Media's role in spreading awareness about energy rating,

*Media’s Role:*
– Raising awareness: Media campaigns can increase public awareness of energy ratings and their importance.
– Educating consumers: Media can explain the benefits of energy-efficient appliances and how to read energy labels.
– Influencing behavior: Media can encourage consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.
– Promoting policy: Media can support policy initiatives and regulations related to energy efficiency.
*Data:*
– A study by the International Energy Agency (IEA) found that media campaigns can increase awareness of energy ratings by up to 50%.
– In the EU, media campaigns led to a 10% increase in sales of energy-efficient appliances (European Commission, 2020).
– A survey in the US found that 70% of consumers consider energy efficiency when purchasing appliances, thanks to media awareness (ACEEE, 2019).
– In India, a media campaign by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) led to a 20% increase in sales of 5-star rated appliances (BEE, 2018).
*Media Channels:*
– Television: Reaches a wide audience, ideal for mass awareness campaigns.
– Social Media: Targets specific demographics, effective for engaging younger audiences.
– Print Media: Provides in-depth information, suitable for educating consumers.
– Online Advertising: Targets consumers during the purchasing process.
By leveraging various media channels, awareness campaigns can effectively educate consumers about energy ratings, influencing their purchasing decisions and contributing to a more energy-efficient future.

Become an Editor of an Edited Book and Get Published for Free with EduPub

Daily writing prompt
What change, big or small, would you like your blog to make in the world?

EduPub is excited to announce a unique opportunity for scholars and researchers to become editors of an edited book. This initiative allows aspiring editors to curate chapters from contributors around the world, compile them into a cohesive volume, and get published for free. If you have a compelling idea for a book and are interested in showcasing diverse perspectives on a specific topic, this is your chance to make a significant impact in your field.

Why Become an Editor with EduPub?

  1. Professional Growth: Editing a book enhances your academic profile, showcasing your expertise and leadership in your research area.
  2. Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with scholars and researchers worldwide, expanding your professional network and fostering future research collaborations.
  3. Cost-Free Publication: EduPub offers free publication for edited books, removing financial barriers and ensuring your work reaches a broad audience.
  4. Academic Contribution: By curating high-quality chapters, you contribute to the body of knowledge in your field, providing valuable resources for researchers, practitioners, and students.

How to Get Started

1. Submit Your Proposal:

To start your journey as an editor, you need to submit a proposal outlining your book idea. Your proposal should include:

  • Title and Description: A clear and concise title along with a brief description of the book’s theme and scope.
  • Target Audience: Define who will benefit from the book, such as researchers, practitioners, students, or policymakers.
  • Chapter Outline: Provide an outline of the potential chapters and topics to be covered.
  • Call for Chapters: Describe how you plan to invite and select contributors for the book.

Send your proposal to editor@edupub.org for consideration.

2. Create a Call for Chapters:

Once your proposal is accepted, EduPub will create a dedicated page on their website to announce the call for chapters. This page will detail:

  • The theme and objectives of the book.
  • Submission guidelines and deadlines for potential contributors.
  • Contact information for further inquiries.

3. Collect and Review Submissions:

As the editor, you will oversee the collection and review of chapter submissions. This involves:

  • Inviting Submissions: Reach out to researchers, academics, and practitioners in your network to contribute.
  • Evaluating Proposals: Assess the quality and relevance of submitted chapters to ensure they align with the book’s theme.
  • Providing Feedback: Work with contributors to refine their chapters, ensuring high standards of academic rigor and coherence.

4. Compile and Finalize the Book:

After selecting and editing the chapters, compile them into a unified volume. EduPub will assist with the final formatting, layout, and publication process, ensuring your book meets professional publishing standards.

5. Publication and Distribution:

Once finalized, your edited book will be published and made available through EduPub’s distribution channels, reaching a global audience of researchers, students, and professionals.

Conclusion

Becoming an editor of an edited book with EduPub is a prestigious opportunity that allows you to contribute significantly to your field, enhance your professional profile, and collaborate with a global network of scholars. Submit your proposal today and take the first step towards publishing a high-impact academic book. For more information and to submit your proposal, please contact editor@edupub.org

Raping the Tourism – Tarnishing the image of Incredible India

Daily writing prompt
What could you do differently?

By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

The occurrence of rape incidents involving tourists in India is a deeply concerning issue that has significant repercussions, not only for the victims and their families but also for the reputation and image of the country as a tourist destination. These incidents tarnish the perception of “Incredible India,” which is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. However, the prevalence of such crimes casts a shadow over these positive attributes and raises serious questions about safety and security for visitors.

