अभी मुझे कुछ लाभार्थियों से मेरी चर्चा हुई, जिनको आज अपना पक्का घर मिला है, अपने सपनों का घर मिला है, अपने बच्चों के भविष्य का विश्वास मिला है। अब मध्य प्रदेश के पौने 2 लाख ऐसे परिवार, जो आज अपने घर में प्रवेश कर रहे हैं, जिनका गृह-प्रवेश हो रहा है, उनको भी मैं बहुत-बहुत बधाई देता हूं, शुभकामनाएं देता हूं। ये सभी साथी टेक्नॉलॉजी के किसी ना किसी माध्यम से, पूरे मध्य प्रदेश में इस कार्यक्रम से जुड़े हैं। आज आप देश के उन सवा दो करोड़ परिवारों में शामिल हो गए हैं, जिन्हें बीते 6 वर्षों में अपना घर मिला है, जो अब किराए के नहीं, झुग्गियों में नहीं, कच्चे मकान में नहीं, अपने घर में रह रहे हैं, पक्के घर में रह रहे हैं।

साथियों, इस बार आप सभी की दीवाली, आप सभी के त्योहारों की खुशियां कुछ और ही होंगी। कोरोना काल नहीं होता तो आज आपके जीवन की इतनी बड़ी खुशी में शामिल होने के लिए, आपके घर का ये सदस्य, आपका प्रधानसेवक, पक्का आपके बीच होता। और आपके इस आनन्‍द उत्‍सव में भागीदार होता लेकिन कोरोना की जो स्थिति है, उसके कारण मुझे दूर से ही आज आप सबका दर्शन का अवसर मिल रहा है। लेकिन अभी के लिए ऐसा ही सही !!!

आज के इस समारोह में मध्य प्रदेश की गवर्नर श्रीमती आनंदी बेन पटेल जी, राज्य के लोकप्रिय मुख्यमंत्री शिवराज सिंह चौहान जी, केंद्रीय मंत्रिमंडल के मेरे सहयोगी नरेंद्र सिंह तोमर जी, मेरे साथी ज्‍योतिरादित्‍य जी, मध्य प्रदेश के मंत्रिगण, सदस्‍य, सांसद और विधायगकगण, ग्रामपंचायतों के प्रतिनिधिगण और मध्य प्रदेश के गांव-गांव से जुड़े सभी मेरे प्यारे भाइयों और बहनों!

आज मध्य प्रदेश में सामूहिक गृहप्रवेश का ये समारोह पौने 2 लाख गरीब परिवारों के लिए तो अपने जीवन का यादगार पल है ही, देश के हर बेघर को अपना पक्का घर देने के लिए भी एक बड़ा कदम है। आज का ये कार्यक्रम मध्यप्रदेश सहित देश के सभी बेघर साथियों को एक विश्वास देने वाला भी पल है। जिनका अब तक घर नहीं, एक दिन उनका भी घर बनेगा, उनका भी सपना पूरा होगा।

साथियों, आज का ये दिन करोडों देशवासियों के उस विश्वास को भी मज़बूत करता है कि सही नीयत से बनाई गई सरकारी योजनाएं साकार भी होती हैं और उनके लाभार्थियों तक पहुंचती भी हैं। जिन साथियों को आज अपना घर मिला है, जिनसे मेरी बातचीत हुई है और जिनको मैं स्क्रीन पर देख पा रहा हूं, उनके भीतर के संतोष, उनके आत्मविश्वास को मैं अनुभव कर सकता हूं। मैं आप सभी साथियों से यही कहूंगा कि ये घर आपके और बेहतर भविष्य का नया आधार हैं। यहां से आप अपने नए जीवन की नई शुरुआत कीजिए। अपने बच्चों को, अपने परिवार को, अब आप नई ऊंचाइयों पर लेकर जाइए। आप आगे बढ़ेंगे तो देश भी आगे बढ़ेगा।

साथियों, कोरोना काल में तमाम रुकावटों के बीच भी देशभर में प्रधानमंत्री आवास योजना के तहत 18 लाख घरों का काम पूरा किया गया है। उसमें 1 लाख 75 हजार घर अकेले मध्य प्रदेश में ही पूरे किए गए हैं। इस दौरान जिस गति से काम हुआ है, वो भी अपने आप में एक रिकॉर्ड है। सामान्य तौर पर प्रधानमंत्री आवास योजना के तहत एक घर बनाने में औसतन सवा सौ दिन का समय लगता है। लेकिन अब जो मैं बताने जा रहा हूं, वो देश के लिए, हमारे मीडिया के साथियों के लिए भी ये बहुत सकारात्मक खबर है। कोरोना के इस काल में पीएम आवास योजना के तहत घरों को बनाने में 125 दिन नहीं सिर्फ सिर्फ 45 से 60 दिन में ही बनाकर तैयार कर दिया गया है। आपदा को अवसर में बदलने का ये बहुत ही उत्तम उदाहरण है। आप सोचेंगे कि ये कैसे संभव हुआ? पहले 125 दिन अब 40 से 60 दिन के बीच में कैसे हुआ?

