Day: October 20, 2022

Mission LiFE unites the people of the earth as Pro Planet People

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), in the presence of the UN Secretary General António Guterres, at the Statue of Unity, Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. First proposed by the Prime Minister at COP 26, Mission LiFE is envisioned as an India-led global mass movement that will nudge individual and collective action to protect and preserve the environment.

The Prime Minister and UNSG unveiled the LiFE logo and tagline, and released the Mission Document at the event. Union Minister of External Affair Dr S. Jaishankar and Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel were also present at the event.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of unity in the fight against climate change. He pointed towards the prevailing notion that climate change is an issue related only to policy and highlighted that climate change goes beyond only government responsibility and needs contributions from individual, families and communities.

The Prime Minister underlined that Mission LiFE makes the fight against climate change democratic, in which everyone can contribute with their respective capacities.

The Prime Minister elaborated that Mission LiFE emboldens the spirit of the P3 model, i.e. Pro Planet People. It functions on the basic principles of ‘Lifestyle of the planet, for the planet and by the planet’.

He also threw light on the concept of ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’ and circular economy and mentioned that it has been a part of the Indian lifestyle for thousands of years.

The Prime Minister noted that whenever India and the United Nations have worked together, new ways of making the world a better place have been found. He said, “India had proposed the International Day of Yoga, which was supported by the UN. Today it is inspiring millions of people around the world to lead a healthy life.” Giving the example of the International Year of Millets, the Prime Minister said that the International Year of Millets will be observed in 2023 and will become a global conversation. He added, “Mission LiFE can be successful only when it reaches every corner of the world. We have to remember this mantra—Prakriti Rakshati Rakshita—that is, those who protect nature, nature protects them. I believe we will build a better world by following Mission LiFE,” the PM concluded.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that in these perilous times for our planet, we need everyone’s support. “The LiFE initiative is designed to highlight essential and hopeful truths. All of us, individuals and communities, can and must be part of the solution of protecting our planet and our collective futures. After all, over-consumption is at the root of the triple planet emergency of climate, change, biodiversity loss and pollution,” he said. “I am immensely encouraged by the commitment that India has made to pursue environmentally sound policies and I look forward to working with India in driving this agenda forward,” he added.

France President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Mary Truss, Guyana President Irfan Ali, Argentina President Alberto Fernandez, Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina, Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadure Deuba, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Georgia Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and Estonia Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and others have extended support to the movement.

 

 

As many as 500 people participated in the event, including 116 Indian Heads of Missions abroad, UN Heads of Agencies in India, Union Minister of External Affairs, the Chief Minister of Gujarat, senior government officials, development partners, and others.

NITI Aayog and MoEFCC, in collaboration with Government of Gujarat, organized the global launch of Mission LiFE. 

NITI Aayog will curate and incubate Mission LiFE in the first year, and it will subsequently be implemented by MoEFCC. The mission is a 5-year programme.

About LiFE

The concept of LiFE was introduced by the Prime Minister at COP26 at Glasgow on 1 November 2021. On 5 June 2022, on World Environment Day, India furthered the vision of LiFE by launching the LiFE Global Movement, inviting academicians, researchers and start-ups across the world to think about specific and scientific ways in which the full potential of collective action can be harnessed to address the environment crisis. The movement received record support from global leaders.

Mission LiFE will action the ideas and ideals of LiFE through a mission-mode, scientific and measurable programme and demonstrate India’s commitment to walk the talk on climate change.

Mission LiFE is designed with the objective to mobilise at least one billion Indians and other global citizens to take individual and collective action for protecting and preserving the environment in the period 2022 to 2027. Within India, at least 80% of all villages and urban local bodies are aimed to become environment-friendly by 2028.

Watch the full event here: https://pmindiawebcast.nic.in

Read the full speech of the PM here: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1869466

Read the Mission document here: https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-10/Brochure-10-pages-op-2-print-file-20102022.pdf

 

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Congratulatory Messages on the Launch of Mission LiFE from Heads of States/Governments

 Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today launched Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), in the presence of the UN Secretary General António Guterres, at the Statue of Unity, Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. First proposed by the Prime Minister at COP 26, Mission LiFE is envisioned as an India-led global mass movement that will nudge individual and collective action to protect and preserve the environment.

As many as 10 heads of states, including France President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Mary Truss, Guyana President Irfan Ali, Argentina President Alberto Fernandez, Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina, Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadure Deuba, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Georgia Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and Estonia Prime Minister Kaja Kallas extended support to the LiFE movement.

Argentina:
Mr. Alberto Fernandez, President of Argentina

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen,

I am here in Buenos Aires but I didn’t want to be absent from this meeting convened by PM Modi. The world is experiencing unusual times. Times marked not only by a pandemic but also by a profound inequality. An inequality that results in concentration of wealth among a few while hunger spreads among millions of the world’s inhabitants. The world is also suffering from a crisis because of the use and wastage of non-renewable resources, which undoubtedly have detrimental effects upon the environment. It is also true that this concentration and the ongoing war has led to a problem of food security around the world that should draw the attention of all the countries and the international community. We must take a look at how to face this reality and that is why I think this initiative, LiFE, can be very helpful for us to find a way—because one of the ways is to ensure that governments and the civil society achieve the necessary consensus so that we can slowly emerge out of the crisis we are enduring. We must ensure that the world develops, that poverty reduces, that social equality is achieved and in order to accomplish that, we should aim at sustainable, innovative and above all environment-friendly production. Knowing that the leading democracy in the world, India, has undertaken the task of seeking a way out, I feel more at ease. And I would be remiss if my country didn’t join this initiative, this pursuit. Here we are supporting the LiFE initiative, so the objectives of Sustainability for Development 2030 can be made possible by everyone, by each inhabitant of this world.

