Category: News

Comprehensive, up-to-date news coverage, aggregated from sources all over the world by EduindexNews.

India's Steel Sector records remarkable growth, emerges as the 2nd largest global producer

The steel sector plays a pivotal role in crucial sectors such as construction, infrastructure, automobile, engineering and defence. Over the years, the steel sector has witnessed tremendous growth and India has emerged as a global force in steel production and the 2nd largest producer of steel in the world.

Production and Consumption

The production performance of the steel sector during the first eight months of the current fiscal year (April – November 2023) has been quite promising. The domestic finished steel production stood at 89.711 million tonnes against 78.498 million tonnes during the corresponding period last year (CPLY) which is 14.3% higher than CPLY. The domestic steel consumption stood at 87.066 million tonnes, which is 14.9% higher than CPLY of 75.765 million tonnes. Domestic crude steel production was 94.114 million tonnes, with a growth of 14.7 % when compared to the production of 82.072 million tonnes in the same period last year.

Import and Export

During April – November 2023, finished steel imports increased from 3.751 million tonnes last year to 4.253 million tonnes in the current year, witnessing a growth of 13.4%.

A. Recent initiatives for growth of steel sector:

(I) Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Government has approved inclusion of ‘Specialty Steel’ under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, with a 5-year financial outlay of ₹6322 crore to promote the manufacturing of ‘Specialty Steel’ within the country by attracting capital investment and promote technology up-gradation in the steel sector. On 17.03.2023, Government had signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 27 companies covering 57 applications for categories under the PLI Scheme.

The performance and outcomes of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the steel sector as of Q2, i.e., September 2023 for FY 2023-24 is given below:

Committed investment(₹ Crore) Actual Investment till Q2 2023-24 (₹ Crore) Committed productionfor FY 2023-24 (000 tonne) Actual production till Q2 2023-24(000 tonne) Employment generation till Q2 2023-24(Nos.) Budgeted incentive outlay(₹ Crore) Actual incentive disbursed(₹ Crore)
29531 10730 935 Nil 3785 6332 Nil*

*(Incentive to be disbursed from FY 2024-25 onwards)

 (II) Nagarnar Integrated Steel Plant

NMDC’s 3 MTPA capacity Greenfield integrated steel plant has been set up at Nagarnar, located 16 km from Jagdalpur in Chhattisgarh state. The decision to construct the Nagarnar Integrated Steel Plant was taken keeping in view the linkage with iron ore reserves and availability of investible surplus. The plant became functional on August 24, 2023 and has started production of Hot Rolled (HR) coil as final product.

(III)  Green Steel Making

In line with India’s commitments towards net-zero emissions, as enunciated in COP-26, the Ministry of Steel has taken various steps towards decarbonization of the steel sector.

  1. Ministry of Steel constituted 13 Task Forces with the engagement of industry, academia, think tanks, S&T bodies, different Ministries and other stakeholders to discuss, deliberate and recommend upon different levers of decarbonisation of steel sector.
  2. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced a National Green Mission for green hydrogen production and usage. The steel sector has also been made a stakeholder in the mission.
  3. The steel sector has adopted the Best Available Technologies (BAT) available globally, in the modernization & expansions projects.

(IV) Ministry of Steel’s Engagement with PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan

The Ministry of Steel has integrated BISAG-N’s  capabilities into the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, uploading geolocations of more than 2000 steel units to gain insights into steel production facilities. This information will aid in planning railway line extension, inland waterways, highways, ports, and gas pipeline connectivity.

The Ministry has also mapped data of iron ore, manganese ore mines and Iron Ore Slurry Pipelines, allowing for better visibility and management of critical raw material sources. The Ministry has identified 22 key infrastructure deficiencies that need to be addressed in collaboration with other ministries for comprehensive and integrated infrastructure development. In addition, the Ministry of Steel has also onboarded Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSE) members on PM Gati Shakti-National Master Plan.

The Ministry of Steel has been mandated to create Sectoral Plans for Efficient Logistics (SPEL) in line with the National Logistics Policy of 2022. The initial draft Sectoral Plan for Efficient logistics plan (SPEL) was circulated among major steel producers and associations and it was made available in public domain, ensuring a well-informed strategy. The suggestions received from stakeholders are being examined, and the finalized SPEL will be submitted to the Empowered Group of Secretaries through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.

(V) Steel Scrap Recycling Policy

The Steel Scrap Recycling Policy (SSRP) has been notified in 2019 which provides a framework to facilitate and promote establishment of metal scrapping centres in the country for scientific processing and recycling of ferrous scrap generated from various sources including end of life vehicles (ELVs).

Towards this end, MSTC Limited, a CPSE under Ministry of Steel, in Joint Venture (JV) with Mahindra Accelo, has set up MSTC Mahindra Recycling Private Limited (MMRPL). Till date, the JV has established eight (8) Vehicle Scrapping Centres at Greater NOIDA (NCR), Chennai, Pune, Indore, Ahmadabad, Hyderabad, Guwahati and Bengaluru.

MSTC has also been entrusted to auction Government vehicles older than 15 years on the portal developed by the Company.

(VI)   Facilitation of National Infrastructure Pipeline Projects:

Ministry of Steel has been proactively taking up issues related to National Infrastructure Pipeline projects of steel companies with concerned Central/State Government, Ministries/Departments.

(VII) Steel Usage

The Government has formulated the National Steel Policy 2017, which lays down the broad roadmap for encouraging long term growth for the Indian steel industry, both on demand and supply sides, by 2030-31. Government’s push for infrastructure development through Gati-Shakti Master Plan, ‘Make-in-India’ initiative for manufacturing sector and other flagship schemes of the Government would provide impetus to the demand and consumption of steel in the country. Steps taken in this regard includes:

  1. Ministry of Steel has set up a committee of experts from Industry and Technical Institutions (IITs/NITs) for development of steel intensive designs for construction of houses and long span road bridges for fostering steel usage in the Housing and Construction sector.
  2. M/o Steel has also formed a committee of experts from INSDAG, IITs, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and industry experts for development of designs for long span (30m, 35m, and 40m) steel based Bridges. The design for 30m has been approved and sent to MoRTH for adoption.
  3. M/o Steel has taken up with BIS for development of Codes for steel intensive construction. BIS has informed that a committee having members from steel industry has been formed and the development of codes is in advanced stages.
  4. To promote availability of specialty steels for domestic consumption, the Government has also notified Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel to promote the manufacturing of specialty steel within the country. 

(VIII) R&D through Government Budget

Ministry of Steel seeks R&D Project proposals in joint collaborative mode from reputed Academic Institutions, Research Laboratories and Steel Companies for pursuing R&D projects for development of new alternate processes & technologies to address the burning issues faced by the Iron & Steel Sector such as climate change (green steel production, H2 based steel production, CCUS etc.), waste utilization, resource efficiency, etc. for providing financial assistance under the R&D Scheme “Promotion of Research & Development in Iron & Steel Sector”.

Industrial participation, both in terms of collaboration and financial contribution, is mandatory for the R&D proposals to be considered for funding under the R&D Scheme.

During the FY 2023, a total of 4 R&D projects have been approved with a total cost of ₹360.48 lakhs with financial assistance of ₹239.63 lakhs from the Government budget. Additionally, there are currently 14 ongoing R&D projects of the Ministry of Steel.

(IX) Steel and Steel products (Quality Control) Order

Ministry of Steel has introduced Steel Quality Control Order, thereby banning sub-standard/ defective steel products both from domestic & imports to ensure the availability of quality steel to the industry, users and public at large. As per the Order, it is ensured that only quality steel conforming to the relevant BIS standards are made available to the end users.

As on date, 145 Indian Standards have been notified under the Quality Control Order covering carbon steel, alloy steel and stainless steel. In addition, goods & articles made up of steel such as stainless steel pipe & tubes, laminations/ cores of transformers, products of tin plate & tin free steel etc. have also been notified to prevent circumvention of the Steel Quality Control Order.

(X) Safety in the Iron & Steel Sector: Formulation of Safety Guidelines for Iron & Steel Sector

After extensive consultations with stakeholders, academia etc, a set of 25 common minimum Safety Guidelines for the Iron & Steel Sector was formulated. These Safety Guidelines are at par with the global standards and are compliant with the requirements of the ILO Code of practice on safety in the Iron & Steel industry. Inputs have also been taken from the World Steel Association’s guidance document on “Safety & Health Principles and Definitions”.

The stakeholders from the Indian steel Industry and its associations have been urged to adopt these guidelines wholeheartedly, to ensure a safe working environment for the workforce. Ministry of Labour & Employment has also been requested to facilitate mandatory adoption of the Safety Guidelines by the Iron & Steel Industry.

B.      Other highlights:

(I) NATIONAL METALLURGIST AWARDS

The National Metallurgist Award 2022 is a prestigious award given by the Ministry of Steel, Government of India, to recognize the outstanding contributions of metallurgists in the iron and steel sector. The award is given in five categories: Lifetime Achievement, National Metallurgist, Young Metallurgist (Environment), Young Metallurgist (Metal Science), and R&D in Iron & Steel Sector. The award ceremony was held on November 22, 2023, and the winners were:

  • Dr Kamachi Mudali Uthandi – Lifetime Achievement Award
  • Dr Debashish Bhattacharjee – National Metallurgist Award
  • Dr Rameshwar Sah – R&D in Iron & Steel Sector
  • Dr Niloy Kundu – Young Metallurgist (Environment) Award
  • Agilan Muthumanickam – Young Metallurgist (Metal Science) Award

(II) CAPEX by CPSEs under Ministry of Steel:

During FY 2022-23, Steel CPSEs had a target of ₹11,590.46 crores (RE) against which the CPSEs achieved a CAPEX of ₹10,525.84 crores. The CAPEX in FY 2022-23 was the highest achieved by Steel CPSEs in the past five years.

The CAPEX target for FY 2023-24 is ₹10,300.85 crores (BE). Against this BE target, Steel CPSEs have achieved a CAPEX of ₹5414.51 crores till November, 2023 (52.6%). The CAPEX progress is being monitored regularly and the CPSEs have been advised to ensure timely completion of projects and to achieve the physical and financial milestones.

(III) Government e-Marketplace (GeM): Procurement of goods and services through GeM by Steel CPSEs has increased over the year with the value of orders during April-November, 2023 being 20.8% higher over CPLY. Total procurement made between April-November 2023 stands at ₹10,126.90 crore.

(IV)  MSME Payments: The status of pending payments to MSMEs by CPSEs of the Steel Ministry is being monitored on a weekly basis to ensure that the same may be credited timely. During the current fiscal year April 2023 to November 2023, 98% of MSMEs payments have been made within 45 days. During the aforesaid period Steel’s CPSEs have made a payment of ₹4977.82 crore to MSMEs which is approx 5% higher than the payment of ₹4747.53 crore made during the corresponding period of last year.

(V) Mission Recruitment: A dedicated online portal viz. “Vacancy Status Portal” has been put in place by DoPT for reporting and monitoring the progress in filling up the vacancies. Steel CPSEs have taken action to fulfill vacancies expeditiously. Under the Mission, 1389 direct recruitments have been made by Steel CPSEs mainly SAIL, NMDC, KIOCL, MOIL and MECON in 2023.

(VI) Swachhata campaign:   Ministry of Steel along with 7 CPSEs viz. SAIL, RINL, NMDC, MOIL, MECON, KIOCL and MSTC under the Ministry, actively participated in the ‘Special campaign for Disposal of Pending matters’ (SCDPM3.0), held from 2nd October 2023 to 31st October 2023. During the campaign, 2,34,915 sq. ft of space have been freed up by the Ministry of Steel and its CPSEs from the disposal of metallic and non-metallic scrap, paper and e-waste etc. 19432 physical files have been weeded out and 12207 e-files have been closed during campaign period. In addition, several pending PG appeals/PG grievances, MPs references etc were settled. Further, 261 Swachhta campaigns were carried out by the Ministry and its CPSEs.