साथियों, इस तेज़ी में बहुत बड़ा योगदान रहा शहरों से लौटे हमारे श्रमिक साथियों का। उनके पास हुनर भी था, इच्‍छाशक्ति भी थी और वो इसमें जुड़ गए और उसके कारण ये परिणाम मिला है। हमारे इन साथियों ने प्रधानमंत्री गरीब कल्याण रोज़गार अभियान का पूरा लाभ उठाते हुए अपने परिवार को संभाला और साथ-साथ अपने गरीब भाई-बहनों के लिए घर भी तैयार करके दे दिया। मुझे संतोष है कि पीएम गरीब कल्याण अभियान से मध्य प्रदेश सहित देश के अनेक राज्यों में करीब-करीब 23 हज़ार करोड़ रुपए  के काम पूरे किए जा चुके हैं। इस अभियान के तहत गांव-गांव में गरीबों के लिए घर तो बन ही रहे हैं, हर घर जल पहुंचाने का काम हो, आंगनबाड़ी और पंचायत के भवनों का निर्माण हो, पशुओं के लिए शेड बनाना हो, तालाब और कुएं बनाना हो, ग्रामीण सड़कों का काम हो, गांव के विकास से जुड़े ऐसे अनेक काम तेज़ी से किए गए हैं। इससे दो फायदे हुए हैं। एक तो शहरों से गांव लौटे लाखों श्रमिक साथियों को रोज़गार उपलब्ध हुआ है। और दूसरा- ईंट, सीमेंट, रेत और निर्माण से जुड़े दूसरे सामान का व्यापार-कारोबार करते हैं, उनकी भी बिक्री हुई है। एक प्रकार से प्रधानमंत्री गरीब कल्याण रोज़गार अभियान इस मुश्किल समय में गांव की अर्थव्यवस्था का भी बहुत बड़ा सहारा बनकर उभरा। इसे बहुत बड़ी ताकत प्रधानमंत्री आवास योजना के तहत हो रहे कार्यों से मिल रही है।

साथियों, मुझसे कई बार लोग पूछते हैं कि आखिर घर तो देश में पहले भी बनते थे, सरकार की योजनाओं के तहत बनते थे, फिर आप ने बदलाव क्या किया? ये सही है कि गरीबों के लिए घर बनाने के लिए देश में दशकों पहले से योजनाएं चली आ रही हैं। बल्कि आज़ादी के बाद के पहले दशक में ही सामुदायिक विकास कार्यक्रम के तहत ये काम शुरु हो गया था। फिर हर 10-15 साल में इस प्रकार की योजनाओं में कुछ जुड़ता गया, नाम बदलते गए। लेकिन करोड़ों गरीबों को जो घर देने का लक्ष्य था, जो एक गरिमापूर्ण जीवन देने का लक्ष्य था, वो कभी पूरा ही नहीं हो पाया। कारण ये था कि पहले जो योजनाएं बनी थीं, उनमें सरकार हावी थी, सरकार का दखल बहुत ज्यादा था। उन योजनाओं में मकान से जुड़ी हर चीज का फैसला सरकार, वो भी दिल्‍ली से होता था, करती थी। जिसको उस घर में रहना था, उसकी पूछ ही नहीं थी। अब जैसे शहरों की ही तर्ज पर आदिवासी क्षेत्रों में ही कॉलोनी सिस्टम थोपने की कोशिश होती थी, शहरों जैसे मकान बनाने की ही कोशिश होती थी। जबकि हमारे आदिवासी भाई-बहनों का रहन-सहन शहर के रहन-सहन से बिल्कुल अलग होता है। उनकी जरूरतें अलग होती हैं। इसलिए सरकार के बनाए घरों में उनको वो अपना-पन आता ही नहीं था। इतना ही नहीं, पहले की योजनाओं में पारदर्शिता की भारी कमी थी, कई तरह की गड़बड़ियां भी होती थीं। मैं उनके विस्तार में नहीं जाना चाहता। इसलिए उन घरों की क्वालिटी भी बहुत खराब होती थी। ऊपर से बिजली, पानी जैसी मूल ज़रूरतों के लिए लाभार्थी को सरकारी दफ्तरों के चक्कर अलग से काटने पड़ते थे। इन सबका नतीजा ये होता था कि उन योजनाओं के तहत जो घर बनते भी थे, उनमें जल्दी लोग शिफ्ट ही नहीं होते थे, उनमें गृह प्रवेश ही नहीं हो पाता था।

साथियों, 2014 में हमने जबसे कार्य संभाला इन पुराने अनुभवों का अध्ययन करके, पहले पुरानी योजना में सुधार किया गया और फिर प्रधानमंत्री आवास योजना के रूप में बिल्कुल नई सोच के साथ योजना लागू की गई। इसमें लाभार्थी के चयन से लेकर गृह प्रवेश तक पारदर्शिता को प्राथमिकता दी गई। पहले गरीब सरकार के पीछे दौड़ता था, सिफारिश के लिए ढूंढ़ता था लोगों को, आज हमारी योजना ऐसी है कि अब सरकार लोगों के पास जा रही है। खोजना होता है और सुविधा देना होता है। अब किसी की इच्छा के अनुसार लिस्ट में नाम जोड़ा या घटाया नहीं जा सकता। चयन से लेकर निर्माण तक वैज्ञानिक और पारदर्शी तरीका अपनाया जा रहा है। इतना ही नहीं, मटीरियल से लेकर निर्माण तक, स्थानीय स्तर पर उपलब्ध और उपयोग होने वाले सामानों को भी प्राथमिकता दी जा रही है। घर के डिजायन भी स्थानीय ज़रूरतों और निर्माण शैली के मुताबिक ही तैयार और स्वीकार किए जा रहे हैं। अब पूरी पारदर्शिता के साथ, घर बनाने के हर चरण की पूरी मॉनीटरिंग के साथ लाभार्थी खुद अपना घर बनाता है। जैसे-जैसे घर बनता जाता है, वैसे-वैसे घर की किश्त भी उसके खाते में जमा होती जाती है। अब अगर कोई बेईमानी करने की कोशिश भी करता है तो इसमें पकड़े जाने के लिए अनेक रास्ते भी बनाए गए हैं।

साथियों, प्रधानमंत्री आवास योजना की एक बहुत बड़ी विशेषता है, उसका इंद्रधनुषी स्वरूप। जैसे इंद्रधनुष में अलग-अलग रंग होते हैं वैसे ही प्रधानमंत्री आवास योजना के तहत बनने वाले घरों के भी अपने ही रंग हैं। अब गरीब को सिर्फ घर ही नहीं मिल रहा है, बल्कि घर के साथ-साथ शौचालय भी मिल रहा है, उज्जवला का गैस कनेक्शन भी मिल रहा है, सौभाग्य योजना का बिजली कनेक्शन, उजाला का LED बल्ब, पानी का कनेक्शन, सब कुछ घर के साथ ही मिल रहा है। यानि पीएम आवास योजना के आधार पर ही अनेक योजनाओं का लाभ लाभार्थी को सीधे मिल पा रहा है। मैं शिवराज जी की सरकार को फिर बधाई दूंगा कि उन्होंने इसको विस्तार देते हुए पीएम आवास योजना के साथ 27 योजनाओं को जोड़ा है।

