसी एक भूमिका को लेकर के इन पांच Labs से शुरू किया है। और मैं चाहता हूं कि वो गलतियां करे ये पांच Labs पूरा बजट उड़ा दे तो उडा दे एक बार। एक scientist पूरी अपनी जिंदगी तबाह कर देता है जी, तब देश को कुछ मिलता है। तो फिर खजाना क्‍या चीज होती है, आप तो अपनी जिंदगी लगा रहे हो तो सरकार को खजाना लगाने में क्‍या जाता है।

और मुझे संतोष है कि Advanced Technologies के क्षेत्र में 5 Labs स्थापित करने के सुझाव पर गंभीरता से काम हुआ और आज बेंगलुरु, कोलकाता, चेन्नई, हैदराबाद और मुंबई में 5 ऐसे संस्थान शुरु हो रहे हैं। और मुझे ये विश्‍वास है कि ये Young Scientist Labs युवा और वैज्ञानिकों के विचार और व्‍यवहार को नई उड़ान देगी। इसका मतलब ये हुआ कि अब ये पहचाना जाएगा कि DRDO-Y लेकिन बोलते समय लगेगा DRDO Why और मैं समझता हूं कि ये पांच लैब DRDO-Y को जवाब देने की ताकत रखते है ये मेरा विश्‍वास है। और हमने सबने मिल करके इसे बल देना है। इन Labs से मिलने वाले results Advanced Technologies के लिए हमारे राष्‍ट्रीय प्रयास का स्‍वरूप intensity का तय करेंगे। ये Labs, देश में उभरती हुई Technologies के क्षेत्र में, Research और Development के स्वरूप को तैयार करने में मदद करेंगी।

और हां, अपने युवा वैज्ञानिक और मैं इन साथियों से जरूर कहना चाहूंगा कि ये Labs, सिर्फ टेक्नोलॉजी को टेस्ट नहीं करेंगी, वर्ना कभी-कभी तो लगता है ये टेक्नोलॉजी में 2 कदम गए 5 कदम गए मेरे हिसाब से ये सिर्फ टेक्नॉलॉजी को टेस्ट नहीं करेंगी। ये मेरे young scientist के टेंपरामेंट और पेशेंस को भी टेस्ट करने वाली हैं और यही सबसे बड़ा उसका पैरामीटर है।

आपको हमेशा ये ध्यान रखना होगा कि आपके प्रयास और निरंतर अभ्यास से ही भारत सफलता के रास्ते पर आगे ले जाएगा। सिर्फ Positivity or Purpose यही आपकी प्रेरणा के स्‍त्रोत होने चाहिए। आपको हमेशा ये ध्‍यान रखना है। कि 130 करोड़ की आबादी का जीवन सुरक्षित और आसान बनाने का जिम्‍मा आपके कंधे पर है।

साथियो आज का ये कार्यक्रम तो एक शुरुआत भर है। आपके सामने सिर्फ अगला एक साल नहीं, अगला एक दशक है। इस एक दशक में DRDO का मीडियम और लॉन्ग टर्म रोडमैप क्या हो, इस पर बहुत गंभीरता से विचार किया जाना चाहिए। और मैं एक और सुझाव देता हूं। ये पांच लैबस 35 और उसके नीचे की टीम है और जब इस टीम में 36 हो जाएंगे तो क्‍या होगा तो मैं उन लोगो को insurance देता हूं कि अब इस 5 लैब को 45 होने की भी छूट है और 55 होने की भी छूट है। आपको नई पांच 35 वाली बनानी होगी इसको 35 maintain नहीं करना है ये 35 वाला 40 होने दीजिए, ये 35 वाले को 45 होने दीजिए। अब नए पांच 35 वाले करिए। वे जब 35 cross करेगे तो फिर नए 35 वाले पांच कीजिए ये चेन चलती रहनी चाहिए। अगर ये चेन नहीं चलेगी तो यहां 32 वाला बैठा है वो सेाचेगा कि मेरे लिए यहां 3 साल है मैं क्‍या करूं फिर तो मेरा सारा सपना टूट जाएगा। इसलिए जिनको ये दिया है लैब तो जब तक वो न थक जाए तब तक उसके जिम्‍मे छोड़ दिजिए। वे पचास का हो जाए,पचपन का हो जाए साठ का हो जाए करने दीजिए। 5 नई लैब 35 वाली बना दीजिए। और ये पांच का क्रम चलता रहे। तब देखिए आप नयापन का एक क्षेत्र लगातार बनता चला जाएगा। और यही हमें ultimately फायदा करेगा। और सिर्फ हम विचार करने पर न रूके। तय समय के भीतर actionable point पर भी कार्यक्रम भी शुरू होना चाहिए।

मैं DRDO को उस ऊँचाई पर देखना चाहता हूं जहां वो न सिर्फ भारत के वैज्ञानिक संस्थानों की दिशा और दशा तय करे, बल्कि दुनिया के…. और मैं बहुत जिम्‍मेवारी के साथ कह रहा हूं। दुनिया के…. और अन्य बड़े संस्थानों के लिए भी DRDO और हमारी young lab प्रेरणास्रोत बन सकती है। मैं ऐसा क्‍यों कह रहा हूं इसकी ठोस वजह है….. वजह है DRDO का इतिहास, DRDO का प्रर्दशन, DRDO देश का भरोसा।

साथियो आज देश का बेहतरीन Scientific Mind DRDO में है। DRDO की उपलब्धिया अनंत है। अभी मैंने जो exhibition देखी है। जिसमे मौजूदा उपलब्धियों के साथ-साथ भविष्‍य के आपके प्‍लान और प्रोजेक्‍ट की भी जानकारी है। और मुझे इतनी सरल भाषा में आपके नौजवानों ने समझाया कि मुझे भी समझ आ गया कि हां ये तो मैं भी कर सकता हूं। वर्ना स्‍कूल तो नहीं समझ में आता था कुछ। आज आपने समझा दिया। आपने भारत के मिसाइल कार्यक्रम को दुनिया के सबसे उत्कृष्ट कार्यक्रमों में शामिल किया है। और बीता वर्ष तो स्पेस और एयर डिफेंस के क्षेत्र में भारत के सामर्थ्य को नई दिशा देने वाला रहा है। A set… A set के रूप में अत्‍याधुनिक स्‍पेज टेकनोलॉजी का सफल परीक्षण ये निश्चित रूप से 21वी सदी के भारत के capability को define करेगा।

आप सभी के प्रयासों से आज भारत उन बहुत कम देशों में से एक है जिनके पास aircrafts से लेकर के aircraft carrier तक सब कुछ बनाने की क्षमता है। लेकिन क्‍या सिर्फ इतना किया जाना काफी है। जी नहीं… साथियो और…… घर में भी देखा होगा जो बच्‍चा अच्‍छा काम करता है मां-बाप उसको ज्‍यादा परेशान करते हैं वो पांच करता है तो बोलते है सात करो। सात करता है तो बोलते हैं दस करो…… और जो नहीं करता है अरे छोड़ो….. वो करेगा नहीं वो….. उसे छोड़ देते हैं। तो आपकी मुसीबत है कि आपको लोग काम बताते ही रहेंगे।

देखिए रामचरित्र मानस में एक बहुत बढि़या बात कही है। रामचरित्र मानस में कहा गया है

कवन जो काम कठिन जग माहीं।

जो नहिं होइ तात तुम्‍ह पाहीं।।

यानी इस धरती पर ऐसा कौन सा कार्य है आपसे हो नहीं सकता। तो सब कुछ हो सकता है आपके लिए कोई भी कार्य कठिन नहीं है। जैसे जब रामचरित्र मानस जब बना तब उसे मालूम था कभी DRDO होगा। मैं DRDO के लिए भी यही दोहराना चाहता हूं। आपकी क्षमताएं असीम हैं आप बहुत कुछ कर सकते हैं। आपने दायरे का विस्‍तार करिए अपने Performance के Parameters को बदलिए, अपने पंख को पूरी क्षमता से खोलकर आसमान पर एकछत्र राज करने का हौसला तो दिखाइए। अवसर है और मैं आपके साथ हूं।

