Month: October 2023
PATA and India to jointly promote Travel for LiFE in Asia-Pacific region
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA),has committed to work with India to expand Travel for LiFE initiative across Asia Pacific region.
India hosted 46th edition of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart 2023 from Oct 4 to Oct 6 at the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC), Pragati Maidan, in New Delhi. PATA Mart saw the participation of around 1000 delegates, is one of the major international trade exhibitions catering to the tourism sector and it serves as a platform for trade interactions between global buyers and sellers.
Besides facilitating trade interactions between Buyer Sellers meet, the PTM 2023 also included thought provoking knowledge sessions at PATA Forum and youth engagement at PATA Youth Symposium. Travel for LiFE initiative was showcased by the Ministry across all the events and it generated huge interest from international travel trade community
The Travel Mart was followed by the PATA Board meeting held where Ministry of Tourism shared Travel for LiFE initiative with the Board members. PATA Board appreciated the initiative and Ministry of Tourism, Government of India will work with PATA to expand the initiative across Asia Pacific region.
It may be recalled that New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration 2023 during G20 summit under India’s Presidency noted the launch of “Travel for LiFE” and supported the development of smart destinations that are responsible and sustainable. Travel for LiFE, a sectoral programme initiated by the Ministry of Tourism, aligns with the philosophy of the Mission LiFE.
Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) was formally launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 19th October 2022, in the presence of the UN Secretary General António Guterres, at the Statue of Unity, Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. It is a global mass movement led by India urging individuals and communities to act for protection of the environment against the effects of the climate change.
Ministry of Tourism will set up a PATA desk to strengthen engagement with PATA on Travel for LiFE and other areas of cooperation in tourism sector. This is the first major international partnership for Travel for Life program after its global launch on September 27, 2023, world tourism day. Ministry of Tourism is already working with UNEP and UNWTO on strengthening the TFL program.
Travel for LiFE embodies the spirit of the Pro Planet People and functions on the basic principles of “Lifestyle of the planet, for the planet and by the planet”. It aspires to bring large-scale behavioral change amongst tourists and tourism businesses, which will have a significant impact on environment protection while ensuring socio-cultural sustainability.
The Travel for LiFE program has identified an illustrative list of actions that are designed in line with the eight themes of Travel for LiFE – Save Energy, Save Water, Say No to Single Use Plastic, Reduce Waste, Empower Local Businesses and Communities, Respect Local Culture and Heritage, Consume Local Foods and Conserve Nature
Going a step further, Travel for LiFE Program also aims to inspire the Tourism Businesses to deepen their sustainability practices by observing adherence to Travel for LiFE- Signed up badge. Subsequently the tourism businesses can go for the Travel for LiFE certification in bronze, silver and gold.
Ministry of Tourism is working with all the stakeholders in tourism ecosystem including the State Governments, Industry, Destinations and Tourists to make Travel for LiFE a mass movement.
Travel for LiFE Program will position India as leader in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism and using tourism as a vehicle for achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
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World Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day Celebrations
On the eve of World Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, celebrated annually on October 8th, the Government of India held a half-day event to explore and leverage the boundless possibilities of hydrogen as a source of green and sustainable energy. The event, organized in New Delhi on October 7, 2023, by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, in association with Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited, brought together hydrogen experts from the industry, academia and government.
On the occasion, the R&D Roadmap for the National Green Hydrogen Mission was unveiled by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy. The roadmap, which provides for a budget of Rs. 400 crores, seeks to provide guidance for developing a vibrant research and development ecosystem which can help commercialize Green Hydrogen and contribute to India’s ambitious climate and energy goals. It focuses on developing new materials, technologies, and infrastructure to improve the efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of green hydrogen production, storage, and transportation. The R&D program will also prioritize safety and address technical barriers and challenges in developing a hydrogen economy.
“Let us reiterate our commitment to research, development and deployment of hydrogen solutions”
In a video message, the Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri R. K. Singh, said, that World Hydrogen and Cell Day is a day when we celebrate a transformative element in the universe which holds the promise for a brighter and more sustainable future. “Hydrogen is the most abundant element and it has the potential to revolutionize our energy landscape, mitigate climate change, and power our economies with clean energy. On this World Hydrogen Day, let us reiterate our commitment to research, development and deployment of hydrogen solutions. Let us inspire our industries and communities to embrace hydrogen as a key player in the energy transition. Together, we can ensure that hydrogen becomes a cornerstone of a sustainable and prosperous future for our Planet Earth.”
