Conference on enhancing financial cohesion and synergy in Armed Forces held in New Delhi

 Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan has stressed the need to embrace changes in financial processes due to the rapidly changing nature and character of war driven by geopolitical dynamics and technological advancements. He was delivering a keynote address at the apex level conference on Aug 5, 2024, in New Delhi on enhancing cohesion and synergy in financial matters pertaining to Armed Forces. CDS said such changes have brought about a non-linear and non-predictable evolution.

Gen Anil Chauhan exhorted all stakeholders to act in cohesion and synergy to safeguard India’s strategic interests while working jointly towards ensuring National Security, which is an important pillar of Viksit Bharat.

Vice Chiefs of Service HQs attended the conference, along with senior functionaries from Service HQs, Coast Guard HQ, MoD Acquisition, MoD Finance, CGDA, and all Principal Integrated Financial Advisors. The conference was steered by HQ IDS and focused on improving the efficiency in defence procurements while adhering to all financial canons.

In his opening address, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (PP&FD) Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan set the pace for discussions by bringing out the intricacies of defence procurements. Financial Adviser (Defence Services) Shri Sugata Ghosh Dastidar stressed on reducing foreign dependence and moving towards Aatmanirbharta while ensuring greater collaboration with Academia towards research and development in defence.

The conference saw all stakeholders putting forth their perspectives and deliberating ways to enhance cohesion and synergy. Service HQs gave insights into their respective challenges in public procurement and methodologies to overcome the same were discussed. The PIFAs participated actively on critical issues of Capital & Revenue procurements. Positive suggestions and recommendations were elucidated by MoD Finance.

Some of the key deliverables of the conference included the importance of Outcome Oriented Budget, Expeditious Procurements, and Financial Propriety. These key takeaways would be forwarded to the MoD for ratification.

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Commemorative postage stamps on Paris Olympics

 Union Minister of Communications & Development of the North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia, and Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, unveiled a set of commemorative postage stamps today to celebrate the XXXIII Paris Olympics. The event was held at Rang Bhawan, All India Radio, New Delhi, and featured the participation of esteemed dignitaries and renowned athletes, marking a significant moment in India’s support for the Olympic Games.

The event was further enriched by the presence of distinguished sports icons, including recent bronze medal winner Sarabjot Singh, who excelled in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Other notable attendees included former cricketer Aakash Chopra and steeplechase athlete Sudha Singh.

The commemorative stamp has been designed to capture the spirit of the Olympics, symbolizing unity among nations through sports and reflecting India’s rich sporting heritage. This special stamp is now available for purchase online at the e-Post Office (https://www.epostoffice.gov.in/). Collectors and enthusiasts are encouraged to grab a copy and own a piece of history.

 

 

Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia and Dr Mansukh Mandaviya officially unveiled the commemorative stamp, expressing their pride in India’s Olympic legacy and the role of sports in promoting global unity. The ministers and athletes shared insights into the importance of sports in fostering international cooperation and friendship, emphasizing the Olympics as a platform for showcasing talent and dedication.

Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia remarked, “The new stamp honoring the Olympics 2024 celebrates our sports heroes who have made India proud on the global stage. This tribute will inspire young talents and strengthen our nation’s sports ecosystem. I congratulate our Department of Posts, which through several initiatives has always promoted sports culture and with the launch of this stamp has added to its legacy of celebrating the achievements of India through philately. I also extend my best wishes to the Indian contingent in the Paris Olympics 2024.”

 

 

Addressing the gathering, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said, “Sports is not just competition; it is a way of living. The release of postage stamps reflects India’s commitment to sports, serving as a symbol of national pride and encouragement for athletes.” Dr Mandaviya further articulated that sports foster a healthier nation, essential for wealth and prosperity, and bring people together, enhancing both individual fitness and national well-being.

 

 

This initiative underscores India’s commitment to promoting sports and honoring its athletes on the international stage.

 

Social Media Links:

https://x.com/JM_Scindia/status/1820377309905666264

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https://x.com/IndiaPostOffice/status/1820418701025255885

https://x.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1820397272083087774

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