CONFERENCE ORGANIZED BY THE UNION MINISTRY OF TRIBAL AFFAIRS AT KHUNTI

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed a Women Conference organized by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs at Khunti, Jharkhand today (May 25, 2023).

Addressing the gathering, the President said that being a woman or being born in a tribal society is not a disadvantage. She shared that there are countless inspiring examples of the contribution of women in our country and that women have made invaluable contributions in social reform, politics, economy, education, science and research, business, sports and military forces and many other fields. She said that for becoming successful in any field, it is very important that they recognize their talent and do not judge themselves on the scale of others. She urged women to awaken the infinite power that is within them.

The President said that both the social and economic aspects of women empowerment are equally important. She said that hardworking sisters and daughters of Jharkhand are capable of making a significant contribution to the economy of the state as well as the economic development of the country. She urged them to recognize their talent, and move ahead with confidence.

The President said that women power provides energy to the rural economy of Jharkhand. Therefore, it is very important to connect more and more women with self-help groups in Jharkhand and provide employment by their skill development. She expressed confidence that through this Conference, women would become more aware of their rights and various schemes run by the government in their interest.

The President said that the tribal society presents ideal examples in many fields. One of these is the non-prevalence of the dowry system in the tribal society. She pointed out that many people in our society, even the well-educated ones, have not been able to give up the dowry system till date.

Click Here for President’s Speech

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76th World Health Assembly

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya delivered the keynote address at a side event session on “Heal in India & Heal by India” at the 76th World Health Assembly, in Geneva. He was joined by Shri S Gopalakrishnan, Special Secretary, Health Ministry.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Mandaviya noted that “with the vision of One Earth-One Health & to serve the global community, Govt of India has taken initiatives for value-based healthcare supported by Health Workforce Mobility & Patient Mobility under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.” “The ‘Heal by India’ initiative is designed with an intent to increase health workforce mobility from India to different parts of the world to serve the world as per the Indian Philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The World is One Family), while the ‘Heal in India’ initiative seeks to provide “integrated and holistic treatment” to the world in India and enhance patient mobility for access to world class, affordable and quality healthcare services”, he stated.

Dr Mandaviya informed that “India is home to world’s oldest medical systems, Ayurveda. With its unique strengths coming to the fore, demand for AYUSH treatments like Ayurveda, Yoga, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathy has increased across the world and the same is also promoted”.

Highlighting India’s G20 Presidency philosophy of “One Earth, One Family, One Future”, the Union Health Minister reiterated that “under the G20 Health Track, India has prioritized Health Emergencies, Prevention, Preparedness and Response with focus on One Health and Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR); Strengthening cooperation within the Pharmaceutical Sector globally to improve access to safe, effective, quality and affordable Medical Countermeasures, that is, vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics and Digital Health innovations and solutions to aid Universal Health Coverage and improve Healthcare Service delivery at grassroots level”.

Emphasizing on the measures taken for strengthening healthcare ecosystem in India, Dr Mandaviya said that “India achieved an unimaginable pace of COVID vaccination & more than 2.20 billion doses have already been administered in India so far. Millions of vaccines were shared with the world through the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative”.

The Union Health Minister stated that in order to create a resilient health care ecosystem, India has launched the Ayushman Bharat Initiative to cover all aspects of healthcare. “World’s largest Government funded health insurance scheme – Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM- JAY) was launched in 2018. 1,50,000 Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) are transforming the delivery of comprehensive primary health care services in India. Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to bridge the gap amongst different stakeholders of the healthcare ecosystem through usage of technology. And PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission aims to build disease surveillance system, laboratory networks, building of infectious disease blocks across the country and augmenting research capacity with emphasis on One Health approach” he said.

Underscoring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare systems across the world, Dr Mandaviya stated that “the pandemic has demonstrated that health threats are not confined to national borders and requires a coordinated global response. It is in this context that India has been supporting in terms of capacity building of healthcare workers, coupled with harnessing digital technology as the way forward”.

Dr Mandaviya expressed deep gratitude to all the dignitaries for their participation in the meeting. He concluded his address by reiterating that “‘Healthcare for All’ is aligned with India’s guiding philosophy enunciated by our Hon’ble Prime Minister as “Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas & Sabka Prayas”, meaning ”striving together, through collective efforts towards an inclusive growth”.

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G20 Tourism Working Group Meeting

The ‘Third G20 Tourism Working Group Meeting’, will be held from 22nd to 24th May 2023 in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. This was informed by Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Shri Arvind Singh while addressing a press conference at SKICC Srinagar today.

Giving details, Sh. Arvind Singh said, the stage is set for discussions and deliberations on final deliverables and there are two key deliverables of the Tourism Working Group, which include GOA Roadmap for Tourism as a vehicle for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) and G20 Tourism Ministers’ Declaration.

This is the only working group meeting taking place in Srinagar as part of G20 effort with excellent response from all the member countries, all the invited countries and the international organisations, having the highest participation registered compared to the first two Tourism Working Group Meetings at Rann of Kutch and Siliguri.