“First priority is mission-mode projects which will yield results in 2–3 years”
Delivering the keynote speech, renowned scientist and Principal Scientific Advisor to Government of India, Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood opined that green hydrogen is the Swiss knife for decarbonization. Speaking about the R&D Roadmap, the PSA said that the goal in the first phase is to focus on mission mode projects which can yield results in 2 – 3 years. “The R&D budget announced in this Mission is Rs. 400 crores in just 2 – 3 years. If we are able to demonstrate that this R&D can make a difference at the ground level, then I am confident that more will come. Our first priority should be mission-mode projects which will yield results in 2 – 3 years; then, we can address grand challenges which will be rather long-term and also blue sky projects which will take disruptive pathways.”
The PSA underscored the need for augmenting domestic capacity for production of electrolyzers in a very short time scale. He said that this is one goal the SIGHT programme addresses. Prof. Sood emphasized the immediate need for coming out with standards for Type IV cylinders for storing hydrogen. “Our standards are for Type III cylinders. Around the world, it is Type IV cylinders. So India has to come out with standards for Type IV cylinders; with these cylinders, we can triple mileage and filling time is also one tenth or so.”
“Research awarded under R&D Roadmap will allow India to be absolutely at the cutting edge in the field”
Addressing the stakeholders, New and Renewable Energy Secretary, Shri Bhupinder Singh Bhalla, said that India has entered the green hydrogen space at the right time and that the country is poised to become one of the leaders in the green hydrogen sector. The Secretary said that the R&D Roadmap aims to leverage research to ensure that India is at the cutting edge of the sector in the world. “If you really want to succeed, we need to produce green hydrogen at the least cost, in the best possible way. For this, we want to be the leader in technology as well, at par or ahead of the rest of the world. The R&D Roadmap for National Green Hydrogen Mission aims for all of this. It covers all aspects of production, transportation, storage and safety. We will issue call for proposals based on this roadmap and we will start awarding specific projects under the Mission. The research awarded will allow India to be absolutely on par with the cutting edge in the field.”
Launch of National Single Window System page for Approvals under National Green Hydrogen Mission
Besides the R&D roadmap, the Green Hydrogen page on The National Single Window System (NSWS) of Government of India was unveiled, which will provide a single window to industry for obtaining all approvals related to projects under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The page can be accessed here: https://www.nsws.gov.in/portal/scheme/greenhydrogenpolicy.
Shri Bhalla said that we have to reach Net Zero by 2070, for which there is no option other than decarbonizing our major sectors fully. He shed light on India’s hydrogen-powered future and said that hydrogen is not just a fuel, but a game changer and a key to a cleaner and more sustainable future. The Secretary urged everyone to embrace the versatility of hydrogen, ranging from fuelling vehicles to storing renewable energy. He acknowledged the potential of hydrogen and fuel cells in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, energy security and environmental sustainability. He highlighted the objectives of the Mission leading to a cleaner, prosperous India powered by hydrogen.
CMD, Solar Energy Corporation of India, Shri R. P. Gupta said that storage cost of energy is a key issue which needs to be sorted out and that this is where hydrogen fits in. “Hydrogen along with green ammonia could be one solution for long-term storage. Challenges become opportunities. Cost of finance has to be reduced, technology should reduce cost and this has to be done at each stage of value chain.”
Director General, Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power, Shri Abhay Bakre shared the details of the Draft Accreditation Procedure and Eligibility for Accredited Carbon Verification Agencies, which he said is being released for public and stakeholder comments. In his presentation on ‘Carbon Credit Trading Scheme,’ which has been announced by the government to address the issue of GHG emissions, the DG BEE underlined the necessary framework and the roles of diverse stakeholders for the development and functioning of the Indian Carbon Market.
Joint Secretary, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Shri Ajay Yadav, informed that all schemes under the National Green Hydrogen Mission have been finalized and that the scheme for hydrogen hubs is ready to be rolled out. He said that pilot projects are being undertaken in steel, shipping and road transport sectors and that implementation of National Green Hydrogen Mission is steering the nation towards a hydrogen-powered future that promises to revolutionize the energy landscape.
The winners of the National Hydrogen Maha Quiz were announced at the event.
President, Hydrogen Association of India, Shri R.K. Malhotra spoke on the latest status of green hydrogen development in the country. Dr. Rochan Sinha of startup Newtrace spoke about the development of membrane-less electrolysers for green hydrogen production. Renowned scientist Dr. C. Gopinath from National Chemical Laboratory, Pune spoke on the latest scientific developments in the field of Artificial Photosynthesis and Negative Carbon Electrolysis. Representative of Sustainable Projects Development Association, Shri Prashant spoke on the challenges being faced by green hydrogen developers.