साथियों, प्रधानमंत्री आवास योजना हो या स्वच्छ भारत अभियान के तहत बनने वाले शौचालय हों, इनसे गरीब को सुविधा तो मिल ही रही है, बल्कि ये रोज़गार और सशक्तिकरण का भी ये बड़ा माध्यम हैं। विशेषतौर पर हमारी ग्रामीण बहनों के जीवन को बदलने में भी ये योजनाएं अहम भूमिका निभा रही हैं। पीएम आवास योजना के तहत बन रहे घर की रजिस्ट्री ज्यादातर या तो सिर्फ महिला के नाम पर हो रही है या फिर साझी हो रही है। वहीं आज गांवों में बड़ी मात्रा में रानीमिस्त्री या महिला राजमिस्त्री के लिए काम के नए अवसर बन रहे हैं। अकेले मध्य प्रदेश में ही, 50 हज़ार से ज्यादा राजमिस्त्रियों को प्रशिक्षित किया गया है और इसमें से 9 हज़ार रानीमिस्त्री हैं। इससे हमारी बहनों की आय और आत्मविश्वास, दोनों में बढ़ोतरी हो रही है।

साथियों, जब गरीब की, गांव की आय और आत्मविश्वास बढ़ता है तो आत्मनिर्भर भारत बनाने का हमारा संकल्प भी मज़बूत होता है। इस आत्मविश्वास को मज़बूत करने के लिए गांव में हर प्रकार का आधुनिक इंफ्रास्ट्रक्चर विकसित किया जा रहा है। 2019 के पहले 5 वर्ष शौचालय, गैस, बिजली, सड़क जैसी बेसिक सुविधाओं को गांव तक पहुंचाने का काम किया गया, अब इन मूल सुविधाओं के साथ-साथ आधुनिक सुविधाओं से भी गांवों को मजबूत किया जा रहा है। इसी 15 अगस्त को लाल किले से मैंने कहा था कि आने वाले 1 हज़ार दिनों में देश के करीब 6 लाख गांवों में ऑप्टिकल फाइबर बिछाने का काम पूरा किया जाएगा। पहले देश की ढाई लाख पंचायतों तक फाइबर पहुंचाने का लक्ष्य रखा गया था, अब इसको पंचायत से आगे बढ़ाकर गांव-गांव तक पहुंचाने का संकल्प लिया गया है।

इस कोरोना काल में भी प्रधानमंत्री गरीब कल्याण रोज़गार अभियान के तहत ये काम तेज़ी से चला है। सिर्फ कुछ हफ्तों में ही देश के 116 जिलों में 5 हजार किलोमीटर से ज्यादा का Optical Fibre बिछाया जा चुका है। जिससे साढ़े 12 सौ से ज्यादा ग्राम पंचायतों में करीब 15 हजार Wi-Fi Hot Spot और लगभग 19 हजार ऑप्टिकल फाइबर कनेक्शन दिए गए हैं। यहां मध्य प्रदेश के भी चुने हुए जिलों में 13 सौ किलोमीटर से ज्यादा Optical Fibre बिछाया गया है। और मैं फिर याद दिलाउंगा, ये सारा काम कोरोना काल में ही हुआ है, इस संकट के बीच हुआ है। इतने बड़े संकट के बीच हुआ है। जैसे ही गांव-गांव में ऑप्टिकल फाइबर पहुंचेगा तो इससे नेटवर्क की समस्या भी कम हो जाएगी। जब गांव में भी जगह-जगह बेहतर और तेज़ इंटरनेट आएगा, जगह-जगह वाई-फाई  Hotspot बनेंगे, तो गांव के बच्चों को पढ़ाई और युवाओं को कमाई के बेहतर अवसर मिलेंगे। यानि गांव अब वाई-फाई के ही Hotspot से नहीं जुड़ेंगे, बल्कि आधुनिक गतिविधियों के, व्यापार-कारोबार के भी Hotspot बनेंगे।

साथियों, आज सरकार की हर सेवा, हर सुविधा ऑनलाइन की गई है ताकि लाभ भी तेज़ी से मिले, करप्शन भी ना हो और गांव के लोगों को छोटे-छोटे काम के लिए भी शहर की तरफ ना भागना पड़े। मुझे विश्वास है कि गांव-गांव ऑप्टिकल फाइबर पहुंचने से इन सेवाओं और सुविधाओं में भी और तेज़ी आएगी। अब जब आप अपने नए घरों में रहेंगे तो डिजिटल भारत अभियान, आपका जीवन और आसान बनाएगा। गांव और गरीब को सशक्त करने का ये अभियान अब और तेज़ होगा, इसी विश्वास के साथ आप सभी साथियों को अपने खुद के पक्‍के घर के लिए फिर से अऩंत शुभकामनाएं। लेकिन याद रखिए, और ये बात मैं बार-बार कहता हूं, जरूर याद रखिए, मुझे विश्‍वास है आप याद रखेंगे। इतना ही नहीं मेरी बात मानेंगे भी, देखिए जब तक दवाई नहीं, तब तक ढिलाई नहींयाद रहेगा। दो गज़ की दूरी, मास्क है ज़रूरी, इस मंत्र को भूलना नहीं है। आपका स्वास्थ्य उत्तम रहे!

इसी कामना के साथ आपका बहुत-बहुत धन्यवाद! और सबको बहुत-बहुत शुभकामनाएं!

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the ‘Grih Pravesham’ event in Madhya Pradesh through video conferencing, where 1.75 Lakh Families were delivered pucca houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana- Grameen (PMAY-G)

Shri Narendra Modi also interacted with the beneficiaries under PMAY-G in Madhya Pradesh.

