Year: 2024

MoD & NSE ink MoU to facilitate capital market access to MSMEs

 Ministry of Defence and National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE), on July 29, 2024, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate capital market access to the MSMEs. The MoU was signed by Additional Secretary, Department of Defence Production (DDP) and Managing Director, NSE in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane. The MoU intends to facilitate MSMEs in the defence sector to raise productive capital for their growth plan in an efficient and transparent manner through NSE platform ‘NSE Emerge’. The platform offers new and viable options for raising equity capital from diversified set of investors.

The MoU will be in force for a period of five years, during which, DDP and NSE would conduct an extensive awareness drive through seminars, MSME camps, knowledge sessions, road shows & workshops to guide corporates engaged with the Ministry of Defence for fund raising on NSE Emerge platform. NSE will also assist MSMEs in connecting with intermediaries like merchant bankers, registrar, transfer agent, depositories etc and guide them regarding the capital markets, capital raising mechanism and regulatory compliance and requirement. This MoU will help MSMEs and emerging companies in defence sector to scale-up their business operations, explore new markets and fund their R&D activities.

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SR/Savvy

Tomatoes procured from three centres, Price Stabilisation Fund not used

 Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi launched the sale of tomatoes at Rs 60 per kg here today. The National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India Limited (NCCF) vans will be providing the tomatoes at subsidised rate. The tomatoes will be sold in Delhi along with Noida and Gurgaon. The Centre undertook the market intervention initiative to stabilise rising tomato price in the retail market.

 

 

While addressing the media during the flagging off ceremony, Shri Joshi said that to check the surge of tomato price in major cities, especially Delhi, the Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India has decided to launch this initiative. “From today onwards subsidised tomatoes will be sold for Rs 60 per kg”, said Shri Joshi.

The Union Minister said that under Shri Narendra Modi government, the Centre has set up a Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) to stabilise rising food prices and protect consumers’ interests. “Whenever a situation arises price of essential commodities increase, we utilise the PSF to procure the commodities. These essential commodities are directly procured from farmers that reduces intermediary costs and ensure availability to consumers”, said Shri Joshi adding on that in this case PSF was not utilised as tomatoes were directly procured from mandis. He further added that this initiative will ease tomato price, stabilise the market and provide tomatoes at subsidised rate to consumers.

NCCF has initiated market intervention to stabilise rising tomato prices in the retail market. NCCF is procuring tomatoes from wholesale mandis and selling them at reasonable retail prices.This move aims to ensure that profit margins remain reasonable at the retail level and prevent windfall gains to intermediaries and thereby protect the interests of consumers.

By this intervention NCCF seeks to cool off price rise and maintain price stability in the market, benefiting consumers and promoting fair trade practices. This intervention demonstrates NCCF’s commitment to protecting consumer interests and promoting a stable market ecosystem.

To begin with, tomato sales will start from today (29 July 2024) at the following locations at the rate of Rs60/- per kilogram – Rajiv Chowk Metro, Patel Chowk Metro, Nehru Place, Krishi Bhawan, CGO Complex, Lodhi Colony, Hauz Khas Head Office, Parliament Street, INA Market, Mandi House, Kailash Colony, I.T.O, South Extension, Moti Nagar, Dwarka, Noida (Sector 14 and 76), Rohini, Gurugram. In the coming days, the number of retail locations may be increased for consumer convenience.

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Bureau of Indian Standards and Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology signs Memorandum of Understanding for Standardized Agriculture Demonstration Farm (SADF)

 The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUAT) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the development of the first of its kind ‘Standardized Agriculture Demonstration Farm’ (SADF) in India.

The MoU was signed on July 24, 2024, in the presence of Dr. M. S. Chauhan, Vice-Chancellor, GBPUAT, and senior officials from the University, including Dr. Deepa Vinay, Registrar; Dr. Ajeet Kumar Nain, Director of Research; and Deans of various colleges of GBPUAT, along with Dr. S. B. Singh, BIS Chair at GBPUAT.

Shri Rajeev P, Deputy Director General (North), Shri Saurabh Tiwari, Director & Head, BIS Dehradun, and other senior officials of BIS attended the event. This MoU marks the first collaboration between BIS and an agricultural university in the country to develop SADFs.

While emphasising about the potential benefits of MoU, Shri Pramod Kumar Tiwari, Director General, BIS, stated, “This partnership with GBPUAT is a major step forward. It will enhance agricultural practices by integrating Indian Standards, benefiting farmers and advancing agricultural innovation. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership will have on the agricultural sector and the broader community.”