A roundtable meeting was organised by the Ministry in association with Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, to create synergy between banking system and green hydrogen developers in order to facilitate access to low-cost finance and thus to lower the cost of green hydrogen. The meeting was attended by officials of MNRE, DFS, SECI, IREDA, NITI Aayog, members of Indian Banks’ Association, leading nationalised and private sector Banks, Financial Institutions and leading developers in green hydrogen sector, among others.
World Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day is a global initiative aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source, along with the versatile technology of fuel cells. This day serves as a platform to acknowledge the potential of hydrogen and fuel cells in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, energy security, and environmental sustainability. we delve into the significance of World Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, the role of hydrogen in the energy transition, and the promising developments in fuel cell technology.
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Recovery and restoration work in Sikkim
On second day of his visit to Sikkim, Minister of State for Ministry of Home Affairs, Shri Ajay Kumar Mishra held a high-level meeting with the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang today.
The primary agenda of the meeting was to deliberate on the recovery and restoration efforts in the aftermath of the recent flood crisis, which has affected the state. Both the leaders held comprehensive discussions, examining the immediate and long-term strategies to address the current situation. The discussion was focused around the coordination of resources, relief assistance, and support to expedite the rescue and recovery work.
Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Ajay Kumar Mishra reaffirmed commitment of the Central Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah to collaborate closely with the State Government to ensure swift and effective recovery. Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang expressed gratitude towards Government of India for prompt response and expressed commitment to work in tandem with the Central Government to expedite the recovery and restoration work. Both the leaders reiterated their resolve to work tirelessly to restore normalcy and extend support to those affected by the recent floods.
Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Ajay Kumar Mishra also visited disaster-affected areas in Naga in Mangan district. He provided assurance of relief and assistance to the affected citizens, emphasizing that Prime Minister is continuously monitoring the situation. Shri Mishra underscored the urgent need to prioritize the rescue and relief efforts for individuals stranded in isolated areas.
Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) continues to conduct search and rescue operations at Chungtham town near Teesta hydro power project in Mangan district today. One body was recovered from a tunnel. A log bridge has been made across the Teesta River for the movement of the people. Two teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), one team each at Rangpo in Pakyong district and at Singtam in Gangtok disctrict, are also conducting search and rescue operations. Meanwhile two more teams of NDRF have reached Chungtham and are carrying out search and rescue operations.
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Sagar Parikrama: A successful journey towards resolving issues of fishers on ground
A massive fishers and fish farmers outreach program namely Sagar Parikrama Yatra led by Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Parshottam Rupala is being undertaken since March 2022 through a pre-decided sea route from Gujarat to West Bengal covering around 8000 km of India’s coastline. Sagar Parikrama aims to meet the fishers at their door-steps and understand their issues and grievances, promote sustainable fishing and publicise the schemes and programs of the government and it has been instrumental so far. During Sagar Parikrama, fishers get an opportunity to interact with Union Minister Shri Rupala and key officials of Department of Fisheries, Government of India, State Government and other stake holders at their door- step.
Shri Parshottam Rupala received a text message regarding capsized boat from a local fisherman who met him in Colachel during previous phase of Sagar Parikrama. The Union Minister issued directives immediately to concerned agencies for undertaking intense rescue operation of missing fishermen onboard fishing boat operating from Colachel Fishing Harbour.
Meanwhile the family members of missing fishermen met Shri Parshottam Rupala in Karaikal to apprise him the issue and they were surprised to hear that he was not only informed but closely following the matter.
Efforts on rigorous search and rescue operations carried out by Indian Navy as well as by Indian Coast Guard with two Vessels of Indian Navy and One from Indian Coast Guard, mortal remains of one fishermen have been recovered by the divers today.
Search operations are still ongoing to locate the mortal remains of the second fishermen. The family members of fishermen have expressed thanks to the Union Minister and entire rescue team for recovery of bodies of the missing fishermen.
With these endeavours and attempts, the Sagar Parikrama is expected to achieve its goal of achieving open communication and feedback while also build trust between the fishermen communities and proves an instrumental in resolving issues of the fishers.
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India Art Architecture Design Biennale
Ministry of Culture organized the curtain raiser event for the India Art Architecture Design Biennale (IAADB ‘23) last evening at the National Gallery of Modern Art, Delhi along with the Logo launch for the Biennale.
In a video message, Shri. G Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister for Culture, Tourism, and DONER, announced that the Ministry of Culture is hosting its inaugural India Art Architecture Design Biennale in December 2023, with events scheduled in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. He extended his best wishes for the Biennale’s success.
Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi delivered the key note address for the event. She stated that, “the India Art Architecture Biennale promises to stand as a beacon in India’s vibrant festival tapestry aiming to showcase the nation’s architectural and artistic brilliance on the global stage. This Biennale mirrors the grandeurs of International counterparts and promises not just inspiration but also pure enchantment. The Biennale will initiate dialogues, innovation & collaboration by bringing together grassroot artisans and contemporary designers thereby furthering the creative economy”.
Smt. Mugdha Sinha, the Joint Secretary, provided an overview of the upcoming Biennale in her opening remarks. She revealed that the Biennale is scheduled to take place from 9th to 15th December 2023, at the iconic Red Fort. The event will explore various themes through exhibitions and panel discussions, with each day centred around a specific theme, curated by experts in the field. The themes encompass topics such as doors and gateways, enchanting gardens, awe-inspiring stepwells, majestic temple architecture, modern wonders of independent India, the contemporary face of indigenous design, and the role of women in architecture.
Additionally, it was mentioned that the India Art Architecture Design Biennale 2023 will serve as a precursor to India’s participation in the Venice Biennale 2024, fostering a comprehensive dialogue among practitioners and professionals in the realms of art, architecture, and design. The Biennale aims to bring traditional grassroots artists and contemporary designers, curators, architects, and thought leaders to the forefront, transcending age, gender, and genre boundaries. Furthermore, it was noted that the Biennale aligns with the vision of the Prime Minister and will mark the launch of the Development of Cultural Spaces project at the Red Fort.
The event witnessed a significant turnout with diplomats, artists, architects, designers, curators, government officials, gallerists, and museum professionals in attendance. The evening was enhanced by the captivating performance of the jazz quartet ‘Capital Three’.
For the latest information and updates, please follow the official Instagram page of the India Art, Architecture and Design Biennale at @iaadb2023.
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Strengthen all the cooperative societies of the country
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, the Government of India has taken several steps to strengthen all the cooperative societies of the country. In this regard, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah has taken an important decision to computerize and empower the registrars of all 28 states and 8 union territories, and 1,851 Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs) operating in 13 states.
On the lines of computerization scheme of all Primary Agriculture Credit Societies (PACS) in the country, a centrally sponsored scheme has been approved for computerization of 1,851 units of Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs) of 13 states through a national unified software and computerization of offices of Registrar of Cooperatives of all States/Union Territories similar to Central Registrar.
A Central Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) will be established for this scheme, which will work towards the successful implementation of the scheme. The total estimated expenditure for this scheme will be Rs. 225.09 crore.
The implementation of this scheme will not only enable people to quickly access services provided by the Cooperative Departments of the states and the offices of Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs) but will also bring transparency and uniformity in the functioning of these offices, which will make them more efficient and save the time.
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Women Entrepreneurship Platform – NITI Aayog State Workshop on Women-Led Development
The inaugural edition of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) – NITI Aayog State Workshop Series on Enabling Women-led Development through Entrepreneurship was organized at CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) Auditorium, Goa on 3rd October 2023. The workshop was held in collaboration with the Government of Goa with a focus on the western region of the country.
The workshop recorded over 500 participants, including women entrepreneurs, local self-help groups (SHGs) and clusters, government officials, industry representatives, incubators/accelerators, financial institutions, philanthropic foundations, and more. The primary focus was deliberating on a hub-and-spoke model aimed at extending women-led development to grassroots levels, covering the last mile. Eminent dignitaries, including Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. V. K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, and Shri B.V.R Subramanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog, graced this landmark workshop.
Dr Pramod Sawant, Honorable Chief Minister, Government of Goa, stated that the Goa State Vision 2047 will be prepared with help from NITI Aayog. Celebrating the three-year milestone of the Swayampurna Goa initiative, Dr. Sawant emphasized its focus on skill development and the deployment of “Swayampurna Grameen Mitras” for the doorstep delivery of government services in every block and Panchayat. Furthermore, the Chief Minister reiterated the role of women in socio-economic progress, announcing the Swayampurna e-bazaar during Dussehra, aimed at expanding market access through Common Service Centres.
Highlighting NITI Aayog’s mandate for cooperative federalism, Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, emphasized the pivotal role of states in driving the nation’s growth. He emphasized three key priorities: maintaining the employment-to-education ratio, promoting women’s entrepreneurship, and restructuring the workforce
NITI Aayog CEO, B. V. R. Subrahmanyam, reaffirmed the central government’s unwavering commitment to women-led development as the top priority. He underscored NITI Aayog’s support in assisting state governments to set up institutions like itself in each state “It need not necessarily be a separate institution; it could be a department or an existing body. But just make it the central point to think and plan for the future. Its staff should not be engaged in any other work,” he said while urging states to tap the expertise at NITI Aayog.