Sh. Arvind Singh further said, G20 member countries, invited countries, and international organizations will give valuable inputs and feedback on these two draft documents and after negotiations with G20 Member Countries on these drafts, final versions will be placed in the ‘Fourth Tourism Working Group Meeting’.

Sh. Singh informed, the ‘3rd Tourism Working Group Meeting’ will deliberate on the five key priority areas namely Green Tourism, Digitalization, Skills, MSMEs and Destination Management. These priorities are key building blocks for accelerating the transition of the tourism sector and achieve the targets for 2030 SDGs.

Shri Arvind Singh said that a side event on ‘Film Tourism for Economic Growth and Cultural Preservation’ will be organized on 22nd and 23rd May 2023, focusing on strategies to promote film tourism in J&K. The event will witness the participation of G20 member countries, invited countries, international organizations, and industry stakeholders. He also said that a draft ‘National Strategy on Film Tourism’ will be unveiled to provide a roadmap for harnessing the role of films in promoting tourist destinations.

Sh. Harsh VardhanShringla, Chief Coordinator G20 said, that it is the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi that the message of India’s G20 Presidency is taken to the grassroot level through active Jan Bhagidari . Shri Shringla appreciated the efforts of Jammu and Kashmir Government to sensitise the people about goals and purpose of G20 through multiple public activities.

Chief Secretary J&K, Sh. Arun Mehta said, the change in J&K is evident on ground with the arrival of highest number of tourists (18.8 million) in 2022.

300 new tourist destinations will come come up in Jammu and Kashmir seeing the influx of tourists with each destination providing enough to the tourists, said Sh. Mehta.

Sh. Mehta further said, the influx of highest number of foreign tourists to Jammu and Kashmir is a healthy sign for tourism in J&K.

During the 3rd Tourism Working Group meeting, the delegates will also visit the Art and Craft Bazaar organized by the State Government showcasing local handicrafts, work of artisans, signifying the importance of community participation. The delegates will also have ‘hands-on’ experience through DIY Activities at the Craft Bazaar.

During the press conference, it was also informed that the Ministry of Tourism is also promoting local products of Jammu and Kashmir by handing below souvenirs to delegates from ODOP like Paper Mache Box, Saffron from Pampore, Kawa Cups and Brass Spoon, Walnuts from Anantnag, Shopian and Kupwara.

This G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar aims to strengthen economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable development of the region.

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, welcomes the participation of delegates from G20 member countries, invited countries, and international organizations to collectively work towards advancing the tourism sector and achieving the UN sustainable development goals 2030.

The G20 event presents a unique opportunity to highlight the tourism potential and cultural richness of the region. A detailed presentation about the event was also made by Additional Secretary, Sh. Rakesh Verma, Additional Director General PIB Region, Sh. Rajinder Chaudhry and Secretary Tourism J&K, Syed Aabid Rasheed Shah were also present at the media briefing.

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G20 Tourism Meeting

Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW )embarkedupon its much-anticipated 2 day Chintan Shivir at Munnar in Kerala. The Shivir was Chaired and inaugurated by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and AYUSH in the august presence of the Shri Shripad Naik, MoS, MoPSW and Tourism, Shri Shantanu Thakur, MoS, MoPSW, Shri Sudhansh Pant, Secretary, MoPSW and others including Chairpersons of all major ports, heads of the other organizations/PSU’s of the Ministry and senior officials.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sonowal lauded the commitment and hard work exhibited by MoPSW and each of the organizations in positioning India as a global leader in the maritime sector. Recognizing the significance of enhancing connectivity and fostering new business opportunities, he emphasized the Ministry’s goal to educate and create awareness among the common people too by highlighting the impact of the Maritime sector in simple language and how it impatcs the lives of the common people.

“Under the dynamic leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has achieved a new reputation globally and the Ministry in coordination with all the major organizations are working to further boost and implement the vision of our PM towards making India Atmanirbhar.” the Minister added.

Shri Shripad Y Naik, MoS, MoPSW mentioned the excellent performance achieved during the FY-2022-23 in all aspects of port operations. He said, “The MIV 2030 launched under the leadership of PM Modi has led the blueprint of the actions that would lead us towards making India one of the leading blue economies of the world and we should try to achieve the determined targets”.

On this occasion Shri Shantanu Thakur, MoS, MoPSW stated,” India is one of the leading economies of the world and the considerable amount of work has been done towards infrastructure documentation in the Ports enhancing ease of doing business, increasing the share of renewable energy in the sectors and promoting ship building and ship repair”. He also added that now we should focus on making India a hub for Maritime training and strengthening Maritime institutions.

During the first day of the Chintan Shivir, the achievements and targets set during the previous Chintan Shivir were discussed. An exclusive session with the HoDs of the major ports, chaired by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, focused on the innovative ideas of the ports. The other session focused on lighthouse tourism and how to become a global player in shipbuilding and enhance India’s tonnage. Apart from this, the participants from various organisations shared valuable insights, paving its way for informed decision-making and effective implementation strategies.