(VII) Chintan Shivir:  Ministry of steel organised 2 Chintan Shivir in this year on 17th February, 2023 and on 15th December, 2023. During the 1st Chintan Shivir held on 17.2.2023, deliberations were held on Raw material issues of Steel sector and Circular economy in steel sector, besides a session on soft skill and team building. The 2nd Chintan Shivir of the year 2023 was held on 15.12.2023 and topics of Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM): Impact on Steel sector and Use of Emerging Technology –AI in steel sector were discussed.

(VIII)  Meeting of Consultative Committee for Ministry of Steel:  In Year 2023, four meeting of Consultative Committee for Ministry of Steel held under the chairmanship of Minister of Steel.  In the first meeting of the year 2023 held on 6.3.2023, discussions were held on Secondary Steel Clusters.  Further meetings were held on 28.4.2023 on ‘Logistics: Steel Sector’, 24.7.2023 on Status of Mutation, Digitisation and Encroachment on land parcel of CPSEs, and 23.11.2023 on ‘Branding of Indian steel’.

(IX) Steel Minister’s Advisory Group

Two advisory groups have been constituted namely Advisory Group of the Ministry of Steel for Integrated Steel Plants (ISPs) and Secondary Steel Industry (SSI) under the chairmanship of Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia. The advisory groups aim at identifying common issues being faced by the Industry and finding a way for their resolution with active participation from the Ministry. Meetings, at regular intervals are being held for both advisory groups. In this year, two meetings of the advisory group for ISPs and two meetings of the SSIs have been held.

***

Development and Progress by Panchayati Raj

 Since 2014 the Government of India has intensified its efforts to support the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in the best manner possible to ensure that the basic objectives of the Panchayati Raj are achieved in true letter and spirit. The country has witnessed a quantum leap in the allocation of fiscal resources to Panchayati Raj Institutions to support various infrastructure requirements and developmental activities in rural areas. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has been taking several initiatives for strengthening and empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions, increasing the capacity of representatives of PRIs to fulfill their roles and responsibilities and improving the efficiency, transparency of functioning and accountability of PRIs to contribute towards inclusive development, economic growth and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The details of important activities carried out and progress made during the year 2023 are as follows:

1.      SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas)

1.1    SVAMITVA Scheme was launched by the Prime Minister on National Panchayati Raj Day, 24th April 2020 with a resolve to enable economic progress of Rural India by providing “Record of Rights” to every rural household owner. The scheme aims to demarcate inhabited (Abadi) land in rural areas through the latest surveying drone-technology, is a collaborative effort of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, State Revenue Departments, State Panchayati Raj Departments and Survey of India. The scheme covers multifarious aspects viz. facilitating monetisation of properties and enabling bank loan; reducing property related disputes; comprehensive village level planning, assuring the rural local government a good source of revenue would be the stepping-stone towards achieving Gram Swaraj in true sense and making rural India Atmanirbhar. The duration of implementation of the scheme is 2020-21 to 2024-25.

 

1.2 Achievements under the Scheme during the year 2023

  1. As on December 2023, drone flying has been completed in 2.89 lakh villages.
  2. Drone flying has been saturated in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Delhi and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.
  3. Scheme has been saturated in Haryana, Uttarakhand, Puducherry, Goa, Andaman, and Nicobar Islands.
  4. About 1.63 crore property cards have been prepared for 1.06 lakh villages. 
  5. As per Memorandum of Understanding between Survey of India and States/UTs, the scheme coverage is as below:

1.3 Only pilot villages covered in Sikkim, Tamil Nadu and Telangana. The States where the scheme has not been implemented include Bihar, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and West Bengal.  Assam and Odisha – Only unmapped villages to be covered.

 

1.4.A Round Table discussion on the Bankability of SVAMITVA property cards was held at Bankers Institute of Rural Development (BIRD), Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh in August 2023.

1.5 A training was held on 15 – 16th October 2023 at National Remote sensing Centre (ISRO) Training & Research Institute, Hyderabad, followed by the Geosmart India Conference on 17 – 19th October 2023 at HICC, Hyderabad with collaborative efforts of Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Geospatial World. The Agenda of the Conference focused on knowledge sharing, showcasing various technological interventions, impact assessment and possible solutions for land and property management.

1.6.   Awards and Recognition

National Awards for e-Governance 2023: SVAMITVA Scheme won Gold Prize in use of Emerging Technology for providing citizen centric services organized by DARPG at Indore, Madhya Pradesh in October 2023.

SVAMITVA Scheme also conferred with Gold award for Innovative Use of Technology in e-Governance for Digital Transformation at Digitech Conclave 2023 organized at Goa in August 2023.

1.7.   Endorsement by the Prime Minister

  • Prime Minister distributed 35 lakh property cards prepared under SVAMITVA Scheme on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day on 24th April 2023 held at Rewa, Madhya Pradesh.
  • Prime Minister highlighted the importance of the scheme during India Today conclave 2023

2.      Capacity Building & Training (CB&T)

2.1     The Capacity Building and Training (CB&T) of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) has been one of the major activities of MoPR. The Ministry has been providing programmatic, technical and institutional support for strengthening of PRIs.

2.2     The Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) of Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) was implemented during 2018-19 to 2021-22.  The scheme was revamped further for implementation during 2022-23 and 2025-26 at a total cost of Rs.5911 crore including Central Share of Rs.3700 crore and State share of Rs.2211 crore.

2.3     Achievements under the scheme of RGSA:

  • During 2018-19 to 2021-22, 1.43 crore participants comprising elected representatives of the PRIs and their functionaries and other stakeholders of Panchayats, provided trainings.
  • During 2022-23, 43,36,584 participants were trained.
  • During the current year as on 28.12.2023, 17,96,410 participants have been trained.

 

20th December, 2023 uploaded on Training Management portal

3.      Localization of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs) through Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs):

3.1     Ministry has adopted 9 thematic approach for LSDGs leveraging wide network of third tier of Government including Traditional Bodies of non-part IX areas. The goals on these themes to be attained by 2030 in graduated manner by embracing following approach:

  1. Convergence of all flagship developmental and welfare programmes at Panchayat level,
  2. Saturation of various activities in all villages in phased manner.
  3. Usage of digital technology for ensuring transparency and accountability of all concerned.

3.2    Progress on Localization of SDGs:

  1. Status of uploading thematic Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP), Block Panchayat Development Plan (BPDP) and District Panchayat Development Plan (DPDP) for FY 2023-24:

GPDP uploaded on portal

BPDP uploaded on portal

DPDP uploaded on portal

250449

(93.06% of GP)

5705

(84.47% of BP)

492

(72.46 of DP)

Source: eGramSwaraj portal as on 20th December, 2023.

 

  1. People’s Plan Campaign (PPC)–2023: PPC–2023 was rolled out as ‘Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas’ from 4th September, 2023 as a strategy for preparation of participatory GPDP in campaign mode with voluntary involvement of community, elected representatives, frontline workers, SHGs, and other stakeholders for preparing the thematic GPDP for the next financial year i.e. 2024-25.
  2. Project Driven District and Block Panchayat Development Plan:
  3. The report on formulation of project driven Block and District Panchayat Development Plan released in the workshop held during 4th – 5th September, 2023.
  4. Based on the recommendations of the report the States /UTs have been advised to prepare project driven Block and District Panchayat Development Plans.

 

  1. Thematic National Workshop: Around 1400 Participants from Central Ministries, 30 States (including ERs, Functionaries), UNICEF, UN women and other NGOs attended three-day national workshop on Theme 3-Child Friendly Village and Theme 9-Women Friendly Village of LSDGs held in Odisha during 17 – 19 February, 2023.

 

  1. Two-days National workshop on Quality/ISO Certification:
  1. Around 100 participants from 25 States / UTs attended two-days national workshop on Quality/ISO Certification held in Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA), Kerala during 6th to 7th July, 2023 on “ISO Certification of Panchayats”. 
  2. The follow up on the same has resulted in efforts for quality/ISO certification of Panchayats in various States. With standardized procedures of services, it is expected to improve the quality of service delivery at Panchayat level.

 

  1. Three-day National Workshop on Theme 8-Panchayat with Good Governance of LSDGs held in Srinagar, Jammu &Kashmir during 21 – 23 August 2023. During the workshop following were released:
      1. Meri Panchayat App
      2. Operating Guidelines of National Capacity Building Framework 2022.
      3. Service Level Benchmark, Self -assessments and Model Contract prepared by the MoPR in coloration with the UNICEF.

 

  1. Panchayat Development Index (PDI):

To measure the progress on LSDGs and to carry out assessment to prepare evidence-based policy, MoPR constituted a Committee to prepare mechanisms for computation of PDI. 

  1. The report was released by Minister of State for Panchayati Raj in a National Workshop held in Delhi on 28th June, 2023. Report of the Committee can be accessed on the Ministry’s Website at the URL: https://panchayat.gov.in/pdi-committee-report-2023/.
  2. The Committee has laid a framework for computation of PDI, which will be useful tool for Union Ministries/Departments as well as the State Governments and PRIs to assess the outcome of their schemes and plan future developments based on evidence.
  3. Two-Day National Write-Shop has been organized on PDI Portal for preparation of Baseline Report and computation of PDI in Delhi during 10-11 August, 2023.
  4. A portal (www.pdi.gov.in) for preparation of PDI has been developed. Around 140 data points received from UDISE+, JJM, SBM, NSAP, PMAY, MGNREGS, Mission Antyodya and eGramSwaraj have been ported in PDI portal, rest will be entered by the Gram Panchayats and Line Departments at GP level.  
  5. Workshops have been held in most of the States to orient the concerned Line Departments and Panchayat officials on the mechanism of data collection and validation for the purpose of preparation of PDI.
  6. The thematic scores of Gram Panchayat across nine themes as well as the composite PDI score based on thematic score will be used for incentivization of Panchayats.

 

4.      Institutional mechanism for strengthening PRIs

  1. School of Excellence of Panchayati Raj (SoEPR) has been setup in NIRD&PR for strengthening of PRIs. It will strengthen the SIRD&PRs as well as support the research on the subjects of Panchayati Raj at the National Level.
  2. Meri Panchayat Application has been launched in August 2023 to facilitate easy access of the information to public about functioning of panchayats to enhance transparency and accountability. The downloading of the said application has crossed 13 lakh.
  3. The assessment module for the trainings has been made functional in the Training Management Portal (TMP). It will facilitate the assessment of learning outcomes of the participants of trainings. 

 

5.      Incentivisation of Panchayats

5.1     Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) confers the National Panchayat Awards annually to best performing Panchayats across the country which are a strong source of motivation for them to further improve upon their efforts in development at local level. These awards are usually conferred annually on 24thApril, celebrated as National Panchayati Raj Day.

5.2     MoPR has subsumed 17 SDGs into 9 Localization of SDGs (LSDGs) themes. Accordingly, National Panchayat Awards have been revamped aligning with the LSDGs with effect from the year 2023. The NPA are conferred under the 9 LSDGs based themes namely, (i) Poverty free and enhanced livelihoods Panchayat (ii) Healthy Panchayat (iii) Child friendly Panchayat (iv) Water sufficient Panchayat (v) Clean and Green Panchayat (vi) Self-sufficient infrastructure in Panchayat (vii) Socially Secured Panchayat (viii) Panchayat with Good Governance and (ix) Women-friendly Panchayat

5.3     In addition to 9 themes, Ministry of Panchayati Raj also conferred special categories of awards to best performing Gram Panchayats (GPs) i.e. (1) Gram Urja Swaraj Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar for their performance regarding adoption and usage of renewable sources of energy and (2) Carbon Neutral Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar for exemplary work towards achieving Net-Zero carbon emissions.

5.4 A total 42 Panchayats were awarded in the year 2023 based on their performance.

https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/Gallery/PhotoGallery/2023/Apr/H20230417130381.JPG

6.      Celebrations of National Panchayat Awards Week (17th – 21st April, 2023)

6.1     The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the National Panchayat Awards Week Celebrations and presented the National Panchayat Awards–2023 to the best performing Panchayats at the National Conference on Incentivization of Panchayats at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi on 17th April, 2023.

https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/Gallery/PhotoGallery/2023/Apr/H20230417130375.JPG

6.2 On this occasion, Union Minister of Panchayati Raj Shri Giriraj Singh launched the GS NIRNAY, National Initiative for Rural India to Navigate, InnovAte and Resolve PanchaYat decisions, a mobile application of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj aimed at empowering rural communities.