A series of new collaborations were announced to support women entrepreneurs. Key highlights are the partnership between the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and NITI Aayog; the launch of Udyam Uplift – an initiative of CAxpert to strengthen compliance among women-led businesses and the launch of the first two cohorts under WEP’s Award to Reward(ATR) initiative. The first ATR cohort led by WEP Partners Microsave Consulting and SIDBI titled WEP-Unnati is accepting applications from green entrepreneurs pan-India. The second cohort titled WeNurture would be led by Atal Incubation Centre – Goa Institute of Management.
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International Research Conference on ‘From research to impact: Towards Just and Resilient Agri-Food Systems’
President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will inaugurate the international research conference, From research to impact: Towards just and resilient agri-food systems, on October 9, 2023 at NASC Complex, Pusa in New Delhi. The four-day long conference is hosted by the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The two institutions are joining forces to leverage national and international research to ensure that women take up their rightful leadership roles and spearhead the transformation of agriculture and food systems everywhere. Other honorable key speakers will include Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Shri Narendra Singh Tomar; India’s G20 Sherpa Shri Amitabh Kant; and CGIAR interim Executive Managing Director Professor Andrew Campbell.
Briefing media about the conference today, Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Dr Himanshu Pathak said that the conference, and its theme, is significant in wake of the recent G20 Summit that unequivocally endorsed women-led development. “This includes recognizing and promoting leadership and decision-making roles for women in relation to climate change, food security and nutrition”, Dr. Pathak added.
The conference is designed to share cutting-edge knowledge and bridge the gap between research and practice to foster gender-equal and socially inclusive, resilient food systems, added Dr Nicoline de Haan, Director of the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform.
“Globally, gender inequality in agri-food systems remains a very significant challenge – and current inequalities are being made worse by crises such as COVID-19 and climate change. Overall, women are often less food secures than men, and they are hit harder by external shocks, such as floods and droughts. We are combining research, evidence and practical understanding to guide policy-makers and investors towards best-bet solutions that can help us get on track to achieve global goals on gender equality and women’s empowerment,” Dr de Haan added.
In this conference, the CGIAR GENDER Impact Platform and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research are convening a one-of-a-kind global network of gender researchers and bringing them together with other researchers, practitioners and policymakers to take stock of agricultural gender research to date and propose innovations that can help make agri-food systems more equitable, just and resilient.
More than 140 oral presentations, 85 posters, 25 high-level plenary and keynote speakers as well as 60 parallel sessions will be featured in this event. International exhibitors and Indian women entrepreneurs will showcase their work and innovations. Conference delegates will represent a wide range of research institutes, national agricultural research and extension systems, non-government organizations, civil society organizations, funding partners, policy-making bodies and the private sector.
ICAR, accompanied by CGIAR and other research partners, continues to guide and shape the future of India’s 126 million smallholder farmers. As a CGIAR Impact Platform, GENDER aims to broker knowledge to co-create agricultural solutions that work for women and contribute to equitable, resilient and prosperous societies. Partnering with ICAR, one of the world’s biggest national agricultural research and extension systems, offers CGIAR and its research partners a unique and welcome opportunity to collaborate, connect with on-the-ground demand and achieve large-scale impact.
ICAR, with its 113 ICAR institutes and 76 agricultural universities spread across India, will play an essential role in identifying evidence-based priorities and innovations that can translate the G20 commitments on women’s leadership on climate action, food security and nutrition into positive outcomes for women and men farmers, as well as for entire communities. CGIAR can contribute to this process by providing world-class expertise, evidence and proven solutions.
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Rising economic growth and strengthening partnership
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Textiles, Shri Piyush Goyal expressed confidence in strengthening UAE-India Partnership. While addressing at a meeting with top Business Leaders from India & UAE hosted by Abu Dhabi Chamber, the Minister said that rising economic growth of the two countries and strengthening partnership offers opportunities for businesses on both sides to tap into for faster growth.
Shri Goyal emphasized the UAE’s pivotal role in this partnership, citing it as India’s second-largest export destination, third-largest trade partner, and the largest investor in terms of foreign direct investment. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership between the two countries forms a strong foundation for collaboration, he said. Both nations share a rich history, culture, and tradition, combined with present-day capabilities and future possibilities, which the Minister believes will provide the impetus for this partnership to thrive.