Firstly, each incident of rape involving tourists erodes trust and confidence in India as a safe destination. Travelers, especially women, may become apprehensive about visiting the country due to fear for their personal safety. This fear can deter potential tourists from choosing India as their travel destination, resulting in a significant loss for the tourism industry. Moreover, repeated incidents contribute to negative media coverage, amplifying the perception of India as an unsafe place for tourists.

Secondly, the failure to effectively address and prevent these crimes reflects poorly on the authorities’ ability to ensure the safety of visitors. It highlights systemic issues such as gaps in law enforcement, inadequate infrastructure, and cultural attitudes towards gender-based violence. The lack of swift and decisive action to address these underlying issues undermines the credibility of India’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of tourists.

Additionally, the impact of rape incidents on the victims cannot be overstated. Beyond the physical and emotional trauma they endure, these incidents often result in long-lasting psychological effects, shattered confidence, and a reluctance to seek justice in a foreign legal system. The failure to provide adequate support and justice for victims further damages the perception of India as a compassionate and just society.

To mitigate the tarnishing of India’s image and restore trust in its tourism sector, comprehensive measures are required. This includes improving safety infrastructure, increasing police presence in tourist areas, enhancing awareness and sensitivity training for law enforcement officials, and implementing stringent legal measures to ensure swift and effective prosecution of perpetrators. Additionally, promoting a culture of respect and gender equality is essential to address the root causes of violence against women.

In conclusion, the occurrence of rape incidents with tourists in India not only inflicts harm on the victims but also undermines the country’s reputation as a welcoming and safe destination. Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts from the government, law enforcement agencies, tourism stakeholders, and society as a whole to ensure that India remains truly incredible in every aspect.

References

Dubey, P. (2018). No Nation for Women: Reportage on Rape from India, the World’s Largest Democracy. Simon and Schuster.

Kennedy, K. M., & Flaherty, G. T. (2015). The risk of sexual assault and rape during international travel: implications for the practice of travel medicine. Journal of travel medicine22(4), 282-284.

Thomas, T. K., & Mura, P. (2019). The ‘normality of unsafety’-foreign solo female travellers in India. Tourism Recreation Research44(1), 33-40.

Rao, N. (2012). The dark side of tourism and sexuality: trafficking of Nepali girls for Indian brothels. In Sex and tourism (pp. 155-165). Routledge.

Research Publication Fee Discounts for NGOs and Scholars from Developing Countries

Daily writing prompt
What change, big or small, would you like your blog to make in the world?

In the realm of academic research, publication costs can pose significant barriers for scholars and organizations, particularly those from developing countries. Recognizing this challenge, many academic publishers, including EduPub, are now offering substantial fee discounts to NGOs and scholars from these regions, ensuring broader access to global research platforms.

EduPub’s Commitment to Accessibility

EduPub, a prominent academic publisher, is dedicated to fostering inclusive access to research publications. They understand that financial constraints can limit the dissemination of valuable research from developing countries. To address this, EduPub provides discounts on publication fees for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and scholars from these regions. This initiative aims to reduce the economic barriers to publishing high-quality research and to amplify the voices of researchers from underrepresented areas.

Why Fee Discounts Matter

  1. Promoting Diverse Perspectives: By offering fee discounts, EduPub encourages a more diverse range of perspectives in academic literature. This inclusivity enriches the global research community, enabling insights from various socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
  2. Supporting Emerging Researchers: Scholars from developing countries often face financial hardships that hinder their ability to publish. Fee discounts provide these researchers with opportunities to share their findings and contribute to their fields without the burden of prohibitive costs.
  3. Enhancing Global Collaboration: Reduced publication fees facilitate increased collaboration between researchers across different regions. This cross-pollination of ideas fosters innovative solutions to global challenges and drives progress in various scientific and academic disciplines.

How to Apply for Fee Discounts

EduPub has streamlined the process for applying for publication fee discounts. Scholars and NGOs from developing countries can follow these steps:

  1. Identify Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the criteria for fee discounts. Typically, this applies to researchers affiliated with institutions in developing countries and registered NGOs.
  2. Prepare Your Manuscript: Follow the submission guidelines provided by EduPub to prepare your manuscript. Ensure that it meets the journal’s standards and requirements.
  3. Submit Your Manuscript: Send your research paper to the specified email address (ijr@ijrjournal.com). Include a request for a fee discount in your cover letter, detailing your eligibility and any supporting information.
  4. Review and Approval: EduPub will review your request and inform you of the discount approval. Once approved, your paper will proceed through the usual peer-review process.