7.      Commemoration of National Panchayati Raj Day – 24th April, 2023

7.1     Prime Minister participated in the celebration of this year’s National Panchayati Raj Day and addressed all the Gram Sabhas and Panchayati Raj

 Institutions across the country. Prime Minister addressed a large public gathering including Panchayat representatives on the occasion of the National Panchayati Raj Day on 24th April, 2023 in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh.

7.2     This year’s celebration of National Panchayati Raj Day at Rewa in Madhya Pradesh witnessed participation of more than one lakh participants, including representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions, other stakeholders and local residents / rural masses from the District of Rewa and other neighboring Districts.

7.3     Addressing the gathering on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day, Prime Minister noted the virtual presence of more than 30 lakh Panchayat representatives from all over the country and said that it presents a bold picture of Indian democracy.

7.4     During the event, Prime Minister inaugurated an integrated eGramSwaraj and GeM portal for public procurement at Panchayat level. The objective of eGramSwaraj – Government eMarketplace integration is to enable the Panchayats to procure their goods and services through GeM, leveraging the eGramSwaraj platform.   

7.5     Prime Minister also handed over around 35 lakh SVAMITVA Property Cards to beneficiaries. Post this programme, around 1.25 crore property cards were distributed under SVAMITVA Scheme in the country, including those distributed in Madhya Pradesh.

8.      e-Gram Swaraj e-Financial Management System

8.1     eGramSwaraj, a Simplified Work Based Accounting Application for Panchayati Raj assists in enhancing the credibility of Panchayat through inducing greater devolution of funds to PRIs. Some of the salient features existing in eGramSwaraj Application are:

  • Workflow Enabled
  • Assets available on Gram Manchitra GIS
  • Supports multi-tenancy; multiple tenants in the same instance and
  • Strong Authentication Mechanism based on open-source technologies
  • eGS-PFMS integration – Automation of accounting done by the Panchayats under XV Finance Commission grants.

8.2    New feature launched this year (2023)

eGS-GeM interface – Facilitates the Panchayats in procurement of items/services through GeM at standardized rates and seamless payment through eGS-PFMS interface, thus establishing a transparent procurement system.

8.3    Current progress of the adoption of e-GramSwaraj (including eGramSwaraj-PFMS &eGS-GeM Interface):

Action Point

Status

Panchayat Planning

2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats have uploaded approved GPDP, more than 5 thousand Block Panchayats have uploaded approved BPDP and 492 DPDP have been uploaded by the District Panchayats.

Physical Progress

1.03 lakhs GPs have reported physical progress of activities under GPDP

LGD code compliant

100% GPs (including TLBs) in States receiving CFC Grants are LGD compliant.

eGramSwaraj – PFMS integration

2.52 Lakh GPs have been ported from PFMS to eGramSwaraj.

2.55 Lakh Gram Panchayats have onboarded eGramSwaraj PFMS for 2023-24

2.36 Lakh GPs have commenced online payments in 2023–2024. Nearly Rs.25,880 crores worth payments have been successfully transferred by the Panchayats to their respective beneficiaries/vendors.

Account closure for 2021-22

For 2021-22, 94% of Gram Panchayats have closed their year books.

Account Closure for 2022-23

For year 2022-23, 92% of Gram Panchayats have closed month books.

Registration on eGramSwaraj – GeM Interface

More than 72,000 Panchayats across 22 States have registered themselves on this interface (as of December 2023).

 

    1. Integration of Beneficiary details with eGramSwaraj:

As of December 2023, beneficiary details of sixteen scheme of six Union Ministries/ Departments are integrated with eGramSwaraj Application as mentioned below.

 

Ministry/Department

Scheme

Ministry of Rural Development

PM Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G)

Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)

Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)

Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS)

Indira Gandhi National Family Benefit Scheme (IGNFBS)

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)

National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS)

National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM)

Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying

National Artificial Insemination Programme Project (NAIP)

National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP I & II)

Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare

Pradhan Mantri KISAN Samman Nidhi (PMKSN)

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana

Ministry of Education

Samagra Shiksha

Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation

Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin)

Jal Jeevan Mission (Gramin)

Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

 

9.      Geo-tagging of assets:

Ministry of Panchayati Raj has developed “mActionSoft” – a mobile based solution to help in capturing photos with Geo-Tags (i.e. GPS Coordinates) for the works which have asset as an output. Geo-tagging of the assets is done in all three stages viz. (i) before start of the work, (ii) during the work and (iii) on completion of work. As of December 2023, 2.5 lakh photographs of the assets have been uploaded by the Gram Panchayats for the activities taken under Fifteen Finance Commission in the current year.

10.    Citizen Charter

As of December 2023, 215628 Gram Panchayats approved and uploaded their Citizen Charters promising to deliver 954 services to their people of which 261 are offered on online.

11.    Audit Online

As a part of the critical institutional reform, XV FC has stipulated that the audited reports of Panchayat accounts need to be made available in the public domain, as an eligibility criterion. “Audit Online” application facilitates carrying out online audit of Panchayat accounts pertaining to Central Finance Commission Grants.

Activity

2019-20

2020-21

2021-22

2022-23

No. of Auditors enlisted

10,269

10,269

10,269

10,268

No. of Auditees enlisted

2,59,758

2,60,603

2,59,920

2,59,812

No. of GPs – Audit plans prepared

1,44,613

2,40,988

2,48,257

1,77,883

No. of Audit observations recorded

12,58,266

21,90,446

23,83,415

5,25,737

No. of Audit reports generated

1,30,222

2,18,086

2,40,515

51,815

 

12.    Central Finance Commission Grants to Rural Local Bodies

12.1   The Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) submitted its interim report for the financial year 2020-21 and the final report for the period 2021-26.  The XV FC Grant-in-aid is allocated to all tiers of the Panchayati Raj including the Traditional Bodies of Non Part IX States and Fifth and Sixth Schedule areas in two parts, namely, (i) Basic (Untied) Grant (50 % for 2020-21 and 40 % for 2021-22 to 2025-26) and (ii) Tied Grants. (50 % for 2020-21 and 60 % for 2021-22 to 2025-26). 

12.2   The total size of the XV FC Grant to the Rural Local Bodies is Rs.60,750 Crore for the period FY 2020-21 and Rs.2,36,805 crores for the period 2021-22 to 2025-26. Rs.15,319 Crore in respect of the current Financial year 2023-24 have been released thus resulting into cumulative release so far of, Rs.1,63,850 Crores out of total allocation of Rs.2,97,555 Crores, i.e. 55.07 %. These grants are released to the States for development works in the Rural Local Bodies.

13.    Gram Urja Swaraj Abhiyaan

13.1   The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has collaborated with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy to include the Gram Panchayats under all its schemes focusing on adoption of renewable energy. This will enable that in the upcoming years, Gram Panchayats would evolve as self-sufficient in terms of energy and become producers of energy instead of only being consumers. Moreover, widespread adoption of renewable energy applications in rural areas would enable the Gram Panchayats to develop Own Sources of Revenue (OSR) and employment opportunities for local youth of the villages.

13.2   Under the Gram Urja Swaraj Abhiyaan, GPs have developed their own implementation models with the support of Renewable energy development Agencies of the states. For example, Odanthurai Panchayat in Tamil Nadu has its own windmill, Thikekarwadi Gram Panchayat in Maharashtra has established Biogas plant in PPP mode and Meenvallam, Project of Palakkad district Panchayat in Kerala is the first initiative of a Panchayat under micro hydel. Many panchayats have taken up solar energy models such as solar roof top models, solar kitchens, solar street lighting and solar high mast light owned by the panchayats.

13.3   Under the Gram Urja Swaraj Abhiyaan, as on date, 2,080 Gram Panchayats have taken up and implemented Renewable Energy Projects. Close to 2020 Gram Panchayats have solar energy systems that are installed and are fully functional. Around 60 – 70 Gram Panchayats have hydel Energy systems and Wind Energy Systems that are installed and there are 106 GP’s with existing Biogas Energy Systems.

***

Review Public Sector Banks (PSBs) on various parameters

 Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman chaired a meeting to review the performance of Public Sector Banks (PSBs) on various parameters, in New Delhi, today. The meeting was also attended by Union Minister of State for Finance Dr Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad; Dr Vivek Joshi, Secretary, Department of Financial Services; Heads of Public Sector Banks besides senior officials of the Department of Financial Services.

 

 

The progress on the acquisition of accounts by the National Asset Reconstruction Company Ltd (NARCL) was also deliberated. The Finance Minister directed that the acquisition of stressed accounts by NARCL needs to improve further, and necessary efforts must be made in this direction. It was advised that NARCL and banks should hold regular meetings to expedite the on-boarding of stressed accounts.

In addition to the above measures, Smt. Sitharaman emphasised the importance of mobilising deposits, urging PSBs to innovate and offer attractive deposit schemes to enhance their deposit base, which will also enable them to extend more credit.

During deliberations on the fraud related matters, the Union Finance Minister, while expressing satisfaction at the improved performance of the Public Sector Banks, stated that bank frauds pose a critical threat to the security of both individual customers and the financial institutions themselves, which can lead to financial losses and reduced public trust in the banking system.

Smt. Sitharaman asked PSBs to concentrate on fraud prevention activities concerned with both large corporate frauds and wilful defaults, as well as on actions that defraud individual customers. The Union Finance Minister instructed the banks to adopt advanced fraud prevention and detection mechanisms and ensure that the customers are further educated about safe banking practices.

The Union Finance Minister directed Banks to undertake consumer education measures for protection from malicious fraud calls and to make efforts for timely identification of accounts as fraud and their subsequent investigation. Banks were also advised to put more effort into recovery from accounts declared as fraud and willful default. The Union Finance Minister also asked banks to monitor the early warning signals to check potential frauds.

Recognising that the effectiveness of legal action against defaulters before courts and tribunals largely depends on effective representation by lawyers and attorneys assisted by bank officials, the Union Finance Minister called for a performance review of counsel representing PSBs to ensure better legal outcomes.

Smt. Sitharaman stated that the willful defaults not only strain the banks’ financial health but also hamper the flow of credit in the economy and urged the PSBs to adopt responsible lending practices across the board. The Union Finance Minister instructed the PSBs to enhance due diligence before loan disbursement, ensure regular monitoring of large loan accounts, and undertake swift and thorough legal action in cases of such default.

Smt. Sitharaman also exhorted the banks to take strict administrative action against the conniving officials of the banks who enable fraud and wilful defaults.

Other issues related to cyber security were also deliberated in the meeting. The preparedness of all the PSBs in addressing cyber security risks was reviewed by the Union Finance Minister and PSBs were directed to ensure privacy of customer data.

Smt. Sitharaman stated that issues of cyber security should be seen from a system perspective as a small vulnerability can be used by nefarious elements to create system-wide risks.

Further, the Finance Minister noted the need to adopt proactive cybersecurity measures and implement stringent security protocols to protect sensitive financial information and systems from cyber-attacks and exhorted the banks to adapt to the evolving digital landscape, ensuring that the integrity of domestic financial systems remains uncompromised.

The Union Finance Minister also emphasised the importance of collaboration and mutual learning among the PSBs and coordination between banks, security agencies, regulatory bodies and technology experts to create a more resilient financial ecosystem against potential cyber-security threats.

***

Welfare of fallen heroes’ families as well as soldiers, ex-servicemen & their dependents

 It is the collective responsibility of the nation to ensure the welfare of the families of the fallen heroes, serving & retired soldiers as well as their dependents, whose unmatched sacrifice, commitment & patriotism is the bedrock of a safe and prosperous India. This was stated by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing an event, organised by an NGO in Surat, Gujarat on December 30, 2023, to honour the valour & sacrifices of the fallen heroes, and extend support to their families.

Paying rich tributes to these bravehearts, Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that the nation will forever remain indebted to the soldiers who safeguard the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the motherland. He commended the Armed Forces personnel for successfully discharging their duties with the Government’s ‘India first, security first’ approach, stating that the people are able to contribute to nation building as they know that the borders are secure. He also expressed gratitude to the family members for producing “these diamonds whose shine illuminates the entire country”.