Shri Piyush Goyal said that the crucial areas of collaboration between India and UAE range from food security, education, energy security, climate change mitigation to space technologies. The promotion of each other’s cultures and initiatives like the Startup20, B20, the UAE-India Business Council and Bharat Bazaar were also highlighted by the Minister.
The Minister stated India’s role as a large market with 1.4 billion aspirational citizens, presenting a significant opportunity for businesses in the UAE. He outlined the “30 by 30 by 30” opportunity, with India’s average age being under 30 for the next 30 years and a goal to add $30 trillion to its GDP by 2047. He encouraged businesses to seize these opportunities and collaborate in the spirit of cooperation and competition.
Shri Goyal emphasized the warmth of the welcome he received and the infectious enthusiasm to bolster the UAE-India partnership. The Minister said that the incredible love and affection that the people of India and the people of the UAE have for each other, along with the immense contribution that businesses are making to strengthen this geopolitical strategic partnership, is set to make this the defining partnership and brotherhood of the 21st century.
He said that India has witnessed remarkable economic growth over the last nine years under the leadership of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, transforming from one of the fragile five economies globally to now being the world’s fifth-largest economy. Shri Goyal highlighted this impressive journey and the ambitious goal of becoming the world’s third-largest economy within the next four years. He termed the next 25 years as the golden period for India’s development.
In his closing remarks, Shri Piyush Goyal compared the UAE-India partnership to a rising tide lifting all boats and expressed his belief that the growing friendship and cooperation between the two nations will offer tremendous opportunities for businesses on both sides.
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Virtual Certificate Course in Research Methodology
The Valedictory Programme of the first batch of the three months virtual Certificate Course in Research Methodology conducted by Knowledge Resource Centre at Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) was held on Wednesday. The course had started on July 7th and was conducted online via Blackboard in October. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries and witnessed the culmination of this unique programme.
Chief Guest Shri Praveen Kumar acknowledged the corporate institution IICA’s role in the research field and shared his appreciation for the feedback from the participants and the successful completion of the programme’s first batch. Shri Kumar also presented digital certificates to the participants in recognising their achievements.
Prof. Sangeeta Jauhari, the Guest of Honor, Pro V C Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal, highlighted the significance of quality research in the current scenario, emphasising its value and impact.
Earlier, moderating the function, Dr. Lata Suresh, Course Director, IICA, introduced all the participants and thanked them for actively participating in the programme. Dr. Suresh also acknowledged the dedication and collective efforts of the esteemed faculty members, including Ms. Oluwatoyin Oyekenu, Dr. Santosh H, Dr. Sumit Narula, Ferdinand, Dr. Adesh Chaturvedi, and Dr. Ameer Hussain.
The students shared their positive feedback on the course, reflecting on their experiences and the knowledge they’ve gained and gathered much knowledge in the field of research methodology and writing research proposals.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all attendees, guests, faculty, and participants for their contributions and support in making the First Batch of the Certificate Course in Research Methodology a success.
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FROM FINDING HISTORY TO MAKING HISTORY
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is planning to establish gift shops in its monuments creating an opportunity for the Cultural and Creative Industries to work closely with the monuments. ASI intends to leverage souvenirs for generating interest and promotion of heritage monuments.
In order to enhance interest and recognition of Indian cultural crafts and heritage leading to their conservation, development and sustaining livelihood of the associated artisans and their communities the ASI has released an Expression of Interest on www.eprocure.gov.in and www.asi.nic.in. An entire list of 84 monuments is available on the EOI.
For the past two years the ASI has been deliberating the policy for running high quality souvenir shops at monuments of national importance. The souvenir shops intend to provide a visitor experience that the people of India can engage with in order to connect with their heritage. Souvenir varieties will range from replicas of highlighted features of the site, such as architectural fragments, important sculptures, inclusion of One District One Product (ODOP) and artifacts of antiquarian value. Besides replicas, this souvenir shop can serve as a playground for creative ideas where craftspeople, artisans, corporate conglomerates, boutique manufacturers and startups can participate in manufacturing items that speak directly to the culture of India.
This public amenity was formerly provided by the ASI in the form of a publications counter. This humble publication counter now will evolve into a more multidimensional offering for the general public where the scope of the souvenirs will be defined by the ASI with academic support in better understanding a monument.
The intent of the ASI in this EOI is beyond a simple gift shop which only sells magnets and souvenir mugs. Instead interested parties are encouraged to imagine far more exciting offerings using technology and historic techniques that are regionally important and globally relevant. From the use of 3D printing for creating replicas, inclusion of One District One Product (ODOP) products, to redeveloping and packaging old games of Ancient and Medieval India, could expand the relevance of souvenirs that are well thought out.