Encouraging Quality Research

EduPub’s fee discount initiative underscores their commitment to promoting quality research from all corners of the world. By alleviating the financial burden on researchers from developing countries, EduPub ensures that important research findings are accessible to the global academic community, regardless of the researchers’ financial circumstances.

Conclusion

Research publication fee discounts for NGOs and scholars from developing countries represent a crucial step towards equitable access to academic publishing. EduPub’s efforts in this regard not only support the dissemination of diverse perspectives but also empower researchers from underrepresented regions to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge. Scholars and organizations are encouraged to take advantage of these discounts to ensure their research reaches a wider audience, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative academic environment.

For further information and to submit your research papers for publication, please contact ijr@ijrjournal.com

Benefits of Getting Your eBook Published with EduPub before Sharing on ResearchGate or Academia

Daily writing prompt
Describe your life in an alternate universe.

Publishing an eBook is a significant milestone for any author, especially in academic and research circles. While platforms like ResearchGate and Academia are popular for sharing research papers and publications, there are several distinct advantages to having your eBook published with a traditional publisher such as Edupedia Publications Pvt Ltd before sharing it on these platforms. Here are the detailed benefits:

1. Professional Editing and Formatting

Edupedia Publications Pvt Ltd offers professional editing and formatting services that ensure your eBook meets the highest standards of quality. This includes proofreading, grammatical corrections, and layout design, which can significantly enhance the readability and overall presentation of your work.

2. ISBN Assignment

One of the primary benefits of publishing with Edupedia is the assignment of an International Standard Book Number (ISBN). An ISBN provides a unique identifier for your book, making it easier for libraries, bookstores, and readers to find and reference your work. This formal recognition adds credibility and legitimacy to your eBook.

3. Wide Distribution Network

Edupedia Publications Pvt Ltd has an extensive distribution network that ensures your eBook reaches a broad audience. This includes listing your eBook on various online platforms, academic libraries, and bookstores, thereby increasing its visibility and accessibility.

4. Marketing and Promotion

Publishing with Edupedia means you benefit from their marketing and promotional efforts. This includes featuring your book on their website, social media channels, and newsletters, as well as potential promotional campaigns. Effective marketing can significantly boost your book’s reach and readership.

5. Copyright Protection

By publishing with Edupedia, your eBook is legally protected under copyright laws. This safeguards your intellectual property from unauthorized use and ensures you retain the rights to your work. It also means any reproductions or distributions of your work are under your control.

6. Professional Cover Design

A professionally designed cover can make a significant difference in attracting readers. Edupedia Publications provides cover design services that create visually appealing and marketable covers, giving your eBook a professional edge.

7. Quality Assurance

Publishing with a reputable company like Edupedia ensures that your eBook undergoes rigorous quality checks. This includes thorough reviews and feedback from experts in your field, which can help improve the content and structure of your book.

8. Enhanced Academic Reputation

Having your eBook published by a well-known and respected publisher can enhance your academic reputation. It demonstrates that your work has been vetted and approved by a recognized entity in the publishing industry, which can be beneficial for your academic and professional career.

9. Monetary Benefits

Publishing with Edupedia allows you to monetize your eBook. They offer royalty agreements where you earn a percentage of sales from your book. This can provide a passive income stream, unlike platforms like ResearchGate or Academia, which are primarily for sharing work without direct financial gain.

10. Permanent Record

Your eBook with Edupedia becomes part of a permanent, searchable record. This is crucial for academic citations and referencing, as it ensures your work can be easily located and cited by other researchers, contributing to the scholarly conversation in your field.

11. Control Over Distribution

With Edupedia, you have more control over how and where your eBook is distributed. You can choose to release it in various formats (PDF, ePub, Kindle) and decide on pricing, availability, and more. This flexibility allows you to tailor the distribution to your audience’s needs.

12. Support and Guidance

Edupedia Publications provides ongoing support and guidance throughout the publishing process. This includes assistance with manuscript preparation, understanding the publishing process, and post-publication support. This comprehensive support system can be invaluable, especially for first-time authors.

13. Enhanced Visibility on Academic Platforms

Once your eBook is published with Edupedia and you share it on ResearchGate or Academia, it carries the prestige of having been published by a recognized entity. This can lead to higher engagement, more downloads, and increased citations from your peers on these platforms.