The primary objective of this MoU is to develop SADFs at GBPUAT in collaboration with BIS. These farms will serve as experimental sites for testing and implementing various agricultural practices and new technologies in accordance with Indian Standards. Regarding the fast pace development, it was informed that the Vice-Chancellor has instructed the concerned officials at GBPUAT to commence work on the project immediately and report the outcomes regularly, keeping BIS informed as per the defined periodicity.

This partnership with GBPUAT is a significant step towards promoting standardised agricultural practices and ensuring the implementation of cutting-edge technologies to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.

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Atomic Energy inaugurates ‘One DAE One Subscription’

 The inaugural ceremony of ‘One DAE One Subscription’ (ODOS) took place today at Tata Memorial Hospital, in Mumbai today. ODOS is a unique idea enabling Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) & all its units/subunits (about 60) together under one umbrella for read and publish access to national and international research papers as well as scientific journals. With this initiative it is now possible to share the resources digitally and evolve collectively. DAE has signed consortium agreements with M/s. Wiley India Private Limited and with M/s. Springer Nature Group in furtherance of the same.

On the occasion of the inauguration, Secretary, DAE and Chairman AEC, Dr. A. K. Mohanty conveyed a congratulatory message to and stated, “The ODOS Transformative Agreement is a significant milestone for synergizing the read access and publishing requirements of DAE. I am sure ODOS will benefit thousands of scientists, engineers, young students of HBNI and researchers of aided institutes to have access to much larger knowledge platform and also publish in open access journals. The ODOS will later get merged with a bigger national initiative, called One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) which has been initiated by the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India. ONOS is currently under various stages of implementation.” 

Addressing the gathering, Shri. A.K. Nayak, Head, NCPW, DAE, stated that the objective of the ODOS initiative is to make knowledge accessible to as many people as possible. ODOS a small yet decisive step towards ONOS which will in turn make knowledge accessible to everyone and lead to the cherished dream of a developed India.

Dr. Sudeep Gupta, Director, TMC, expressed that libraries are no longer brick and mortar buildings but computers. In the current era, the world lays stress on creative innovation which can only happen when we have access to the current state of wisdom in any particular field. One way to minimize repetitive research is to let everybody access the current state of science so that we move forward and don’t repeat what has already been done. DEA has once again proven it is a pioneer in taking the lead and showing the way.

About ODOS

The first ODOS agreement with M/s. Wiley India Private Limited will provide access to the collection of 1353 Wiley journals including archives from 1997, to the entire DAE community. This is against the current access of 166 unique journals provided to only 12 DAE units without much increase in price. Perpetual rights will be given to all the DAE units for all the journals for the year 2024. DAE will also get the right to publish more articles in open access journals. Under this agreement Article Processing Charges (APC) have been covered.

The second ODOS agreement with M/s. Springer Nature Group will provide access to about 2,686 Springer Nature titles which includes 553 journals as Fully Open Access (FOA). The access will be provided to entire DAE as against 1752 unique journals access provided to 14 units earlier. Perpetual rights will be given to all the DAE units for all the journals for 2024.  The archives from the year 1997 for the Springer titles and from the year 2012 for Nature titles will also be accessible. The agreement will also enable DAE to publish 281 articles in Springer Hybrid journals as open access without Article Processing Charges (APC).

The ODOS Transformative Agreements (TA) signed with M/s. Wiley India Private Limited and with M/s. Springer Nature Group is a significant milestone for the DAE scientific community and enable sustainable growth of science and technology. This will boost scientific morale, foster innovation, promote research and will enhance academic publications.

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Coaching has become a flouring industry with returns

 Rajya Sabha today held a short duration discussion under rule 176 of Rajya Sabha on the tragic deaths of UPSC aspirant in a coaching centre in Delhi due to water logging.  Allowing the discussion Chairman Rajya Sabha, Shri Jagdeep Dhakhar remarked “I find that youth demographic dividend of the country has to nurtured, I further find that coaching has become virtually commerce….”

Shri Dhankhar also expressed concern over the huge expenditure made by coaching centres on newspaper advertisements, that is made out of the huge fees charged from the students, “Coachings have become a flourishing industry with high returns….every time we read a newspaper front one or two pages are by way of advertisements….Every penny spent on advertisement is coming from the students, every new building is coming from the students”, he added

Comparing to silos created in the country due to coaching culture to no less than ‘Gas Chambers’, Chairman stated “…..In a country where opportunities are getting enlarged this silo is turning out to be a problem…….they are becoming no less than a gas chamber….”.  He further urged members to make the youth aware about the various other employment & skill opportunities available in the country. 