Thank you

Watch the speech here:

Estonia:
Ms. Kaja Kallas, Prime Minister of Estonia

Dear Friends,

Namaste,

The need for collective response to address climate change and biodiversity loss is stronger than ever. We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi for his leadership, together with the UN Secretary General, in launching Mission LiFE. The power of change lies in working together towards a common goal and engaging all the people and communities on the planet. An excellent example of this is World Cleanup Day. It is an extensive one-day action that started in Estonia and has spread to 191 countries. At COP 27, we will call for even more countries to join us. By the way, India has been very active in World Cleanup Day. Last year, an amazing 1.2 million people took part in this initiative in India. That is impressive, thank you! Russia’s war against Ukraine has triggered global energy crises. This further underlines the need to move towards renewable energy and sustainability. We can achieve even more if we combine the green transition with the digital one. We have digitized the energy network in Estonia and see the potential this has for energy savings as well as innovation. It is time for profound change in our lifestyles; we need to place sustainability front and centre. I am glad that climate action is one of India’s G20 presidential priorities and I wish you successful presidency.

Watch the speech here:

France:
Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of France

I wish I could be with you for this very special moment. The time when our world is subject to increasing geo-political tensions, we have no choice but to choose cooperation over division, for one single reason: No one can address global challenges, and especially climate change, on their own. The LiFE initiative is part of this agenda for stronger cooperation. I want to say a few words to wish you great success in its implementation. At the current pace, the global population will reach 9.6 billion by 2050. The equivalent of almost three planets could be required to provide natural resources needed to sustain current lifestyles. Governments, businesses, people, we must therefore all cooperate in rethinking our models and behaviours. Sustainable consumption is all about doing more—better is less. We are already on that track. The current surge in energy prices is leading many countries in Europe to take the path of sobriety. In France, we will reduce our energy consumption by 10% acting all over the board in transportation, housing, industries and other sectors. We need to meet this challenge together. But this would not be a temporary response before going back to our old ways. What we are talking about is a paradigm shift, because we will not reach Net Zero by 2050 if we don’t act on the demand side and substantially reduce our energy consumption. Beyond the current climate crisis, as the effects of climate change are already unfolding, every citizen should now be aware that it’s no longer possible to use natural resources such as water as if they were inexhaustible. We need to meet this challenge together by promoting ambitious public policies in all sectors, by launching coalitions of the willing. I am pleased, in that regard, that France and India agreed on leading a global initiative on the end of single-use plastic, and by fostering a common partnership between citizens committed to changing their lifestyles and therefore the world. With the LiFE initiative, Prime Minister Modi will give us this opportunity. France looks forward to working with India to make this initiative a success, including in the perspective of the Indian Presidency of the G20 next year. Thank you for this initiative and thank you for your attention and your commitment.

Watch the speech here:

Georgia:
Mr. Irakli Garibashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia

Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Honourable Prime Minister of India,

Dear ladies and gentlemen and dear friends,

I am honoured and pleased to address this distinguish audience at today’s remarkable event and to congratulate India for taking the lead to launch this extraordinary mission in the beautiful city of Kevadia in India. Georgia welcomes and fully supports this global initiative timely introduced by his Excellency Narendra Modi. We promote an environmentally conscious lifestyle that focuses on the principle of mindful and deliberate utilization. In this regard we have taken significant steps to fulfill our international commitments as well as obligations under the EU-Georgia association agreement. To strengthen environment-related governance in the system, Georgia has improved its environmental-assessment systems and introduced more active public-participation mechanisms at the earliest possible stage of the environmental decision-making process. Major reforms have been carried out recently in the ambient air-protection field to improve air quality throughout the country. Georgia is one of the few countries worldwide where national forests are genuinely high-level national priorities, embedded in national policies and strategies. National forests, what Georgia has experienced, have significant increased. [. . .] 40 percent of my country’s territory is covered by forests, therefore, sustainable forest management is an important priority for our Government. We implement sustainable forest management that will support the ecological stability of forest ecosystems, enhance the socio-economic benefits for the public and reduce the pressure on forests. In order to address the negative consequences of climate change, Georgia in accordance with the Paris Agreement has updated its Nationally Determined Contributions’ document. We set a new 2030 climate-change strategy and an action plan for mitigation measures. I am proud to state that our country stays committed to intensive reforms for the better protection of the environment, biodiversity, and national and international climate goals. I strongly believe that together we can achieve a common goal and save our planet.

Thank You.Watch the speech here:

Guyana:
Mr. Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana

Our planet is under threat, where 75% of earth’s land has substantially degraded. [. . .] Collective action is the need to protect our environment. Here in Guyana, we have started—our forest is the size of England, storing 19.5 gigatons of carbon; we have one of the lowest deforestation rates in the world. So we are leading by example and we are building Guyana on a low carbon development strategy 2030. Those not only look at the environmental value of what we have but also look at how we can improve livelihood options, create new livelihood options for forest and communities and help people to become prosperous and at the same time safeguarding our environment. I wish to extend my best wishes to the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, on the launching of the Mission LiFE logo and document, which seek to mobilize one billion Indians to become Pro Planet People by 2027, who will practice simple environment- and climate-friendly behaviours in their daily lives. Congratulations, India, for taking the lead and pioneering this movement. Guyana is committed to protecting and promoting green economic activity through actions that support the Sustainable Development Goals. Simple actions taken every day by citizens across the globe will help to harness the full potential of this collective action. We must do everything within our power, to protect and preserve the environment by making the necessary lifestyle changes. All of us have an individual and collective responsibility, as a family of humanity, to do our part for protecting and safeguarding our environment, so that future generation can enjoy the beauty of world we live in.

Thank You.Watch the speech here:

Madagascar:
Mr. Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar

Your Excellency, Mr. Prime Minister of India, Mr Secretary-General of United Nations,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Climate change and the preservation and protection of environment are subjects that are particularly close to my heart. As I announced at the 77th United Nations General Assembly, the solutions must come from each nation, each leader and each citizen. But above all, the emitting countries must keep their commitments. This requires a common effort from each country to preserve our planet. We all know that forests are often called the “lungs of the planet”. However, the use of charcoal and firewood remains a common practice throughout the African continent in general, and in Madagascar in particular.

In my country, the use of charcoal for cooking impacts the destruction of 1ha of forest per year. This is devastating. This is why we are launching a fight against deforestation with the promotion of “clean cooking” to drastically reducing the use of charcoal. To do this, we will promote the use of bioethanol stoves as an alternative in every home. It is by changing practices and mentalities that we can change things. I am convinced that LiFE could become one of the turning points in our fight against the climate crisis. I thank India, through its Prime Minister, who is an inspiring leader in environmental protection, for bringing us together for this cause. It is with hope and conviction that I join you in this Mission. Together, let’s commit ourselves to sustainable development, for a better world for our children.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is time to transform our speeches into concrete actions! Thank you for your attention.