Conclusion

Publishing your eBook with Edupedia Publications Pvt Ltd before sharing it on platforms like ResearchGate or Academia offers numerous benefits that can enhance the quality, reach, and impact of your work. From professional editing and wide distribution to copyright protection and academic recognition, the advantages are significant. By choosing to publish with Edupedia, you ensure that your eBook receives the professional treatment it deserves, setting it up for success in the academic and research community.

Send your manuscript for review to editor@pen2print.org

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.

***

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

https://x.com/JM_Scindia/status/1820426966690079140

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

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

https://x.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1820396169996247465

Overview of the National Education Policy 2020

The National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) is a comprehensive framework for transforming India’s education system by 2030 ¹. It replaces the previous National Policy on Education, 1986, and aims to increase state expenditure on education from around 3% to 6% of the GDP ¹.
*Key Features of the National Education Policy 2020*
– *Language Policy*: The policy emphasizes the use of the mother tongue as the medium of instruction till Class 5, with the option to continue till Class 8 and beyond ¹. It also recommends the study of three languages, with at least two being native to India ¹.
– *School Education*: The policy focuses on achieving universal foundational literacy and numeracy by 2025 ¹. It proposes a new structure of 5+3+3+4, replacing the existing 10+2 structure ¹. Board exams will be re-designed, and students will have the option to take exams twice a year ¹.
– *Higher Education*: The policy proposes a 4-year multi-disciplinary bachelor’s degree with multiple exit options ¹. It also aims to increase the gross enrollment ratio and proposes the establishment of a Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) ¹.
– *Internationalization*: The policy allows foreign universities to set up campuses in India and proposes the internationalization of education ¹.
– *Teachers*: The policy emphasizes the importance of teachers and proposes a 4-year Bachelor of Education as the minimum requirement to become a teacher by 2030 ¹.
– *EdTech*: The policy provides guidelines and support for EdTech companies and startups to develop learning management systems and other educational technologies ¹.
*Reception of the National Education Policy 2020*
The policy has received both praise and criticism from various stakeholders ¹. Some have appreciated the policy’s focus on foundational literacy and numeracy, while others have raised concerns about the implementation and potential commercialization of education ¹.

Celebrating the Power of Friendship: The Significance of Friendship Day

Introduction
Friendship Day, celebrated on the first Sunday of August every year, is a special day dedicated to honoring the beautiful bond of friendship. This day is a reminder of the importance of nurturing and cherishing our friendships, which play a vital role in making our lives richer and more meaningful.
History of Friendship Day
The concept of Friendship Day was first introduced in 1935 by the US Congress, but it gained popularity in the 1990s. The day is now celebrated worldwide, with people showing appreciation for their friends through various gestures and activities.
Significance of Friendship
Friendship is a unique and precious relationship that brings joy, support, and companionship to our lives. Friends are our confidants, partners in crime, and pillars of strength during difficult times. They help us grow, learn, and evolve as individuals.
Ways to Celebrate Friendship Day
1. Spend quality time with friends: Plan a fun outing, movie night, or game session.
2. Express gratitude: Write heartfelt letters or make personalized gifts.
3. Make new connections: Attend social events or join clubs to meet like-minded people.
4. Show appreciation: Small gestures like surprise gifts or thoughtful messages go a long way.
Conclusion
Friendship Day is a celebration of the love, trust, and camaraderie that defines true friendship. Let us cherish and nurture our friendships, recognizing their significance in making our lives more fulfilling and happy. So, go ahead and shower your friends with love and appreciation – they deserve it!

Top Research projects for PhD funded by universities

– *PhD in Anthropology*: The University of Chicago offers funding for up to eight years of study, including a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance and a living stipend.
– *PhD in Biological Sciences in Public Health*: Harvard University offers tuition, a stipend and health insurance for five years, as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress.
– *PhD in Business*: Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers a full-tuition scholarship, a monthly stipend, medical insurance, new laptops and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.
– *PhD in Chemical Engineering*: Cornell University offers a full tuition waiver, health insurance and a stipend.
– *PhD in Computer Science*: Many universities offer fully funded PhD programs in computer science, including tuition waivers and stipends.
Please note that these are just a few examples, and there are many other universities and programs offering funding for PhD research projects.