The day two of the Chintan Shivir will focus on cargo handling by Major Ports, improving and optimizing port call procedures, digitalization and standardization, Inland waterways and coastal shipping enhancing cargo and good governance.

MJPS

National Convention of Modi Samaj in Ahmedabad

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah inaugurated the National Convention of Modi Samaj in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, today

In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that efforts are being made to unite the dispersed community, and it is a good sign for both the community and the nation. He said that this community has progressed ahead due to its continuous efforts and strength and it will get the representation. Shri Shah said that this society is blessed by Lord Shiva himself.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Shri Narendra Modi has visited every village in Gujarat and inspired the youth and by forming an organization provided a unparalleled structure for bringing change in Gujarat. He said that on the basis of his public welfare works during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister of the country, and now as a Prime Minister, he is increasing India’s pride across the world.

Shri Amit Shah said that the previous governments always harassed and humiliated the OBC community and ignored them, Prime Minister Modi took many initiatives for giving respect to the OBC community and took many steps for the welfare of the OBC community in last 9 years. He said that many OBCs have been made Chief Ministers from our party, the constitutional status has been provided to the OBC commission by the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and for the first time 27 ministers from the OBC community have been included in the Union cabinet.

Union Home Minister said that earlier there was no reservation for OBCs in Kendriya Vidyalaya, Navodaya Vidyalaya and NEET exam, but it has now been ensured by the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He said that a venture capital fund for OBC young entrepreneurs has been set up. The amendment process in the OBC list was also initiated by the government under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.Shri Shah said that during the last 56 years rule of the previous governments, not a single initiative was takenfor ensuring respect for the OBC community, but Shri Narendra Modi has taken countless measures in the past 9 years, through which the OBC community is rising and achieving its due place.

Shri Amit Shah said that the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has made efforts to provide all kinds of facilities to the poor because Shri Modi, himself was born in a poor household and became the Prime Minister of the country through the democratic process. For the first time, a person who came has seen such poverty became the Prime Minister of the country and Shri Modi, who understood the suffering of the poor, provided gas cylinders to the homes of about 13 crore people of the country, built toilets in 10 crore houses, gave houses to 3 crore people, more than 3 crore houses were provided electricity, all health facilities up to Rs. 5 lakh were given free of cost to 70 crore people and 5 kg food grains per person per month free of cost were provided to 80 crore people for two and a half years. ShriShah said that during the Covid-19 pandemic, considering everyone equal, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi provided the Corona vaccine to 130 crore people. He said that Prime Minister Modi has shown how technology can be used for every section of the society. He said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is using technology to provide facilities to the poorest of the poor. He said that Prime Minister Modi has eliminated corruption by linking many public welfare schemes of the government with DBT and sending their benefits directly to the bank accounts of the poor.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Minister said that Rathore, Teli, Sahu community has made a huge contribution for the country and given the country such a Prime Minister who has worked to establish India’s pride in the world.When the President of America says that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, you are very popular in America, and he wants your autograph, then every Indian feels proud. He said that the Indian economy which was earlier ranked 11th in the world, has moved up to the 5th position today and Prime Minister Modi has set a target that the Indian economy will become a $5 trillion economy by 2025. Shri Shah said that India ranks second in the world in smartphone usage and production, third in aviation market, third in automobile market, third in start-ups and ranks third in the world in renewable energy.He said that after the independence of the country, in comparison to the 50 years of opposition governments, the 9 years of government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has many significant achievements.

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reports of rising cases of lumpy skin disease (LSD) in livestock of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts

Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the Ministry of Fisheries, AH and Dairying acts promptly to address concerns of livestock farmers of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts of West Bengal today, as suspected cases of LSD (Lumpy Skin Disease), a devastating disease of Cattle and Buffaloes are reported.

Union Cabinet Minister for the FAHD Shri Parshottam Rupala directed for prompt action on the letter of the Member of Parliament from Darjeeling Raju Bista about his concerns on the reports of rising cases of lumpy skin disease (LSD) in Kalimpong and Darjeeling districts of West Bengal.

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, GoI responded swiftly and has taken all necessary steps for providing technical and financial support in close co-ordination with State and district officials of AHD.

As per the verifications from the field, there are no deaths of cattle due to LSD in Darjeeling and Kalimpong. Around 400 unvaccinated cattle in Darjeeling and 2000 in Kalimpong were infected out of which 200 and 1200 respectively have already recovered. Treatment of other infected cattle is underway including ring vaccination of cattle in affected areas to check the spread of the disease. There are no reports of LSD in sheep/goats In both the districts and the infection is reported mainly in unvaccinated cattle. However, the situation is under control.