देश के प्रधानमंत्री के नाते मैं आपके सामने खड़ा होकर कह रहा हूं कि सरकार पूरी तरह आपके साथ, देश के वैज्ञानिकों के साथ, innovators के साथ कंधे से कंधे मिलाकर चलने के लिए आज हिंदुस्‍तान तैयार है। आप सभी इस बात से परिचित है कि आने वाले समय में Air और Sea के साथ-साथ Cyber और Space भी दुनिया के Strategic Dynamics को तय करने वाला है। इसके साथ-साथ Intelligent Machines भविष्‍य की रक्षा सुरक्षा के तंत्र में अहम भूमिका निभाने लायक है।  ऐसे में भारत किसी से भी पीछे नहीं रह सकता। अपने नागरिकों, अपनी सीमाओं और अपने हितों की रक्षा के लिए भविष्य की तकनीक पर Investment भी ज़रूरी है और Innovation भी आवश्यक है।

मुझे विश्‍वास है कि न्‍यू इंडिया की आवश्यकताओं और आंकाक्षाओं को पूरा करने में आप कोई कसर बाकी नहीं छोड़ेंगे, और बल्कि मैं तो ये भी कहूंगा कि आपका विस्‍तार सिर्फ भारत के भीतर तक ही सीमित नहीं रहना चाहिए। DRDO जैसा संस्‍थान दुनिया में मानवता को बहुत कुछ दे सकता है। विश्‍व सुरक्षा में आप बड़ी भूमिका निभा सकते हैं। आज दुनिया के बहुत से देश हैं जिन्‍हें सीमाओं पर हमले का खतरा नहीं है। अड़ोस-पड़ोस में सारे मित्र देश हैं। लेकिन ये देश भी जिन्‍होंने कभी नहीं सोचा था कि उनको बंदूक तो उठानी पड़ेगी। क्‍योंकि अड़ोस-पड़ोस कभी युद्ध का खतरा ही नहीं था। सीमाएं सुरक्षित थी, शांत थी, खुली थी, प्‍यार भरा माहौल था लेकिन वे देश भी आतंकवाद की चपेट में आ चुके हैं। उनको भी बंदूक उठानी पड़ी।

DRDO ऐसे देशों में भी आंतरिक सुरक्षा बढ़ाने में अपना योगदान दे सकता है। जिन छोटे-छोटे देश के लोगों से मैं मिलता हूं उनकी इतनी आवश्‍यकताएं बढ़ गई है। सीमित संसाधनों के बाद भी इन खतरों के लिए उनको कुछ-कुछ नया सोचना पड़ेगा। हम ऐसे छोटे-छोटे लोगों का हाथ पकड़ करके उनको सुरक्षा की गांरटी दे सकते हैं। ये मानवता का काम होगा। और आपके द्वारा किया गया ऐसा हर कार्य मानवता की बहुत बड़ी सेवा होगा और विश्‍व मंच पर भारत की भूमिका को भी और मजबूत करेगा।

साथियो, Defence Manufacturing के क्षेत्र में, भारत को आत्मनिर्भर बनाने के लिए DRDO को नए Innovations के साथ सामने आना होगा। देश में एक Vibrant Defense Sector को बढ़ावा देने में, मेक इन इंडिया को मजबूत करने में DRDO के Innovations की बहुत बड़ी भूमिका है। और इसलिए हमारा ये निरंतर प्रयास होना चाहिए कि design से लेकर development तक हम पूरी तरह से आत्‍मनिर्भर बनें। हमें ऐसा Ecosystem विकसित करना होगा जहां integration और innovation पर संपूर्ण ध्‍यान हो।

साथियो, आज भारत डिफेंस के क्षेत्र में नए-नए रिफॉर्म्‍स की तरफ तेजी से आगे बढ़ रहा है। दुनिया में जितनी तेजी से स्थितियां बदल रही हैं। टेक्‍नोलॉजी निरंतर हावी हो रही है। भारत सिर्फ पुरानी व्‍यवस्‍थाओं के भरोसे नहीं रह सकता। मैं 19वीं सदी की व्‍यवस्‍थाओं से 21वीं सदी पार नहीं कर सकता अभी इसी हफ्ते अभी इसी हफ्ते, सरकार द्वारा चीफ ऑफ डिफेंस स्‍टाफ की भी नियुक्ति की गई है। ये सीडीएस अपने आप में बहुत बड़ा बदलाव लाने वाला है। उसका सीधा संबंध DRDO से जाने वाला है।  बरसों पहले इस बात की जरूरत महसूस की गई थी कि भारत में तीनों सेनाओं के बीच बेहतर तालमेल के लिए, ज्‍वाइंटनेस और सिनर्जी के लिए इस तरह का पद होना चाहिए, व्‍यवस्‍था होनी चाहिए। ये पद, हमारी सरकार का देश के प्रति कमिटमेंट था, जिसे हमने पूरा किया है।

साथियों, हमें परिवर्तन के इस दौर के साथ खुद को निरंतर मजबूत करते रहना है। यही देश की हमसे अपेक्षा है और Young Scientists Labs की स्‍थापना  के पीछे भी यही विजन है। आज भविष्‍य के Technological Challenges से तो निपटेंगे  ही, DRDO के वर्किंग कल्‍चर में भी नई ऊर्जा का संचार करेंगे, इसी कामना के साथ, आप सभी को एक बार फिर मेरी तरफ से बहुत-बहुत बधाई।

आपको और आपके परिवार को फिर एक बार नए वर्ष की मंगलकामना।

बहुत-बहुत धन्‍यवाद।

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Indian Science Congress (ISC) 2019 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 3^rd January. The 106^th Session of Indian Science Congress, 2019 was held from January 3-7, 2019 at Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, and Punjab.

During the Congress, significant lectures from three Nobel Laureates; 20 Plenary Sessions & several sectional symposia with top authorities from DRDO, ISRO, DST, ICAR, CSIR, ICMR, AICTE, NAAC, UGC, ISCA, the USA, UK Universities, were attended by nearly 30,000 participants. More than fifteen thousand delegates participated at this scientific meet.

“The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill – 2019” passed in Lok Sabha:

In a landmark decision, the Lok Sabha passed “The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill – 2019” on 8^th January, 2019. The Bill has been formulated recognizing the need for regulation of the use and application of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) technology, for establishing identity of missing persons, victims, offenders, under trials and unknown deceased persons.

MoU signed for Inter-Ministerial Cooperation for Promotion and Facilitation of Agricultural Biotechnology Research and Education:

The DBT and ICAR entered into Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 15^th January, 2019 for much-needed emphasis on multi-disciplinary R&D activities and nurturing innovations in Agricultural Biotechnology Research and Education.

Highlighting the importance of the MoU, Secretary DBT, Mrs. Renu Swarup said that five to ten focused programmes both short, medium and long term will be developed and implemented. Major facilities and technology platforms created by both the agencies will be accessible to the National systems and a joint working group will be constituted to take the partnership forward.

Chief Executive of UK Research and Innovation addresses Prime Minister’s Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC):

On 16^th January, the Chief Executive of UK Research and Innovation, Professor Mark Walport, during his two-day visit to Delhi, at the invitation of Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Professor K. Vijay Raghavan met and addressed the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC).

Chaired by Professor K. Vijay Raghavan, the PM-STIAC is an overarching body that assesses specific science and technology domains in India, and formulates interventions and roadmaps. It advises the India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on all matters of science, technology and innovation.

One Health India Conference, 2019 held:

Two-day long One Health India Conference, 2019 was inaugurated on 18^th February in New Delhi. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology in partnership with the Departments of Agriculture Research and Education (DARE) and Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries (DAHDF), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare; the Departments of Health Research (DHR) and Health & Family Welfare (DHFW), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, hosted the “One Health India Conference”. The conference aimed to launch India’s new One Health Initiative – an inter-sectoral approach to tackling the most urgent health threats in India as well as in low and middle income countries across South and South East Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Department of Biotechnology celebrates its 33rd Foundation Day:

The Department of Biotechnology in the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day in New Delhi on 26^th February with the theme as “Celebrating Biotechnology: Building Indian as an Innovation Nation”. On the occasion, Union Minister for Science & Technology, Dr. Harsh Vardhan gave away the Biotechnology Research Innovation and Technology Excellence (BRITE) awards.