Lamenting over the practice of boycott and rebuff by floor leaders of certain parties when they are called for discussion and making suggestions to ensure functioning of the house to the Chairman’s chamber, Shri Dhankhar said “ let me share my anguish, let me share my pain. This Chairman, when he makes a request for honorable members for a conference in the chamber, this rebuff is not only unprecedented, but dilution of Parliamentary decorum. The fact that floor leaders virtually seek to boycott the Chairman in chamber is certainly not a healthy practice.”

Earlier today Rajya Sabha members including Sudhanshu Trivedi and Swati Maliwal today gave a notice under rule 267 to discuss the matter of death of UPSC in a coaching centre. Chairman allowed the short duration discussion under rule 176 as Parliamentary affairs minister Shri Kiren Rijiju was ready  to discuss the matter under rule 267 citing the matter as urgent but LoP Shri maliikarjun Kharge and other opposition parties disagreed to discuss the matter under rule 267 and Chairman made it categorically clear that anything under rule 267 will only be discussed if the major parties agree and with the consensus of the house.

 

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Construction Accidents, Injuries, and Legal Cases

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How would you describe yourself to someone?
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Sometimes referred to as construction injury law, construction accident law is a subfield of personal injury law addressing rules and regulations dealing with accidents and injuries in the building industry. Some legal actions, like workers’ compensation claims and personal injury lawsuits, have restricted time for filing. However, construction accident law covers these proceedings. This section of the law is intended to guard workers’ rights, those of onlookers, and other persons impacted by building operations. Below is detailed information about some of the injuries workers can suffer while working on construction sites.

Alt: Construction worker

Fall from Heights

Fall from height is still the biggest problem in the building sector both in Rochester and in the United States. Many workers have to operate on ladders, scaffolds, roofs, and other such platforms all the time. Working from heights may be terrifying and nerve-wracking. More than 46% of all incidents in the building sector—falls, slips, and trips that lead to death are rather common. People who labor at heights run several hazards, including the possibility of scaffolding breaking or falling from stairs. Therefore, ensuring the correct fall protection gear is used, that workers are correctly taught, and that people don’t get reckless will help to prevent horrible mishaps.  Managers must ensure employees have scheduled frequent training courses and rigorously observe safety regulations to help prevent these types of accidents.  If you’re a victim of construction accidents and Injuries due to your employer’s negligence, you may need to hire a Rochester construction accident lawyer. 

Electrocution

Sadly, the construction industry sees a lot of electrical accidents. On Rochester building sites, tools and electricity lines are common sights. Live lines, damaged circuits, and inadequate grounding are among the hazards workers could come upon that might lead to electrocution. Every electrical system should be installed, maintained, and routinely inspected if we are to prevent these kinds of accidents. People also need appropriate instruction on how to remain safe around power. Moreover, regularly installing, maintaining, and checking electrical systems helps to reduce the danger of electrocution as low as possible.

Demolition Accidents

Demolishing a building is the deliberate destruction, disassembly, or ruin of a structure usually for replacement or reconstruction. Dealing with homes that are no longer needed calls for careful planning and execution. Even though your work is constructing, demolition is a very exact task that has to be done perfectly. Unfortunately, some companies give other considerations higher priority than accuracy, and the results of demolition projects become disastrous, harming people living nearby and workers.

Trench Collapses

In the building industry, digging trenches occurs frequently since trenches are required for some point in many projects, including house building. Builders lay the basis of their constructions and link pipes, wires, and other utilities using trenches. Usually, they lay utility lines or foundations, therefore, one can observe several trenches on building sites. Still, trench collapses can occur in response to unstable ground, insufficient supports, or inadequate safety precautions adopted. Employers should make sure that trenches are correctly built, shored, and routinely examined if they are to effectively stop accidents including cave-ins and collapses.

Why You Should Educate Yourself by Reading e-Books About Your Rights

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If you won two free plane tickets, where would you go?
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It is very important for civilians to read law books through e-books on the internet in order to know their rights. Nowadays, not everyone can carry a thick book with them at all times, but everyone has a cell phone or tablet. It is also possible for individuals to learn about legal issues through these tablets and cell phones. There are apps for these e-books or you can download them as pdfs from the internet. The more informed people are, the better they can understand how to deal with situations and the faster they can take action after an incident. 