The Department has been implementing various measures for control of the disease which are as under:

Surveillance: The Department has already formulated the surveillance strategy through Exit Plan and circulated to all the states. Diagnostic facilities are readily available in the region and Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RDDL), Kolkatta has been authorized and financially supported for surveillance of cattle through PCR testing of LSD and the same was communicated to the state.
Vaccination programme: States have been advised regularly to undertake vaccination as per the controlled and preventive strategy. Uniform rates for purchase of the vaccines have been communicated to the state. Financial assistance under ASCAD with 60: 40 share is provided to the states including West Bengal.
Visit of RDDL officers to Kalimpong and Darjeeling: The central team consisting of one officer each from North Eastern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (NERDDL), Guwahati and Eastern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (ERDDL), Kolkata has been constituted to visit the affected area to assess the ground situation and to support the state AHD for control and containment of LSD in definite time line.

The Department of Animal Husbandry & dairying is taking all necessary steps including funding and technical support for timely control and prevention of LSD in the country. However, the field implementation lies with the state government as Animal Husbandry is the state subject.

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Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala

Kesavananda Bharati Sripadagalvaru & Ors. v. State of Kerala & Anr. (Writ Petition (Civil) 135 of 1970), also known as the Kesavananda Bharati judgement, was a landmark decision of the Supreme Court of India that outlined the basic structure doctrine of the Indian Constitution.[1] The case is also known as the Fundamental Rights Case. The court in a 7-6 decision asserted its right to strike down amendments to the constitution that were in violation of the fundamental architecture of the constitution.[2]

Justice Hans Raj Khanna asserted through the Basic Structure doctrine that the constitution possesses a basic structure of constitutional principles and values. The Court partially cemented the prior precedent Golaknath v. State of Punjab, which held that constitutional amendments through Article 368 were subject to fundamental rights review, but only if they could affect the ‘basic structure of the Constitution’. At the same time, the Court also upheld the constitutionality of the first provision of Article 31-C, which implied that amendments seeking to implement the Directive Principles, which do not affect the ‘Basic Structure,’ shall not be subjected to judicial review.

The doctrine forms the basis of power of the Indian judiciary to review and override amendments to the Constitution of India enacted by the Indian parliament.

The 13-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court deliberated on the limitations, if any, of the powers of the elected representatives of the people and the nature of fundamental rights of an individual. In a verdict divided 7–6, the court held that while the Parliament has ‘wide’ powers, it did not have the power to destroy or emasculate the basic elements or fundamental features of the constitution.[3]

When this case was decided, the underlying apprehension of the majority bench that elected representatives could not be trusted to act responsibly was unprecedented. The Kesavananda judgment also defined the extent to which Parliament could restrict property rights, in pursuit of land reform and the redistribution of large landholdings to cultivators, overruling previous decisions that suggested that the right to property could not be restricted. The case was a culmination of a series of cases relating to limitations to the power to amend the Constitution.

“Kesavananda Bharati … vs State Of Kerala And Anr on 24 April, 1973”. Indian Kanoon. Retrieved 24 June 2012.
^ Keane, Debasish Roy Chowdhury & John (21 December 2021). “From checks and balances to compliance: How the judiciary has responded to government pressure”. Scroll.in.
^ “Kesavananda Bharati … vs State Of Kerala And Anr on 24 April, 1973”. Indian Kanoon. para. 787. Retrieved 24 June 2012.

World Hypertension Day

The Union Health Ministry launched an ambitious initiative of screening and putting 75 million people with hypertension and diabetes on Standard Care by 2025, to mark the World Hypertension Day, here today. This was announced at the G20 co-branded event “Accelerating the Prevention and Management of Hypertension and Diabetes”, organized by Union Health Ministry and WHO by Dr. V K Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog in the presence of Shri Rajesh Bhushan, Union Health Secretary and Shri S Gopalakrishnan, Special Secretary, Health Ministry. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director General, WHO and Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Director, WHO SEARO virtually addressed the event.

Highlighting the innovative scheme, Dr Paul stated that this will be the largest expansion of NCDs in primary health care programme in the world with a community based approach starting at the primary healthcare level. This indicates clear resolve of the Govt to address NCDs by allocating resources, capacity enhancement, mobilization and multi-sectoral collaboration, he said. “Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, India is determined to become a developed nation in the next 25 years in the Amrit Kaal. Towards this goal, India is making efforts to achieve results in social indicators like life expectancy, maternal mortality rate, NCDs at par with developed nations”, he stressed. The Outcome Budget document of Union Budget 2023-2024 has for the first time introduced hypertension and diabetes treatment as output indicators reflecting reflects the government’s commitment to scale-up hypertension and diabetes coverage services.

Dr Paul mentioned that the battle against NCDs have to be fought through the primary healthcare level and pointed out that India has created a platform to fight the menace through the creation of more than 1.5 lakh HWCs and operationalization of telemedicine and digital health services.