The Minister announced key missions at the foundation day ceremony including Atal JaiAnusandhan Biotech Mission – Undertaking Nationally Relevant Technology Innovation (UNaTI), which is expected to transform Health, Agriculture and Energy sectors during the next 5 years. This mission included GARBH-ini – A Mission to promote Maternal and Child Health and develop prediction tools for pre-term berth, IndCEPI – A Mission to develop affordable vaccines for endemic diseases, Development of Biofortified and Protein Rich wheat – contributing to POSHAN Abhiyan, Mission on Anti Microbial Resistance for Affordable Diagnostics and Therapeutics and Clean Energy Mission – Innovative Technology interventions for Swachh Bharat.

Cabinet approves MoU between India and UK on Cancer Research Initiative:

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 7^th March, 2019, has approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and U.K. on Cancer Research Initiative. The MoU was signed on 14^th November 2018.

Photo Exhibition titled “Celebrating Indian Women in Science: An Incredible Journey” organised:

The Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India in Partnership with India International Centre, New Delhi, organized a Photo Exhibition on 7^th March, 2019, titled “Celebrating Indian Women in Science: An Incredible Journey”. The aim of the exhibition was to remember, acknowledge and showcase the stories of great Indian women scientists on International women’s day, who have contributed to the development of science through their outstanding work.

Cabinet approves five years’ extension of Biomedical Research Career Programme:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on 27^th March approved the continuation of the Biomedical Research Career Programme (BRCP), and Wellcome Trust (WT)/DBT India Alliance beyond its initial 10-year term (2008-09 to 2018-29) to a new five year phase (2019-20 to 2023-24) with Department of Biotechnology (DBT) increasing its commitment to two times that of WT. The total financial implication will be Rs. 1092 crore with DBT and WT contributing Rs.728 crore and Rs.364 crore respectively.

Government and IIT-Delhi to set up a Centre of Excellence for Waste to Wealth Technologies:

The Principal Scientific Advisor to the Govt of India, Prof K. Vijay Raghavan and Director, IIT Delhi, Prof V. Ramgopal Rao signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 2^nd May, in New Delhi for setting up a Centre of Excellence for Waste to Wealth Technologies for implementation of sustainable, scientific and technological solutions for waste management, through validation and deployment of available technologies for transformation of waste to wealth.

MoU for Joint Collaboration on Cancer Research:

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), M/o Science and Technology and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India on 22^nd May signed an MoU for supporting joint collaborative research programmes in the area of Cancer. This MOU shall help strengthen the various initiatives specifically for cancer viz. Strategizing and prioritizing cancer research, development of new and affordable technologies, jointly design and fund clinical trials, coordinate and collaborate for translational research, interventions, training of manpower and infrastructure development.

Launch of electronic collection facility of Non-Tax Receipts of Survey of India The electronic collection facility for the costs of maps and other publications will now be available at all the sale counters of Survey of India (SoI). This will help students, researchers and other customers to buy what they would need using credit/ debit cards etc.

Cabinet approves signing of Memorandum of Understanding between India and Thailand in the field of Astronomy (12^th June):

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, was apprised of a Memorandum of Understanding on the cooperation between India and Thailand in the field of Astronomy / Astrophysics / Atmospheric Science. The MoU will lead to new scientific results, human resource development through increased scientific interaction and training, joint use of scientific infrastructure etc. The MoU was signed in November, 2018.

Cabinet approves Intimation of Letter of Intent between India and Costa Rica in the field of Biotechnology:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, was apprised of signing of Lotter of Intent (LOI) between India and Costa Rica in the field of Biotechnology.

Cabinet approves Inter-Institutional Agreement between India and USA for cooperation in the field of medicine:

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17^th July gave ex-post facto approval to the Inter-Institutional Agreement between India and the USA in the areas of regenerative medicine and 3D bioprinting, new technologies, exchange of scientific ideas/information and technologies, and joint use of scientific infrastructure.

Drones to undertake Large scale Mapping of Village areas in Maharashtra:

Survey of India, the national mapping agency of the country under the Min of Science & Technology has signed an MoU with Department of revenue & Land records, Govt of Maharashtra to undertake the Large scale Mapping of Village Gaothan (Aabadi) areas in the State of Maharashtra using drones.

India joins the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Development Hub:

India joined the Global Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Research and Development (R&D) Hub as a new member on 12^th September. This expands the global partnership working to address challenges and improve coordination and collaboration in global AMR R&D to 16 countries, the European Commission, two philanthropic foundations and four international organisations (as observers).

National Centre for Clean Coal Research & Development inaugurated at Bengaluru:

Union Minister of Science & Technology, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, inaugurated the National Centre for Clean Coal Research and Development at Indian Institute of Science (IISc)-Bengaluru on  16^th September. Government of India through Department of Science & Technology, has set up the National Centre for Clean Coal Research and Development (NCCCR&D) as a national level consortium on clean coal R&D, led by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc)-Bengaluru.

Government launches ‘UMMID’ initiative to tackle inherited genetic diseases of new born babies:

The Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan on 23^rd September launched UMMID (Unique Methods of Management and treatment of Inherited Disorders) initiative and inaugurated NIDAN (National Inherited Diseases Administration) Kendras.

25th edition of DST-CII India Netherlands Technology Summit inaugurated at New Delhi on 15^th October:

Inaugurating the 25th edition of DST-CII India Netherlands Technology Summit at New Delhi by His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of The Netherlands and Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, expressed their pleasure at the successful collaboration in Science & Technology between the two countries. ‘NEXUS’ was the central theme of the summit, discussing how to co-create on pioneering innovative solutions for global challenges related to water, food and good health for all.

Cabinet approves proposal for Agreement on Science and Technology Cooperation between India and the United States of America:

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on  23^rd October approved the proposal for Agreement on Science and Technology Cooperation between India and the United States of America. The Agreement would provide an opportunity to promote ‘high quality’ and ‘high impact’ research and innovation partnerships as well as broadening and expanding relationships between the extensive scientific and technological communities.

Guidelines Released for Evaluation of Nanopharmaceuticals in India on 24^th October:

While releasing the guidelines, Dr. Harsh Vardhan informed that these “Guidelines for Evaluation of Nanopharmaceuticals in India” is one of the most important steps for delineating quality, safety and efficacy assessment of the novel nanoformulations. He further added that these guidelines are intended to provide transparent, consistent and predictable regulatory pathways for nanopharmaceuticals in India. The guidelines will pave the way for significant benefits through such cutting edge technology and contribute to the mission on “Affordable Health Care for All”.

India and Netherlands launched the second phase of the LOTUS-HR (Local Treatment of Urban Sewage streams for Healthy Reuseplant) as a part of joint collaboration:

During the visit of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty, Queen Maxima of the Kingdom of the Netherlands a joint launch of the second phase of the Local Treatment of Urban Sewage streams for Healthy Reuse (LOTUS-HR) program was done by the Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Health & Family Welfare Dr. Harsh Vardhan on  5^th October. The launch programme was held during the visit of Netherlands King & the Queen to the India-Netherlands water laboratory at the Barapullah drain in Delhi.

5th India International Science Festival held in Kolkata from 5th to 8th November, 2019:

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated via video conference, the 5^th India International Science Festival at Kolkata on 5^th November. Addressing on the occasion, Prime Minister said the theme of the festival “RISEN: Research, Innovation and Science Empowering the Nation” reflects the aspirations of 21^st century India. He said science and technology has a major impact on society, and therefore government is providing the Institutional Support for both Invention and Innovation. Advocating for a strong ecosystem supporting Science and Technology, he said every effort is being taken to support innovation in the country.

India’s first-ever global Mega-Science exhibition, ‘Vigyan Samagam’, inaugurated at the Science City in Kolkata (4^th November):

This multi-venue Science Exhibition, after its successful journey in Mumbai and Bengaluru, opened for public in Kolkata from 4^th November till December 31, 2019. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Department of Science and Technology (DST), the funding agencies of these projects and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), Ministry of Culture, who are venue partners and having expertise in design and hosting such exhibitions, have joined hands to organize this prestigious Science Exhibition.