Navigating the World of Data Analysis Software: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction
In today’s data-driven landscape, organizations and individuals rely on data analysis software to extract insights, identify trends, and inform decision-making. With numerous tools available, selecting the right software can be overwhelming. This article provides an in-depth exploration of popular data analysis software, their features, and applications.
1. Spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets)
– Ideal for: Basic data analysis, budgeting, and reporting
– Key features: Data visualization, pivot tables, formulas, and conditional formatting
1. Statistical Software (R, Python, SAS)
– Ideal for: Advanced statistical analysis, machine learning, and data modeling
– Key features: Data manipulation, hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and data visualization
1. Data Visualization Tools (Tableau, Power BI, D3.js)
– Ideal for: Interactive data visualization, business intelligence, and storytelling
– Key features: Drag-and-drop interfaces, real-time data connection, and customizable dashboards
1. Big Data Analytics (Hadoop, Spark, NoSQL databases)
– Ideal for: Large-scale data processing, distributed computing, and real-time analytics
– Key features: Scalability, fault tolerance, and handling unstructured data
1. Data Mining Software (KNIME, RapidMiner, Orange)
– Ideal for: Predictive analytics, pattern discovery, and automated workflows
– Key features: Visual programming, machine learning algorithms, and data integration
1. Cloud-based Solutions (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure)
– Ideal for: Scalable infrastructure, collaboration, and secure data storage
– Key features: On-demand resources, automated backups, and integrated analytics services
Conclusion
Selecting the right data analysis software depends on your specific needs, skill level, and organizational requirements. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each tool, you can harness the power of data analysis to drive informed decisions and business success.

STEPS TO STRENGTHEN COUNTRY’S POSITION IN GLOBAL STEEL MARKET

 Steel is a de-regulated sector and the Government acts as a facilitator, by creating conducive policy environment for development of the steel sector. The measures taken by the Government to improve production and consumption of steel in the country are as under:-

  1. Implementation of Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMI&SP) Policy for promoting Made in India steel for Government procurement.
  2. The Government has launched the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for specialty steel to promote the manufacturing of ‘Specialty Steel’ within the country and reduce import by attracting capital investments. The anticipated additional investment under PLI Scheme for specialty steel is Rs. 29,500 crores and an additional capacity creation of around 25 million tonnes (MT) for specialty steel.
  3. Ministry of Steel has launched 16 process based safety guidelines on 25.07.2024, which in result help the steel industry to improve the productivity by standardising the safe practice in operations.
  4. Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) has been revamped and SIMS 2.0 was launched on 25.07.2024 for more effective monitoring of imports and to address the related concerns of domestic steel industry.
  5. Make in India initiative and the PM Gati-shakti National Master Plan with further engagement with potential users, including from Railways, Defence, Petroleum and Natural Gas, Housing, Civil Aviation, Road Transport and Highways, Agriculture and Rural Development sectors to enhance the steel usage, overall demand for steel and investment in the steel sector in the country.
  6. Coordination with Ministries and States, besides other countries for facilitating the availability of raw material for steel making on more favourable terms.
  7. Notification of Steel Scrap Recycling Policy to enhance the availability of domestically generated scrap.
  8. Notification of 145 numbers Steel Quality Control Orders to prevent manufacturing and import of non-standardized steel and to make available quality steel products to the public at large.

 

India became the world’s second-largest steel producer in 2018 surpassing Japan and remained so since then.

The steps taken by Government to reduce carbon footprint of the steel industry are as under:-

  1. 14 Task Forces had been constituted with engagement of industry, academia, think tanks, S&T bodies, different Ministries and other stakeholders to discuss deliberate and recommend upon different levers of decarbonisation of steel sector. 
  2. Steel Scrap Recycling Policy, 2019 enhances the availability of domestically generated scrap to reduce the consumption of coal in steel making.
  3. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has notified National Green Hydrogen Mission for green hydrogen production and usage. The steel sector has also been made a stakeholder in the Mission.
  4. Motor Vehicles (Registration and Functions of Vehicles Scrapping Facility) Rules September 2021, envisages to increase availability of scrap in the steel sector.
  5. National Solar Mission launched by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in January 2010 promotes the use of solar energy and also helps to reduce the emission of steel industry.
  6. Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme, under National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency, incentivizes steel industry to reduce energy consumption.
  7. The steel sector has adopted the Best Available Technologies (BAT) available globally, in the modernization & expansions projects.
  8. Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) Model Projects for Energy Efficiency Improvement have been implemented in steel plants.

WORKSHOPS ON SAGAR SETU APP

 Sagar Setu has achieved integration with all 13 major ports and 41 non-major ports of India. The details of major ports and non-major ports are given in Annexure-I.

Sagar Setu application has garnered a base of over 21,000 users spread across diverse geographic regions within India. The sector wise details of user/Stakeholder using the Sagar Setu application is at Annexure-II. These users are port authorities, service providers like shipping agents, terminal operators, Customs House Agents (CHAs) Importers/ Exporters etc. The number of users, state wise including Andhra Pradesh is at Annexure-III.