The Prime Minister said that the 1.75 Lakh beneficiary families who are moving into their new houses today have got their dream home and also a confidence about the future of their children. He said that the beneficiaries who got homes today have joined the ranks of the 2.25 crore families who have got their own house in the last 6 years and will now be living in their own house rather than living in a rented house or a slum or a kutcha house. He wished the beneficiaries Diwali and said that he would have been amongst them personally to share their joy if not for the Corona.

The Prime Minister said that today is not only a memorable moment in the lives of 1.75 lakh poor families, but it is also a major step to give pucca house to every homeless person in the country. He said while this strengthens the hope of the homeless in the country this also proves how Government scheme launched with right strategy and intention reach the targeted beneficiaries.

The Prime Minister said that notwithstanding the challenges during the Corona period, work of 18 lakh houses has been completed throughout the country under the Prime Minister Awas Yojana-Gramin and among that 1.75 lakh houses completed in Madhya Pradesh itself. He said that on an average, building a house under PMAY-G takes about 125 days but during this period of Corona, it was completed in just about 45 to 60 days which is a record in itself. He said this was made possible owing to the migrants returning from cities to their villages. The Prime Minister said this is a great example of turning a challenge into an opportunity.  He said that these migrant labour took care of their families by taking full advantage of the Prime Minister Garib Kalyan Rozgar Abhiyan and at the same time worked to build homes for their poor brethren.

The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction that in many states of the country including Madhya Pradesh projects worth about Rs 23 thousand crores have been completed under PM Garib Kalyan Abhiyan. He said under this scheme, homes are being built for the poor in every village, works are being undertaken to provide water supply to every house, buildings are built for anganwadis and panchayats, along with cow sheds, ponds, wells etc.

He said that this has led to two benefits. One is millions of migrant labourers who returned back to their villages from the cities have got meaningful employment. And second – goods related to construction like Brick, Cement, Sand, etc. have been sold. He said that in a way Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan emerged as a big support for the village economy in this difficult time.

The Prime Minister said that various schemes were launched in the country for decades to build homes for the poor. But the goal of giving a dignified life, giving home to the crores of poor, could never be achieved. This is because there was too much interference of the government, lack of transparency and no consultation whatsoever with the actual beneficiary. He added that lack of transparency in earlier plans led to the poor quality of those houses.

Shri Narendra Modi said that in 2014, the scheme was modified after analysing tthe past experiences and it was launched as Prime Minister Awas Yojana with a new strategy. The entire procedure, right from selection of beneficiary till handing over the houses, was made transparent. He said earlier the poor had to run after the government, now the government is reaching the people. He said that scientific and transparent methods are being adopted from selection to manufacture. Not only this, priority is also given to locally available and used goods, from materials to construction. He said the designs of the house are also being prepared according to the local needs and style.

The Prime Minister said there is complete monitoring of each phase of the house construction. Various installments of money are released after completion of each stage.  

He added that the poor are not only getting a house, they are also  getting toilets, Ujjwala Gas connection, Sowbaghya Yojana, Power connection, LED bulb and Water connection also along with it. He said that schemes like PM Awas Yojana, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan are playing an important role in changing the lives of rural sisters. Prime Minister said about 27 welfare schemes of the Central Government are linked to the PM Awas Yojana.

The Prime Minister said that the houses built under the PM Awas Yojana are mostly registered in the name of the woman or registered jointly alongwith the woman of the household. New work opportunities are being created for and at the same time, a large number of lady masons are used for the construction. He said that in Madhya Pradesh alone more than 50 thousand masons have been trained out of there are 9,000 lady masons. When the income of the poor increases, their confidence grows. So the resolve to build a self-reliant India is also strengthened. To strengthen this confidence, the Prime Minister said that modern infrastructure is being developed in every village since 2014.

The Prime Minister recalled his promise made on the 15th August 2020, from the Ramparts of the Red Fort, on laying optical fiber cable in around 6 thousand villages in the next  1000 days. He said that even in this corona period, under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan, this work has progressed rapidly. He said that in just a few weeks more than 5000 kilometers of optical fiber has been laid in 116 districts. He said more than 1250 Gram panchayats are connected with about 19 thousand Optical fiber connections and about 15 thousand Wi-Fi HotSpot are provided. He said that when better and faster internet comes to villages, the children of the village will get better opportunities for education and the youth will get better business opportunities. He said that today every service of the government has been made online so that the benefits are also fast, there is no corruption and the villagers do not have to rush to the city for even small work. He said that to empower the village and the poor this campaign will be faster now, with the same confidence.

The Government has embarked upon a transformational programme of implementing international standards of emission and safety measures in the transport vehicles. As such government is moving on the path of a long-term regulatory road map for the automobile industry to grow and increase its contribution to GDP.  There are plans to bring Indian automotive industry at par with developed nations in such regulations.

The Indian automotive industry has kept pace with these changes and in recent years has undergone a number of changes in the domain of passenger safety, emission control and connected technology. One such highlight is leapfrogging from BS-IV to BS-VI emission norms and hence achieving parity with Euro emission norms. These changes have also brought this industry at par with Europe, Japan and the US. Further, the much-needed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) have been well received as a positive step by the government.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has already notified a number of regulations for upgrading emission and safety features in Indian automobiles. These include the draft notifications for anti-lock braking systems, airbags, speed alert systems, reverse parking assist, crash standards, etc.

The Ministry is in the process of finalization of implementation of standards for electronic stability control systems (ESC) and brake assist systems for relevant categories by next two years. The notification of ESC for buses has been issued last year. Draft notification has also been issued for electronic stability control systems for buses, which is likely to be brought into force by April 2023.We are contemplating higher level of safety for all categories of vehicles.

The Ministry has identified certain priority areas for international standardisation in this field. These include the tyre pressure monitoring system, if fitted for certain categories of vehicles, which is likely to come into force by October this year. The standards for vehicle dimensions and safety of construction equipment vehicles have been notified. Similarly, notifications have already been issued for side stands, foot rests and external projections of 2-wheelers. These will come into force soon.

The bookings for daily flights will start by end of September from Darbhanga to Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, said Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, MoS, I/C, Civil Aviation. After reviewing the groundwork of Darbhanga airport in Bihar, he informed that the flight operations will begin in the first week of November, before the auspicious festival of Chhath Puja. He further said that this a boon for 22 districts of North Bihar.