The Raksha Mantri drew parallels between the process of creating diamonds and the transformation of youth into extraordinary soldiers. “Just as very high temperature and pressure transforms carbon atoms into diamonds, the challenging circumstances, under which the soldiers serve the nation, shape the ordinary youth into diamonds. With their shine, these diamonds then protect us from darkness,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh took the opportunity to encourage business leaders to prioritise nation building over personal gains, emphasising that money should be viewed as a means and not the ultimate life goal. He also spoke of the historical significance of Gujarat and its role in the progress of the nation. “Gujarat is the birthplace of prominent figures such as poet Narsingh Mehta who united the then society through his devotion and literature; Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi whose ideals & principles ensured our freedom; Iron Man of India Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel who strengthened the unity & integrity of the nation; and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi who has raised India’s stature at the international level and has taken the nation forward on the path of prosperity and security. Last but not the least, it is also the birthplace of countless soldiers who bolster the security of our borders by risking their lives,” he said.

The Raksha Mantri added that the Government stands with the Armed Forces and is equipping them with the latest weapons and platforms to protect the nation from threats. He assured the nation that the military is ready to face every challenge and it will give a befitting reply to anyone who tries to cast an evil eye.

**

Promote traditional Ayush systems like Siddha

 The knowledge gathered by the ancient ‘Siddha’ practitioners needs to be taken further to safeguard human health – Dr. Munjapara Mahendra Bhai, Union Minister of State for Ayush and Woman and Child Development today spoke over the theme ‘Ancient Wisdom and Modern Solutions’ on the occasion of National Siddha Day. Dr. Munjpara also said that there is a need to propagate all traditional Ayush systems like Siddha in India. The study of Ayush systems and disciplines will help in creating an ecosystem for the effective treatment of many diseases.

 

The Minister said that the National Institute of Siddha (NIS) was recognized as an apex institution for teaching under the Siddha system, and now contributes actively to training research and the development of standards set by the Ministry of Ayush. The institute offers a wide range of academic programs including Ph.D in BSMS, MD, and Siddha, and also provides great career-building opportunities to the Siddha practitioners. The main hospital of the institute caters to 2500 patients per day and also has a 200-bed inpatient department at affordable rates.
Dr. Munjpara expressed satisfaction over the efforts of the Directorate of Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy, Government of Tamil Nadu to promote indigenous medicine. The State has established 1079 Siddha Units by expanding the Siddha medical health care to the general public.

Dr. Munjapara Mahendrabhai highlighted the important role of the Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS) and said that the Council is active with its activities in 11 units in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Pondicherry and New Delhi. This expansion has also recently reached Goa and the states in the North-East.

Union Ayush Minister of State was present on the occasion along with other dignitaries Kavita Garg,  Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Dr. K. Jagannathan President, Unani, Siddha, and Sowa Rigpa NCISM,  Dr. Meena Kumari, Director, National Institute of Siddha were present along with her officers and support staff of NIS.

****

Key Initiative and Achievements of Department of Social Justice and Empowerment- 2023

 Key Initiative and Achievements of Department of Social Justice and Empowerment under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in the year 2023 are-

 

  1. Initiatives for the welfare of Scheduled Caste

 

  1. Pre-Matric and Post Matric scholarship scheme for SC students

The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment with an objective of appreciably increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio of SC students in higher education, with a focus on those from the poorest households, has been implementing Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Post-Matric Scholarships to the students belonging to Scheduled Castes for studies in India”.

DoSJE introduced Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC students & Others which aims to support, through financial assistance, parents of children belonging to Schedules Caste and other disadvantaged categories for education of their wards studying at the pre-matric stage.

 

Achievements under the schemes:

  • During the year 2023 to till date (22.12.2023), a total of 34,58,538 SC beneficiaries have been released scholarship amounting to Rs. 3546.34 Cr under Post-Matric scholarship scheme for SC students;
  • During the year 2023 to till date (22.12.2023), a total of 18,32,628 beneficiaries have been released scholarship amounting to Rs. 369.03 Cr under Pre-Matric Scholarship scheme for SC students;
  • Aadhaar- based payment system is being utilized to ensure that the scholarship funds are received by the student through DBT directly into his/her aadhaar seeded account;
  • Some of the States/ UTs viz. Tamil Nadu, Karnataka have automated the process of receipt and processing of applications by digitalization of certificates and auto- fetching of eligibility data to ensure minimum manual intervention and increased transparency;
  • Seven States/UTs viz. Assam, Chandigarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka and Odisha have covered more beneficiaries as against their annual targets under Post Matric SC scheme for the year 2022-23;
  • Under Component-II of the Pre-matric Scheme which deals with children whose parents are engaged in cleaning and hazardous occupations, numbers of participating States have increased from one in 2022 to nine in 2023 to provide scholarship to disadvantaged students.

 

  1. Scholarships for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme (SHREYAS) for SCs

The Department conceptualized Umbrella scheme namely ‘Scholarship for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme (SHREYAS)’ to ensure convergence of resources across the four smaller Central Sector Schemes of the Department catering to SC/OBC students desirous of pursuing higher education (in India and abroad) and/or obtaining employment in Group A/Group B services of centre or State Governments. The schemes has the following components –

 

  1. Top Class Education for SCs:
  • The Scheme Guidelines of the scheme have been revised by this Department and 44 new institutes have been empanelled under the scheme raising the total count of institutes to 266
  • Scholarship benefits have been provided to 3999 beneficiaries till date.
  1. Free Coaching scheme for SCs and OBCs:
  • The Scheme Guidelines of the scheme have been revised by this Department and from F.Y 2023-24 the scheme will be run by Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) through empanelled Central Universities.
  • Scholarship benefits have been provided to 483 beneficiaries from January 2023 till date.
  • III. National Overseas Scholarship for SCs:

Under NOS Scheme financial assistance is provided to the selected students from SCs (115 slots); De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (6 slots); landless agricultural labourers and traditional artisan categories ( 4 slots), for pursuing masters and Ph.G. level courses abroad. Presently, 125 slots are allotted under the scheme. 107 students has been awarded scholarship out of 125 for the S.Y. 2023-24 till date.

  1. National Fellowship for SCs:

The objective of the Scheme is to provide fellowships in the form of financial assistance to students belonging to Scheduled Caste category to pursue higher studies leading to M. Phil., Ph.D. in Science, Humanities and Social Science streams, in Indian Universities/Institutions/Colleges recognized by University Grants Commission (UGC).

 

Under NFSC scheme fellowship is provided to Scheduled Castes students for pursuing higher education leading to M.Phil/Ph.D degrees in Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences in Indian Universities/Institutions/Colleges recognized by University Grants Commission. The scheme is being implemented by National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation. The scheme provides for 2000 new slots per year who have qualified the National Eligibility Test-Junior Research Fellowship (NET-JRF) of UGC and Junior Research Fellows for Science stream qualifying UGC-Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (UGC-CSIR) Joint Test. The rates under the scheme has been revised i.e. Rs. 37,000/- p.m. for JRF and Rs. 42,000/- p.m. for SRF w.e.f. 01.01.2023.

 

  1. SHRESHTA (RESIDENTIAL EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS IN HIGH SCHOOLS IN TARGETED AREAS)

The department has been implementing Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA) to enhance the reach of development Intervention of the Government and to fill the gap in service deficient SCs dominant areas, in the sector of education through the efforts of grant-in-aid institutions (run by NGOs) and residential high schools offering high quality education and to provide environment for socio economic upliftment and overall development of the Scheduled Castes (SCs).

The scheme is being implemented in two modes. In mode-I, each year a specified number (3000) of meritorious SC students in States/UTs are selected through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and admitted in the best private residential schools affiliated by CBSE/State Boards in classes 9th and 1lth. In mode-2, financial assistance is provided to the NGOs for running the schools/hostel projects related to Education sector to Scheduled Caste students. The Scheme broadly covers 3 types of projects namely (i) Residential Schools (ii) Non- Residential Schools and (iii) Hostels, both for Primary and Secondary Students.

 

Achievements under the scheme:

Under this scheme, total 2564 students were admitted in 142 Private Residential Schools affiliated by CBSE/State Boards for academic session 2023-24 and school fee of an amount of Rs. 30.55 Crore is reimbursed by this Department.

Details of funds released and number beneficiaries during F.Y. 2023-24 is under:

(Rs. In Lakh)

Sr. No.

2023-24

Total

Amount

released

2023-24

Total No of Students

1

Amount Released to

Private

Residential

Schools

(Mode-1)

No. of

Students

Fund

released to

NGOs/VOs

(Mode -2)

No. of

Students

 

4921.28

4134*

236.11

3409

5157.39

7543

 

*(as on 10.12.2023)

*2564 students selected during 2023-24 and 1570 studentys carry forward from selected during 2022-23 and 2021-2022 in mode-1

 

  1. Pradhan Mantri AnusuchitJaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY)

 

The Department under Pradhan Mantri AnusuchitJaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) merged 03 erstwhile Centrally Sponsored Schemes, namely, Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana(PMAGY), Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan(SCA to SCSP) and Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana(BJRCY) with an aim to reduce poverty of the SC communities by generation of additional employment opportunities through Skill development, income generating schemes and other initiatives; and to improve socio-economic developmental indicators by ensuring adequate infrastructure and requisite services in the SC dominated villages. the Scheme has now the following three components:

  1. Development of SC dominated villages into an ‘Adarsh Gram’
  2. Grants-in-aid for District/State-level Projects for socio-economic betterment of SCs
  3. Construction of Hostels in Higher Educational Institutions

 

Achievements under the scheme:

 

  • Grants-in-Aid’ component: Since 1st January, 2023, a total of 3132 projects have been approved and sanctioned benefitting a total number of 1,14,722 beneficiaries. During the period, a total fund of Rs. 117.54 Cr. has been released to the State Governments/ UTs.
  • ‘Hostel’ component: Since 1st January, 2023, Rs. 56.04 Cr. Has been released for construction of 20 girls’ hostel and 10 boys’ hostel.
  • ‘Adarsh Gram’ Component: Since 1st January, 2023, a total of 1786 Village Development plans (VPDs) have been generated and 1899 villages have been declared Adarsh Gram. A total fund of Rs. 106.01 Cr. has been released to States/ UTs.

 

  1. The protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989:

 

  • Central Assistance of Rs. 496 Crores (approx..) has been released to the States/UTs under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for the implementation of the PCR Act, 1955 and the SC/ST (PoA) Act, 1989 for effective implementation of these Acts in the year 2023.
  • Approx 92093 number of atrocity victims/dependents have been provided relief in the year 2023 under the scheme.
  • Approx. 20000 inter-caste marriage couples have been provided incentive in the year 2023 under the scheme.
  • Meeting of the committee constituted for effective coordination to devise ways and means to curb offences of untouchability and atrocities against SCs and STs and effective implementation of the PCR Act, 1955 and PoA Act, 1989, has been held on 21.11.2023 under the Chairpersonship of the Hon’ble Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, under which the implementation of the PCR Act, 1955 and the SC/ST (PoA) Act, 1989 in all the States/UTs has been reviewed.

 

  1. Initiatives for the welfare of Backward Class

 

  1. PM-YASASVI

 

The DoSJE devised an umbrella scheme namely; PM-YASASVI for OBC, EBC and DNT students with five sub-schemes to streamline scholarship schemes for students from OBC, EBC and DNT communities to ensure timely disbursement to them. The erstwhile Schemes of Dr. Ambedkar Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarship for Economically Backward Classes (EBCs), Dr. Ambedkar Scheme of Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship for DNTs have been subsumed in the umbrella Scheme of PM YASASVI with effect from 2021-22.