To accelerate the prevention and management of Hypertension, Dr V K Paul urged State teams to adhere to all SOPs especially the screening SOPs correctly at the grassroots since screening is the bedrock of successful management of any disease. However, he noted that only screening is not enough. Detection should lead to outcomes. He therefore urged all stakeholders to ensure that at least 80% of the diagnosed people are under treatment. The need for private sector engagement in this effort and the contribution of academic and research sector in creating models and different building blocks for achieving the ambitious targets were also emphasized.

Dr Paul also emphasized that greater effort should be put in prevention which includes lifestyle changes through eating good food, exercising and other wellness practices. He highlighted the need for a Jan Andolan to make this effort more visible through community participation; and on the need for countries to work together and share each other’s successes in the spirit of “One Earth, One Health”.

Congratulating India on this stupendous initiative, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the “Indian Government’s ambitious target of reaching 75 million people with Hypertension under standard care in primary healthcare by 2025 is the largest cover of NCDs in the world for primary healthcare”.

In her virtual address, Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh also congratulated the Govt of India for launching ambitious healthcare initiatives. She applauded India’s commitment to primary healthcare and highlighted the operationalization of more than 1.5 lakh Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres as a significant achievement. She also urged countries in the Southeast Asia region to create a new and effective regional roadmap to accelerate NCD control.

Union Health Secretary, Shri Rajesh Bhushan highlighted the interplay between economy, societal forces and epidemiological forces. He stated that with over 7% economic growth in the last two decades, the average life expectancy of people in India has risen significantly to around 70 today. Lifestyle of a large section of population has become more sedentary than before. The Union Health Secretary noted that the solution to the problem of NCDs lies in a societal approach where awareness, prevention, health promotion and wellness are looked at in an integrated manner. He also stressed “on the need for inter-sectoral efforts and collaboration of public and private sectors to address the growing burden of NCDs in the country”.

In addition to the 75/25 initiative, the Shashakt Portal was launched for training of 40,000 Primary Health Care Medical Officers on Standard Treatment Workflow for NCDs initiated to realize health care services closer to the community. The Revised operational guidelines of National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) were also released with the aim of much wider coverage. The programme is now providing services for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Asthma, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases NAFLD), ST Elevation of Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) apart from Hypertension, Diabetes and three common Cancers including Oral, Breast and Cervical.

Shri Vishal Chauhan, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry, Dr Roderico H. Ofrin Offrin, WHO Representative to India, G-20 representatives, participants from WHO-SEARO countries, international partners working on hypertension and diabetes from WHO, UN and other organizations, senior state officials from states, national NCD partners and senior officials from the Union Govt were present in the event.

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G-20 Culture group at Bhubaneswar

The 2nd Culture Working Group (CWG) meeting’s discussion sessions came to a close on May 16, 2023. The delegates participated in the discussion sessions focusing on the 3rd and 4th priority areas outlined by the CWG: ‘Promotion of Cultural and Creative Industries and Creative Economy’ and ‘Leveraging Digital Technologies for the Protection and Promotion of Culture’. The discussions offered valuable insights, which are expected to culminate into tangible and action-oriented recommendations that have the potential to shape the cultural sector and concerning policy frameworks globally.

The first two sessions of the CWG meeting witnessed the delivery of statements by the delegates, followed by an open discussion on the third and fourth priority areas. Minister of State for Culture and External Affairs Smt Meenakashi Lekhi concluded the second session of the day with a special address. The concluding session outlined details and the timeline concerning the working process of the Culture Working Group going forward.

In her interaction with the media, Echoing Prime Minister’s desire to take India to greater heights during the Amrit Kaal i.e. 25 years from now, the Minister said, India has to work really had to regain the position it once used to be in. Underlining the cohesive nature of culture, the Minister said, “Culture can be a way of engagement to bring everyone together especially at a time when a lot of stress and strain are showing up. Stating “Culture Connects”, the Minister said that for the first time in G-20 Culture working group has been created as a separate group. She said when G-20 talks about harmony and peace, culture is something one needs to look at. She expressed happiness that the second culture working group meeting was held in the state of Odisha or Utkal, which transliterates into ‘Utkarsh Kala ki Bhumi’, which means the land of glorious art and culture.

On 16th May, 2023, the delegates were taken for a specially curated visit to the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site which is located in the Puri district of Odisha. The Temple, dedicated to the Hindu sun god, Surya, was built in the 13th century and is considered a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. Later, in the evening the G-20 delegates were feted with the Gotipua dance performance by local artists, which is one of the ancient dance forms associated with the temple tradition of Shree Jagannath temple, Puri. Union Minister Smt. Lekhi felicitated the artists who gave their best in creating a fine piece of Odisha’s cultural treasure to the immense pleasure of the visiting dignitaries and delegates.

With this the four days long activities and brainstorming sessions under the G-20 second culture group meeting came to a close. The 2nd Culture Working Group Meeting attended by delegates from G20 members, guest nations, and several international organizations, provided a platform to discuss pressing issues faced by the culture sector to further deliberation towards tangible, action-oriented recommendations. The meetings of the Culture Working Group that spread over six sessions and two days, focused on 4 key priority areas articulated under Culture Track of India’s G20 Presidency. The 4 priority areas are: Protection and Restitution of Cultural Property; Harnessing Living Heritage for a Sustainable Future; Promotion of Cultural and Creative Industries and Creative Economy; and Leveraging Digital Technologies for the Protection and Promotion of Culture.