Watch the speech here:

Maldives:
Mr. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, President of Maldives

Greetings,

One of the greatest breakthroughs we have made in recent years is to recognize that a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is a fundamental human right. [. . .] It is time we unpack the lessons left behind by our ancestors. They taught us that love and respect for our natural heritage are essential for a sustainable future. [. . .] Prime Minister Modi’s Mission LiFE couldn’t have come at a more crucial juncture. The ill effects of the climate crisis come at us with full force. [. . .] This ambitious initiative is a call for action. Let’s not end here. You see the best chances of our survival are in our own hands, together, let’s reflect on our lifestyles and make swift changes towards eco-friendly habits. Simple things in our everyday lives such as choosing to walk more on instead of driving, or planting trees wherever we can, can redress environmental degradation. Individual actions may appear insignificant on their own but when pooled together they have the power to spur transformative effects. [. . .] We will do our part to make sure the health and wealth of our planet survive to benefit tomorrow’s generations.

Watch the speech here:

Mauritius:
Mr. Pravind Jugnauth, Prime Minister of Mauritius

Governments are joining hands with businesses around the world to address environmental issues. However, policy reforms and economic initiatives are not enough to save our planet. Lifestyle changes at the individual level and behavioral changes at the community level are needed to reduce the strain on the environment. I, therefore, strongly support the movement launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to build on good practices at the level of individuals, communities and institutions in order to accelerate the transition to the most sustainable future. If human activities continue at the present pace, by 2050 we will need free planets to sustain our lives. Business is as usual no longer an option. Allow me to end with a quote of Mahatma Gandhi: “The world has enough for everyone’s needs but not for everyone’s greed.”

Watch the speech here:

Nepal:
Mr. Sher Bahadur Deuba, Prime Minister of Nepal

I congratulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for advancing the idea for Lifestyle for Environment. This is a pioneering movement that can help in fighting climate change and achieve SDGs. To build on the idea that positive changes, individual actions and behaviors are the key parts of the climate solutions that world urgently needs, I thank the organizer for giving Nepal an opportunity to express our support for the pioneering movement such as LiFE. And express the need to collectively save our planet, for a better future for our people.

Thank you very much.

Watch the speech here:

UK:
Ms. Elizabeth Truss, Prime Minister of the UK

Last year, the world came together to UK to sign the Glasgow Climate Change Pact. It was a landmark deal—it showed that governments are ready to take decisive action on climate change and we must all keep increasing our ambition. Now the energy crises are showing once again that we need to go further and faster. As democracies, we must work together to secure energy independence and protect our economies. That’s why we are turbo-charging our rush to renewables; we are investing with partners like India to help build vital climate infrastructure. And we are working together to turn our Net-Zero commitments into actions. It’s a real pleasure to join Prime Minister Modi in launching their LiFE initiative today and I commend India’s leadership. This is all about helping people make greener choices and live more sustainable lives. So let’s keep making this long-term choices, let’s keep leading the way and let’s take another big step to move forward together. We shall meet next month with India’s G20 presidency next year.

Watch the speech here:

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Special Campaign 2.0 : Cleanliness campaign for quality disposal through coordination among all offices

 As part of the “Special Campaign 2.0”, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is carrying out various activities across the country – from disposing of pending files to maintaining cleanliness at field offices of MoRTH, NHAI, NHIDCL, IRC and IAHE.

The campaign, launched on 2 October, in line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision, making working places clean and reduce the pendency of MP references, PMO references, Public Grievances, Parliament Assurances etc, in order to provide better services to the people.

 

 

As part of the Campaign, monitoring of disposal of pending MP references, Public Grievances, record management of files etc is being done by MoRTH on a daily basis through a dedicated portal. Efforts are being made for their quality disposal through coordination among different offices.

Accordingly, till 19 October, 347 MP references, 871 Public Grievances have been disposed of while 484 physical files have been weeded out so far. Cleanliness campaigns have been carried out at 2,433 locations, which include toll plazas, Regional Offices & PIU/PMUs of MoRTH/NHAI/NHIDCL.

 

 

As part of the campaign, Union RTH Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari himself inspected the Ministry premises recently and gave necessary instructions to the officials to ensure that the area is clean. He also took a review meeting in this regard. MoS RTH General (Dr) V.K. Singh also held a review meeting to see the progress of the campaign.

Reports have been pouring in from different parts of the country, where officials and workers are seen to be working in tandem to ensure cleanliness at various toll plazas and Way Side Amenities.

 

 

Shri Giridhar Aramane, Secretary, MoRTH while administering Swachhta pledge to the officers and staff of this Ministry, had directed to strictly follow the directions regarding maximum of 4 level of the channel of submission in decision making by Ministry and all its subordinate offices. He advised the officers to maintain absolute integrity and utmost cleanliness in all official dealings to ensure corruption free system.

 

MJPS

“Ease of Living” of Pensioners through Use of Face Authentication Technology for submission of Digital Life Certificates

 

A Milestone development to enhance “Ease of Living” of Pensioners through Use of Face Authentication Technology for submission of Digital Life Certificates

Posted On: 20 OCT 2022 2:54PM by PIB Delhi

With a view to enhance Ease of Living of pensioners, Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Portal (DoPPW), engaged with NIC, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) and UIDAI to develop a Face Authentication technology-based system based on UIDAI Aadhaar software for submission of digital life certificate by the Pensioners/Family Pensioners. As per this facility, the identity of a person will be established through Face Authentication technique and it is possible to submit Life Certificate from any Android based smart phone. Dr. Union Minister of State (IC) Ministry of Science and Technology; Minister of State (IC) Ministry of Earth Science; MoS of Prime Minister’s Office and Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions Dr Jitendra Singh launched this facility on 29.11.2021.

Submission of Digital Life Certificates through face authentication technique is a breakthrough technology which has reduced Pensioners’ dependence on external bio-metric devices and has made the process more accessible and affordable, thus ensuring ease of living for all the Pensioners/Family Pensioners. In addition, by using this digital mode for Life Certificate submission, pensioners can now submit their Life Certificates from the comfort of their homes.