Alt: Books

To Know Your Rights

It is very important for an individual to know what their rights are in their region because different situations happen to people every day and it would be better for them to know which ones they can start legal proceedings with. Because uncertainty in such matters is one of the things that makes people feel the worst. People need to have even a little bit of knowledge about the laws in order to protect themselves and not be defenseless in bad situations that happen to them. Knowing people’s rights will help them use these rights in their favor. For example, if you are treated unfairly at work or elsewhere, you can take legal action if you know your labor rights. If you suffer a personal injury at work, you can speak to a lawyer and ask for compensation. York Law is a firm that specializes in this and will assist you with your personal injury claim. 

To Have Protection against Fraud and Malicious Acts

People can face many different scams, and one of the most useful ways to protect yourself against them is to have the necessary legal knowledge and know your rights. Once you have this information, you can protect yourself more effectively against certain scams and malicious people. In such cases, reading e-books on these issues will increase your knowledge and at the same time, it will not take much of your time because you can open your phone and read them while going from one place to another. There are benefits of book chapter publication, if you’d like to access a certain information, not the whole book, you can search for different chapters online. 

To Solve Legal Problems You May Encounter in Daily Life

Even if people do not understand it, they are actually very intertwined with the law in their daily lives. Whether it is shopping in the supermarket, lease agreements, or consumer rights, law is everywhere in people’s lives. And sometimes people can be wronged in their daily lives, and knowledge of law plays an important role in eliminating these injustices and solving simple problems easily. When you are conscious in these situations, you can solve your problems in a short time and protect yourself. For example, there are many small accidents in traffic every day and people are not yet aware of what to do about them. If you learn these and proceed accordingly, you will provide yourself with a great convenience in the next steps of the event. For example, keeping a report and taking photographs at the time of the incident in traffic accidents will be useful for you in case of a lawsuit.

Self-Care Tips for Parents Going Through a Child Custody Battle

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If you won two free plane tickets, where would you go?
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Going through a child custody battle is one of the most difficult experiences a parent can face. Amid the legal proceedings, emotional turmoil, and the constant concern for your child’s well-being, it’s easy to neglect your own needs. However, taking care of yourself is not just important, it’s essential. Here are some self-care tips to help you stay strong and balanced.

Alt: A woman making a heart with her hands

Prioritize Your Physical Health

Maintaining your physical health can provide a solid foundation for coping with stress. Start by ensuring you get enough sleep. A well-rested mind is better equipped to handle the complexities and emotional strains of a custody battle. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, and establish a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind.

Eating nutritious foods is another key aspect. When you’re busy and stressed, it can be tempting to rely on fast food or skip meals altogether. However, nourishing your body with balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will give you the energy and mental clarity needed to face each day.

Exercise might feel like the last thing you have time for, but it’s incredibly beneficial. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress. Even a short daily walk can make a significant difference. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s yoga, running, or dancing, and make it a regular part of your routine.

Nurture Your Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health. One effective way to manage your emotions is to talk about them. Whether it’s with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist, sharing your thoughts and feelings can provide relief and perspective.

Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed. A counselor or therapist can offer strategies to cope with the stress and emotional challenges of a custody battle. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also be very helpful.

Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. Get in touch with a reputable Fort Worth Child Custody Attorney to streamline the court proceedings. This will allow you to rest easy knowing a professional is at the job.

Create a Support Network

You don’t have to go through this alone. Building a strong support network is crucial. Reach out to friends and family members who can offer emotional support and practical assistance. Sometimes, just knowing you have someone to talk to or lean on can make a big difference.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether you need someone to watch your child for a few hours, help with household tasks, or simply listen to you vent, your loved ones want to support you. Accepting help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Joining a support group for parents going through custody battles can also provide valuable connections and insights. Hearing from others who are experiencing similar challenges can offer comfort and practical advice.

That concludes our list of self-care tips for parents going through a child custody battle. If you found it helpful and would like to read similar content click here

Celebrating the Third Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence

Bangalore, Karnataka, India

On the auspicious morning of 21 July 2024, Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence (SSSUHE) celebrated its 3rd Convocation at the Sri Sathya Sai Premamrutham Auditorium. The event was graced by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, esteemed Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. This momentous occasion recognised the achievements of 7 honorary doctorates, 6 Doctors of Philosophy, and 154 graduating students. This year’s theme, “ekaṁ sat viprāḥ bahudhā vadanti“ – Truth is one, but the wise call it by many names, highlights SSSUHE’s commitment to embracing diverse perspectives in our pursuit of knowledge.