On concluding day, the Minister along with the delegates visited famous caves at Udaygiri, which dates back to more than 2000 years. They also visited the museum at the Gandhi peace centre at Bhubaneswar which is dedicated to the life and vision of Mahatma Gandhi.

On being asked about the opinion of the delegates who were taken on a visit to the ancient rock-cut caves of Udaygiri at the outskirt of capital Bhubaneswar, the Minister said that it was a knowledge sharing experience for the delegates. She said they were very amazed at the super craftsmanship and the culture of Odisha.

The CWG meetings aim to promote an inclusive and collaborative forum to deliberate on key issues concerning the cultural sector and its pivotal role in sustainable development. The meeting seeks to promote a global dialogue on cultural diversity and its role in fostering inclusivity and sustainability.

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Mission Amrit Sarovar

The Secretary Ministry of Rural Development, Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress, monitor, and ensure the quality of Mission Amrit Sarovar here yesterday. Additional Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary, and Secretary, Rural Developmentof all States/Union Territories (UTs), State Nodal officer for the Mission Amrit Sarovar, DM/DC/CEOs of over 700 districts along with District Nodal officers of the Mission took part were also present on the occasion.

The Secretary Rural Development has emphasized conducting a final check of quality by every Stakeholder to ensure the sustainability of all the completed Amrit Sarovars. Further, he has also emphasised that the authorised functionaries should preferably be from a different Block of the District. Social audit team will be deployed for all such completed Amrit Sarovars wherein the Sarovar has been constructed/rejuvenated through Mahatma Gandhi NREGS funds or through the scheme wherein social audit is applicable. Sample checks of inspected sites will be done by the state/UTs teams.Apart from this, National Level Monitors (NLM) will be deployed for inspection of selected Amrit Sarovar. Further, an app for inspection reporting has been developed.

All State/ UTs to take the appropriate necessary action by making an action plan for physical inspection of all the completed Amrit Sarovars before the onset of monsoon latest by 10th June 2023 and do the necessary course correction for improvement of work and in case of lapses appropriate action should be ensured.

Mission Amrit Sarovar has been launched by Prime Minister on 24th April 2022 with an objective to provide sustainable water sources wherein every district is expected to construct/ rejuvenate a minimum of 75 Amrit Sarovar. The National target of 50,000 Amrit Sarovars has been achieved by following due guidelines of the Mission.

This Mission is being implemented with a whole of Government Approach in which 8 Central Ministries/Department namely Department of Rural Development, Department of Land Resources, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate changes, Ministry of Railway, Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways are participating. Also Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Application and Geo-informatics(BISAG-N)has been engaged as Technical partner for the Mission. The Mission works through the States and Districts, through refocusing of various schemes such as Mahatma Gandhi NREGS, XV Finance Commission Grants, PMKSY sub schemes such as Watershed Development Component, Har Khet Ko Pani besides States’ own schemes. It may also be mentioned that the Mission encourages mobilization of citizen and non-govt resources for supplementing these efforts.

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India EU Trade and Technology Council

Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, Textiles, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Sh. Piyush Goyal held a bilateral meeting with the European Commissioner for Internal Trade, Mr. Thierry Breton on the sidelines of the 1st Ministerial meeting of India EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC). During the meeting, both sides underscored the importance of shared democratic values and complementary nature of both India and EU going forward. Both sides agreed that appropriate political commitment can be made to strengthen our bilateral relations taking to new heights.

Sh. Piyush Goyal informed that India has undertaken an ambitious growth trajectory for the next 25 years and has achieved many of the sustainable development goals. The target of having about 40% source of energy from renewables has already been achieved much before the committed timeline of 2030. India has set a further target of creating 500GW of renewable resources to be achieved by 2030. He noted that both our economies have different basis and this provides an opportunity for greater engagement given the current geopolitical scenario. On the suggestion of Mr. Breton for exploring engagement in the space sector, Sh. Goyal informed that India is amongst the major powers in the space sector and that both sides can have deeper engagements in the sector.

Further, the Minister informed that India has become a global leader in respect of fintech with UPI and Rupay. India has also come out with an open network for digital commerce (ONDC) which has capability to integrate all the buyers and sellers across networks. Mr Breton informed that EU is working on new Digital Services Act to which Sh. Goyal said that both sides can collaborate further given India’s status as an IT giant. He further informed that India has the world’s third largest startup ecosystem and has included B20 track in G20 meetings. This provides for greater engagements in digital space and other areas.

On the issue of carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), Sh. Goyal informed that further study needs to be undertaken as to how this could impact enterprises on both sides, impact on trade and the effect on consumers due to increased price of goods and services.