3-day Global Bio-India Summit, 2019 inaugurated (21^st November):

Union Ministers Dr. Harsh Vardhan and Shri Dharmendra Pradhan also inaugurated the Global Bio-India Exhibition. Global Bio-India is one of the largest biotechnology stakeholders conglomerate being held in India for the first time. Over 3,000 delegates from around 25 countries and over 15 states of India are participating in the mega event.

5th Meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)

The 5^th Meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States’ Heads of Ministries and Departments of Science and Technology and Permanent Working Group on S&T Cooperation concluded in Moscow, Russia on 21^st November. Secretary, DSIR & DG, CSIR, Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, led the Indian delegation. India will be the host of Council of Heads of Government (Prime Ministers) of SCO Member States in 2020, which will approve the Draft SCO Roadmap on cooperation between research institutions of SCO Member States for the period 2021-2023.

Global Bio-India Awards presented on 22^nd November:

Presenting the awards, the Union Minister of Railways and Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal said the Government has simplified the Patents regime for Start-ups, MSMEs among others to encourage innovation. He assured the Department of Industrial will extend all support to new and emerging enterprises in Biotechnology sector.

8^th Foundation Day of Global Innovation and Technology Alliance (GITA) (PPP between Department of Science & Technology (DST) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)) held on 28^th November:

Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Harsh Vardhan recognized and felicitated the exceptional performance of GITA project in contributing towards enhancing the country’s innovation ecosystem. The theme of the event was ‘Making India Future Ready’.

 

Prime Minister confers Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (SSB) prizes for the years 2016, 2017 and 2018:

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi conferred Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (SSB) prizes for the years 2016, 2017 and 2018 in New Delhi on 28^th February. The SSB prize is awarded each year on the basis of conspicuously important and outstanding contributions to human knowledge and progress, made through work done primarily in India during the five years, preceding the year of the prize.

Redefined units of measurement of kilogram, Kelvin, mole and ampere implented in India by CSIR-NPL:

After decades of ground-breaking laboratory works, the world’s scientific and technical community, in a landmark and historic decision taken in the recent open session of the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) at BIPM on 16^th November 2018, has unanimously adopted the resolution to redefine four of the seven base units, the kilogram (SI unit of weight), Kelvin (SI unit of temperature), mole (SI unit of amount of substance), and ampere (SI unit of current). The new SI is being implemented worldwide from 20^th May 2019 i.e. the World Metrology Day by CSIR-NPL in India.

NSG facility inaugurated at CSIR-CCMB:

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Harsh Vardhan inaugurated the Next Generation Sequencing (NSG) facility at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMC) in Hyderabad on 20^th July. The facility includes technology for high genome sequencing and also diagnostic sequencing of clinical samples. The state of art machine, acquired at a cost of Rs. 8 crore can sequence 18,000 samples in 8 minutes. The NGS would help prenatal genetic screening and counselling, thereby generating large scale genomic data critical for diagnosis and therapy.

First Indigenous Fuel Cell System developed by CSIR launched on CSIR Foundation Day on 26^th September 2019:

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, on 26^th September unveiled the first Indigenous High Temperature Fuel Cell System developed by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in partnership with Indian industries under India’s flagship program named “New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative (NMITLI)” on the occasion of CSIR Foundation Day in New Delhi. A unique example of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) among CSIR’s three Laboratories [CSIR-NCL, Pune; CSIR-NPL, New Delhi & CSIR-CECRI, Karaikudi (Chennai Center)] and two Indian industries; M/s Thermax Limited, Pune and M/s Reliance Industries Limited, Mumbai exemplified exploiting materials of science developments at CSIR laboratories into practice by Industry.

President of India presents awards for outstanding contributions in Science and Technology on the occasion of CSIR Foundation Day on 26^th September:

The President lauded the accomplishments of CSIR and its technological interventions towards the socio-economic development of the nation. The President presented the CSIR Technology Awards to teams of CSIR and the G.N. Ramachandran Gold Medal to Prof. Amitabha Chattopadhyay of CSIR-CCMB.

Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan  launches “Green Crackers” developed by CSIR  in a bid to curb air pollution on 5^th October:

Green logo and QR coding system was also launched to track manufacture & sale of counterfeit crackers. Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan announced that Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) labs have been successful in developing various environment-friendly fireworks such as sound emitting crackers, flowerpots, pencils, chakkar and sparklers.

CSIR conducts Whole Genome Sequencing of over 1,000 Indians for Biomedical Applications:

The CSIR has conducted Whole Genome Sequencing of 1,008 Indians from different populations across the country. Announcing details of the IndiGen Genome project, the Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Health & Family Welfare, Dr Harsh Vardhan said that the whole genome data will be important for building the knowhow, baseline data and indigenous capacity in the emerging area of Precision Medicine.

CSIR signs MoU with KVIC on promotion of honey production Khadi outlets to also display CSIR products on 5^th December:

The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) to leverage the expertise available in CSIR with the effort of KVIC for promotion of honey production and also to enable wider outreach of the CSIR technologies and products.

MOU signed between Ministry of AYUSH and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research on 22^nd April 2019

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Ministry of AYUSH and CSIR, New Delhi for cooperation in research and education in areas of traditional systems of medicine and its integration with modern science.

CSIR signs MoU with Indian Navy on 5^th April 2019

The Indian Navy and CSIR signed a MoU to undertake joint research and development of advanced technologies for the Indian Navy. This will be a collaborative arrangement between labs of CSIR, the Indian Navy and Indian industry.

 

HPCL & CSIR have developed BND

HPCL and CSIR–NPL released 26 Petroleum BNDs (Bharatiya Nideshak Dravya or Indian Reference Material) coinciding with the occasion of World Metrology Day. These will be of immense use for BS VI fuels and will save foreign exchange through import substitution for Certified Reference Materials (CRMs). This will provide traceability for all vital parameters of Petroleum products testing and certification comprising of 13 physical properties, 2 Physicochemical properties and 11 Chemical properties, including BND for sulfur content measurement at lower concentrations which will be of immense use for BS VI fuels.

CSIR and IIT Delhi Signed an MoU on 16^th July 2019

CSIR and IIT Delhi, have entered into an agreement with five of the renowned National Laboratories of CSIR Viz CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation, CSIR-Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute, CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology, CSIR-National Physical Laboratory. As a part of MoU, IIT Delhi plans to promote collaborative research, exchange of ideas, development of knowledge, enhancing high quality research throughput. IIT Delhi and CSIR aspire to leverage the  mutual expertise to contribute to the socio economic needs of the country.

Union Minister of S&T Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurated a demonstration plant for converting plastic waste to diesel

 

Honourable Union Minister of S&T Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurated a demonstration plant for converting plastic waste to diesel based on technology developed by CSIR-IIP. This plant can convert one tonne of plastic waste into 800 liters of diesel every day that is of automotive grade and is in collaboration with Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) India.

CSIR-NPL designated as the National Verifciation Agency for Air quality monitoring instruments

Union environment ministry has designated CSIR-NPL as the national verification agency for certifying instruments and equipment for monitoring emissions and ambient air quality, which will assist in maintaining standards of instruments and data of air quality being collected.

CSIR-IICT has signed a global licensing pact with Sun Pharma

CSIR-IICT has signed a global licensing pact with Sun Pharma for patents on dermatology, ophthalmology and oncology. Sun Pharma will pay upfront and milestone linked payments upto Rs 240 crore and royalties to CSIR-IICT from commercialization.

 

Joint Workshops conducted by CSIR and Fraunhofer, Germany

Series of workshops were conducted between CSIR and Fraunhofer Institute, Germany towards Indo – German collaboration in Research and Innovation towards leapfrogging in Frontier Technologies.

 

CSIR and National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (National Institutes of Health) USA, signed an MoU

The MoU was to strengthen and develop research cooperation related to environmental health sciences with emphasis on understanding the health effects associated with exposure to air poluttants and other environmental chemicals.

Smart Aerospace Composite Manufacturing Facility was inaugurated, by  Union Minister of S&T and ES

Smart Aerospace Composite Manufacturing Facility was inaugurated, by Hon’ble Union Minister of S&T and ES which will produce high quality lightweight polymer composite airframes for the HANSA-NG program of CSIR-NAL and the present prototyping facility shall produce 3 to 4 aircraft per year.