Link for Expression of Interest is given below:
www.eprocure.gov.in and www.asi.nic.in.
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Regional Community Health Officers starts at Nashik, Maharashtra
The second Regional Community Health Officers (CHO) Conference was jointly inaugurated by the Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar and Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, at Nashik in Maharashtra today. This conference is being held for the second time after the success of the first regional CHO conference in Varanasi in December 2022. This time of the CHO Conference was “Towards Health For All- CHOs leading the way” has been organized for western India states and UTs such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Goa and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu.
Welcoming all CHOs, Bharati Pravin Pawar said, CHOs have been leading the key healthcare reforms such as promotion of wellness, early disease detection through screening, availability of diagnostics and drugs, use of technology such as tele-consultation to ensure continuum of care. Health and Wellness Centres play an important role by providing free primary health care facilities to all, she said. Promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative healthcare services are provided in these centres. “The CHOs play an important role in this initiative of the Government of India of providing universal health coverage to all. She said that the dedication of CHOs towards ensuring good health of all brings about long-term benefits and is a cornerstone for the country’s progress and prosperity. We have strong healthcare system to face future healthcare challenges, but for the best results, CHOs cooperation is needed”, Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar said.
Government of India has taken up many missions like Eradication of Tuberculosis by 2025, to eradicate sickle cell disease by 2047 and many more. She urged all CHOs and health care workers to add impetus to these missions, so that socio-economic indicators of health like livelihood, nutrition, access to education, cleanliness and connectivity can also be stressed upon.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar stated that the country is moving towards realizing the commitment of ‘Universal Health Coverage’ which will in-turn ensure fulfilling Pradhan Mantri Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Healthcare For all’. The Union MoS (H & FW) explained that universal health coverage means access for all to quality healthcare services where and when one may require it. “Equity, accessibility, affordability are important parameters of universal health coverage. The historic Ayushman Bharat programme based upon four important pillars – Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres, PM-Jan Arogya Mission, PM Ayushman Bharat- Health Infrastructure Mission, and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission are focused on ensuring that the last mile gets the access to healthcare facilities the involvement of community health care planning to achieve the status of ‘Ayushman Gram Panchayat’ or ‘Ayushman Bhav’ initiative is a great example of it.
Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar further said that the share of out-of-pocket expenses in overall healthcare expenditure has dipped from 62% in 2014-15 to 47% in 2019-20. This shows progress towards ensuring financial protection and universal health coverage for citizens.
Speaking about the deliberations of earlier CHO Conference held at Varanasi, MoS (H& FW) Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar stated that an important issue that was deliberated then was the provision of a training portal, where all CHOs can have access to presentations, reading materials etc. and developing and sharing of a repository of various online study materials. She also assured that this issue has been addressed by the Health Ministry and all modules on expanded packages of materials for CHOs are available for registered users on Shashakt portal and NHSRC portal as well.
Minister of State (Health and Family Welfare) Prof. SP Singh Baghel hailed the community health workers coming from different states and UTs of western India for their service towards humanity and said that they are in a noble profession where they take care of people’s health. He said that the health workers in our country, starting from doctors to paramedics to nurses to ambulance drivers, had given an excellent service to the people during the pandemic days, notwithstanding any health hazards.
The Minister of Public Health and Family Welfare, Government of Maharashtra Prof Dr Tanajirao Sawant had virtually addressed in the inaugural session. The dignitaries present in the inaugural session included Additional Secretary and Mission Director, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Smt L S Changsan and Executive Director, National Health Systems Resource Centre, Maj Gen (Prof) Atul Kotwal.
The two-day conference will focus on the four following themes: Clinical & public health functions, Managerial functions, Community connect & AYUSH integration, and IT initiatives. On the second day of the workshop, CHOs from west zone states will make presentations on the four themes and eminent experts will speak on comprehensive primary health care.
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Left Wing Extremism
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah along with the Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers and other concerned officials of Left Wing Extremism affected states, chairs a review meeting on Left Wing Extremism in New Delhi, today. Union Ministers, National Security Advisor, Union Home Secretary, Director Generals of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Secretaries to the Central Government, Chief Secretaries of States, Director Generals of Police and other senior officials also attended the meeting.
In his address, Union Home Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, success has been achieved in curbing leftist extremism in the last few years and now this fight has reached to a decisive phase. He said that with the determination of Prime Minister Modi and the cooperation of all the states affected by Left Wing Extremism, major successes have been achieved against it in 2022 and 2023. He said that Left Wing Extremism will be completely uprooted in next 2 years.