The Department has also started a major campaign under Special Campaign for Disposal of Pending Matters (SCDPM 2.0) in which pensioners aged 80 years and above may submit their Life Certificates from 1st October every year to avoid the rush at banks. All Pensioners’ Associations across the country have been educated in the use of the Face Authentication Technology through online as well as physical trainings imparted by the department from time to time, in a phased manner, so as reach out to all Associations. The Pensioners’ Associations assist pensioners by visiting their homes and holding camps for enabling submission of Life Certificates using the Face Authentication Technology. Recently, Shri V Srinivas, Secretary (DoPPW) visited the office of the NF Railway pensioners’ Association at Guwahati on 14th October, 2022 as part of SCDPM 2.0 where he interacted with pensioners and large number of Digital Life Certificates were generated using Face Authentication Technology.

The department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare is making endeavors to enhance adoption of Face Authentication as best practices in digital innovation under SCDPM 2.0 to enable pensioners to use this technology at a larger scale. 

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Special Swachhta Campaign 2.0

As part of Special Campaign 2.0 being conducted by all the Ministries across Government of India between 2nd October and  31st October, the activities for the Ministry Mines was launched by Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj on 2nd October at Khanij Kaksh where all the organizations under the Ministry joined through V.C. The Ministry has identified 84 site offices throughout India for implementing 116 swachhta campaigns.

During the preparation phase from 15th to 30th September Secretary and Additional Secretary of Mines ministry visited field offices of GSI and IBM to inspect and guide these offices for the Campaign.

NALCO vermicompost

The goal set by the Ministry this year is “giving back to the environment in the form of rainwater harvesting, compost pits, cleaning lakes/ponds and eco-disposal of waste.” As part of best practices the buildings owned by the offices of Ministry of Mines is setting up rainwater harvesting structures. Three sites have been identified for Compost Pit projects.

 

   Innovative idea HCLVermicompost (jharkhand)(1)

 

Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj recently visited GSI Headquarter office in Kolkata and inspected the work being done under Special Campaign 2.0 and instructed the employees to take up the campaign with utmost sincerity to make it a grand success.

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Union Minister of Coal, Mines and Parliamentary Affairs  Shri Pralhad Joshi and Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj visited the site identified by the Ministry for conversion of space into Wellness Café and encouraged the employees for taking full benefits of the same. Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi also visited GSI headquarters in Kolkata and inaugurated the Wellness Cafeteria there under the special campaign 2.0.

GSI CANTEEN INAUGURATION

 

The Ministry utilized the campaign for better record management by identifying pending MP references, references from the State Governments, Inter Ministerial references, Parliamentary Assurances, PMO references, Public Grievance and PG appeals.

While reviewing the works done under special campaign,  Minister  Shri Pralhad Joshi suggested segregation of waste in departmental canteen which is being implemented by the Ministry of Mines. Ministry of Education which is the nodal ministry is also requested to issue similar guidelines for the departmental canteen and they have taken up the matter with all the departmental canteens based in Shastri Bhawan for waste segregation and using the bio waste for making compost pits.

 

                                                    

 

GSITI, Hyderabad also as a best practise started waste segregation in its hostel canteen and using bio waste for making compost. Compost Pit has been created in GSITI, Hyderabad.

Ministry of  Mines in special campaign 1.0 has weeded out around one lakh files. This year as the emphasis is on field offices, through its attached and subordinate offices M/o Mines has kept the target of reviewing 3.32 lakhs files under record management. During the campaign the field offices are removing scrap as old as 20 years from their  offices spread across India.

So far, Ministry of Mines and its field organizations have achieved 90.51% of the cleanliness campaign and generated revenue of Rs. 1,58,40,266/- from scrap disposal. About 92,199 square feet space has been freed through efficient records management. It is expected that the Ministry would achieve 100% of the target set for the Special Swachhta Campaign 2.0 by 31st October, 2022.

 

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Citizen participation in the national campaign for segregation of waste at source

The goal of the ‘Swachh Bharat Mission Urban 2.0’ is to make cities garbage free. One of the key aspects is to segregate waste at source. This key step will help to reduce the amount of waste that goes to legacy dumpsites. Sustainable waste management being one of the critical challenges, the priority is to shift from the current practice of dumping and burning to sustainable waste management practices that promote segregation, collection, recycling and a circular economy. With rapidly changing urban landscapes, ecosystems, population migrations, and ever-increasing households and establishments, it is essential that behaviour change is reinforced from time to time among citizens.

October is the month of festivals and with behaviour change at the centre of the campaign, MoHUA launched thematic activities to propel segregation of waste at source campaign. The core activities involve dissemination of key messages to the citizens through public outreach, door-to-door messaging and engagement with schools.  

Traditionally on Diwali, most households undertake home cleaning. Children as change agents have been long established under Swachh Bharat Mission and are known to impact overall community behaviors. This Diwali the school children can gift swachhta ka uphaar to their family and friends.

 

Urban Local Bodies are being encouraged to organize public outreach activities to garner the attention of the residents to promote the practice of segregation. The core activities include – door-to-door messaging with support from NGOs, SHGs, schools, colleges, youth organizations, RWAs, other civil societies, volunteers, etc demonstrating proper segregation covering all wards. ULBs can arrange separate storage systems to be fitted in the collection vehicles – wet (green), dry (blue) and any means of the collection – partitions, large bags, cane baskets, plastic/metal bins, or others. These core activities will ensure collected segregated waste remains segregated until processing facilities.

The special activities engaging school children have begun and will go on till 30th of October. Selfie points are being created using installations representing pair of bins -green (for wet waste) and blue (for dry waste). ULBs will engage with the public/school children through tongue-twister challenges. Participants can be challenged to repeat quickly ‘Hara Geela Sookha Neela’ as many times as possible. Mobile Vans/trucks can play “Humein Garv Hai” song and promote messages on clean/SUP free Diwali.