The Benefits of Sagar Setu are as below:

  1. Real Time Data Exchange enabling the following in the long term:

 

  1. A single platform to perform all core activities for importers, exporters, customs brokers, and freight forwarders;
  2. end-to-end functionality for performing self-clearance digitally and online transactions with custodians;
  3. providing a level playing field for all relevant stakeholders, both large and small;
  4. complete domestic tracking of shipments with notifications at each stage;
  5. real-time information on activities;
  6. enhanced transparency in government-to-business relations and ease of doing business;
  7. reduced costs and timeframes for the execution of trade and logistics operations; and
  8. paperless transactions for all stakeholdersalong with business intelligence reporting and data analytics.

 

  1. The visibility of operation is indicated stakeholder wise, as detailed below:

 

  1. Ports & Terminal Operators: All 13 major ports (with their Terminal Operating System, TOS/ Port Operating System, POS) and 41 non-major ports are integrated with National Logistic Portal Marine (NLP-M). Almost all terminal operators at major ports have been onboarded.
  2. Customs: Integration with Indian Customs Electronics Gateway (ICEGATE) streamlines the electronic exchange of data and information between customs and ports.
  3. Port Health Organisation (PHO) module: PHOs can approve and issue certificates using the PHO module, and notifications will be sent to port officials. Requests for Free Pratique and Health Declaration Certificates to PHOs at ports are available through Sagar Setu.
  4. Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) module: Real-time and online information exchange regarding vessel detention and release is available to MMD inspectors, port authorities, and other stakeholders.
  5. Indian Railways: Messages from Sagar Setu are integrated with Frieght Operations Information System (FOIS) for sharing voyage registration, Electronic Verified Gross Margin (eVGM), berth allotment, container pendency, and bulk pendency.
  6. Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP): Multiple messages are integrated between ULIP and Sagar Setu.
  7. Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL): The DGLL module has been developed and provides information on lighthouse dues payment status on Sagar Setu.
  8. Banks: Multiple banks have been onboarded in Sagar Setu for Business to Government Transactions (B2G) transactions. Sagar Setu also plans to implement Business to Business (B2B) transactions on its platform.

 

  1. Improving Port Operations and Efficiency:

 

    1. 98 messages have been integrated over NLP-M, providing the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) with visibility into key port operations metrics and monitoring efficiency.
    2. The processes for PHO free pratique and health declaration forms have shifted entirely from manual to NLP-M, leading to a much reduced process time of five hours at most major ports.
    3. With the data available in Sagar Setu, insights can be provided regarding vessel approval times, voyage tracking, and crew and cargo details, which can enable ports to improve their turnaround times and ensure greater transparency.

 

In the fiscal year 2024, there were close to 69 Lakhs message exchanges on Sagar Setu. The total value of financial transactions processed on the Sagar Setu platform amounted to INR 12,000+ crores.

The details of message exchange port/state wise including Andhra Pradesh are at Anneure-IV

A 24/7 Sagar Setu Helpdesk team operates to offer both operational and technical assistance. On an average around 1300 queries and issues are reported. The predominant issues reported by users are as under :

  1. Challenges encountered with the exchange of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) files;
  2. difficulties related to the integration with Customs (ICEGATE);
  3. problems with the receipt of COPRAR (Container Pre-arrival Report) messages; and
  4. various lesser application-related issues, including those concerning user registration and login, payment processes, etc.

The average time to resolve an issue is around 4 days.

A series of workshops and training programs have been organized, featuring key events such as Conference Room Pilot sessions in August 2022, Port Feedback sessions in August 2023, and a User Acceptance Testing (UAT) Demo session in September 2023. In addition to these scheduled events, bespoke sessions are also offered on an as-needed basis to educate users about the Sagar Setu application. Tailored sessions are regularly provided upon the request of stakeholders, including Port Authorities, regulatory bodies, and shipping agents, to ensure they are well-versed in using the application. Furthermore, routine weekly and monthly meetings with the nodal officers from various trade associations are held to discuss and resolve any issues that users may encounter during their operations. Sagar Setu also offers a range of user guides and video tutorials that are readily accessible to the general public.

Conducting workshop/training is a periodic and continuous exercise.

Annexure-I

Details of Major and Non Major ports of India onboarded on Sagar Setu.