Top Ten Performing Arts in India

India is known for its rich tradition of performing arts that reflect the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Here are the top ten performing arts in India:

Classical Dance – India has several classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, and Kathakali, each with its unique style and technique.

Folk Dance – India has a rich tradition of folk dances, with each region having its unique styles and techniques, including Bhangra, Garba, Dandiya, Lavani, and Chhau.

Bollywood Dance – Bollywood dance is a fusion of traditional Indian dance forms with modern Western styles, characterized by its energetic movements and colorful costumes.

Theatre – India has a rich tradition of theatre, with ancient Sanskrit plays, street theatre, and modern theatre productions.

Music – India has a rich tradition of classical and folk music, with each region having its unique styles and instruments, including sitar, tabla, veena, and sarod.

Ghazal – Ghazal is a form of Urdu poetry set to music, characterized by its emotional depth and lyrical beauty.

Qawwali – Qawwali is a form of devotional music performed by Sufi musicians, characterized by its powerful vocals and rhythmic beats.

Puppetry – India has a rich tradition of puppetry, with different regions having their unique styles and techniques, including Kathputli, Bommalattam, and Togalu Gombeyaata.

Martial Arts – India has several traditional martial arts forms, including Kalaripayattu, Gatka, and Thang-Ta.

Street Performances – India’s streets are often filled with performers showcasing their talents, including acrobats, fire-eaters, magicians, and musicians.

These top ten performing arts of India showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are a testament to the creativity and skill of its people. They are a must-see for anyone interested in the performing arts and are a source of inspiration for performers and artists around the world.

Top Ten Visual Arts of India

India has a rich tradition of visual arts that spans centuries and reflects the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Here are the top ten visual arts of India:

Miniature Painting – A style of painting that originated in the Mughal courts, characterized by intricate details and delicate brushwork.

Madhubani Painting – A folk art form from Bihar, characterized by bright colors and bold geometric patterns.

Warli Painting – A tribal art form from Maharashtra, characterized by simple, rustic scenes painted in white on a red or brown background.

Tanjore Painting – A traditional art form from Tamil Nadu, characterized by its use of gold foil and semi-precious stones to create intricate, three-dimensional designs.

Pattachitra Painting – A traditional art form from Odisha, characterized by its use of natural colors and intricate details depicting mythological stories.

Rangoli – A traditional art form from North India, characterized by the use of colorful powders to create intricate designs on the floor or ground.

Sculpture – India has a rich tradition of sculpture, with ancient examples found in temples and archaeological sites across the country.

Embroidery – India is known for its intricate embroidery work, with different regions having their own unique styles and techniques.

Textile Design – India is renowned for its rich and vibrant textiles, with different regions having their own unique styles and patterns.

Architecture – India has a rich architectural heritage, with ancient temples, forts, palaces, and monuments reflecting the country’s diverse cultural and historical influences.

These top ten visual arts of India showcase the country’s rich artistic heritage and are a testament to the creativity and skill of its people. They are a must-see for anyone interested in art and design and are a source of inspiration for artists and designers around the world.

Land Governance to be constituted for North Eastern States

In the recently concluded National Conference on “Land Governance in North Eastern States” held on 3rd– 4th May 2023 in Guwahati, the Territorial and Autonomous District Councils in the States of Assam, Tripura, Mizoram and Meghalaya held that digitization and modernization of land records is essential for development. The National Conference was organized by Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie and Department of Land Resources with the support of Revenue Department, Government of Assam. Shri Ajay Tirkey, Secretary, Department of Land Resources presided over the National Conference. Shri Sonmoni Borah, Joint Secretary, Department of Land Resources; Shri Gyanendra Dev Tripathi, Principal Secretary, Revenue, Government of Assam; Ms. Anandhi, Deputy Director, Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie; Shri P.V. Rajasekhar, Additional Surveyor General, Survey of India; Ms. Mridula Singh, Sr. Social Development Specialist, World Bank, and other senior officers were present. Representatives of Bodoland Territorial Council, Karbi Anglong Autonomous District Council, Dima Hasao Autonomous District Council (all in Assam); Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous Council, Tripura; Lai Autonomous District Council, Mizoram; Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (all in Meghalaya) participated in the National Conference.

The deliberations in the first ever such National Conference included sessions on Current State Practices & Modernization of land Records, Land Governance Assessment Framework and a session on Customary and Indigenous Laws, Current Practices and New Initiatives and Role of Survey of India in Land Records Modernization. While the initiatives of computerization and digitization of land records and maps have shown good progress in the rest part of Assam, it was seen that there are serious gaps in the areas under Bodoland Territorial Council, Karbi Anglong Autonomous District Council and Dima Hasao Autonomous District Council. The Bodoland Land Policy is being framed and is expected to be finalized shortly. Survey and Settlement in the Karbi Anglong areas has not been done. While the Dima Hasao Autonomous District Council has adopted the Assam Land Regulation Act, large tracts of land have non-cadastral area and a need was felt that these areas be surveyed. The Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous Council has eight Districts and approx. 10,000 sq.km. under Sixth Schedule and 10 customary laws. In the Lai Autonomous District Council areas of Sixth Schedule, a need was felt for survey/resurvey of the areas. In the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council areas of Meghalaya, land is largely owned by the community. The Garo Hills Autonomous District Council have a system of issuance of Annual Pattas by District Council. While the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council, Meghalaya follow the Maghalaya Land Survey and Records Preparation Act 1980.