 Union Minister of S&T and ES inaugurated at CSIR-NCL Venture Center, a MedTech clean room facility

Hon’ble Union Minister of S&T and ES inaugurated at CSIR-NCL Venture Center, a Med Tech clean room facility which is designed for the manufacture of medical devices and diagnostic services for undertaking clinical study and testing purposes. This has the potential to boost the innovation ecosystem and startups in the medical devices sector.

International training programme on Petroleum Refining Technology and Petrochemicals conducted by CSIR-IIP

A eight weeks international training programme on Petroleum Refining Technology and Petrochemicals was conducted by CSIR-IIP, Dehradun. About 15 foreign Government officials mainly from African countries participated in the programme under Indian Technical Economic Cooperation.

 

CSIR-NEERI, Nagpur launched the Indian air quality Interactive Repository or IndAIR

CSIR-NEERI, Nagpur launched the Indian air quality Interactive Repository or IndAIR which has archived approximately 700 scanned materials from pre-internet era (1950-1999), 1215 research articles, 170 reports and case studies, 100 cases and over 2,000 statues, to provide the history of air pollution research and legislation in the county. Such a repository on the subject of air pollution is one of the first in the world.

 

CSIR-TKDL (Traditional Knowledge Digital Library) signs Agreement with Asiam Agri History Foundation

An agreement with Asian Agri History Foundation, at Pant Nagar was signed by TKDL for cooperation related to digitization and inclusion of information on traditional Indian agriculture and allied domains

CSIR has signed MoU with CNRS, France

MoU signed with CNRS, France for Promotion & Support of Scientific & Technological Research in areas of mutual interest including including plant and marine biotechnology; health research; environment and climate change studies; engineering science and technology; material science and technology; energy science and technology and water research.

CSIR-IHBT, Palampur and Ladakh Farmers and Producers Co-operative Limited (LFPCL) have entered into an MoU

The MoU is to grow saffron in Ladakh using tissue culture technology for production of disease free, healthy and flowering sized saffron corms in the non-traditional areas of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Leh, North East and hilly regions of Tamil Ladu.

Zero Waste Potash technology developed by CSIR-CSMCRI

The efforts of CSIR scientists from CSIR-CSMCRI who have developed a technology for recovery valuable potash from spent wash and saves foreign exchanges and prevents hazardous spent wash being discarded was appreciated by  Prime Minister  Shri Narendra Modi.

********

This was a year for consolidating the gains that accrued from major policy decisions taken in the previous five years, a time for monitoring of ongoing projects, tackling road blocks and adding to the already impressive pace of work achieved during the past years. During 2018-19, projects in about 5,494 km length were awarded and completion was achieved in about 10,855 km length of roads. The rate of development of roads has increased significantly from about 11.7 km during 2013-14 to about 30 km now. During the current year, projects for 3211 km length have been awarded and 5958 km length has been constructed till November 2019.

During the year the Ministry and its associated organizations have carried forward the good work of the previous years, expanding the national highways network in the country, taking various steps to make these highways safe for the commuters and making best efforts to minimize adverse impact on the environment. As a result, National Highways (NHs) length has increased from 91,287 km in April, 2014 to about 1,32,500 km. as on 31.12.2019.

Construction of National Highways

Year	Award (Km)	Construction (Km)
2019-20*	3211	5958
2018-19	5493	10855
2017-18	17055	9829
2016-17	15948	8231
2015-16	10098	6061
2014-15	7972	4410

 

 

 

                              *Achievement till Nov, 2019

Targets for 2019-20

Award         –     10,000 Km

Construction –    11,000 Km

Under ToT mode, a bundle of 9 projects with total length of 566 km has been awarded this Financial Year for a concession fee of Rs. 5,011 crores against the reserve price of Rs. 4,998.71 crore. Further initiatives are being taken up to bid out more projects under TOT mode during this Financial Year.

Accelerated Development of Highways

The Ministry proposes to develop additional 60,000 kms of National Highways in the next five years, of which 2500 km are Express Ways/Access Controlled Highways, 9000 kms Economic Corridors, 2000 kms for Coastal and Port Connectivity Highways and 2000 kms Border Road/ Strategic Highways. The Ministry also intends to improve connectivity for 100 tourist destinations and construct Bypasses for 45 towns/cities during this period.

Expenditure of Ministry increased from 33,745 crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 1,37,354 crore in 2018-19. During the current year an expenditure of Rs. 85,275 crore has already been incurred till November 2019 including IEBR of NHAI.

Augmenting Finances through Innovative Instruments

With a view to augmenting sources of funding for NH projects, the NHAI intends to raise Rupees one lakh crore through Toll-Operate-Transfer (TOT) Model of asset monetization in the next five years. Finances are also likely to accrue from Securitization of Toll Revenues as well as the setting up of Infra Investment Trust (InvIT). Other steps being taken by NHAI include financing new projects through National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) supported SPVs.

Toll Operate Transfer (TOT) and Securitization of user fee receipts of NHs

With a view to expanding the project base available with NHAI for monetization under TOT mode and for raising finance against toll receipts from identified Public Funded/Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) projects through securitization, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has accorded the following approval (vide communication no. CCEA/20/2019 (i) dated 25.11.2019 ):

NHAI is authorized to monetize public funded NH projects which are operational and are collecting toll for at least one year after the COD through the Toll Operate Transfer (TOT) on a case to case basis.

NHAI is authorized to vary the Concession Period between 15 to 30 years depending on project features.

The detailed proposal for every TOT bundle, including the proposed project stretches; estimated concession value & proposed concession period shall be approved by NHAI Board (Authority).

NHAI is allowed to raise long term finance from banks by securitizing the user fee receipts from fee plazas as alternate mode of asset monetization.

Securitization would offer an alternative mode for raising finance against toll receipts from identified Public Funded/HAM projects. Securitization as a model entails the generation of upfront funds against the future cash flows generated by select assets.

Infrastructure Investment Trusts

In order to enhance NHAI’s resource mobilization, the Cabinet has accorded the following approval (vide communication 39/CM/2019(i) dated 13.12.2019):

NHAI is authorized to set up Infrastructure Investment Trust(s), as per InvIT Guidelines issued by SEBI, to monetize completed National Highways that have a toll collection track record of at least one year and NHAI reserves the right to levy toll on the identified highway.

NHAI is authorized to incorporate SPV(s) which are essential and integral part of the entire InvIT structure.

NHAI is authorized to set up its first InvIT as per the structure approved by NHAI Board and to incorporate two SPVs which are essential and integral part of the InvIT structure:

• An SPV to hold all identified public funded projects to be placed in an InvIT
• An SPV to act as an Investment Manager in the proposed InvIT

NHAI is authorized to create a reserve fund from the sums received from InvIT, which shall be kept in a separate account for repayment of debt.

Progress of Major Programmes/ Landmark Projects

The work of major bridge across Sharavathi backwaters, approaches between Ambargodu and Kalasvali in Karnataka and 16 packages of Trans Rajasthan Highways project have been awarded.

A three-lane underpass inaugurated at Parade Road junction near Manekshaw Centre on NH 8 in New Delhi on 12.07.2019.  With opening of this underpass, movement of traffic from Airport to Dhaula Kuan has become signal free.

Dasna-Hapur section of Delhi-Meerut Expressway (package-3) in Uttar Pradesh’s Pilakhuwa has been inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister, Shri Nitin Gadkari on 30^th September, 2019.  The completion of this section is expected to further help in decongesting the National Capital Region, bring down pollution levels and reduce travel time significantly.

The integrated bus ports in Cuttack (Odisha) and in Baddi (Himachal Pradesh) have been approved and the DPRs thereon are under progress.

 

National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) program

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has launched National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) program which provides for collection of user fee through FASTags based on RFID technology. In order to save fuel, time and pollution and to ensure seamless movement of traffic, it has been decided to enable all lanes in Fee Plazas for electronic toll collection program through FASTags. The Tolling systems would be spruced up to create a digital experience of seamless tolling for all the Highway users.