 

List of Major Ports onboarded on Sagar Setu:                                             

S. No

Port Name

State

1

Chennai Port Authority

Tamil Nadu

2

V.O.Chidambaranar Port Authority

Tamil Nadu

3

Kamarajar Port Limited

Tamil Nadu

4

Mumbai Port Authority

Maharashtra

5

Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority

Maharashtra

6

Cochin Port Authority

Kerala

7

Visakhapatnam Port Authority

Andhra Pradesh

8

New Mangalore Port Authority

Karnataka

9

Paradip Port Authority

Odisha

10

SMPA Haldia Dock Complex

West Bengal

11

SMPA Kolkata Dock System

West Bengal

12

Deendayal Port Authority

Gujarat

13

Mormugao Port

Goa

 

List of Non-Major Ports onboarded on Sagar Setu:

Sr. No.

Port Name

State

1

Kakinada Seaport Limited

Andhra Pradesh

2

Krishnapatnam Port

Andhra Pradesh

3

Adani Gangavaram Port Pvt Ltd

Andhra Pradesh

4

Kakinada Anchorage Port

Andhra Pradesh

5

KAKINADA DEEP WATER PORT ( KDWP )

Andhra Pradesh

6

Ravva Port (Terminal)

Andhra Pradesh

7

Panaji Port

Goa

8

Adani Petronet (Dahej) Port

Gujarat

9

Hazira Port

Gujarat

10

Magdalla Group Of Ports

Gujarat

11

Mundra Port

Gujarat

12

Pipavav Port

Gujarat

13

Sika Port

Gujarat

14

AMNS Port Hazira

Gujarat

15

Gujarat Chemical Port Limited, Dahej

Gujarat

16

Essar Bulk Terminal (Salaya) Limited

Gujarat

17

Dahej Harbour and Infrastructure Limited

Gujarat

18

UltraTech Cement Ltd,GCW, Kovaya

Gujarat

19

Bhogat Port facility – Vedanta Limited

Gujarat

20

Bhavnagar Port

Gujarat

21

Vizhinjam International Port

Kerala

22

Kollam Port

Kerala

23

Beypore Port

Kerala

24

Vizhinjam Port

Kerala

25

Azhikkal Port

Kerala

26

Bankot Port

Maharashtra

27

Konkan LNG Pvt Ltd

Maharashtra

28

Dharamtar Port

Maharashtra

29

Dahanu Port

Maharashtra

30

Angre Port Pvt Ltd

Maharashtra

31

JSW Jaigarh Port

Maharashtra

32

REDI PORT LTD

Maharashtra

33

RANPAR

Maharashtra

34

Indo Eng Pvt Ltd

Maharashtra

35

JSW Revdanda Port

Maharashtra

36

Dighi Port Ltd.

Maharashtra

37

Karanja Terminal & Logistics Pvt. Ltd

Maharashtra

38

Dhamra Port Pvt Ltd

Odisha

39

Gopalpur Port

Odisha

40

Kattupalli Port Pvt Ltd

Tamil Nadu

41

MIDPL Kattupalli Port

Tamil Nadu

                                                                                                                  

Annexure-II

Details of sector wise Stakeholders using the application:         

Sr. No.

Stakeholders

Count

1

Importer/Exporter

7519

2

Customs Broker

5685

3

Shipping Agent

4619

4

Importer

792

5

Container Agent

645

6

Stevedore

379

7

Empty Yard Operator

222

8

Ship Chandlers

192

9

Shipping Line

184

10

Container Freight Station

178

11

Port Operations

109

12

Freight Forwarder

105

13

Exporter

104

14

Inland Container Depot

95

15

Non Vessel Operating Common Carrier

85

16

Terminal Operator – Sea

80

17

Rail Transport

64

18

Port Authority

61

19

Road Transport Operator

34

20

Regulatory Authority

31

21

Surveyor

27

22

Barge Operator

25

23

Port Health Organization

21

24

Port Marine

20

25

Coast Guard / Indian Navy

19

26

ICD Shipping Line

19

27

RAIL TRANSPORT OPERATOR

18

28

Port Finance

16

29

Mercantile Marine Department

15

30

Bunker Supplier

14

31

Latch-On Service Provider

14

32

IW–Vessel Operators

13

33

SA Administrator

11

34

BANK

9

35

Inland Waterways

8

36

Port Traffic

8

37

Container Train Operator

6

38

DG Shipping

4

39

HMC Operator

4

40

Coastal Cargo Stakeholders

3

41

Regulatory Operation

3

42

Tank Farm Operator

3

43

Plant Quarantine Organisation

1

44

Export Promotion Council

2

45

Indian Customs

2

46

Ministry of Commerce and Industry(DPIIT)

2

47

Directorate General of Lighthouses And Lightships

1

48

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India

1

49

Freight Operating Information System

1

 