To encourage student participation in promoting segregation of waste both at school and at home, some of the activities planned are ‘Bins Out of Waste’ – Students can be encouraged to collect a bin from home and create art out of it at school using different painting media, students can participate in the Toycathon challenge (Register on https://innovateindia.mygov.in/swachh-toycathon/) where they can be asked to bring in 5-6 segregated dry waste items from home and create toys out of waste. To encourage Home to School Connect, students can create two labels each – green for wet waste and blue for dry waste with messages on segregation at source written on them. The finished labels can be taken back home and pasted on their bins meant for wet and dry waste. Students can also create labels for their homes that can be stuck outside their house proclaiming ‘My house segregates waste’. This can serve as an indirect platform to remind and motivate their visiting friends and family to segregate.

In a massive drive, in the first 72 hours more than 10 lakh children have already been engaged. Participating schools can register on the website sbmurban.gov.in. Each school can be awarded a certificate of participation after the activities.

Celebrating eight years of accomplishments of SBM-Urban, the Hon’ble President of India Droupadi Murmu, on 1st Oct 2022, urged the citizens of India to join in the ‘Segregation of waste at Source’ campaign that focuses on reinforcing correct waste segregation practices among the different sections of the society. As a part of the two-week long Swachh Amrit Mahotsav, MoHUA rolled out the national campaign for segregation of waste at source on 2nd October, Gandhi Jayanti.

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KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM

 Union Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan along with MoS, I&B and Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri L. Murugan today announced the “KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM” to be held from 16th Nov to 19th Dec 2022. Shri Dharmendra Pradhan also launched the website for registering for “KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM”.

Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti (BBS) has come up with a proposal to   rediscover, reaffirm and celebrate the age-old links between the Tamil culture and Kashi that has existed since centuries. A month long “Kashi Tamil Sangamam” is to be organized in Varanasi (Kashi)  from 16th November to 19th December,2022  during which academic exchanges – seminars, discussions etc will be held between experts/ scholars on various facets of the two ancient manifestations of Indian Culture, with focus on bringing out the links and shared values between the two.  The broader objective is to bring the two Knowledge and Cultural traditions closer, create and understanding of our shared heritage and deepen the people-to-people bond between the regions.

While addressing the press conference, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said that India is a symbol of civilizational connectivity. The Kashi-Tamil Sangamam shall be an ideal platform to understand the unity in India’s civilizational assets through two historic centres of knowledge & culture. The Sangamam to be organised under the overall framework and spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat” will create a bridge between ancient India and contemporary generation. Kashi Sangamam will rediscover the link between these two ancient centres of knowledge, culture and heritage, he further added.

Shri Pradhan informed that Kashi-Tamil Sangamam will be centred around a series of themes that cover various facets of knowledge – literature, ancient texts, philosophy, spirituality, music, dance, drama, yoga, Ayurveda, handlooms, handicrafts as well as the modern innovations, trade exchanges, edutech and other gen next technology etc. Seminars, discussions, lectures, lec-dems etc will be held on these themes, for which subject experts will be invited. This shall be unique learning experience for students, scholars, academics, practising professionals, etc. on various facets of Indian Knowledge Systems, Education & Training Practices, Arts & Culture, Language, Literature, etc, he added.

 

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To ensure that the benefit of these discussions reaches the actual practitioners of these knowledge streams, it is proposed that in addition to experts, common practitioners from various groups from different parts of Tamil Nadu, can be brought for an 8-day visit of Varanasi and its neighbouring areas. Tentatively, 12 such groups have been identified including students, teachers, literary (authors, poets, publishers), cultural experts, professionals (practicing arts, music, dance, drama, folk art, yoga, Ayurveda), entrepreneurs, (SMEs, start-ups) business people, (community business groups, hoteliers,) artisans, heritage related experts (archaeologists, tour guides, bloggers etc) spiritual, rural, sampradaya organizations. These people will participate in the academic programs, interact with people of Varanasi associated with the same field, and visit places of interest in and around Varanasi.

It is proposed that around 210 people from different parts of Tamil Nadu can be taken in one group for a period of 8 days. 12 such groups, comprising around 2500 people can visit over a month.

At the end of the Sangamam event, people of Tamil Nadu shall get an immersive experience of Kashi and the people of Kashi shall also get to know the cultural richness of Tamil Nadu through a healthy exchange of knowledge sharing experiences – events, visits, conversations, etc.

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“KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM” and launches the website for the registration process

 Union Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan along with MoS, I&B and Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri L. Murugan today announced the “KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM” to be held from 16th Nov to 19th Dec 2022. Shri Dharmendra Pradhan also launched the website for registering for “KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM”.

Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti (BBS) has come up with a proposal to   rediscover, reaffirm and celebrate the age-old links between the Tamil culture and Kashi that has existed since centuries. A month long “Kashi Tamil Sangamam” is to be organized in Varanasi (Kashi)  from 16th November to 19th December,2022  during which academic exchanges – seminars, discussions etc will be held between experts/ scholars on various facets of the two ancient manifestations of Indian Culture, with focus on bringing out the links and shared values between the two.  The broader objective is to bring the two Knowledge and Cultural traditions closer, create and understanding of our shared heritage and deepen the people-to-people bond between the regions.

While addressing the press conference, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said that India is a symbol of civilizational connectivity. The Kashi-Tamil Sangamam shall be an ideal platform to understand the unity in India’s civilizational assets through two historic centres of knowledge & culture. The Sangamam to be organised under the overall framework and spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat” will create a bridge between ancient India and contemporary generation. Kashi Sangamam will rediscover the link between these two ancient centres of knowledge, culture and heritage, he further added.

Shri Pradhan informed that Kashi-Tamil Sangamam will be centred around a series of themes that cover various facets of knowledge – literature, ancient texts, philosophy, spirituality, music, dance, drama, yoga, Ayurveda, handlooms, handicrafts as well as the modern innovations, trade exchanges, edutech and other gen next technology etc. Seminars, discussions, lectures, lec-dems etc will be held on these themes, for which subject experts will be invited. This shall be unique learning experience for students, scholars, academics, practising professionals, etc. on various facets of Indian Knowledge Systems, Education & Training Practices, Arts & Culture, Language, Literature, etc, he added.