 

Chief Guest – Shri Hardeep Singh Puri and Founder of SSSUHE – Sri Madhusudan Sai along with gold medallists from UG and PG courses and the first batch of doctorates

 

Addressing educational challenges highlighted by the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER 2023: Beyond Basics), which shows that about 25% of rural students aged 14-18 years still cannot read a grade two-level text fluently in their regional language, SSSUHE provides quality education free of cost, including lodging, boarding, and all daily essentials. This commitment significantly benefits youth from rural areas, with over 70% of students below the poverty line, more than 65% being girls, and about 32% being first-generation graduates. The University currently enrolls 117 students across various disciplines, including MBBS, Nursing, and Allied Health Sciences, making a profound impact on bridging the education gap in underserved communities.

 

Shri Hardeep Singh Puri Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, praised the initiative, saying, “It is a great honour for me on the auspicious occasion of Guru Poornima to be at the third convocation ceremony of Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence. I congratulate the 154 graduates, 6 doctorates, faculties, and families for their achievements. I personally thank Sri Madhusudan Sai Ji for inviting me. He is a role model for us all, dedicated to raising human consciousness and striving for human excellence. His public-spirited endeavours, spiritual guidance, and humanitarian work uplift the most vulnerable sections of society, touching thousands of lives in India and worldwide. His initiatives span 60 nations. I applaud Sri Madhusudan Sai Ji’s efforts to promote the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”

 

Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, Global Humanitarian, Spiritual Leader and Founder of Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, introduced seven honorary doctorate recipients for their selfless service. These are Mr T B Jayachandra; Prof Darshan Shankar; Prof Dr Afksendiyos Kalangos; Dr Lakshmi Prasad; Mr Isaac Tigrett; Mr Dimitris Lambrianos; Dr P T Usha.

 

Sri Madhusudan Sai emphasised the importance of graduates, postgraduates, and doctorates, acknowledging the sacrifices of devotees for free education. Parents were encouraged to bless their children to walk the path of service. The mission of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, rooted in ancient Indian ethos, envisions the world as one family. This concept, emphasised by the Prime Minister at the G20 Summit, was the theme of the Convocation: ekaṁ sat viprāḥ bahudhā vadanti – despite our differences, we are inherently one. This Vedic and scriptural message urges our students not just to be educated but enlightened beings who foster transformational change. With an attitude of living for each other and for God, Sadguru wished the students, their parents, and the guests a prosperous future and blessed Guru Poornima.

 

Sri B N Narasimha Murthy, Chancellor of Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, said, “At the Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, founded by Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, we integrate India’s ancient wisdom with modern science and technology, merging spiritual wisdom with contemporary education. For the first time in higher education, human excellence is given equal importance to academic excellence. Students are assessed on both, with grades out of 10, and their overall grade is the average of the two. Today, we honour students receiving gold medals: 10 undergraduates, 8 postgraduates, and 6 doctorates, who excel in both academic and human excellence. This pioneering approach includes intelligence, emotional, social, and spiritual excellence, aiming to create citizens with individual character, professional excellence, and social responsibility—brilliant heads, compassionate hearts, and competent hands.”

 

Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence stands out as a unique institution that blends spiritual and worldly knowledge based on the ancient Indian Gurukulam System of Values-based Education. Offering a diverse range of 18 undergraduate and postgraduate courses, the curriculum extends beyond traditional education to include Vedic Studies, Performing Arts, Medical and Paramedical Education, Agriculture, Mental Health, Sports and Yoga, Physical Education, and Vocational Skills. This holistic approach ensures that students are not only academically proficient but also well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to society’s welfare.

 

About Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence

In a world where education is used as a mere stepping stone for acquiring fame, wealth, power and position, Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence stands in contrast by illuminating the full potential and value of education to the individual and humanity at large. Instead of being narrowly confined to a few aspects of education, the University’s education curriculum touches all aspects that help in the complete unfoldment of an individual, who in turn will use his/her skills and knowledge to help uplift society. The University was established in the year 2019 at Navanihal, Kalaburagi and has a branch in Muddenahalli (boys’ campus) and Nallakadirenahalli (girls’ campus) in Karnataka.

 

Vision:

To provide free-of-cost quality higher education of global standards of excellence based on ancient Indian ethos and contribute individuals of competent hands, brilliant heads, and compassionate hearts for the universal welfare.