The Ministry vide letter dated 29^th November, 2019 initiated the process of declaring “FASTag lane of Fee Plaza” for all the lane to be complied w.e.f. 15^th December, 2019. However, considering the request of NHAI and that the Citizens inconvenience this condition has been eased for the next 30 days. It has been accordingly decided that depending on the traffic pile up at high traffic volume fee plazas, not more than 25% “FASTag lane of Fee Plaza” may be converted temporarily to hybrid lane by the RO concerned. It should also be ensured that least possible number be converted into hybrid lane and that at least 75% lanes of every fee plaza remain declared and operational as “FASTag lane of Fee Plaza” in order to incentivize the vehicles carrying FASTag. A total of 1,11,70,811 FASTag have been issued till 26.12.2019.

 

Ministry is trying to bring inter-operability of the FASTags with the State Governments so that a single FASTag can be used both at State Highways Toll Plaza and National Highways Toll Plaza. An NHAI Prepaid Wallet was also launched giving customers the choice of not linking their FASTag to their bank accounts and includes the feature of UPI recharge.

 

Discouraging the use of ‘Single-Use Plastic’

This Ministry has directed all offices/officers/staff to stop use of ‘Single-Use Plastic’ in office premises, and also to use locally produced environment-friendly products such as Kulhads, clay glasses/plates etc. in place of harmful plastic products.

Swachhata hi Seva Campaign (SHS)

The Government decided that in 2019-20, the ‘Swachhata hi Seva Campaign (SHS)’ 2019 between 11^th September, 2019 to 27^th October, 2019 will focus on Plastic Waste Management as the main theme.  For the campaign, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways prepared a detailed Action Plan and the personnel undertook Shramdaan and ensured the collection of all plastic waste on and around National Highways.  Efforts for awareness generation were also successful; roughly 69,000 people were mobilized, and shramdaan of around 2,22,226 lac-man hours was done during the campaign. Waste plastic has been used in 56.96 km of road length by Nov, 2019.  More roads are being constructed using plastic waste.

 

Road Safety

State Support Programme

A State Support Programme aimed at incentivising the States to improve their road safety performance is proposed to launched to reduce the overall fatalities by road accidents by 25% by 2024. With a view to accurately recording the accident details so that timely corrective action is undertaken a Geo-Tagged accident data collection programme would be launched under the project “Integrated Road Accident Database (IRAD)”. IT based road safety infrastructure would be erected on all the four lane and above Highways. Incidence management systems shall also be provided on all such Highways.

The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019

The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 is the principal instrument through which road transport is regulated in the country. The same has been amended first time in a comprehensive way after thirty years by The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, passed by the Parliament and published in the Gazette of India on 9^th August 2019.

The Act will bring reforms in the area of Road Safety, bring citizen facilitation, transparency, and reduce corruption with the help of information technology and removing intermediaries. The Act will strengthen public transport, safeguard and protect Good Samaritan and reform the insurance and compensation regime. It will allow innovation and new technologies such as driverless vehicles, to be tested in live environment and increase efficiency in research. The Act will facilitate Divyang by allowing motor vehicles to be converted to adapted vehicles with post-facto approval and facilitating licence to drive adapted vehicles. The provisions of compensation and post – accident treatment have been amended and measures will be taken provide cashless treatment for accident victims.

Road Safety Provisions and Penalties

• It facilitates electronic monitoring of vehicles for enforcing traffic rules.
• Provision of a refresher training course to obtain the DL after its suspension or revocation for certain offences like over speeding, drunken driving etc.
• Penalties have been introduced for new offences and enhanced for existing offences.
• For offences committed by juveniles-
• penalty of Rs. 25000 and imprisonment up to 3 years for the owner/guardian.
• Digital intermediaries and aggregators (Ola and Uber) will follow guidelines prescribed by the Centre.
• Constitution of National Road Safety Board to render advice on Road Safety and Traffic Management.

 

Citizen facilitation, Transparency and Reduction in Corruption

• All forms, fees and documents under the Act can be submitted online to avoid human intervention.
• Dealer point registration – for registration of new motor vehicles, the onus to apply for registration has been shifted to dealers and the requirement to produce vehicles before authority has been removed.
• Formulation of National Registers for DLs and registrations to bring transparency.
• Automated testing.
• The validity periods for DLs have been extended.
• DLs can be renewed anytime between 1 year before its expiry till 1 year after its expiry to facilitate citizen away from home, visiting abroad, chronic patients etc.

 

Employment facilitation

• The requirement of minimum educational qualification for license to drive transport vehicles has been removed.
• Scheme for setting up driving schools with the Central assistance.

 

Increased accountability of manufacturers of Motor Vehicles

• Centre can order recall of motor vehicles for any defect.

 

Insurance and Compensation

• Constitution of Motor Vehicle Accident Fund.
• compensation for hit and run cases.
• Cashless treatment of road accident victims during golden hour.
• Drivers and Co-driver/helper have been included as third parties, for the purpose of insurance.

Implementation Status of MVA, 2019

The Central Government has made operational around 60 provisions of the new Motor Vehicles Amendment Act starting from 1^st of September 2019 in whole of India.

• For operations of these provisions there is no requirement of amendment of the rules.
• The provisions implemented from 1^st of September include provisions relating to-
  • Enhanced penalties for the offences under the Motor Vehicles Act
  • Facilitation of the licencing process so that the citizen can apply anywhere in the State for obtaining the Learner Licence, Driving Licence or Renewal
  • Allowing driving licence holders to apply for renewal any time between one year between one year before its expiry upto one year after its expiry.  This will greatly help our citizens working and staying abroad.
  • Facilitation of the process of registration of vehicles process so that the citizen can apply anywhere in the State for registering the vehicles or recording any other changes
  • Provisions which provide for powers to the Central and the State Governments for formulation of rules
• The States are in the process of issuing notifications in regard to the amount to be charged for the offences which are ‘compoundable’.

The rest of the provisions would be made operational as soon as the Rules for them have been drafted.  The process of formulation of rules is underway and we expect that in the next 2 to 4 months the rules would be in place as it involves detailed consultation.

Transport Sector

The Ministry has notified GSR886 (E) dated 29^th November, 2019 to bring amendment in the forms in the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 in regard to capture of the Mobile Numbers of the owners when availing any service relating to the Registration of the Vehicles. While examining the subject “Management of worsening traffic in Delhi”, Department related Parliamentary Standing Committee MHA has also observed that a large number of vehicles of VAHAN data base do not have the mobile numbers. In view of the above, considering the urgency of the issue the relevant Forms in the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 which pertains to the service relating to the Motor Vehicle i.e. the registration, transfer, Register of Motor Vehicle, Renewal, duplicate copy, grant of NOC, change of address, entry or termination entry for Hire/ Purchase/ Hypothecation are proposed to be amended to include for capturing the mobile number of the owner as and when they apply for availing services.

To ensure ease of doing business at RTOs, it is proposed that from 2020 learning licenses would be issued online, registration of vehicle would be done the same day and App based transfer of license and registration would be made possible.

The Ministry issued Notification bearing No. GSR 784 (E) dated 12^th November, 2008, vide which it had been mandated that all commercial vehicles manufactured after April 2009 need to have retro-reflective tape applied.  This is as per Rule 104 of CMVR. It has come to the notice of the Government that most of the older vehicles, taking advantage of this notification, are taking exemption during their annual fitment test.  In this regard, this Ministry vide GSR 80 (E) dated 23^rd October, 2019 has mandated fixation of retro-reflective tape on all the vehicles irrespective of date of manufacturing and also notified their specifications. This is expected to enhance road safety.

 

Keeping with the demand of economically backward and unemployed persons, this Ministry issued a notification GSR 681 (E) dated 23^rd September, 2019 for omission of Rule 8 of the CMVR 1989, wherein educational qualifications have been prescribed for obtaining driving licenses.

In order to ensure compliance of the provisions of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, an advisory to all States/ UTs has been issued on 23^rd September, 2019 to facilitate citizens so that they can use Digilocker or mParivahan app to show Driving Licence, Registration Certificate, etc., in electronic format. The States were also requested that provision for handheld devices for mParivahan or e-challan with requisite ‘PoS’ machine may be made available to the Enforcement officers.