                  Civil Aviation Minister reviewed the progress and construction status of the Darbanga airport along with Shri Gopal Jee Thakur, MP, Darbhanga, Shri Ashok Yadav, MP, Madhubani, Shri Pradeep Singh Kharola, Secretary, MoCA Shri Arvind Singh, Chairman AAI and other officials.

               Expressing satisfaction over the progress of work of Darbhanga airport, Shri Puri said that most of the work at the airport is almost complete. He added that arrival and departure halls, check-in facility, conveyor belt etc have already been installed and remaining work will be completed before end October. Spicejet has already been awarded this route under RCS-UDAN.

The Union Health Ministry in collaboration with FICCI and AIIMS, New Delhi, organized a virtual conclave for private hospitals providing COVID-19 treatment in the country. This provided a platform for discussion of clinical protocols and best practices in COVID-19 management towards reducing avoidable deaths.

While COVID-19 has posed unprecedented challenges to the country’s healthcare systems, there have been proactive responses from the government as well as the private industry. The Conclave was organised to share the best practices and effective treatment modules being implemented by the public and private sector hospitals in the country. The Ministry also encouraged the hospital representatives to share their key concerns and challenges being faced while managing COVID-19 in their facilities.

Union Health Secretary inaugurated the virtual conference. He reiterated the resolve of the Government to ensure that patient of COVID-19 must not be denied beds and must be provided prompt treatment. The collective goal must be to have a health system that available, affordable and accessible to all. He highlighted that the aim of the Centre along with the State/ UT governments is to achieve a mortality rate of less than 1%.

The best practices included discussion of the tele-consultation sessions conducted by AIIMS, New Delhi through the e-ICU, Centers of Excellence (CoE) and Clinical Grand Rounds to enhance the clinical management capacities of the ICU doctors in various States/UTs. This, supplemented by various other focussed strategies of containment, prevention, early identification, has resulted in higher recoveries and steadily declining mortality.

During the meeting, the importance of timely treatment of comorbid patients to reduce fatality was stressed upon. Hospitals were encouraged to protect healthcare workers by adopting all practices on infection prevention and control and keep the staff motivated. Hospitals were also asked to ensure seamless admission of patients. The importance of evidence-based treatment protocols and reducing heterogeneity in treatment to COVID-19 patients was also underscored.

Senior doctors from private sector hospitals also shared their experiences and challenges about their battle against COVID-19. Several best practices were shared by the private hospitals, including regular monitoring of key metrics at the facility level and leveraging technology to support hospital staff in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Concerns around delayed referral of patients from smaller facilities and financial stress owing to lack of health insurance were also discussed.  The Conclave was attended by more than 150 hospital representatives, senior doctors and clinicians from across the country.

Prof BalramBhargava, Director General, ICMR, Dr Randeep Guleria, Director, AIIMS, Shri Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, MoHFW, Dr Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI and JMD, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises,Dr Alok Roy, Chair, FICCI Health Services Committee and Chairman, Medica Group of Hospitals were also present.

The 2-days Orientation and Training programme on iRAD App was conducted by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways on 7th & 8th September 2020 for the selected districts of Karnataka, and on 10th & 11th September 2020 for some districts of Uttar Pradesh. Based on the feedback and other suggestions received, the App will be customised for the State.

The basic iRAD app has been developed and will be customized/integrated as per the requirements of concerned States/UTs. Mobile app of iRAD is available for Android platform, and for other platforms like iOS will be available shortly.

The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways is in the process of implementing ‘Integrated Road Accident Database Project (iRAD)’ which will be applicable across the country. In the first instance, it has been decided to implement the proposal in six States, viz. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The development and implementation of iRAD has been entrusted to lIT Madras and National Informatics Centre Services Inc. The App when developed and functional, will enable the stakeholders such as the Police, Transport, Health, etc to use their mobile phones to collect accident data on the spot.

This project is proposed on IT based system for capturing the spot accident data using mobile app configured for this purpose. This data can then be utilized for various purposes like finding the causes of the accidents and remedial measures to improve the road infrastructure, to record the accidents data for the use of police, health services and other concerned departments.

Shri R. K. Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power, New and Renewable Energy and Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, today inaugurated a host of community focused facilities developed by NTPC in Bihar in the vicinity of NTPC Barh (1320 MW), Nabinagar Power Generation Company Pvt. Ltd. (NPGCL), Nabinagar (660 MW) and Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL), Kanti (610 MW).

Shri Singh inaugurated two Community Centres- Sahari and Sahnaura at Barh, Patna. He also inaugurated 3 km long Meh-Indrapuri Barrage Road at Nabinagar, Aurangabad and the Main Gate Complex of Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL) in Bihar. The construction of these facilities and infrastructure will make the life convenient for the locals, improve access and help save travel time.

While inaugurating the facilities from Patna, Shri R. K. Singh,  Minister informed that in the past 3-4 years, the Power Ministry has invested Rs 11,000 Crore worth of initiatives for electrification in Bihar, which includes substations, transmission and rural electrification projects that we see today. He added that NTPC has given good dividends for every investment made in terms of nation building. “In the past 5 years, cost of coal and railway freight increased by 40%, but due to efficiency displayed by NTPC, they were able to limit power price hike by only 12%,” Shri Singh said.

Shri R K Singh further added, “The organisation has given Rs 257.5 Crore, the highest amongst Power PSUs to PM CARES fund. It has given over Rs 12 Crore to AIIMS, Patna. NTPC is diversifying its portfolio into other ways of generating power and we have a vision to transform it into a true multinational company. NTPC was also given the responsibility for electrification for the rural areas in Odisha, which they completed well before the deadline.”