 

Mission:

  • To establish best-in-class infrastructure in rural areas for the promotion, assimilation, and dissemination of knowledge

  • To impart high-quality subject knowledge with an orientation towards research and innovation

  • To nurture an environment that instils a sense of selfless service, love for fellow beings and deep-rootedness in Indian culture and ethos

  • To prepare the next generation of leaders in every sphere of human society

 

For more information, please visit  sssuhe.ac.in/

 

Sri Madhusudan Sai Global Humanitarian Mission

With the motto ‘One World One Family’, Sri Madhusudan Sai, a visionary and a humanitarian spearheads a unique global mission across 60 Countries. Since 2011, Sri Madhusudan Sai has established institutes of excellence in Education, Healthcare, Nutrition and Spirituality across the world.

10 Days Research Methodology Course hosted by Department of Architecture and Planning, MANIT Bhopal

The Department of Architecture and Planning at Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, successfully conducted a 10-day Research Methodology Course from 13th to 22nd July 2024. Sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), this course aimed to enrich the skills of PhD scholars. It was coordinated by Dr. Kavita Dehalwar and co-coordinated by Dr. Surabhi Mehrotra from the Department of Architecture and Planning.
The 10-day Research Methodology Course was meticulously designed to enhance the research capabilities of research scholars and young faculty members in the fields of social sciences, planning, and architecture. This comprehensive course aimed to prepare participants for rigorous research endeavors by providing expert sessions on a variety of critical topics. These included Research Methodology, Tools and Techniques, Research Ethics and Integrity, Data Management and Analysis, as well as Publication and Writing Skills tutorials. By addressing these key areas, the course sought to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their research pursuits.
Thirty research scholars were selected from prestigious institutes such as IITs, NITs, and Central/State Universities, representing 15 states across India. This diverse group of participants brought a wealth of perspectives and experiences, enriching the learning environment and fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
The distinguished panel of experts for the course included several prominent figures in the field. Dr. Shankar Chatterjee, former Professor and Head of the Centre for Policy Management and Evaluation (CPME) at the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD & PR), Hyderabad, shared his extensive knowledge and insights. Dr. Raka Arya, Professor of Political Science, Dean of Student Welfare, and Chief Hostel Warden at the National Law Institute University (NLIU), Bhopal, provided valuable guidance on various aspects of research. Dr. Poonama Prakash, Professor at the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, contributed her expertise in planning and architectural research.
Additionally, Dr. M. Sadik Batcha, Professor and Head of the Department of Library and Information Science at Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu, offered his profound understanding of data management and research tools. Dr. Kalpana Pandit, Associate Professor in the Department of Architecture at Malaviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT), Jaipur, shared her experience in architectural research and methodologies. Dr. Tanuj Nandan, Professor at the School of Management Studies, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT), Prayagraj, discussed management studies and research techniques.
The course also featured Dr. Vishakha Kawathekar, Dean of Faculty Welfare and Head of the Centre for Cultural Knowledge Systems at the School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal, who provided insights into cultural knowledge systems and their relevance to research. Dr. Sanjeev Khanna from MITS Gwalior, along with other experts such as Dr. Gyaneshwar Singh Kushwaha and Dr. Pushpendra Yadav from MANIT, delivered lectures on various topics related to research methodology. Their contributions significantly enhanced the participants’ learning experience, providing them with a well-rounded understanding of the research process and its practical applications.

Atal Innovation Mission and World Intellectual Property Organization

 A high-level delegation from World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) comprising of Mr. Sherif Saadallah, Executive Director, WIPO Academy and Ms. Altaye Tedla, Head WIPO Academy visited NITI Aayog for signing of a Joint Letter of Intent (JLoI) between Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and WIPO. The JLoI is aimed at building programs for Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Intellectual Property (IP) for countries in the Global South.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Cabinet Minister for Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in the Government of India graced the occasion with his presence. From NITI Aayog the dignitaries present included Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog, Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member NITI Aayog, and Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan Cabinet Minister for Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India said “I am very pleased to see that India’s innovation ecosystem is going global. Innovation is India’s strength. This pathbreaking partnership between AIM and WIPO will take the best of India’s innovation models to countries that are on similar development trajectories, and will enhance understanding and awareness about IPR right from the school-level and unlock the innovation potential of the world as well as foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Mr. Sherif Saadallah, Executive Director, WIPO Academy during his address said – “Intellectual property (IP) is a powerful catalyst for innovation and creativity, essential for addressing development of youth and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Our focus on youth is an integral part of our work to build a more inclusive global IP ecosystem, and our partnership with Atal Innovation Mission demonstrates WIPO’s commitment to ensure youth’s participation in innovation and creativity so that IP ecosystems are utilized by a wider demographic, fostering a more innovative and creative global economy.”