    1. Pre-Matric Scholarship for OBC/EBC & DNT Boys and Girls
    2. Post- Matric Scholarship for OBC/EBC & DNT Boys and Girls
    3. Construction of hostels for OBC Boys and Girls
    4. Central Sector Scheme of Top Class Education in College for OBC,EBC and DNT students
    5. Central Sector Scheme of Top Class Education in Schools for OBC,EBC and DNT students
  2. SHREYAS

The Department for Educational Empowerment of OBC & EBC students by way of awarding fellowship (financial assistance) in obtaining quality higher education and interest subsidy on educational loan for overseas studies, has been implementing Scholarships for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme- SHREYAS with two ongoing Central Sector schemes as components

      1. National Fellowship for OBC students
      2. Dr. Ambedkar Central Sector Scheme on Education loans for Overseas Studies for OBC & EBC

Achievements under PM-YASASVI and SHREYAS:

 

  • Under Pre-Matric Scholarship for OBC, EBC & DNT students Rs. 383.24 lakh has been released from 01.01.2023 to 22.12.2023 and no. of beneficiaries are 21.727 lakh for 2022-23 and beneficiaries for 2023-24 will be provided with subsequent year’s proposal.
  • Under Post-Matric Scholarship for OBC, EBC & DNT students Rs. 1064.26 lakh has been released from 01.01.2023 to 22.12.2023 and no. of beneficiaries are 25.55 lakh for 2022-23 and beneficiaries for 2023-24 will be provided with subsequent year’s proposal.
  • Under Construction of hostels for OBC Boys and Girls Rs. 21.6365 lakh has been released from 01.01.2023 to 22.12.2023 for 1800 No. of Seat for 2022-23 and 496 No. of Seats for 2023-24.
  • Under Central Sector Scheme of Top Class Education in Schools for OBC, EBC and DNT students Rs. 1.891 lakh has been released from 01.01.2023 to 22.12.2023 for 1291 students.
  • Under Dr. Ambedkar Scheme of Interest Subsidy for Overseas Studies for OBC/EBC students Rs. 48.09 lakh has been released for 1570 students in 2022-23.
  • Under National Fellowship for OBC students Rs. 56.38 lakh has been released for 2734 beneficiaries (upto 31 Dec. 2022).

 

  1. Initiatives for Welfare of Safai Karamchari

 

  1. National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Eco-system (NAMASTE).

 

Self Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS) has been modified during the FY 2023-24 with a new nomenclature i.e. National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Eco-system (NAMASTE). NAMASTE is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) and Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) and NSKFDC is the implementing agency.

 

The primary target of NAMASTE is the sewer and septic tank sanitation Workers (SSWs) involved in hazardous cleaning operations and directly dealing with human faecal matter. Interventions for rehabilitation of manual scavengers under SRMS will continue under NAMASTE.

 

Achievements under NAMASTE

 

  • Online training on the NAMASTE Mobile App for the profiling of sewer and septic worker has been conducted in 27 State/UTs
  • Profiling camps for identification of SSWs have commenced in Delhi and Chandigarh in the month of December.
  • Skill Development Training has commenced for 1306 candidates
  • Rs. 0.85 Crore has been released as Capital Subsidy for self employment projects for 79 Manual scavengers/dependants
  • Rs. 3.21 Crore has been released as Capital Subsidy for 84 beneficiaries for Sanitation related projects. In addition Rs.0.51 Crore released for 16 projects of previous year which could not be released due to PFMS problem.
  • 307 Workshops have been conducted in various ULBs on Prevention of hazardous cleaning of sewer and septic tanks

 

  1. Initiatives for Welfare of Senior Citizens

 

  1. Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY)

The department under Integrated Programme for Older People (IPOP) component of the scheme provides basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care and entertainment opportunities and by encouraging productive and active ageing through providing support for capacity building of Government/ Non-Governmental Organisations/Panchayati Raj Institutions/ local bodies and the Community at large. Assistance under the scheme will be given to the Panchayati Raj Institutions/local bodies and eligible Non-Governmental Voluntary Organisations.

 

  1. RashtriyaVayoshri Yojana (RVY)- launched in 2017 to assist BPL senior citizens suffering from age related disabilities/ infirmities. Assistive Devices distributed free of cost.

 

Achievements under AVYAY and RVY

 

  • The meeting of EFC of the schemes to be funded from the Senior Citizens Welfare Fund (SCWF) amounting Rs. 979.85 Crore for the year 2021-22 to 2025-26 was held on 09th August, 2023 under the Chairmanship of Finance Secretary.
  • The guidelines for implementation of the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana(AVYAY)-CS was revised in respect of the components to be funded from the Senior Citizens’ Welfare Fund(SCWF) in line with the recommendations of the EFC in its meeting held on 09th  August, 2023.
  • In respect of the scheme of Elderline: National Helpline for Senior Citizens, the Request for Proposals (RFP) procedure has been finalized.
  • Distribution camps at 28 locations were conducted on 24.09.2023 under the scheme of RashtriyaVayoshri Yojana (RVY) wherein assistive devices worth Rs. 9.05 Crore have been provided to 12562 (approx.) senior citizens.
  • Under the scheme of Training of Geriatric Care Givers, applications of training partners/training institutes were invited till 20.10.2023. Applications have been scrutinized and MOU along with work order has been processed for 36 training partners and Training Institutes including NISD and RRTCs.
  • Under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC), a total of 88 new old age homes included during past 2 financial years.
  • With National level conferences and regular monthly meetings, the participation of the State Governments has increased.
  • The Screening Committee of Department has recommended a total amount of Rs.76.95 Crore under the State Action Plan for Senior Citizens(SAPSrC).

 

  1. Initiatives for prevention of Drug Abuse

 

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) which is an umbrella scheme under which financial assistance is provided to (i) ‘State Governments/ Union Territory (UT) Administrations for Preventive Education and Awareness Generation, Capacity Building, Skill development, vocational training and livelihood support of ex-drug addicts, Programmes for Drug Demand Reduction by States/UTs etc. and (ii) NGOs/VOs for running and maintenance of Integrated Rehabilitation Centers for Addicts (IRCAs), Community based peer Led Intervention (CPLI) for early Drug Use Prevention among Adolescents, Outreach and Drop In Centers (ODIC), District De-Addiction Centers (DDACs); and (iii) Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs) in Government hospitals .

The Ministry has initiated the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan with the aim of creating awareness about the adverse effects of substance abuse among youth in all districts across countries.

Achievements Under NAPDDR

  • The Ministry has released an amount of Rs. 95.97Cr. to NGOs/VOs/SAPs under NAPDDR scheme during calendar year 2023.
  • During the saidperiod, fund have been sanctioned to 310 Organizations and a total of 740616 beneficiaries have been benefited under the Scheme.
  • The Ministry has sanctioned setting up of 47 DDACs (District De-addiction centre) in the GAP districts across the country during the year.
  • 25 ATFs were dedicated to the nation during the year.
  • Expert Working Group meeting on Drug Demand Reduction held on 7.4.2023 under India’s Chairmanship of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of State. All Member States participated in the meeting online through Zoom platform.

Achievements of NMBA

  • Since launch of NMBA and till now, through the various activities undertaken on-ground, 10.74+ crore people have been sensitized on substance use including 3.38+ Crore Youth and 2.27+ Crore Women.
  • Participation of 3.28+ Lakh educational institutions has ensured that the message of the Abhiyaan reaches children and youth of the country.
  • A strong force of 8,000+ Master Volunteers (MVs) have been identified and trained.
  • Awareness through official Social Media accounts of the Abhiyaan on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.
  • NMBA Mobile Application developed to gather and collect the data of NMBA activities and represent on the NMBA Dashboard at district, state and national level.
  • NMBA Website (http://nmba.dosje.gov.in) provides detailed information and insights to the user/viewer about the Abhiyaan, an online discussion forum, NMBA dashboard, e-pledge.

 

  1. Welfare of Transgenders and Persons engaged in Begging

 

Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE)

 

  1. Comprehensive Rehabilitation of persons engaged in the act of Begging’
  • Department has approved the revised scheme guidelines (23.10.2023)
  • Department identified 30 cities/places and received consent, action plan and other documents
  • Conducted orientation programme with Nodal officers from all 30 cities.
  • 25 cities submitted their consent to implement the scheme.
  • Rs. 5.00 crore has been released to CNA (NISD) towards 1st instalment to implementing agencies.
  1. Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of Transgender Persons

 

  1. Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur KushaltaSampannHitgrahi (PM-DAKSH)

PM-DAKSH Yojana, a Central Sector Scheme, was launched during 2020-21. The main objective of the Scheme is to enhance competency level of the target groups (SCs, OBCs, EBCs, DNTs, Safai Karamcharis including waste pickers etc) to make them employable both in self- employment and wage-employment for their socio-economic development.

 

Achievement under the scheme:

  • During 2023-24, 28 Government and 84 private training institutes have been empanelled for implementation of the Scheme.   More than 95000 trainee targets have been distributed among these 112 empanelled training institutes.
  • The practice of empanelling institutes on yearly basis has been discontinued and now the institutes are empanelled for minimum period of three years subject to satisfactory physical and financial progress and non-indulgence of institutes concerned in any malpractices relating to implementation of the scheme.
  • For the first time, while allotting the States, Districts, job roles etc., a transparent process was adopted due to which 411 Districts including 82 Aspirational Districts have been covered for implementation.
  • Further, latest job roles have been allotted to these training institutes.
  • Out of existing 38 training sectors, 32 sectors have been covered which are likely to diversify the training opportunities to the desirous trainee candidates and will also facilitate better employment opportunities to them.  
  • More than 55,000 applicants have already applied on the PM-DAKSH portal for 821 centers seeking training in 247 different courses. 
  • Out of these 55,000 plus applicants more than 37,000 applicants are female who are one of the important target groups for the training. 
  • 574 batches for training have already been formed and they are ready for commencement of training. 
  • The training is likely to commence in all sanctioned centers in the month of December, 2023 itself.

****   

Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to beneficiaries like fishermen, aqua farmers and other stakeholders

 Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Parshottam Rupala along with Minister of State Dr. L Murugan will participate in the Sagar Parikrama (Phase X) event being organized from 1st January 2024 to 6th January 2024 at various locations of Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry.

Union Ministers will distribute Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to beneficiaries like fishermen, aqua farmers and other stakeholders during the events to progressive fishermen, particularly coastal fishermen and fish farmers, young fisheries entrepreneurs etc. Best practices and initiatives taken through Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) scheme, KCC and other schemes will be widely disseminated to fishermen for their benefits. Senior officials from Department of Fisheries, Government of Andhra Pradesh, National Fisheries Development Board, Indian Coast Guard, Fishery Survey of India, fishermen association and other dignitaries will also participate in the event.

The Sagar Parikrama Yatra features the interactions of Minister with fishermen, fish farmers and other relevant stakeholders. Campaigns on KCC and other activities are also being conducted across the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry. State fisheries officials, fishermen representatives, fish-farmers, entrepreneurs, fishermen cooperative society leaders, professionals, scientists, and other stakeholders from across the nation will accompany the events.

The journey of first phase of “Sagar Parikrama” started from Mandvi, Gujarat on 5th March 2022 and so far, the total nine phases of Sagar Parikrama have been covered in the coastal States/UTs of Gujarat, Daman & Diu, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Andaman & Nicobar, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and part of Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh during initiation of its tenth phase. Sagar Parikrama Phase-X will continue and cover the remaining coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh namely Nellore, Prakasam, Bapatla, Krishna, WestGodavari, Konaseema, Kakinada,Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam and Yanam (Union Territory of Puducherry).

Andhra Pradesh state is blessed with potential and diversified water resources with 974 kms of coastline, 33,227 kms of continental shelf area, 555 marine fishermen villages, 2 fishing harbours, 350 fish landing centres, 31147 fishing crafts, 65 cold storages, 64 processing plants, 235 ice plants, 28 feed mills, 357 hatcheries and 234 Aqualabs.

In Andhra Pradesh, under Govt of India Flagship Scheme Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), total investment envisaged in the fisheries sector for 5 years is Rs. 2300 Crore. Some of the important projects undertaken  under PMMSY includes Construction of Fish Landing Centres, Construction of fishing harbours, Construction of Cold storages/Ice plants, acquisition of new Deep sea fishing vessels for traditional fishermen, Construction of Brood Bank, Construction of Freshwater finfish and brackishwater hatcheries, Expansion area for aquaculture, Stocking of fingerlings, Establishment of Disease diagnostic and quality testing labs, Communication and tracking  Devices for traditional and motorised vessels like VHF /Transponders etc.