 

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To ensure that the benefit of these discussions reaches the actual practitioners of these knowledge streams, it is proposed that in addition to experts, common practitioners from various groups from different parts of Tamil Nadu, can be brought for an 8-day visit of Varanasi and its neighbouring areas. Tentatively, 12 such groups have been identified including students, teachers, literary (authors, poets, publishers), cultural experts, professionals (practicing arts, music, dance, drama, folk art, yoga, Ayurveda), entrepreneurs, (SMEs, start-ups) business people, (community business groups, hoteliers,) artisans, heritage related experts (archaeologists, tour guides, bloggers etc) spiritual, rural, sampradaya organizations. These people will participate in the academic programs, interact with people of Varanasi associated with the same field, and visit places of interest in and around Varanasi.

It is proposed that around 210 people from different parts of Tamil Nadu can be taken in one group for a period of 8 days. 12 such groups, comprising around 2500 people can visit over a month.

At the end of the Sangamam event, people of Tamil Nadu shall get an immersive experience of Kashi and the people of Kashi shall also get to know the cultural richness of Tamil Nadu through a healthy exchange of knowledge sharing experiences – events, visits, conversations, etc.

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rivate sector to take advantage of Government’s policies & contribute to Nation Building by modernising the Armed Forces

 India must set new goals according to the constantly-evolving global scenario and research & development, with active private sector participation, is the way to achieve the preparedness required to deal with future challenges. This was stated by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing a seminar ‘Aatmanirbharta in Defence R&D – Synergistic Approach’ organised by Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) as part of the 12th DefExpo in Gandhinagar, Gujarat on October 20, 2022.

Shri Rajnath Singh listed out a number of policy reforms undertaken by the government to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence crucial for staying ready to deal with future security challenges. He made special mention of the announcement of fourth positive indigenisation list of 101 made by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during the opening ceremony of DefExpo 2022, terming it as a matter of great pride that now over 400 defence items will be procured from domestic vendors.

The Raksha Mantri also spoke about the decision to dedicate one-fourth of the defence R&D budget to industry led R&D, saying that these are just some of the many steps which have laid the foundation of a strong self-reliant defence industry, sufficient to equip the Armed Forces with latest weapons/equipment. He exuded confidence that with the active participation of the private sector, the Armed Forces will be better prepared to deal with security challenges faced by the nation.

“India has embarked on a journey of self-reliance of R&D in defence. Private sector will play a crucial role in taking us to the destination. Both public and the private sectors are the wheels, with which the R&D vehicle will move towards complete self-reliance. With collaborative efforts of the Government and the industry, we will realise the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Make in India, Make for the World’,” Shri Rajnath Singh said.

The Raksha Mantri also highlighted the crucial role played by DRDO in synergising the efforts of the industry, academia and Defence R&D towards fuelling India’s mission of ‘Aatmanirbharta’. He lauded DRDO for contributing towards enhancing the capability of the Armed Forces by developing various futuristic and first-of-its-kind innovations and technologies. He added that the organisation is no longer a sole service provider for defence R&D, but has also become a facilitator for in-house R&D and the private sector.

On the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh felicitated the ‘Dare to Dream 3’ winners and launched the ‘Dare to Dream 4’ contest to encourage innovation through the Indian scientific community. He congratulated the winners of Dare-to-Dream 3 and said that the contest promotes new ideas and innovative thinking in individuals and start-ups.

The Raksha Mantri also presided over the signing of MoUs with academic institutions and Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO), Indian Navy for the formation of DRDO-Industry-Academia – Centres of Excellence (DIA-CoEs).  The academic institutions included IIT Roorkee, IIT Jodhpur, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Kanpur, IIT BHU and Bharatiya University. These centres act as research nodes for the country in identified subjects which are building blocks for futuristic technologies. The MoUs with academic institutions will initiate the work in the focussed areas for advanced research in defence. Long term and short-term research areas will be balanced to address the current needs and lay the foundations for futuristic technologies.

In addition, Rotary Wing Research & Design Centre division of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and M/s Accord Systems and Software were awarded the design organisational approval certificates. Guidelines on the Human Reliability Factors and Human Reliability Assessment was released by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt for the benefit of all the stakeholders of the ecosystem. Two monographs authored by the former scientists of DRDO were also released by the Raksha Rajya Mantri. Design Organisation Approval Scheme certificates were also handed over to the industries on the occasion.

A book titled ‘Compilation of 8 years major achievements of DRDO, Ministry of Defence (2014-2022)’ was also released by Shri Rajnath Singh. The book contains various achievements of DRDO giving brief descriptions of major launches, flight trials, ToTs, DRDO-industry-academia partnership, etc.

The second session was chaired by Secretary DDR&D Dr Samir V Kamat wherein presentations were made by all stakeholders of the defence R&D. Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri Dr G Satheesh Reddy chaired the panel discussions. The seminar was also attended by senior distinguished service officers, officials from Ministry of defence, IIT Directors, industry representatives, academia, DRDO scientists and others.

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set up manufacturing units in India & develop technology collaborations to create a global supply chain free from vulnerabilities

 Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has invited US companies to set up manufacturing units in India and develop technology collaborations with Indian industries to create a global supply chain free from vulnerabilities and uncertainties. He was addressing a seminar jointly organised by US-India Business Council (UIBC) and Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) as part of the 12th DefExpo in Gandhinagar, Gujarat on October 20, 2022. The seminar was organised on the theme ‘New Frontiers in US-India Defence Cooperation: Next Generation Technology, Innovation & Make in India’.

Shri Rajnath Singh stated that the Indian defence industry has been witnessing transformative changes for the last eight years through progressive reforms. He stressed that these reforms have created a conducive environment for the growth of the Indian Industry through transparency, predictability and institutionalisation of several measures for Ease of Doing Business.

The Raksha Mantri emphasised that the path to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ is a comprehensive set of policy frameworks that seeks to build indigenous technological and production capacity & capability with cooperation, participation and collaborations with reputed institutions and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) from friendly nations. He said, the idea is to manufacture in India for the Indian market as well as export to the friendly countries, i.e., ‘Make in India, Make for the World’.

“The main objective is to fulfil the requirements of Indian Armed Forces; and at the same time, create long-term linkages to the global supply chains of the foreign OEMs to meet global demands. Through these linkages, India looks forward to collaborating for a secure and resilient global supply chain for the free world to ensure uninterrupted and reliable access to defence equipment and other strategic materials for our nation and our partners, including the US. As India’s defence base grows, private sector companies from the US can explore the vast potential for ‘Creating in India’ and ‘Exporting from India’,” Shri Rajnath Singh said.