Last year, Mr. Daren Tang, Director General, WIPO had visited the AIM ecosystem and advocated for Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and Atal Incubation Centers (AIC) to be a good template for innovation and entrepreneurship through South-South cooperation. His observations prompted WIPO to invite Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, Mission Director AIM to showcase these flagship initiatives earlier this year in front of the member nations at the Committee on Development and Intellectual Property (CDIP) at the WIPO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. The agreement signed today has transpired from these conversations.

Speaking at the occasion, Shri Suman Bery Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog said “WIPO’s recognition of India’s entrepreneurship development model is a proud moment for India and NITI Aayog which hosts the Mission. This deepens an already productive relationship between NITI Aayog and WIPO on national competitiveness”

As one of the specialized agency of the United Nations, WIPO is the nodal institution that releases the Global Innovation Index (GII) annually. As per the GII 2023 report, India had retained the 40th position of 132 economies featured in the GII ranking. As per WIPO Report 2022, India has experienced sixth straight year of growth in patent filing, posting the highest growth of 31.6% globally. Importantly, a substantial increase in resident filings was the main driver of growth overall in 2022.

Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member NITI Aayog in his address underlined that, “In the last few years, India has made huge strides in its entrepreneurial journey in line with our international aspirations in this domain. This partnership between AIM and WIPO would help position India as a global leader in innovation, leveraging our vast talent pool and dynamic market to attract international investments. This partnership can be a game changer in fostering a culture of IP-led Innovation and hence safeguarding the future of our nation’s technological advancements.”

Sharing his thoughts on the importance of this JLoI, Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, Mission Director Atal Innovation Mission said, “It is our hope that the AIM-WIPO partnership will benefit many nations for whom models such as Atal Tinkering Labs and Atal Innovation Centres are needed to build their innovation ecosystems. The experience of the two sides coming together helps us make these models significantly more holistic as now Innovation & Entrepreneurship meets Intellectual Property (IP) in a serious way.”

The WIPO delegation is on a 4 day visit to India, and will take part in a workshop on Intellectual Property in Innovation organised at AIC GGSIPU, Dwarka, on 23rd July. The delegates will also interact with school students from Atal Tinkering Labs and Industry Experts from FICCI, NASSCOM, PHDCCI among others during their visit.

About Atal Innovation Mission:

Paving the Path to Success

  As the world turns its gaze to Paris for the 2024 Olympics, India proudly announces its largest-ever contingent for the games, consisting of 117 athletes across 16 sports disciplines. This diverse team, which includes 70 men and 47 women, will compete in 69 events with a total of 95 medals at stake. Supported by an impressive funding allocation of over 470 Crore rupees, the Indian athletes are primed to make their mark on the global stage.

 

Sports landscape in India

India’s sports ecosystem has evolved into an athlete-centric model, with the motto “Athlete-First.” This integrated ecosystem includes the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), and the National Sports Federations (NSFs). Together, these bodies ensure that athletes can focus solely on their training and competition, with logistics and other support taken care of by the system. Corporate sponsors, CSR partners, athlete families, fans, broadcasters, and media have all played crucial roles in sustaining Olympic sports in India.

Government Efforts for Efficiency and Growth

The Indian government has significantly ramped up its efforts to support athletes and boost the country’s performance in the Olympics. These efforts encompass a variety of initiatives and programs designed to enhance the training, preparation, and overall performance of Indian athletes on the global stage.

 

  • Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)

The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) is a flagship program aimed at providing targeted assistance to potential Olympic medalists. TOPS offers support in several key areas:

  • Training and Camps: National Coaching Camps and international training sessions.
  • Foreign Exposure: Opportunities for athletes to compete and train overseas.
  • Specialized Support: Hiring of foreign experts, coaches, and support staff.
  • Equipment and Facilities: Provision of necessary sports equipment and training facilities.
  • Financial Assistance: Direct funding to cover various aspects of athletes’ preparation.

The TOPS scheme includes a Core Group of over 170 athletes preparing for the 2024 Olympics and a Development Group of over 130 athletes targeted for the 2028 and 2032 Olympics.

 

  • National Sports Development Fund (NSDF)

The NSDF supplements the TOPS by providing additional financial support for the specialized training and competition needs of elite athletes. This ensures that athletes receive comprehensive support tailored to their specific requirements.