The construction of these facilities and infrastructure inaugurated today will make the life convenient for the locals, improve access and help save travel time.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, MP-Aurangabad, Shri Gyanendra Kumar Singh, MLA-Barh, Shri Ashok Kumar Choudhary, MLA-Kanti, Shri Virendra Kumar Singh, MLA-Nabinagar along with Shri Gurdeep Singh, CMD, NTPC, senior officials of Ministry of Power, NTPC and Administration of Bihar.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sushil Kumar Singh MP, Aurangabad said “I would like to extend my gratitude to NTPC for its CSR and power generation efforts. Today, electricity is not a luxury but a necessity. Even healthcare treatment is highly dependent of electricity. We are proud to learn that Bihar will soon be generating 10,000 MW of electricity.”

Shri Gyanendra Kumar Singh, MLA, Barh said, “It is a proud moment for us that two beautiful community buildings are being constructed by NTPC which will contribute to the development of the area. Under the guidance of Power Minister, today our region has 24 by 7 electricity.”

Shri Virendra Kumar Singh, MLA, Nabinagar said, “These CSR initiatives of NTPC is a reflection of Government’s vision for Bihar. This road is important step towards national development as this road will make commuting to Patna highly convenient.”

Shri Ashok Kumar Choudhary, MLA, Kanti said, “The construction of the multifunctional Main Gate Complex at NTPC Kanti has been a cause for immense delight in the people here. This has boosted the prestige of Kanti area in East Bihar.”

Shri Gurdeep Singh, CMD NTPC said on the occasion, “Under the inspirational guidance of Shri R K Singh ji, the growth of NTPC has played an instrumental role in the development of Bihar. Out of its total installed capacity of 62910 MW, NTPC presently has 6150 MW in Bihar. In addition, 3800 MW capacity is in pipeline. We are also committed to undertake various CSR initiatives for the development of Bihar, it is for such crucial initiatives for which we have gathered here.”

Under CSR Initiative, NTPC Barh has constructed two community buildings for Rs 62 lakhs to support 13,500 villagers in adjoining villages.

During the inauguration ceremony, films on Community Centre at Sahnaura and Sahari (Barh), Renovation work on Meh-Indrapuri Barrage Road (Nabinagar), Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL) Main Gate Complex (Kanti) was shown to stakeholders present on the occasion.

With a total installed capacity of 62.9 GW, NTPC Group has 70 Power stations comprising of 24 Coal, 7 combined cycle Gas/Liquid Fuel, 1 Hydro, 13 Renewables along with 25 Subsidiary & JV Power Stations. The group has over 20 GW of capacity under construction, of which 5GW comprises of renewable energy.

Shri R. K. Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power, New and Renewable Energy and Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, today inaugurated a host of community focused facilities developed by NTPC in Bihar in the vicinity of NTPC Barh (1320 MW), Nabinagar Power Generation Company Pvt. Ltd. (NPGCL), Nabinagar (660 MW) and Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL), Kanti (610 MW).

Shri Singh inaugurated two Community Centres- Sahari and Sahnaura at Barh, Patna. He also inaugurated 3 km long Meh-Indrapuri Barrage Road at Nabinagar, Aurangabad and the Main Gate Complex of Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL) in Bihar. The construction of these facilities and infrastructure will make the life convenient for the locals, improve access and help save travel time.

While inaugurating the facilities from Patna, Shri R. K. Singh,  Minister informed that in the past 3-4 years, the Power Ministry has invested Rs 11,000 Crore worth of initiatives for electrification in Bihar, which includes substations, transmission and rural electrification projects that we see today. He added that NTPC has given good dividends for every investment made in terms of nation building. “In the past 5 years, cost of coal and railway freight increased by 40%, but due to efficiency displayed by NTPC, they were able to limit power price hike by only 12%,” Shri Singh said.

Shri R K Singh further added, “The organisation has given Rs 257.5 Crore, the highest amongst Power PSUs to PM CARES fund. It has given over Rs 12 Crore to AIIMS, Patna. NTPC is diversifying its portfolio into other ways of generating power and we have a vision to transform it into a true multinational company. NTPC was also given the responsibility for electrification for the rural areas in Odisha, which they completed well before the deadline.”

The construction of these facilities and infrastructure inaugurated today will make the life convenient for the locals, improve access and help save travel time.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, MP-Aurangabad, Shri Gyanendra Kumar Singh, MLA-Barh, Shri Ashok Kumar Choudhary, MLA-Kanti, Shri Virendra Kumar Singh, MLA-Nabinagar along with Shri Gurdeep Singh, CMD, NTPC, senior officials of Ministry of Power, NTPC and Administration of Bihar.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sushil Kumar Singh MP, Aurangabad said “I would like to extend my gratitude to NTPC for its CSR and power generation efforts. Today, electricity is not a luxury but a necessity. Even healthcare treatment is highly dependent of electricity. We are proud to learn that Bihar will soon be generating 10,000 MW of electricity.”

Shri Gyanendra Kumar Singh, MLA, Barh said, “It is a proud moment for us that two beautiful community buildings are being constructed by NTPC which will contribute to the development of the area. Under the guidance of Power Minister, today our region has 24 by 7 electricity.”

Shri Virendra Kumar Singh, MLA, Nabinagar said, “These CSR initiatives of NTPC is a reflection of Government’s vision for Bihar. This road is important step towards national development as this road will make commuting to Patna highly convenient.”

Shri Ashok Kumar Choudhary, MLA, Kanti said, “The construction of the multifunctional Main Gate Complex at NTPC Kanti has been a cause for immense delight in the people here. This has boosted the prestige of Kanti area in East Bihar.”

Shri Gurdeep Singh, CMD NTPC said on the occasion, “Under the inspirational guidance of Shri R K Singh ji, the growth of NTPC has played an instrumental role in the development of Bihar. Out of its total installed capacity of 62910 MW, NTPC presently has 6150 MW in Bihar. In addition, 3800 MW capacity is in pipeline. We are also committed to undertake various CSR initiatives for the development of Bihar, it is for such crucial initiatives for which we have gathered here.”

Under CSR Initiative, NTPC Barh has constructed two community buildings for Rs 62 lakhs to support 13,500 villagers in adjoining villages.

During the inauguration ceremony, films on Community Centre at Sahnaura and Sahari (Barh), Renovation work on Meh-Indrapuri Barrage Road (Nabinagar), Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL) Main Gate Complex (Kanti) was shown to stakeholders present on the occasion.