Sagar Parikrama is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership for welfare of fishing community and coastal development. It is an initiative taken by Government, with an aim to resolve the issues of the fishers, other stakeholders and facilitate their economic upliftment through various fisheries’ schemes and programs being implemented by the Government such as Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Kisan Credit Card for Fisheries (KCC).

Sagar Parikrama is making an impact in improving the quality of life and economic wellbeing of people by understanding their issues and it gives an immense opportunity to fishermen to interact with Ministers and Senior Government officials at their doorstep.  Sagar Parikrama will continuously support in resolving the issues of fishermen, fish farmers and facilitate their economic upliftment through various fisheries schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and other program implemented by Government of India.

***

Government of India constitutes Sixteenth Finance Commission with Dr. Arvind Panagariya as its Chairman

 The Government of India, with the approval of the President of India, has constituted the Sixteenth Finance Commission, in pursuance to Article 280(1) of the Constitution.

Dr Arvind Panagariya, former Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog, and Professor, Columbia University will be the Chairman.  Members of the Sixteenth Finance Commission would be notified separately. Shri Ritvik Ranjanam Pandey has been appointed as Secretary to the Commission.  Detailed terms of reference for Sixteenth Finance Commission have also been spelt out in the notification issued today.

The Sixteenth Finance Commission shall make recommendations as to the following matters, namely: —

 

(i)        The distribution between the Union and the States of the net proceeds of taxes which are to be, or may be, divided between them under Chapter I, Part XII of the Constitution and the allocation between the States of the respective shares of such proceeds;

(ii)       The principles which should govern the grants-in-aid of the revenues of the States out of the Consolidated Fund of India and the sums to be paid to the States by way of grants-in-aid of their revenues under article 275 of the Constitution for the purposes other than those specified in the provisos to clause (1) of that article; and

(iii)      The measures needed to augment the Consolidated Fund of a State to supplement the resources of the Panchayats and Municipalities in the State on the basis of the recommendations made by the Finance Commission of the State.

 

The Sixteenth Finance Commission may review the present arrangements on financing Disaster Management initiatives, with reference to the funds constituted under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 (53 of 2005), and make appropriate recommendations thereon.

The Sixteenth Finance Commission has been requested to make its report available by 31st day of October, 2025 covering a period of five years commencing on the 1st day of April, 2026.

CLICK HERE FOR GAZETTE NOTIFICATION

****

Domestic defence industrial ecosystem

 Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has said that the Government is developing a strong base of domestic defence industrial ecosystem to make India a strategic economy. Addressing the 21st convocation ceremony of Tezpur University on December 31, 2023 at Tezpur, Raksha Mantri said, the ministry is making all efforts to achieve the target of becoming self-reliant in the defence sector.

Highlighting the various steps taken by the Ministry of Defence to achieve Aatmnirbharta in defence, Shri Rajnath Singh stressed that for the first time, the import of arms was restricted. “We issued five positive indigenization lists, under which 509 such defence equipment have been identified, whose manufacturing will now be done indigenously. In addition, we have also issued 4 positive indigenization lists of Defence Public Sector Undertakings, in which 4,666 items have been identified which will now be manufactured in our country,” said Raksha Mantri.

Underscoring the government’s focus on domestic defence manufacturing, he quoted that for the first time, the production has crossed the record figure of Rs. One Lakh Crore. “The total value of India’s defence exports, which was Rs 1,521 crore in 2016-17, has increased almost 10 times to reach a record level of Rs 15,920 crore in 2022-23,” he stated.

Shri Rajnath Singh elaborated on the proactive attitude of the present government in tackling any situation, which has replaced the crisis of credibility with a culture of confidence. “India is no more tolerant of the “let-it-be” approach. Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the new India believes in “let’s-do-it” approach,” he said.

On the issue of women empowerment, Shri Rajnath Singh said, the government has taken steps to ensure proper representation of women in all sectors including the military. “Today, women are walking shoulder to shoulder with men in every field in the country. From fighter planes to Chandrayan, there is no field in which the presence of women is not seen,” said Raksha Mantri.

Underscoring the significant role of youth in making the country Viksit Bharat, Raksha Mantri said, the idea of making India an economic and military superpower is based on confidence in the capabilities of talented youth. “To empower the youth and enhance their capabilities, our government has promoted start-up culture and innovation ecosystem”, he added.

Mentioning the start-up culture initiated by the Ministry in the Defence Industrial Sector, Shri Rajnath Singh said the Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has been successfully promoting innovative ideas since its inception. “Because of the various efforts by the Government to promote entrepreneurship among youth, today there are over one lakh start-ups in the country,” he said.

ABB/Anand

108th Episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’

 My dear countrymen. Namaskar. ‘Mann Ki Baat’ means an auspicious opportunity to meet you, and when you meet your family members, it is so pleasing… so satisfying. This is exactly what I feel after meeting you through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. And of course today, this is the 108th episode of our shared journey. For us the importance of the number 108 and its sanctity is a subject of deep study. 108 beads in a rosary, chanting 108 times, 108 divine sites, 108 stairs in temples, 108 bells, this number 108 is associated with immense faith. That’s why the 108th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has become all the more special for me. In these 108 episodes, we have seen many examples of public participation and derived inspiration from them. Now after reaching this milestone, we have to resolve to move forward afresh, with new energy and at a faster pace. And what a joyous coincidence it is that tomorrow’s sunrise will be the first sunrise of 2024 – we would have entered the year 2024. Best wishes to all of you for 2024.

Friends, many people who listened to ‘Mann Ki Baat’ have written letters to me and shared their memorable moments. It is on account of the strength of 140 crore Indians that this year, our country has attained many special achievements. In this very year, ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Act’, which has been awaited for years was passed.

Many people wrote letters expressing joy on India becoming the 5th largest economy. Many people reminded me of the success of the G20 Summit.

Friends, today every corner of India is brimming with self-confidence, imbued with the spirit of a developed India; the spirit of self-reliance. We have to maintain the same spirit and momentum in 2024 as well. The record business on Diwali proved that every Indian is giving importance to the mantra of ‘Vocal For Local’.

Friends, even today many people are sending me messages pertaining to the success of Chandrayaan-3. I am sure that, like me, you too feel proud of our scientists and especially women scientists.

Friends, when Natu-Natu won the Oscar, the whole country rejoiced with fervour. Who would not have been happy on hearing about the honour accorded to the ‘The Elephant Whisperers’? Through them the world saw the creativity of India and understood our bonding with the environment. This year our athletes also performed marvellously in sports. Our players won 107 medals in Asian Games and 111 medals in Asian Para Games. Indian players won everyone’s heart with their performance in the Cricket World Cup. The victory of our women’s cricket team in the Under-19 T-20 World Cup is very inspiring. The achievements of players in many other sports added to the glory of the country. Now Paris Olympics will be held in 2024, for which the whole country is encouraging her players.

Friends, whenever we made efforts together, it has had a very positive impact on the development journey of our country. We experienced successful campaigns such as ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh’. We are all witness to the participation of crores of people in them. Construction of 70 thousand Amrit Sarovars is also our collective achievement.

Friends, I have always believed that the development of a country which does not give importance to innovation, stops. India, becoming an Innovation Hub is a symbol of the fact that we are not going to stop. In 2015 we were ranked 81st in the Global Innovation Index – today our rank is 40th. This year, the number of patents filed in India was high, of which about 60% were from domestic funds. This time the highest number of Indian universities have been included in the QS Asia University Rankings. If we start making a list of these achievements, it can never be completed. This is just a glimpse of how effective India’s potential is – we have to take inspiration from these successes of the country; these achievements of the people of the country; take pride in them, make new resolves. Once again, I wish you all a very happy 2024.

My family members, we just discussed the hope and enthusiasm about India that pervades everywhere – this hope and expectation is very good. When India turns developed, the youth will benefit the most. But the youth will benefit more, when they are fit.

Nowadays we see how much talk there is about Lifestyle related Diseases, it is a matter of great concern for all of us, especially the youth. For this ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I had requested all of you to send inputs related to Fit India. The response you people have given has filled me with enthusiasm. A large number of Startups have also sent me their suggestions on NaMo App; they have discussed many of their unique efforts.

Friends, through India’s efforts, 2023 was celebrated as International Year of Millets. This has given a lot of opportunities to the startups working in this field; these include many start-ups like ‘Keeros Foods’ started from Lucknow, ‘Grand-Maa Millets’ of Prayagraj and ‘Nutraceutical Rich Organic India’. The youth associated with Alpino Health Foods, Arboreal and Keeros Foods are also making new innovations regarding healthy food options. The youth associated with Unbox Health of Bengaluru have also expressed how they are helping people in choosing the diet of their liking. The way interest in physical health is increasing, the demand for coaches and trainers related to this field is also rising. Start-ups like Jogo Technologies are helping to meet this demand.

Friends, today there is a lot of discussion about physical health and well-being, but another important aspect related to it is that of mental health. I am very happy to know that Mumbai-based startups like Infi-Heal and YOUR-Dost are working to improve mental health and well-being. Not only that, today a technology like Artificial Intelligence is also being used for this. Friends, I can mention the names of only a few Startups here, because the list is very long. I would urge all of you to keep writing to me about innovative health care startups towards realizing the dream of Fit India. I also want to share with you the experiences of well-known people who talk about physical and mental health.

The first message is from Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev ji.

He will share his views regarding Fitness, especially Fitness of the Mind, i.e., mental health.

****Audio*****

It is our privilege to talk about mental health in this Mann Ki Baat. Mental illnesses and how we keep our neurological system are very directly related. How alert static free and disturbance free we keep neurological system will decide how pleasant we feel within ourselves? What we call as peace, love, joy, blissfulness, agony, depression, ecstasies all have a chemical and neurological basis. Pharmacology is essentially trying to fix the chemical imbalance within the body by adding chemicals from outside. Mental illnesses are being managed this way but we must realize that taking chemicals from outside in the form of medications is necessary when one is in extreme situation. Working for an internal mental health situation or working for an equanimous chemistry within ourselves, a chemistry of peacefulness, joyfulness, blissfulness is something that has to be brought into every individual’s life; into the cultural life of a society and the Nations around the world and the entire humanity. It’s very important we understand our mental health, our sanity is a fragile privilege; we must protect it; we must nurture it. For this, there are many levels of practices in the Yogik system – completely internalized processes that people can do as simple practices with which they can bring a certain equanimity to the chemistry and certain calmness to their neurological system. The technologies of inner well-being are what we call as the yogik sciences. Let’s make it happen.

Generally, Sadhguru ji is known for presenting his views in such a remarkable way.

Come, now let us listen to the famous cricket player Harmanpreet Kaur ji.

****Audio****

Namaskar I want to say something to my countrymen through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s Fit India initiative has encouraged me to share my fitness mantra with all of you. My first suggestion to all of you is ‘one cannot out train a bad diet’. This means that you have to be very careful about when you eat and what you eat. Recently, Honorable Prime Minister Modi ji has encouraged everyone to eat pearl millet. Which increases immunity and helps in sustainable farming and is also easy to digest. Regular exercise and full sleep of 7 hours is very important for the body and helps in staying fit. This will require a lot of discipline and consistency. When you start getting results, you will start exercising yourself daily. Many thanks to the Honorable Prime Minister for giving me the opportunity to talk to you all and share my fitness mantra.

The words of a talented player like Harmanpreet ji will definitely inspire you all.

Come, listen to Grandmaster Vishwanathan Anand ji. We all know how important mental fitness is for our game of ‘Chess’.

****Audio*****

Namaste, I am Vishwanathan Anand you have seen me play Chess and very often I am asked, what is your fitness routine? Now Chess requires a lot of focus and patience, so I do the following which keeps me fit and agile. I do yoga two times a week, I do cardio two times a week and two times a week, I focus on flexibility, stretching, weight training and I tend to take one day off per week. All of these are very important for chess. You need to have the stamina to last 6 or 7 hours of intense mental effort, but you also need to be flexible to able to sit comfortably and the ability to regulate your breath to calm down is helpful when you want to focus on some problem, which is usually a Chess game. My fitness tip to all ‘Mann Ki Baat’ listeners would be to keep calm and focus on the task ahead.