This Ministry made an amendment in the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989 vide GSR 527 (E) dated 6.6.2018, which provides for online IT based linkage of PUC certificate with VAHAN database. The States through an advisory dated 23^rd September, 2019 have been requested that the information relating to the PUC check should be made using the online system being provided by the Ministry and the data should be made available to citizens in ‘electronic form’ also on the m-Parivahan platform.

With a view to enhancing the security features in a vehicle, the Ministry has issued a draft notification GSR 521 (E) on 24^th July, 2019, allowing the motor vehicles and their parts, components, assemblies, sub-assemblies to be affixed with permanent and nearly invisible microdots that can be read physically with a microscope and identified with ultra violet light sources.

In order to combat the issue of pollution by encouraging usage of less polluting fuel, the Ministry issued a draft notification GSR 522 (E) dated 24^th July, 2019 regarding emission standards for additional alternate fuels.

The Ministry, in keeping with the demand of economically backward and unemployed persons, has issued a notification GSR 681 (E) dated 23^rd September, 2019 for omission of Rule 8 of the CMVR, 1989, i.e., the minimum educational qualification for driving transport vehicles.

Draft notification has been issued on 19.06.2019 to exempt Battery-Operated Vehicles/electric vehicles from paying registration fees.

This Ministry has authorized and provided for one more Vehicle Testing Agency for Testing of Vehicles.  As per the notification dated 18^th July, 2019, GSR 511 (E) the Ministry through amendment in Rule 126 of the Motor Vehicles Amendment Rules, 1989 has added ‘National automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) Indore’.  This will ease the workload and pressure on the existing vehicle testing agencies such as ARAI, ICAT, ARAI, GARC, etc.

 

Data on “Road Accidents in India 2018”

Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has released its annual publication on ‘Road Accidents in India, 2018’. It provides data on accident related deaths and injuries, calendar yea- wise, based on information supplied by the Police Department of States and UTs. As per the Report, Road accidents in the country have increased marginally by 0.46 % during 2018 with the year seeing 4,67,044 road accidents as against 4,64,910 in 2017. The fatalities during the same period have also risen by about 2.37% and 1,51,471 persons were killed in 2018 as against 1,47,913 in 2017. Road accident injuries have however showed a decrease of 0.33% in 2018 as compared to 2017.

 

Registration Mark for newly formed UT, Ladakh      

Ministry vide SO 4262(E) dated 25^th November, 2019 has assigned a new Registration Mark for newly formed UT, Ladakh as “LA” for registration of vehicles u/s 41(6) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.  This is applicable from the date of publication of Notification.

***

Indian Railways has continuously endeavored to augment passenger experience through modernization and provision of improved facilities over trains and stations. The last fare revision over Indian Railways was done in 2014-15. In order to expand passenger amenities and facilities at railway stations and trains, it has become imperative to increase the fare marginally without over burdening any class of passengers. Further, the burden of 7th Pay Commission on Indian Railway has necessitated rationalization of fares.  Fare revision will help in channelising the fast modernization of Indian Railway.

Accordingly, Railways has decided to marginally effect an increase in fare. Keeping the affordability concerns of daily commuters, there shall be no fare hike for passengers over suburban sections and season ticket holders. This class constitutes 66% of total passenger segment over Indian Railways.  Even for the passengers traveling in Ordinary Non AC Classes, there shall be a marginal increase of 1 paise/PKM (Passenger Kilometer). The increase in fare will be on tickets bought on or after 1^st January 2020 and no excess fare (difference of fare) will be charged from passengers who have booked tickets before 1^st January 2020. The fare revision is as below:

1. Ordinary Non-AC classes(Non-suburban):  Fare  increase by 01 paise/PKM
2. Mail/Exp Non-AC classes : Fare increase by  02 paise/PKM
3. AC classes- Fare increase by  04 paise/PKM
4. Suburban fare and Season tickets: No increase

 

Existing fares of train services like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Tejas, Humsafar, Mahamana, Gatiman, Antyodaya, Garib Rath, Jan Shatabdi, Rajya Rani, Yuva Expresses, Suvidha and special trains on special charges, AC MEMU (non-suburban), AC DEMU (non-suburban) etc shall similarly be revised to the extent of the above proposed increase in class-wise fares.

There shall be no change in charges for reservation fee, superfast surcharge etc. Such charges, wherever applicable, shall continue to be levied additionally. GST as applicable shall be levied, as per instructions issued from time to time.

Indian Railways is constantly striving for up-gradation of amenities to passengers, modernising railway stations and providing state-of-the-art facilities on board and off -board. Rationalisation of passenger fares will boost the endeavours of Indian Railways in the same direction.

***

Shri Vinod Kumar Yadav, IRSEE (1980 Batch) has assumed charge today on 01.01.2020 after being reappointed as Chairman, Railway Board, in the rank of Ex-Officio Principal Secretary to Government of India. The Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) has approved re-employment of Shri Vinod Kumar Yadav as Chairman, Railway Board for a period of one year w.e.f 01.01.2020.

Earlier, Shri Vinod Kumar Yadav was appointed as Chairman, Railway Board (Ministry of Railways) and ex-officio Principal Secretary to Govt. of India on 01.01.2019. Prior to this assignment, Shri Yadav had worked as General Manager, South Central Railway.

His academic qualifications including a Masters Degree in Business Administration –MBA (Technology Management) from La Trobe University, Australia and a Bachelors Degree in Engineering (Electrical Engineering) from Allahabad University, Uttar Pradesh. He holds immense experience in the fields of Project Management, General Management, Industrial Policy Formulation, Foreign Collaboration & Foreign Direct Investment, Management of Sector Specific International Technical Programmes and Co-ordination of World Bank and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Funding.

During the course of his illustrious career, Shri Vinod Kumar Yadav held several important executive and managerial positions on Indian Railways and on deputation to various Organizations. In Indian Railways, his assignments included serving as Chief Electrical Engineer, Planning/Traction Distribution, Northern Railway; Divisional Railway Manager, Lucknow Division, North Eastern Railway and Additional Divisional Railway Manager (Operation), Delhi Division, Northern Railway.

Amongst the assignments he held on deputation are – Executive Director, Railway Electrification Projects, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), New Delhi; Group General Manager (Electrical), Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited; Project Director, International Centre for Advancement of Manufacturing Technology at United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO); he was also Director, Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion, Ministry of Industry, Government of India.

He also held an important foreign assignment as Deputy Manager (Electrical), IRCON at Turkey, where he was instrumental in planning, execution and commissioning of Railway Electrification Project for Turkish Railway.

Shri Vinod Kumar Yadav is recipient of the first ever “Best Transformation Initiative Award” of the Ministry of Railways.

***

SG/MKV/AP

The Winter Session, 2018 of Parliament commenced on Tuesday, 11^th December, 2018. Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die on Tuesday, 8^th January, 2019 which provided 17 sittings spread over a period of 29 days. Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die on Wednesday, 9^th January, 2019 which provided 18 sittings spread over a period of 30 days. Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Mines, said the productivity of Lok Sabha was approx. 47% and that of Rajya Sabha was approx. 27%.

Shri Tomar said that the special achievement of this session of Parliament was that both Houses passed the 124^th Constitutional Amendment Bill which will provide reservation in services and educational institutions for economically weaker sections in general category. The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and National Council for Teacher Education (Amendment) Bill, 2019 were passed by both Houses of Parliament.

During the Session, 17 Bills (12 in the Lok Sabha and 05 in Rajya Sabha) were introduced. The Lok Sabha passed 14 Bills and while the Rajya Sabha passed 04 Bills during the session. 05 Bills were passed by both the Houses of Parliament.

Proclamation issued by the President on the 19^th December, 2018 under Article 356 of the Constitution of India in relation to the State of Jammu and Kashmir was discussed and adopted in the Lok Sabha on 28.12.2018 and in the Rajya Sabha on 2^nd and 3^rd January, 2019 respectively.

Interim Budget Session of Parliament 2019 – Productivity of Lok Sabha – 89% and Rajya Sabha – around 8%; 4 Bills passed by both Houses:

Interim Budget Session, 2019 of Parliament which commenced on Thursday, 31^st January, 2019 was adjourned sine die on Wednesday, 13^th February, 2019. The Session provided 10 sittings spread over a period of 14 days. The productivity of Lok Sabha was 89% and that of Rajya Sabha was 8% approximately.