With a total installed capacity of 62.9 GW, NTPC Group has 70 Power stations comprising of 24 Coal, 7 combined cycle Gas/Liquid Fuel, 1 Hydro, 13 Renewables along with 25 Subsidiary & JV Power Stations. The group has over 20 GW of capacity under construction, of which 5GW comprises of renewable energy.

Veteran Actor Paresh Rawal has been appointed as Chairman of National School of Drama Society by President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind. Union Minister of State for Culture & Tourism Shri Prahlad Singh Patel congratulated Shri Paresh Rawal and said that his talent will benefit the students and artists of the country.

Mr. Paresh Rawal has been appointed to the post of Chairman, NSD Society for four years. Mr. Rawal is an actor par excellence in both Theatre and Film. Its been almost four decades of him serving the film and theatre industry for which he has won numerous awards, including the prestigious National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1994. In 2014, he was conferred with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India, for his contribution to the entertainment industry. He also served as a former member of Parliament.

Commenting on the appointment Vice Chairman, National School of Drama Society Dr. Shri Arjun Deo Charan said “We are really happy with the decision of the government to appoint Paresh ji for this position. Our students, faculty members and others will get benefit to work with the veteran actor. National School of Drama will be immensely benefited by his long experience in the field.”.

Prof. Suresh Sharma, Director In charge, National School of Drama said “It is our pleasure to welcome Mr. Paresh Rawal as the next Chairman of National School of Drama Society. Being a veteran theatre personality Paresh ji has a great experience, which will benefit our students, faculty and school and we will get a new direction from his experiences.His support and guidance will further accelerate the growth of National School of Drama to reach new heights.”

The Staff members of National School of Drama are delighted to have an extra ordinary actor and a fantastic human being as their Chairman. The whole NSD family is eagerly waiting to welcome him on the campus and share the vision to work with more determination and dedication for the growth of the Institution which has been playing a pioneering role for Indian culture to make India a Vishwa Guru.

Brief introduction of National School of Drama (NSD):

Established in 1959, the National School of Drama is an autonomous organization, fully financed by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. One of the foremost theatre training institutions in the world, NSD had it’s inception under the aegis of the Sangeet Natak Akademi and became an independent entity in 1975. It offers a 3-year, full-time, residential training program in various aspects of theatre. The enviable list of alumni and faculty members have ensured that the institution remains at the helm of performing arts – several theatre practitioners who passed from the prestigious institution, including playwrights, actors, directors, set and light designers and music directors, have enriched the Indian theatre and continue to do so. Apart from theatre, the artistic manifestations of NSD alumni have often left an indelible mark in other media as well. There are two performing wings of NSD – the Repertory Company and Theatre-in Education Company (TiE) that started in 1964 and 1989, respectively. Along with NSD, New Delhi four centres have been established at Varanasi, Gangtok, Agartala and Bengaluruunder consolidation of outreach programme.

Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Dr. P.K. Mishra today chaired a high level review meeting to comprehensively review the COVID-19 preparedness and response.  The meeting focused on evidence based learning on management of cases across the Districts and States.  The meeting also discussed the stage of vaccine development and vaccine distribution plan.  The need for District Health Action Plans for long term management of various aspects of COVID was also discussed at the meeting.

The meeting was attended by the Cabinet Secretary, Member, NITI Aayog Dr. Vinod Paul, Principal Scientific Adviser and all concerned Empowered Action Group Convenors and Secretaries of concerned Departments.  It was noted with satisfaction that all Empowered Groups have worked very hard to achieve benchmarks in COVID management.  Principal Secretary to Prime Minister directed all concerned for an evidence based preparedness of all aspects of COVID-19 with active participation of Districts and States for effectiveness.

A presentation on the COVID status in India, ongoing strategic interventions and future challenges was given by Secretary Health. The presentation highlighted the status of States in terms of case trajectory, testing conducted, fatality & sample positivity duly also mentioning the districts of concern. The Secretary Health also discussed about the eVIN Platform focusing on the vaccine supply chain, beneficiary enrolment system and the delivery system once the vaccine is available.

Member, NITI Aayog made a detailed presentation on projections of cases based on various models. He also explained the ongoing efforts by the National Expert Group on vaccine administration for COVID-19. The overall landscape on vaccine research (both global and in India) was briefed.

Based on the many projections scenarios, the Principal Secretary directed all concerned to build on the knowledge and analysis that has been developed over the last few months to work out the Detailed Action Plan for the coming months.  The need for continuously upgrading and augmenting human resources, getting the right mix of testing for effective case management, contact tracing and isolation, uninterrupted oxygen supply and other medical equipments, were all discussed at length. Integration of AYUSH for prophylaxis and mitigation of syndrome was also discussed. The need for Psycho Social Care Facilities, Effective Behaviour Change communication system, strong district public health teams for surveillance, a data team, effective supply chain, livelihoods and social protection was also discussed.

The Principal Secretary to Prime Minister emphasized the need for continuous caution and prevention by maintaining two meter distance, use of mask and hand wash.  The care of elderly and the need to strictly follow the norms of physical distance and preventive measures was re-emphasized.  The concerted behaviour change campaign will again be taken up to re-emphasize that unlocking does not mean lowering our guard against infection.  The need to unlock, work and still follow the non-pharmacological preventive measures was strongly recommended.

A virtual meeting of G-20 Agriculture and Water Ministers held today was attended by G-20 Member countries and special invitees. Minister of Jal Shakti Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Minister of State (MoS) for Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare Shri Parshottam Rupala attended the meeting. In his opening remarks Shri Shekhawat thanked Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the current Presidency of G-20 and complemented Saudi Arabia for its exemplary leadership during this Covid-19 pandemic for successfully facilitating the dialogue among the member countries through virtual meetings. The Minister stated that technology plays a critical role in the prevailing pandemic situation and applauded India’s IT expertise which India shares with the whole world. He also praised Japan for its leadership during previous presidency and extended best wishes to Italy for the next presidency.