The best fitness tip for me absolutely the most important fitness tip is to get a good night sleep. Do not start sleeping for four and five hours a night, I think seven or eight is a absolute minimum so we should try as hard as possible to get good night sleep, because that is when the next day you are able to get through the day in calm fashion. You don’t make impulsive decisions; you are in control of your emotions. For me sleep is the most important fitness tip.

Come, now let’s listen to Akshay Kumar ji.

****Audio*****

Hello, I am Akshay Kumar. First of all, I would like to thank our respected Prime Minister for getting me a little chance to share my thoughts with you in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’. You guys know that much as I am passionate about fitness, I am even more passionate about staying fit in a natural way. What I like more than a fancy gym, is swimming outside, playing badminton, climbing stairs, exercising with a mudgar club bell, eating good healthy food… like I believe that pure ghee if eaten in right quantity is beneficial for us. But I see that many young boys and girls do not eat ghee because they fear that they might become fat. It is very important that we understand what is good and what is bad for our fitness. You should change your lifestyle on the advice of doctors and not by looking at the body of a film star. Actors are often not what they look like on screen. Many types of filters and special effects are used and after seeing them, we start using wrong shortcuts to change our body. Nowadays, so many people take steroids and go for this six pack or eight pack. Friend, with such shortcuts the body swells from outside but remains hollow from inside. You guys remember that shortcut can cut your life short. You don’t need a shortcut, you need long lasting fitness. Friends, fitness is a kind of penance. It is not instant coffee or two-minute noodles. In this New Year, promise yourself… no chemicals, no shortcut exercise, yoga, good food, sleeping on time, some meditation and most importantly, happily accept the way you look. After today, don’t live a filter life, live a fitter life. Take care. Jai Mahakal.

There are many other start-ups in this sector, so I thought of discussing it with a young start-up founder who is doing excellent work in this field.

****Audio*****

Hello, my name is Rishabh Malhotra and I am from Bengaluru. I am very happy to know that fitness is being discussed in ‘Mann Ki Baat’. I myself belong to the world of fitness and we have a start-up in Bengaluru named ‘Tagda Raho’. Our start-up has been created to bring forward the traditional exercises of India. There is a very amazing exercise in the traditional exercises of India which is ‘Gada Exercise’ and our entire focus is on Mace and Mugdar exercise only. People are surprised to know how you do all the training with a mace. I would like to tell you that mace exercise is thousands of years old and it has been practiced in India for thousands of years. You must have seen it in big and small akhadas and through our start-up we have brought it back in a modern form. We have received a lot of affection from the entire country and a very good response. Through ‘Mann Ki Baat’ I would like to tell you that apart from this, there are many ancient exercises in India and methods related to health and fitness, which we should adopt and teach further in the world. I am from the world of fitness, so I would like to give you a personal tip. With mace exercise you can improve your strength, power, posture and even your breathing, so adopt mace exercise and take it forward. Jai Hind.

Friends, everyone has expressed one’s own views but everyone has the same mantra – ‘Stay Healthy, Stay Fit’. What could be a bigger resolve than your own fitness to start 2024?

My family members, a few days ago an experiment took place in Kashi, which I want to share with the listeners of ‘Mann Ki Baat’. You know that thousands of people had reached Kashi from Tamil Nadu to participate in the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam. There I publicly used the Artificial Intelligence AI tool Bhashini for the first time to communicate with them. I was addressing from the stage in Hindi but through the AI tool Bhashini, the people of Tamil Nadu present there were listening to my address in Tamil language simultaneously. People who came to the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam seemed very excited about this experiment. The day is not far when an address will be delivered in one language and the public will listen to the same speech in their own language in real time. The same will happen with films also when the public will listen to Real Time Translation with the help of AI in the cinema hall. You can imagine how big a change would take place when this technology starts being widely used in our schools, our hospitals, our courts. I would urge today’s young generation to further explore AI tools related to Real Time Translation and make them 100% fool proof.

Friends, in the changing times we have to save our languages and also promote them. I now want to tell you about a tribal village in Jharkhand. This village has taken a unique initiative to provide education to its children in their mother tongue. Children are being imparted education in Kudukh language in Manglo village of Garhwa district. The name of this school is, ‘Karthik Oraon Aadivasi Kudukh School’. 300 tribal children study in this school. Kudukh language is the mother tongue of the Oraon tribal community. Kudukh language also has its own script, which is known as Tolang Siki.

This language was gradually becoming extinct; to save it, this community has decided to educate children in their own language. Arvind Oraon, who started this school, says that the tribal children had difficulty in English language, so he started teaching the village children in their mother tongue. When his efforts started yielding better results, the villagers also joined him. On account of studies in their own language, the pace of children’s learning also increased. In our country, many children used to leave studies midway due to language difficulties. The new National Education Policy is also helping in eliminating such hardships. It is our endeavour that language should not become a hindrance in the education and progress of any child.

Friends, the extraordinary daughters have filled our Bharat Bhoomi with pride in every era. Savitribai Phule ji and Rani Velu Nachiyar ji are two such luminaries of the country. Their personality is like a lighthouse, which will continue to show the way to further woman power in every era. Just a few days from now, on January 3, we will all celebrate the birth anniversaries of the two. As soon as the name of Savitribai Phule ji is mentioned, the first thing that strikes us is her contribution in the field of education and social reform. She always raised her voice strongly for the education of women and the underprivileged. She was far ahead of her time and always remained vocal in opposing wrong practices.

She had deep faith in the empowerment of society through education. Along with Mahatma Phule ji, she started many schools for daughters. Her poems used to raise awareness and fill self-confidence amongst people. She always urged people to help each other in need and also live in harmony with nature. The magnitude of her kindness cannot be summed up in words. When a famine struck in Maharashtra, Savitribai and Mahatma Phule opened the doors of their homes to help the needy. Such an example of social justice is rarely seen. When the dreadful plague had spread there, she threw herself into the service of the people. During all this, she herself fell prey to this disease. Her life dedicated to humanity is still inspiring all of us.

Friends, the name of Rani Velu Nachiyar is also one among the many great personalities of the country who fought against foreign rule. My brothers and sisters of Tamil Nadu still remember her by the name of Veera Mangai i.e. brave woman. The bravery with which Rani Velu Nachiyar fought against the British and the valour she displayed is very inspiring. Her husband, was killed by the British during their attack on the Sivagangai kingdom, who was the king there. Queen Velu Nachiyar and her daughter somehow escaped from the enemies. She relentlessly remained busy for many years in building an organization and raising an army with the Marudu Brothers i.e. her commanders. She started the war against the British with full preparation and fought with great courage and determination. The name of Rani Velu Nachiyar is included among those who formed an All-Women Group for the first time in their army. I offer my tributes to these two brave women.

My family members, there is a tradition of Dairo in Gujarat. Throughout the night, thousands of people join Dairo and acquire knowledge along with entertainment. In this Dairo, the trinity of folk music, folk literature and humour fills everyone’s mind with joy. Bhai Jagdish Trivedi ji is a famous artist of this Dairo. As a comedian, Bhai Jagdish Trivedi ji has maintained his influence for more than 30 years. Recently I received a letter from Bhai Jagdish Trivedi ji and along with it he has also sent one of his books. The name of the book is – Social Audit of Social Service. This book is very unique. With accounts in it, this book is a kind of balance sheet. The complete account of how much income Bhai Jagdish Trivedi ji received from particular programs in the last 6 years and where it was spent is given in the book. This Balance Sheet is unique because he spent his entire income, every single rupee, for the society – School, Hospital, Library, institutions related to disabled people, social service – the entire 6 years are accounted for. As it is written at one place in the book, in 2022, he earned two crore thirty five lakh eighty nine thousand six hundred seventy four rupees from his programs. And he spent two crore thirty five lakh eighty nine thousand six hundred seventy four rupees on School, Hospital, Library. He did not keep even a single rupee with himself. Actually, there is an interesting incident behind this also. It so happened that once Bhai Jagdish Trivedi ji said that when he turns 50 in 2017, he will not take home the income from his programs but will spend it on society. Since 2017, he has spent approximately Rs 8.75 crores on myriad social work. A comedian, with his words, compelles everyone to laugh. But how many emotions he lives within, this can be seen from the life of Bhai Jagdish Trivedi ji. You will be surprised to know that he also has three PhD degrees. He has written 75 books, many of which have received acclaims. He has also been honoured with many awards for social work. I wish Bhai Jagdish Trivedi ji all the best for his social work.

My family members, there is excitement and enthusiasm in the entire country in connection with the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. People are expressing their feelings in a multitude of ways. You must have noticed that during the last few days, many new songs and new bhajans have been composed on Shri Ram and Ayodhya. Many people are also writing new poems. There are many experienced artists in it and new emerging young artists have also composed heart-warming bhajans. I have also shared some songs and bhajans on my social media. It seems that the art world is becoming a participant in this historic moment in its own unique style. One thing comes to my mind… could we all share all such creations with a common hash tag? I request you to share your creations on social media with the hashtag Shri Ram Bhajan (#shriRamBhajan). This compilation will turn into a flow of emotions and devotion in which everyone will be immersively imbued with the ethos of Ram.

My dear countrymen, that’s all with me today in ‘Mann Ki Baat’. 2024 is just a few hours away. India’s achievements are the achievements of every Indian. We have to continuously work for the development of India keeping in mind the Panch Pran. Whatever work we do, whatever decision we make, our first criterion should be… what the country will get from it; what benefit it will bring to the country. Rashtra Pratham – Nation First – There is no greater mantra than this. Adhering to this mantra, we Indians will make our country developed and self-reliant. May you all reach new heights of success in 2024, may you all stay healthy, stay fit, stay immensely happy – this is my prayer. In 2024 we will once again discuss the new achievements of the people of the country.

Thank you very much.

***

Publish your book as a Kindle eBook

 Publishing a book has transformed drastically in the digital age, and one of the most accessible and rewarding avenues is through Kindle eBook publication. This platform not only offers convenience but also presents a myriad of opportunities for authors to reach a global audience while reaping significant benefits.

The advent of Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) has revolutionized the way authors bring their works to the world. Transitioning from a paperback manuscript to a Kindle eBook offers numerous advantages, not least of which is the potential to earn more revenue. Kindle eBooks enable authors to earn up to 70% royalties on sales, providing a lucrative incentive to publish in this format. Additionally, enrolling in KDP Select allows authors to tap into the KDP Select Global Fund, further enhancing potential earnings.

Ease of publication is another compelling reason to opt for Kindle eBook format. Utilizing an existing paperback manuscript and cover, authors can seamlessly create their eBook. The conversion process is straightforward, eliminating the need for extensive reformatting or redesigning. This ease expedites the publication process, allowing authors to focus more on their writing and less on technical intricacies.

Moreover, Kindle eBooks offer authors a broader reach and increased visibility. With Kindle Unlimited and the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library, authors gain access to a vast pool of readers subscribed to these services. This expanded readership base not only increases the likelihood of book sales but also introduces the author’s work to a diverse audience, fostering a loyal readership.

The benefits of publishing a book as a Kindle eBook extend beyond monetary gains. The digital nature of these publications enables readers to access books anytime, anywhere, fostering convenience and accessibility. Kindle’s portability ensures that readers can carry an entire library in a single device, promoting greater engagement with the author’s work.

Furthermore, Kindle eBooks offer authors the flexibility to update and revise their content effortlessly. Unlike printed books, digital editions can be modified, allowing authors to make corrections or updates promptly. This agility ensures that readers receive the most current and accurate version of the author’s work.

Get published as Traditional publication, send mail to editor@pen2print.org

We will provide ISBN and and help in publishing your book on Kindle and Amazon.

In conclusion, publishing a book as a Kindle eBook presents a multitude of advantages for authors. From higher royalties and ease of publication to increased visibility and reader accessibility, the Kindle platform offers an enticing avenue for authors to share their stories with a global audience. Embracing the digital landscape through Kindle eBook publication not only enriches the author’s experience but also enhances the reading experience for audiences worldwide.

Empowering Authors: A Guide to Seamless Book Design, Publishing, and Global Distribution

 In the dynamic world of literature, the journey from penning down thoughts to presenting a polished book for the world to read is an exhilarating adventure. One integral aspect of this journey is the design of the book cover and interiors, as well as the choice between publishing formats. With the advent of user-friendly design tools and comprehensive publishing platforms, authors now have the power to shape their literary creations effortlessly and make them accessible globally.