This being the first Session of the year, the President addressed both Houses of Parliament on 31st January, 2019. Interim Budget for 2019-20 was presented on Friday, the 1^st February. General Discussion on the Interim Budget was held in Lok Sabha. Due to constant interruptions in the House, the Rajya Sabha could not take up the Interim Budget for discussion.

During this Session, a total of 9 Bills (3 in Lok Sabha and 6 in Rajya Sabha) were introduced. 5 Bills were passed by Lok Sabha, 5 Bills were passed by Rajya Sabha and 4 Bills were passed by both Houses of Parliament.

All Political Parties condemn Pulwama Terror Attack and pledge support to Government:

A meeting of floor leaders of various political parties in Parliament, chaired by the Union Minister for Home Affairs, Shri Rajnath Singh on 16^th February, condemned the cowardly terrorist attack on our security forces in Pulwama. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shri Narendra Singh Tomar said all political parties, in one voice, condemned the terror attack and observed a two minute silence for the martyred soldiers.  A resolution condemning this act of terrorism was also adopted during the meeting, the Minister informed.

Cabinet approved dissolution of the Sixteenth Lok Sabha:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on 24^th May gave its approval to the Resolution advising the President to dissolve the Sixteenth Lok Sabha, which was constituted on 18.05.2014. The first meeting of the Sixteenth Lok Sabha was held on June 4, 2014, when members were administered oath and affirmation.  The life of the present Lok Sabha is, therefore, to expire on June 3, 2019, unless the President dissolves it earlier.

Shri Narendra Modi chaired Meeting of Presidents of Political Parties; PM announces a Committee to study the issue of ‘One Country, One Election’ threadbare:

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, chaired a Meeting of Party Presidents of all political parties having representation in Parliament, on 19^th June. Issues that came up for discussion included:

Ways to Improve productivity of Parliament; One Country, One Election; Building a New India in the 75^th year of Independence; Programme and commitments to Celebrate Mahatma Gandhi’s 150^th birth anniversary; & Development of aspirational Districts.

Union Minister for Defence, Shri Rajnath Singh conducted the meeting. Various Party Presidents emphasized that an atmosphere of discussion and dialogue must prevail in Parliament. Participants in the meeting also expressed the hope that approximately half of the members of the 17^th Lok Sabha, are first time MPs, who would take this opportunity to carry forward the spirit of constructive dialogue in the House.

Government held All Party Leaders Meeting to discuss important issues to come up during Budget Session of Parliament 2019;

Addressing floor leaders of various parties in the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha in New Delhi on 16^th June, on the eve of the Budget Session of Parliament 2019, Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi called on leaders of all political parties in Parliament to work cohesively with the government in running the House smoothly and to collectively address issues related to the welfare of people.

The Prime Minister exhorted all leaders to cooperate with the Government and strive in the direction of making a New India by 2022 and achieve the true meaning of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’. Shri Modi said that Government is always receptive to the issues raised by all Political Parties and is ready to discuss all issues of national importance on the floor of both Houses of Parliament.

First Session of Parliament After General Elections – productivity of Lok Sabha shoots to 137% and Rajya Sabha rises to 103%; abrogation of Article 370 and Triple Talaq Bills among 30 Bills passed by the Parliament:

The First Session of Seventeenth Lok Sabha commenced on 17^th of June, 2019 and 249^th Session of Rajya Sabha commenced from 20^th June, 2019. Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die on 6^th August. Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die on 7^th August.  The Session had a total of 37 sittings of Lok Sabha and 35 sittings of the Rajya Sabha.

Being the first Session of the 17^th Lok Sabha, new Members took Oath/Affirmation during the first two days i.e. 17^th and 18^th June. Election of Speaker, Lok Sabha was held on 19^th June.

This being the first Session after General Elections, the President addressed both Houses of Parliament assembled together on 20^th June. The Union Budget for 2019- 20 was presented on 5^th July. General Discussion on the Union Budget was held in both Houses.  This engaged the Lok Sabha for 17 Hours 23 minutes against allotted 12 Hours and Rajya Sabha for 12 Hours 30 minutes against allotted 12 Hours.

This Session has been historic in many ways as legislations relating to almost all walks of socioeconomic activities have been passed.  A total of 40 Bills (33 in Lok Sabha and 07 in Rajya Sabha) were introduced. 35 Bills were passed by Lok Sabha and 32 Bills were passed by Rajya Sabha. 30 Bills have been passed by both the Houses of Parliament, which is a record in single first/effective Session after constitution of new Lok Sabha.

The most important business transacted during this Session is the abrogation of certain provisions from Article 370 and Presidential Orders thereunder.  The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019, which declares the triple talaq/talaq-e-biddat void is a major step towards grant of gender justice to the Muslim women. Other important legislations include the Protection of Children form Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019, the National Medical Commission Bill, 2019, Consumer Protection Bill, 2019, National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill, 2019 and Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2019, the Code on Wages Bill, 2019 and the Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

Departing from the earlier practice of adjourning the Houses for the day in the event of death of a sitting Member of the particular House, a new practice has been developed of adjourning the House for an Hour or Two and then meeting again for transacting essential business of the day.

The productivity of Lok Sabha was approx. 137% and that of Rajya Sabha was approx. 103%.

Winter Session of Parliament – 15 Bills passed in both the Houses; Lok Sabha productivity 116% Rajya Sabha 100%:

The Winter Session, 2019 of Parliament which commenced on Monday, the 18th November, 2019 concluded today. The Session provided 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days.

During the Session, 18 Bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha. The Lok Sabha passed 14 Bills while the Rajya Sabha passed 15 Bills during the session.  15 Bills were passed by both the Houses of Parliament and would become Acts of Parliament.

Among the Bills passed by both Houses of the Parliament, the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Sixth Amendment) Bill, 2019 aims to retain the inclusive character as envisioned by the founding fathers of the Constitution by continuing the reservation of seats for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes for another ten years ie. upto 25^th January, 2030. The  Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019, Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Bill 2019, National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019, Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and Arms Act (Amendment) Bill, 2019, were among other major Bills enacted by the Parliament.

The productivity of Lok Sabha was approx. 116% and that of Rajya Sabha was approx. 100%.

The President of India launched web-portal of “National Youth Parliament Scheme”:

A special function on the occasion to commemorate 70^th Anniversary of adoption of the Constitution of India, – “Samvidhan Diwas” was organized in the Central Hall of Parliament on 26^th November. The President of India, Vice President, Prime Minister, Speaker and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs graced the occasion and addressed the gathering of the Members of both Houses of Parliament.

On this occasion, the President Shri Ram Nath Kovind launched the Web-Portal of “National Youth Parliament Scheme”.

Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has been implementing Youth Parliament programme since 1966 in Schools under the Directorate of Education, Government of NCT of Delhi and NDMC, Kendriya Vidyalayas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas and Universities/ Colleges. So far, around 8,000 educational institutions and more than 4,00,000 students have been covered under the Youth Parliament programme of the Ministry.

The web-portal of the National Youth Parliament Scheme is available at http://www.nyps.mpa.gov.in.  The main objective of the portal is to increase the outreach of the youth parliament programme of the Ministry to hitherto untouched sections and corners of the country.

Orientation Course on Parliamentary Practices and Procedures for – IAS officers of 2017 Batch:

Inaugurating the Orientation Course in New Delhi on 17^th July, the Lok Sabha Speaker, Shri Om Birla said that the Legislative, Executive and Judiciary wings should all fulfil their responsibility to bring a change and give direction to build a New India. He advised the officers to move ahead with an open mind to do justice to the people in an impartial manner.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi called upon the officers to think of the last person of the society, as they perform their duties. Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal said that as part of the Executive wing of democratic system they should be responsible to the people.   MoS (Parliamentary Affairs) Shri V. Muraleedharan said the officers should make every effort to build a New India.

International Yoga Day 2019 celebrated in Parliament:

Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines, Shri Pralhad Joshi participated in the yoga event on 21^st June organised by Lok Sabha Secretariat, along with Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla, other Ministers and MPs.

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