The Raksha Mantri highlighted a number of steps taken by the Government to achieve the objective, including increase in the number of procurement categories to encourage greater participation of the Indian Industry and attract foreign companies to manufacture in India. “We are delighted to work with US, our valued partner, to strengthen our commercial and strategic relationship and to attract US investment for creating a high-technology defence production ecosystem in India. For India, collaboration with US companies would be an important strategic force multiplier, apart from being wealth and job creator,” he added.

Shri Rajnath Singh termed the easing of FDI regulations and introduction of Buy (Global–Manufacturer in India) in Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 as an invitation for the US businesses to participate in the opportunities offered by the Indian defence industry. He asserted that US companies can now set up manufacturing facilities, individually or in partnership with Indian companies, through a Joint Venture or technology agreement etc., to capitalise on the ‘Make in India’ opportunity. He exuded confidence that the firms will find India to be an attractive investment destination for defence manufacturing.

The Raksha Mantri described the Positive Indigenisation Lists, in which a wide spectrum of equipment/systems are included, as another major step towards creating a mature defence industrial base in the country. The list has also given impetus to domestic Research & Development by attracting fresh investment into technology and manufacturing capabilities by providing a measure of demand assurance to the manufacturers in India, he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh shed light on the importance of defence exports, terming it as a key pillar for the long-term sustainability of the domestic defence industrial base. Domestic demand alone may not always provide economies of scale to make profitable investments and sustain them, he said. The Raksha Mantri added that $5 billion dollar export target set for 2025 reflects the intent of the Government for export-oriented manufacturing.

The Raksha Mantri described the project agreement to co-develop Air-Launched UAVs, under the auspices of the India-US Defence Technology and Trade Initiative, as a welcome development. He stated that industries from both sides can explore additional DTTI projects, such as a counter unmanned aerial systems and an Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance platform.

Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that Indians have played a stellar role in technological development of US, be it IT sector, bio-technology, space or cyber technology, besides contributing in the fields of business and finance. Stating that the US provides a conducive environment for talent to perform and has reaped the benefits thereof, he urged US business and technology leaders to collaborate with Indian industries to create a similar growth miracle in India. He stressed that developing new avenues to work together at the industrial, scientific and academic levels will be key to ensuring that India-US defence ties remain dynamic.

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600 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sammrudhi Kendras to provide more facilities to farmers

 Under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sammrudhi Kendras (PMKSK), 600 existing district level retail shops are remodelled and provided more facilities to the farmers in terms of agri inputs and services. These kendras were inaugurated by Prime Minister on the occasion of PM Kisan Sammelan. All these centres have become excellent examples of swachhata Campaign 2 initiatives with clean premise and enhanced facilities for farmers. The launch of the 600 Pradan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSK) across the country is one of the best practices adopted as part of the Special Campaign 2.0 initiatives by the Department of Fertilizers.

 

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This is in addition to the other initiatives undertaken on Special Campaign 2.0  by the Department of Fertilizers that includes identification of 13 Sites from its Headquarter and its PSUs which are under the administrative control of the Department of Fertilizers to carry out weeding out of old files both physical and e files as per the Record Retention Schedule, digitization of records, reduce paper work, disposal of the e waste, scrap material etc so that they can improve efficiency and space. The updated information is also uploaded in the SCDPM portal on a regular basis.

 

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Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion DPIIT

he Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in India is a government body responsible for formulating and implementing policies and initiatives to promote and facilitate industrial development, trade, and investment in the country. Formerly known as the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), it was renamed DPIIT in 2019.

Key responsibilities and functions of DPIIT include:

  1. Industrial Policy Formulation: Formulating and implementing industrial policies that aim to promote industrial growth, enhance competitiveness, and foster innovation across various sectors of the economy.

  2. Promotion of Investment: Encouraging domestic and foreign investment in India by creating a conducive business environment, simplifying regulatory frameworks, and offering incentives to attract investments.

  3. Ease of Doing Business: Initiating reforms and measures to improve the ease of doing business in India, streamlining procedures, reducing regulatory hurdles, and enhancing the business environment for entrepreneurs and industries.

  4. Startup India Initiative: Overseeing and implementing the Startup India campaign, which aims to promote and support startups, foster innovation, and create a conducive ecosystem for new businesses in the country.

  5. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Facilitating the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights by promoting awareness, policies, and mechanisms for safeguarding innovations and creative works.

  6. Trade Promotion: Encouraging trade and exports by formulating trade policies, participating in trade negotiations, and promoting India’s exports in global markets.

  7. Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of various policies, initiatives, and programs related to industry, trade, and investment.

  8. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborating with industry associations, stakeholders, state governments, and other ministries to create synergies and partnerships for industrial and trade development.

  9. Data Collection and Analysis: Collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data and information related to industry, trade, and investment for informed policymaking and decision-making processes.

DPIIT plays a crucial role in fostering a conducive environment for economic growth, industrial development, and entrepreneurship in India. It works towards creating a vibrant and globally competitive business landscape, attracting investments, and supporting the growth of industries across various sectors.

Bureau of Indian Standards

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India, established under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986. It operates under the aegis of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India. BIS is responsible for the formulation, promotion, and implementation of standards across various sectors to ensure quality, safety, and reliability of products, services, and systems.

Key functions and responsibilities of the Bureau of Indian Standards:

  1. Standardization: BIS formulates and publishes Indian Standards (IS) across a wide range of products, processes, and services to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency. These standards cover various sectors, including agriculture, engineering, consumer goods, chemicals, and more.

  2. Certification and Marking: BIS provides product certification services through the ISI mark, a certification mark used to indicate conformity to Indian standards. The ISI mark signifies adherence to quality and safety standards set by BIS.

  3. Product Testing and Quality Assurance: BIS operates laboratories and testing facilities to evaluate products against established standards, ensuring compliance with quality, safety, and performance requirements.

  4. Consumer Protection: It plays a crucial role in safeguarding consumer interests by ensuring the quality and reliability of products and services available in the market.

  5. Promotion of Standards Adoption: BIS promotes the adoption of Indian Standards by industries, manufacturers, and service providers to enhance competitiveness, facilitate trade, and protect consumer interests.