Shri Amit Shah said that vacuum areas have been shrinking since 2019, we have established 195 new camps of CAPFs, 44 more new camps will be established. Shri Shah said that the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) against left-wing extremism, rationalization of development and setting up camps in vacuum areas are the priorities of the Modi government.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that there is a need to maintain constant surveillance in the areas liberated from Left Wing Extremism so that this problem does not revive there again. He said that there is also a need to monitor that left wing extremists from areas where this problem has been eliminated do not take shelter in other states.
Shri Amit Shah said that the Modi government has adopted a policy of zero tolerance against left wing extremism since 2014. He said that As a result of our zero tolerance policy, the lowest level of violence and deaths has been recorded in 2022 in last 4 decades. There has been a decline of more than 52 per cent in Left Wing Extremism related violence, 69 per cent in deaths, 72 per cent in security forces deaths and 68 per cent in civilian deaths between 2014 and 2023 compared to the period from 2005 to 2014.
Union Home Minister said that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are working closely with all state agencies to attack the financing of Left Wing Extremism. He added that all the affected states need to make efforts by forming a joint team of civil and police administration to dismantle the network of financial support of Left Wing Extremism. He said that the Modi government had increased the ex-gratia amount for victims of Left Wing Extremism from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 20 lakh in 2017, now it has been further increased to Rs 40 lakh.
Shri Amit Shah said that the Modi government is taking several steps to speed up the development in Left Wing Extremism-affected states. He said that special attention is being given to areas like road construction, telecommunication, financial inclusion, skill development and education. Shri Shah said the Centre government has launched more than 14,000 projects under the Special Central Assistance (SCA) scheme to accelerate development in the districts most affected by Left Wing Extremism. He said more than 80% of these projects have been completed and Rs 3,296 crore has been released to Left Wing Extremism-affected states under the scheme. He said under the Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS), projects worth Rs 992 crore have been sanctioned for the construction of Fortified Police Stations, strengthening of State Intelligence branches and Special Forces of Left Wing Extremism-affected states. In last 9 years, Modi government has increased the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) by more than double in comparison to the earlier period.
A glimpse at the data on the significant decline in violent incidents of Left Wing Extremism from 2014 to 2023 as compared to 2005 to 2014-
Security achievements related to Left Wing Extremism
|
Indicators |
From May 2005-April 2014 |
From May 2014- April 2023 |
Percent Decline |
|
Total Incidents of violence |
14,862 |
7128 |
52% Decline |
|
Left Wing Extremism related deaths |
6035 |
1868 |
69% Decline |
|
Security Personnel’s Deaths |
1750 |
485 |
72% Decline |
|
Civilian Deaths |
4285 |
1383 |
68% Decline |
|
Districts reporting violence |
96 (2010) |
45 (2022) |
53% Decline |
|
Police Stations reporting violence |
465 (2010) |
176 (2022) |
62% Decline |
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Efficient Resolution of Pending Matters and Office Cleanliness to Enhance Citizen Convenience
Under the Special Campaign 3.0, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has set targets to liquidate pendency in the MP’s Reference, References from State Governments, Inter-Ministerial References, Parliamentary Assurances, PMO references, Public grievances and Public grievances Appeals. Ministry is also set to review the existing rules and procedures so as to reduce the compliance burden and promoting ease of living for the citizens. Further, Ministry is aiming at overall cleanliness of its offices with special focus on space management and enhancing work experience in subordinate offices /attached offices/ autonomous bodies under it.
The Preparatory phase of the campaign (from 15th September, 2023 to 30th September, 2023) ended with Ministry setting targets for liquidating pendency, review of existing rules, disposal of pending matters and cleanliness of which following are crucial targets:
More than 5 lakhs physical files are to be reviewed.
More than 1500 sites across the nation to be cleaned creating more than 1.75 lakh sq. ft. of space.
More than 50 lakh rupees of revenue to be earned from the disposal of scrap and redundant materials.
This ambitious undertaking is expected to yield substantial results. During the preparatory phase senior officers were directed to channel their utmost efforts into achieving the predetermined targets during the campaign period. As part of the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign, the Secretary of Labour and Employment administered the Swachhata pledge to all Ministry officials, underscoring the commitment to foster a clean and garbage-free India.
In Implementation phase that runs from 2nd October, 2023 to 31st October, Ministry is diligently tracking the progress towards achievement of the set targets and updating progress reports on daily basis.
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