 Annexure-III

Number of Users, state-wise using Sagar Setu app:

Sl No

State

No of Stakeholders

1

Maharashtra

10285

2

West Bengal

3614

3

Tamil nadu

1804

4

Andhra Pradesh

1286

5

Gujarat

1123

6

Kerala

695

7

Odisha

483

8

Karnataka

249

9

Goa

199

Annexure-IV

Message exchanges (During FY24):

Sr. No

Port Name

State

Total (in Lakhs)

1

Chennai Port Authority

Tamil Nadu

29.4

2

V.O.Chidambaranar Port Authority

3

Kamarajar Port Limited

4

Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority

Maharashtra

15.6

5

Mumbai Port Authority

6

Visakhapatnam Port Authority

Andhra Pradesh

9.5

7

SMPA KDS

West Bengal

9.3

8

SMPA HDC

9

Cochin Port Authority

Kerala

1.9

10

Deendayal Port Authority

Gujarat

1.9

11

New Mangalore Port Authority

Karnataka

0.8

12

Paradip Port Authority

Odisha

0.6

13

Mormugao Port Authority

Goa

0.2

Resource Allocation In Rural Areas To Push Demand

 Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) is implementing a number of rural development schemes namely, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G), Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), Deendayal Upadhayay – Gramin Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs) and National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) to alleviate poverty and to bring about overall improvement in the quality of life of the people in rural areas, strengthening of livelihood opportunities, providing minimum guaranteed employment, promoting self-employment, skilling of youths in various useful trades and entrepreneurship qualities, infrastructure development and provision of social assistance in alignment with the ‘India@100 Vision’. Allocation of resources under these schemes is a continuous process and funds are released to the States/UTs taking into account adherence of the schematic guidelines and assessing the actual requirement at ground level.

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) is a demand driven wage employment programme which envisages for the enhancement of livelihood security of the households in rural areas of the country by providing at least one hundred days of guaranteed wage employment in every financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. It offers rural households fall back livelihood options when better employment opportunities are unavailable. Additionally, it mandates an extra 50 days of wage employment for Scheduled Tribe households in forest areas and provides for an additional 50 days of wage employment in drought or natural calamity-affected rural areas. State Governments have the option to allocate additional days of employment beyond the guaranteed period using their funds

PMGSY is a one-time special intervention of the Central Government to improve the Rural Infrastructure through the construction of roads. PMGSY has been allocated a budget of Rs.19,000 crore for the current Financial Year. Out of this, Rs. 1,292.22 crore has been released to the States till 30.07.2024. Under PMGSY, the project proposals for 8,31,453 Km have been sanctioned with a value of Rs. 3,89,606.49 till 30.07.2024, and out of this, 7,65,719 Km of road length have been constructed at an expenditure of Rs. 3,24,993.65 crore. 20 to 25 % of the above spending is towards labour component which has created substantial employment opportunities in the rural area. Further in the Budget Speech 2024-25, the Government announced to launch of the fourth phase of PMGSY to provide connectivity to 25,000 rural habitations. When the roads and bridges to connect these habitations are sanctioned and construction starts on the ground substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities will be created in the rural area.

In order to achieve the target of “Housing for All” in rural areas, the Ministry of Rural Development is implementing Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) with effect from 1st April, 2016 to construct 2.95 crore houses by providing assistance to eligible rural households with basic amenities. Under PMAY-G, out of the overall mandated target of 2.95 crore houses allocated to States/UTs, more than 2.94 crore houses have already been sanctioned to the beneficiaries and 2.64 crore houses have already been completed as on 29.07.2024. Government of India announced 2 Crore more houses to be constructed in the next five years till FY 2028-29 under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G).

The construction of a house under PMAY-G generates direct employment of approximately 201 person-days, which includes 56 skilled, 34 Semi-skilled, and 111 unskilled person-days. Accordingly, the construction of 2.64 Crore houses under the scheme has generated employment of around 531 crores of person-days. Further, constructing the remaining 0.31 crores of houses and the proposed 2 crore new houses are expected to generate employment of 464 crore person-days. Under the Rural Mason Training program of PMAY-G so far 2.7 lakh candidates have been trained. Further, some of the well-trained certified masons also got opportunities to work abroad in the construction field. The PMAY-G has been converged with MGNREGA under which the beneficiary is entitled to 90/95 person-days of unskilled labour from MGNREGA for construction of house, over and above the unit assistance. Under PMAY-G, the indirect employment is also generated through the production of building materials and their transportation for the house construction.