During the Saudi presidency G-20 discussion held on sustainable and resilient water management, thereby optimizing the impacts of water related activities in G-20 forum through collaboration, knowledge sharing on different aspects of water.  In the last 10 months, number of meetings have been held among member countries to bring synergy and prepare roadmap for holistic water management. As a part of this dialogue, a 3-days meeting was organized by Saudi presidency during 10-12 September, 2020. Deputy Ministers, in-charge of water and agriculture, deliberated issues related to water and agriculture on 10^thand 11^thSeptember, 2020 and the Ministers of Agriculture and Water met on 12^th September, 2020 to share their views.

TheMinister of Jal Shakti reiterated that India believes in the concept of ‘Universal brotherhood & Collective wisdom’ and will continue to play an active role in collaborative groups such as G-20. The Minister assured the Forum of India’s commitment to work tirelessly to contribute to the objectives, goals and targets set by G-20.  The Minister appreciated G-20 and Saudi Presidency for emphasis given on water by initiating a separate dialogue on various aspects of water resources management.

Stating that agriculture is a high priority sector for Government of India, MoS, Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, Shri Rupala mentioned about the policy measures taken by the government to ensure food security. He also reiterated India’s resolve to work together in collaboration to enhance the productivity, sustainable use of natural resources, development of agriculture value chain and promotion of trade for the benefit of people. He also informed about successful protocols developed by India to use drones for spraying of pesticides for timely control of the dessert locust, thereby appealing G-20 member countries to work in tandem to come up with an action plan for trans-boundary pest and diseases to safeguard agricultural crops. It was also emphasized about the progressive reforms and measures taken up by government of India to open up new agricultural market options, development of agricultural infrastructure, food processing enterprises, value chains and logistics for fisheries and animal husbandry, medicinal and herbal plants. Shri Rupala also appealed G-20 member countries to share knowledge and best practices to reduce the ill-effects of climate change that could affect agriculture and livelihoods of farmers.

The Minister of Jal Shakti highlighted the leadership and initiatives of Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi to address India’s water and sanitation issues.He informed that Government of India has takenseveral initiatives to improve the quality of life of its 1.37 billion people by implementing a 51 Billion USDollar programme, ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’ to provide household tap connections to 190 million rural homes, thereby ensuring drinking water security. Mentioning about Open Defecation Free India,it was informed about the efforts to sustain the gains of Swachh Bharat Mission, with more focus on solid and liquid waste management and grey water treatment and reuse.

India welcomed the new initiative of Saudi Presidency of sharing successful case studies/ best practices in water sector of G-20 member countries. The Minister offered toshare India’sexperience on irrigation development and optimal use of water resources to achieve food security.

India will be part of G-20 Troika from December, 2020 and host G-20 Presidency from December, 2021 to November, 2022 when India celebratesits 75 years of Independence, which will be anexcellent opportunity forG-20 member countries to explore the cultural heritage and various aspects of the world’s largest democracy and ancient civilization. 

Thanking Saudi Presidency and G-20 member countrieson behalf of the Government of India, Shri Shekhawat expressed hope that various aspects of water will assume primacy in future G-20 dialogues, paving way for food security and integrated water resource management.

It has passed a quite long time, since we talked about the way we used receive and deliver care in the era of pre-COVID-19. We use to move around freely and deliver care to the patients with intimacy. But thanks to COVID-19, for this technological health care.

Technology-centric healthcare

We have used many new technologies like telemedicine, but it was hardly implemented. But the sad reality is until and unless there is a pandemic hit, we do not adopt things.

Our normal life has been hampered in some or the other way. Now-a-days we are seeking for quick adaptation of digital healthcare technologies to stop or limit the spread of the virus. Once we come to place where we are no longer focusing on fighting the virus, the healthcare system will eventually turn a new way in delivering care in post-COVID-19 world. It is going to very different than what we were receiving till this pandemic situation hit.

Why is this moment in healthcare is far different?

The time is very crucial and different. Before we have not seen such sift in healthcare. Doctors were not so quick to adopt the digital heath care and only there were few who use to deliver digital healthcare. For doctors and patients virtual care became the one and only option.

But as we flatter the curve, our normal routine won’t be the same as before. Social distancing we be something which we be used to. Limiting the number of people in enclosed areas will obviously become the normal thing. Sanitizing the rooms will fall into our daily routine.

For the next 2-3 years, we all are going to witness these shifts in healthcare to deal the situation of COVID-19.

All new technical healthcare systems

Technical healthcare systems are gaining a lot of popularity now-a-days. It is changing the way of communicating with doctors and patients. They are adopting the digital method of healthcare to contact with the patients.

Messaging and monitoring

This is first thing that is being adopted by most of the doctors. They are using small practices of messing technology. Adding to this issue, how to provide correct information to high-risk patients, they are also ensuring that all patients had an access to latest information about the virus and its presences in the community.

Digital screening

We are all getting scared for the symptoms of COVID-19 in our daily life. Therefore the providers around the country are quickly adopting the digital tools and allowing them to do a pre-screening of the patients who are visiting the hospitals and doctors.

If any patient is found to be positive with this \virus, they are instructed to follow up with the safety steps. This will reduce the risk of exposing them to other patients.

Zero contact check-in

Over the past few months , there is a limitation to us, that we must maintain a certain distance from others. There must be a social distance.

As we move forward to re-opening of offices, institutions, there will be implementation of zero-contact check-in. The patients can check in virtually and can wait for their own turns until the doctor is ready to check them.

This technology is effective because there will be less chances of getting affected with this virus.

Curb side care

Tests like vaccinations, testings, blood pressure tests can be done anywhere like cars and patients do not have to doctors and wait in the waiting rooms for long.

Technology is the best and is the only way to provide seamless and essential healthcare services to patients during COVID-19. There will many methods changing for the good.

Healthcare providers are in the business of making people healthier and delivering care. This pandemic situation actually tried its best to keep healthcare providers from doing this.

Hope you all enjoyed reading this article. Do not forget to stay connected with us for more updates. Till then goodbye. Stay safe. Have a nice day