  • Corporate Support and CSR Initiatives

Corporate sponsors and CSR partners play a crucial role in sustaining Olympic sports in India. Their contributions include funding for training programs, equipment, and other resources necessary for athletes’ development.

  • International Competitions and Exposure

The government has facilitated extensive international exposure for athletes across various sports. This includes participation in international competitions and training camps abroad, which are critical for gaining competitive experience and improving performance.

  • Focus on High Priority Disciplines

The government’s strategy involves focusing on high-priority disciplines with strong medal prospects. These sports include archery, athletics, badminton, boxing, hockey, shooting, and wrestling. For each of these disciplines, detailed funding and support plans have been implemented, ensuring athletes have the best possible preparation.

  • Mission Olympic Cell (MOC)

The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) is a dedicated body that oversees the implementation of the TOPS. It includes representatives from past elite athletes, IOA, NSFs, and other stakeholders. The MOC is responsible for approving customized programs for athletes, recommending financial disbursements, monitoring performance, and addressing athletes’ immediate needs.

 Achievements and Impact

The impact of these efforts is evident from the significant increase in medals won across recent competitions. From winning 2 medals in Rio 2016 to 7 in Tokyo 2020 and from 4 to 19 medals in the Paralympics, India’s performance reflects the enhanced support system, including the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), National Sports Development Fund (NSDF), and extensive corporate backing. The nation’s medal count at the Asian Games and Asian Para Games also surged, showcasing the success of an athlete-centric sports ecosystem and comprehensive government initiatives. This upward trajectory underscores India’s commitment to achieving excellence in global sports.

The Indian government’s comprehensive and targeted approach towards supporting its athletes is a reflection of its commitment to achieving excellence in sports. With a robust support system in place, India aims to significantly improve its performance at the Paris Olympics 2024 and beyond, showcasing the nation’s potential on the global sports stage.

References

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2034434

https://x.com/pibyas/status/1814278906356334618

https://olympic.ind.in/paris-2024

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2034434#:~:text=Union%20Minister%20highlighted%20that%20India,in%20these%20disciplines%2C%20he%20added.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2029762

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2029657

https://sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in/sai/documents

Pathway to Paris pdf: https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2024/jun/doc2024629346101.pdf

Click here to see in PDF.

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ECO-TOURISM

 Ministry of Tourism promotes India in a holistic manner, through various initiatives. As part of its on-going activities; promotion of various tourism destinations and products of India including Eco Tourism are taken up.

In order to position India as a preferred global destination for Eco Tourism and adventure tourism, Ministry of Tourism has formulated National Strategies for Eco Tourism and Adventure Tourism.

Eco-Circuit is one of the themes for development of tourism infrastructure under Swadesh Darshan scheme of the Ministry. The details of funds allocated under Swadesh Darshan Scheme is placed at Annexure.

ANNEXURE

Details of funds allocated under the Eco-Circuit theme of Swadesh Darshan Scheme in the country

(Amount in ₹ Crore)

S. No.

Name of State

Year

Project Name

Amount Sanctioned

Amount Released

1.

Uttarakhand

2015-16

Integrated Development of Eco-Tourism, Adventure Sports and Associated Tourism RelatedInfrastructure for

Development Tehri Lake & Surroundings as New Destination-District Tehri

69.17

69.17

2.

Telangana

2015-16

Development of Circuit in Mahaboobnagar districts (Somasila, Singotam, Kadalaivanam, Akkamahadevi, Egalanpanta, Farahabad,

Uma Maheshwaram, Mallelatheertham)

91.62

91.25

3.

Kerala

2015-16

Development of Pathanamthitta- Gavi- Vagamon- Thekkady.

64.08

64.08

4.

Mizoram

2016-17

Development of Eco-Adventure Circuit at Aizawl -Rawpuichhip – Khawhphawp – Lengpui – -Chatlang- Sakawrhmuituaitlang – Muthee – Beratlawng -Tuirial Airfield – Hmuifang

66.37

53.09

5.

Madhya Pradesh

2017-18

Development of Gandhisagar Dam- Mandleshwar Dam- Omkareshwar Dam- Indira Sagar Dam- Tawa Dam- Bargi Dam- Bheda Ghat- Bansagar Dam- Ken River

93.76

 

93.59

6.

Jharkhand

2018-19

Development of Eco Tourism circuit: Dalma- Betla National park- Mirchaiya- Netarhat

30.44

28.04

Total

415.44

399.22