Shri Ajay Tirkey, Secretary, Department of Land Resources complimented the efforts of Ms. Anandhi, Deputy Director, LBSNAA in organizing the Conference and clarified at the outset that while the felt need of the various Autonomous District Councils in the North-Eastern States to digitize and modernize their land records was a way forward, all efforts would be undertaken to support the Councils within the Constitutional framework and established laws. As a step forward in this direction, the Bodoland Territorial Council had raised a proposal for digitization and modernization of land records and the Department of Land Resources had duly approved the same. Secretary, Department of land Resources further looking into the magnitude of work required across the North-Eastern States, informed that a Task Force for Land Governance in North-Eastern States will be constituted after a due process with the approval of Competent Authority after consultation with the various Autonomous District Councils. Shri Sonmoni Borah, Joint Secretary requested the various Autonomous District Councils to send their proposals for digitization and modernization of land records under Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme(DILRMP) and thanked Ms. Anandhi, Deputy Director, LBSNAA and Principal Secretary, Revenue, Government of Assam for organizing the National Conference.

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Newsletter (EIACP) with scientific papers on various topics like Green farming practices of Vermicompost, Aquaculture and Ornamental fishes

On the fifth day of Mass awareness campaign several activities were organised to increase understanding towards the need of living sustainably.World Environment Day (June 5) is an occasion which brings together millions of people across the country for awareness and action for the environment. Mass mobilisation across the country on LiFE are being organized in the run-up to the celebrations.

National Museum of Natural History (NMNH)

As part of mass mobilization of Mission LiFE NMNH in collaboration with NZP organized on the spot painting competition on good practice to mitigate Climate change and administered LiFE pledge for 241 participants.

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RMNH, Mysore conducted interactive talk on LiFE STYLE FOR ENVIRONMENT as part of Mass mobilization of MISSION LiFE for 119 students and General public and encouraged to adopt Eco friendly lifestyle.

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RGRMNH, Sawai Madhopur organized Bird Identification Programme as part of Mass mobilization of Mission LiFe in which 287 Children and Visitors actively participated and learned to identify various Local & Migratory Birds through Gallery Visit.

RMNH, Bhopal organised Awareness Programme on Encouraging Millets to change the lifestyle by adopting LiFE actions under Meri LiFE: Lifestyle For Environment in which158 students and general public actively participated.

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Zoological Survey of India

To promote objectives under Mission LiFE and for mass mobilisation, Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director, Zoological Survey of India released 4 volumes of Newsletter (EIACP) with scientific papers on various topics like Green farming practices of Vermicompost, Aquaculture and Ornamental fishes in tune with Mission Life objectives. Dr. K. Venkataraman, Former Director of ZSI and Prof Urmi Chatterjee of University of Calcutta were also present on the occasion. While presenting the Annual Progress Report of ZSI for 2022-23 at Headquarters,ZSI, Kolkata Dr Dhriti Banerjee, Director, ZSI highlighted the objectives of LiFE and said that adopting practices of farming like Vermicompost could bring about a positive change in the environment.The program was attended by almost 120 scientists and researchers.

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National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM)

As part of the mass mobilisation of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) movement, NCSCM organised an awareness programme on the ban of single-use plastics, the use of ecoalternatives, responsible tourism, and coastal and marine conservation at the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology, located 40 km south of the city of Chennai. It is the largest breeding centre for crocodiles in the country. It has successfully bred 5000 crocodiles and alligators, including the three endangered Indian crocodile species (the mugger crocodile, saltwater crocodile, and gharial), along with several threatened species of turtles. The mission of the park is to promote the conservation of reptiles and amphibians and their habitats through education, scientific research, and captive breeding. As a part of this event, park visitors took part in a green pledge and signature campaign against littering and the need to live in harmony with nature. Placards, pamphlets, and LiFE mascots were displayed in the park as part of this event. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission Life to over 150 visitors. In this campaign, the focus is on educating the public on responsible tourism, wildlife conservation, and the need for an eco-friendly lifestyle to live in harmony with nature.

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National Institute of Himalayan Environment

National Institute of Himalayan Environment (NIHE) conducted an awareness program under mission LiFE covering three themes viz. Save energy, Save water and Adopt a healthy lifestyle. In the program, nearly 40 children, students, teachers and researchers participated in the program. All the participants took the LiFE pledge for adopting environmentally friendly habits. Children were mainly made aware through demonstrations to save water and energy in their homes. The school teachers were sensitized on adopting good practices for a healthy lifestyle.

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MJPS

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