  6. International Cooperation: BIS collaborates with international standards organizations, participating in standardization activities, mutual recognition agreements, and harmonization of standards to align with global best practices.

  7. Education and Awareness: BIS conducts training programs, workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to educate stakeholders about the importance of standards compliance and quality assurance.

BIS plays a vital role in setting benchmarks for quality and safety, ensuring consumer protection, and promoting trade and industry competitiveness by establishing and maintaining relevant standards across diverse sectors of the Indian economy.

Department of Land Resources

  With the vision to extend the heartfelt tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the Prime Minister had launched Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) in 2014. Subsequently the Special Campaign on Disposal of Pending References and Cleanliness was launched in 2021. Accordingly, the Government has decided to conduct Special Campaign 2.0 in Central Government Ministries/Departments, attached/subordinate offices of Government of India from 2nd October-31st October, 2022.

The Department of Land Resources (DoLR) under Ministry of Rural Development has undertaken the Special Campaign 2.0 at all three sites i.e. NBO Building, Shivaji Stadium & CGO Complex. Swachhta Pakhwada of DoLR was also observed during 1st Oct to 15th Oct, 2022. The objective of this campaign is to minimize pendency, institutionalize swachhata, strengthen internal monitoring mechanisms, train officers in record management, digitization of physical records, setting up protocols and monitoring mechanisms for Swachhata.

 

The Special Campaign 2.0 has been taken in real spirit in the Department of Land Resources. Activities taken up by DoLR w.r.t. the Special Campaign 2.0 are as under;

  1. As directed by MoRD, in order to ensure cleanliness, Nodal Officers have already been nominated for all three buildings, beside an overall Nodal Officer in the Department. As per direction of Union Minister of Rural Development, weekly reports on Cleanliness activities undertaken in the Department are also being sent. Minister of Rural Development has also taken a review meeting on the progress of the Campaign on 18th October,2022.
  2. Review meetings are taken up by the Secretary (LR) level with Senior Officers on the progress of the Campaign. Secretary(LR) inspected the office premises and directed to take certain activities like white washing of walls & removal of seepage, renovation of pantry room and the other places/rooms, wherever it is required, painting of almirah in uniform color, ensuring half an hour switching off lights by Officers during lunch hour, motivate employees to bring potted plants. Nodal Officer has also taken review meetings and inspected all sites.
  3. Data including Pictures have been uploaded on the SCDPM Portal of DARPG. Pictures/Videos are being shared in the Social Media Platforms.   

Swachhata manifests not just in physical space but also affects our mental state. Accordingly, the Department has created a Rejuve Wellness Centre at its Shivaji Stadium Annexe Office premise during the Special Campaign 1.0 and the same has been recognised in the Good Governance Week (GGW) as a special achievement. A film has also been shot on 16th September, 2022 covering the event by DD News team highlighting the REJUVE Wellness Centre set up by the Department. The Department has also organised two sessions on Stress Management through a renowned expert on 20th and 21st September, 2022 at REJUVE Wellness Centre for the officers and officials of the Department.

    

Stress Management Program at REJUVE Wellness Centre

 

Initiative of the Department taken by all the Officers to turn off their lights daily for half an hours during the lunch hours to save electricity has been noted by DARPG as the Best Practices under the category of “Environment Friendly Practices”.

Preparatory activities related to identification, review and disposal of pending references, Physical Files & e-Files, electronic items and equipments/ furniture in condemned conditions have been planned and initiated for Special Campaign 2.0 on Cleanliness & disposal of pending references. Standees of Special Campaign 2.0 and Swachhta Pakhwada-2022 have been prepared and placed at entry gates to create awareness about the event. Data have been uploaded on the SCDPM Portal of DARPG. CPWD has been requested to undertake white-washing and necessary repairs as and where required. Besides, NDMC has also been requested to take up necessary maintenance activities at Shivaji Stadium office premise hired by the Department.

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Youth Delegation from Bangladesh

 The Department of Youth Affairs is hosting the 100-member Youth Delegation from Bangladesh in India from 12th to 19th October 2022. On the last day, Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports Shri Anurag Singh Thakur hosted a dinner in the honour of the Youth Delegation from Bangladesh today in New Delhi. Minister of State for Youth affairs & Sports Shri Nisith Pramanik also graced the occasion.

The Bangladesh delegation has been very appreciative of this programme during their interaction with Union Minster for Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India. The delegation also showcased various cultural performances from Bangladesh. Indian artists also performed during the  gala evening.

Shri Anurag Singh Thakur while interacting with the delegates also listened to the experiences shared by the delegates regarding their stay for one week in India.The visit also facilitated exchange of ideas, cultural, political and economic relations between the two countries and contributed in enhancing regional co-operation and world peace. India and Bangladesh have a long common cultural, economic and political history.  A large population of India also speaks the same language, Bangla as spoken in Bangladesh.  Both the countries share a significant boundary with each other.  We also have old, deep, friendly relations with each other and share common interests. 

As part of the programme, the Bangladesh Youth Delegation had a call on, on the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan on 14th Oct 2022. The delegation visited various cultural, educational and industrial sites such as Taj Mahal at Agra, Indian Institute of Management, Bengaluru and Infosys at Mysore respectively where they interacted with academicians and Industry leaders. This group comprises youth from diverse background including students, young journalist, entrepreneurs, social workers, doctors, etc.  The program generates a lot of goodwill and positive vibes in fostering amicable relations with our neighbors. 

The Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports is mandated to create an international perspective among youth in collaboration with other countries and various international agencies/organizations on various youth issues.  In order involve youth in promoting peace and understanding, the Department has conceived the International Exchange of Youth Delegations as an effective instrument. The exchange of youth delegations with friendly countries is taken up on a reciprocal basis for promoting exchange of ideas, values and culture amongst the youth of different countries and also to develop international understanding.  This Department has been carrying out regular exchange of youth delegations with China and South Korea, from the year 2006 onwards.

In 2012, High Commission of India in Dhaka requested the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Govt. of India to invite a 100-member Bangladesh Youth Delegation to India and arrange a tour for them to showcase places of historical, educational, technological and industrial interests.  Accordingly, for the first time, a 100-member Bangladesh youth delegation visited India from 6-13 October, 2012.  The current delegation from Bangladesh is the 8th such cohort. 

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