Design Your Book with Ease:

Gone are the days when designing a book cover and interiors required extensive knowledge of graphic design. Today, authors can embrace their creativity without the need for specialized skills, thanks to easy-to-use design tools and templates. These tools offer a plethora of customizable options, enabling authors to craft unique, eye-catching covers that reflect the essence of their work. The intuitive interfaces of these tools allow authors to experiment with various elements, ensuring that the final design resonates with their artistic vision.

Authors can personalize every aspect of their book’s interior, from font styles to page layouts, creating an immersive reading experience. The days of relying solely on professional designers are over – the power to design is now in the hands of the author.

Publishing as Paperback and eBook:

The decision to publish a book as a paperback or an eBook is no longer an either-or scenario. Authors can now cater to a diverse audience by opting for both formats. The paperback version provides the tactile pleasure of holding a physical book, while the eBook version offers the convenience of digital accessibility. By choosing both, authors can maximize their reach and cater to the preferences of various readers.

Publishing in multiple formats is not just about accommodating reader preferences; it’s also a strategic move to enhance visibility and market penetration. In a world where readers consume literature through different mediums, providing options ensures that authors can engage with a broader audience.

Distribute Your Book Worldwide:

Once a book is beautifully designed and published in multiple formats, the next crucial step is distribution. A global audience awaits, and authors can now effortlessly sell their creations in over 30,000 stores across 150+ countries. This expansive distribution network is made possible through the collaboration of publishing platforms with various retailers, both online and offline.

Authors no longer need to worry about the logistics of global distribution – it’s all taken care of seamlessly. From renowned bookstores to online marketplaces, the book becomes available to readers worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries. This extensive reach not only increases the potential for sales but also fosters a diverse readership.

The landscape of book design, publishing, and distribution has undergone a transformative shift, empowering authors to take charge of their literary destinies. With accessible design tools, the ability to publish in multiple formats, and global distribution networks, the journey from the inception of an idea to a widely read book has become more straightforward and rewarding.

Aspiring authors are no longer confined by the limitations of traditional publishing processes. The tools and platforms available today offer the means to unleash creativity, connect with readers on a global scale, and turn a literary vision into a tangible reality. It’s an exciting era for authors, where the power to design, publish, and distribute is firmly in their hands.

Send your request to editor@pen2print.org

What is The Best Way to Accept Crypto Payments?

Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, are changing the way we think about money. These digital currencies use advanced technology and offer a new, decentralized way of handling transactions. This means that payments can be made directly between people, without the need for banks or other middlemen.

As cryptocurrencies become more popular, many businesses are looking to accept them as a form of payment. This can bring several benefits, including lower transaction fees and access to a wider range of customers globally. For businesses looking to stay ahead, it’s important to understand the best methods for accepting crypto payments.

This article will focus on the most effective ways for businesses to integrate cryptocurrency payments. We will explore the tools and strategies needed to make this process smooth and secure, ensuring that businesses can benefit from the unique advantages that crypto payments offer.

What Are Crypto Payments?

Crypto payments refer to transactions made using cryptocurrencies, which are digital or virtual forms of currency. Unlike traditional currencies, cryptocurrencies operate on a blockchain, a decentralized ledger that records all transactions across a network of computers. This technology ensures the security, transparency, and immutability of transactions. Popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are often used for these types of payments.

Crypto payments offer a modern, efficient alternative to conventional banking and financial systems. They are particularly appealing for their lower transaction fees, faster processing times, and reduced need for intermediaries compared to traditional models, where factors like forex white label cost come into play. This makes them an attractive option for both online and offline businesses, allowing them to tap into a global customer base that prefers using digital currencies for their transactions.

How do Crypto Payments work?

Crypto payments work by transferring cryptocurrency from one digital wallet to another through blockchain technology. When a customer decides to make a payment using cryptocurrency, they send the digital currency to the recipient’s wallet address. This transaction is then verified and recorded on the blockchain, a public ledger that is maintained by a network of computers (nodes). Each transaction is encrypted and added as a new block to the blockchain, ensuring its security and permanence.

The process is decentralized, meaning it does not rely on any central authority like a bank to verify or process the transaction. Instead, the verification comes from the consensus of multiple nodes in the network. Once the transaction is confirmed, it cannot be reversed or altered, which adds a layer of fraud protection.

Benefits of Accepting Crypto Payments for Businesses

Global Market Reach 

By accepting cryptocurrencies, businesses can tap into a global market without the limitations of traditional currency exchange rates and international banking fees. Cryptocurrencies are borderless, enabling transactions with customers from any part of the world where they are used. This opens up new opportunities for businesses to expand their customer base and enter markets that were previously inaccessible due to financial barriers or currency restrictions.

Enhanced Payment Security

Crypto payments offer enhanced security features compared to traditional payment methods. Transactions on the blockchain are encrypted and immutable, meaning once they are recorded, they cannot be altered or tampered with.This significantly reduces the risk of fraud and chargebacks, offering peace of mind to both businesses and their customers. Additionally, since cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized networks, they are less susceptible to systemic failures compared to centralized financial systems.

Cost-Effective Transactions

Cryptocurrencies typically have lower transaction fees compared to conventional payment methods like credit cards and bank transfers. This cost-effectiveness is mainly due to the absence of intermediaries in the blockchain network. For businesses, this means more savings on transaction fees, especially for international transactions, which traditionally incur higher costs.

Quick and Efficient Crypto Settlements

Transactions with cryptocurrencies are known for their speed and efficiency. Unlike traditional banking transactions, which can take days to process, especially for international transfers, crypto transactions are settled almost instantly. This quick settlement time improves cash flow for businesses, allowing them to access their funds faster and use them for further investments or operational needs. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for businesses with high transaction volumes or those requiring quick turnaround times.

The Best Way to Accept Crypto Payments 

Choosing a Crypto Gateway

A crypto payment gateway is a service that enables merchants to accept transactions in cryptocurrencies. It’s important to choose a gateway that supports multiple cryptocurrencies, provides robust security features, and is user-friendly. Additionally, the gateway should offer seamless integration with your existing payment systems and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Creating a Digital Wallet

To receive cryptocurrency payments, a business must have a digital wallet. A digital wallet is like an online bank account for cryptocurrencies, allowing you to store, send, and receive digital currencies. It’s important to choose a wallet that is secure, easy to use, and compatible with the cryptocurrencies you plan to accept. Consider wallets that provide additional features like backup options and multi-factor authentication for enhanced security.

Adding Payment Plugins

For online businesses, integrating crypto payments into your website can be achieved through payment plugins. These plugins can be easily installed on various e-commerce platforms and enable customers to choose cryptocurrencies as a payment option at checkout. Ensure that the plugin you choose is compatible with your e-commerce platform and crypto gateway for a seamless transaction experience.

Using QR Codes

QR codes offer a convenient way for customers to make crypto payments, especially in physical stores or for in-person services. When a customer scans the QR code with their smartphone, it automatically populates the payment amount and the merchant’s wallet address. This method simplifies the payment process, reducing the chance of errors while enhancing transaction speed.

Implementing Multi-Signature Security

For added security, businesses should consider implementing multi-signature (multi-sig) wallets. A multi-sig wallet requires multiple keys to authorize a transaction, which can prevent unauthorized access and enhance the security of the funds. This is particularly important for businesses that handle large volumes of transactions or store significant amounts of cryptocurrencies. Implementing multi-sig security can provide peace of mind for both the business and its customers, knowing that transactions are protected against potential threats.

In conclusion, the best way to accept crypto payments is to carefully choose a payment system that supports different types of digital currencies and works well with your business setup. It’s important to have a secure online wallet for your business and to use tools that make it easy for customers to pay you online. Additionally, having extra security, like needing more than one approval for big transactions, keeps your business safe. This approach helps businesses stay up-to-date with digital payments, attract more customers, and make transactions faster and cheaper. Adopting these steps can really help your business grow in today’s digital world.

Scholar Profile

 A comprehensive scholar profile typically includes various elements that provide a holistic view of the scholar’s academic and professional background, achievements, and contributions. Here’s a list of what is commonly included in a scholar’s profile:

  1. Personal Information:

    • Name
    • Contact Information (email, phone)
    • Profile Picture

  2. Professional Details:

    • Affiliation (current institution/organization)
    • Position/Title
    • Department

  3. Biography or Summary:

    • Overview of the scholar’s academic journey
    • Research interests and expertise
    • Career highlights

  4. Publications:

    • List of Published Papers/Articles
    • Books authored or co-authored
    • Contributions to scholarly journals, conferences, etc.

  5. Conference Presentations:

    • Details of presentations or talks given at conferences or seminars

  6. Citations and Metrics:

    • Citations count
    • h-index, i10-index (citation metrics)
    • Impact of the scholar’s work

  7. Academic Achievements:

    • Awards, honors, and recognitions received
    • Grants and fellowships obtained

  8. Professional Affiliations:

    • Membership in academic or professional organizations

  9. Teaching Experience:

    • Courses taught
    • Academic supervision/mentorship

  10. Collaborations and Projects:

    • Collaborative research projects
    • Partnerships with other scholars or institutions

  11. External Profiles:

    • Links to profiles on platforms like Google Scholar, ResearchGate, ORCID, etc.

  12. Social Impact and Outreach:

    • Contributions to community or societal impact
    • Outreach activities, public talks, media engagements related to research

  13. Skills and Expertise:

    • Specific skills, methodologies, technologies the scholar specializes in

  14. Education:

    • Degrees earned
    • Educational institutions attended

The specifics may vary depending on the field, level of expertise, and the scholar’s career stage. Providing comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date information is crucial for networking, collaborations, and establishing credibility in the academic community.

Recalibrating Digital Jurisprudence: Legislative and Judicial Trajectories of Information Technology Law in India in 2022

Patel, S. A. (2023). Recalibrating Digital Jurisprudence: Legislative and Judicial Trajectories of Information Technology Law in India in 2022. https://doi.org/10.26643/jsmap/2023/12/1

Sajid A. Patel

Assistant Professor in Mercantile Law,

D.A.V. Velankar College of Commerce, Solapur

sajid123490@gmail.com

Abstract

The intersection of information technology and law in India has become increasingly significant in the wake of rapid digitalization. The year 2022 marked a critical juncture, with legislative amendments, judicial innovations, and policy debates shaping the contours of India’s digital governance framework. This paper examines the evolution of law relating to Information and Technology in India during in the form of an amendment in 2022, focusing on statutory amendments, judicial responses, and emerging challenges in cyber regulation.

Keywords: Digital Jurisprudence, Information Technology Law, Information Technology Act, 2000, Intermediary Liability, Data Protection, Digital Privacy, Cyber Governance.

Introduction

India’s legal framework has long struggled to strike an equilibrium between fostering technological progress and ensuring adequate regulatory safeguards. The Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) emerged as the foundational statute for governing cyberspace, yet the rapid proliferation of digital platforms, the exponential expansion of data exchanges, and the surge in online commercial activity soon revealed its limitations. These developments created an urgent need for reform to address new forms of cyber threats and digital complexities. In response, 2022 witnessed significant parliamentary initiatives aimed at fortifying provisions against cybercrime, while the judiciary simultaneously embraced digital tools and platforms to streamline processes, enhance accessibility, and improve overall efficiency in the administration of justice.

Background

India’s legal system has historically grappled with the delicate task of balancing technological innovation with regulatory safeguards, a tension that has only intensified in the digital age. The enactment of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) was a landmark moment, establishing the first comprehensive framework for addressing cybercrimes, electronic commerce, and digital authentication. Yet, the exponential growth of digital platforms, the proliferation of cross border data flows, and increased online transactions have exposed gaps in the original statute. The IT Act, conceived at the dawn of India’s internet revolution, was not designed to anticipate the complexities of artificial intelligence, algorithmic governance, or the challenges of protecting personal data in a globalized digital economy. By 2022, these pressures had reached a critical point. The Indian Parliament introduced amendments aimed at strengthening cybercrime provisions, expanding definitions to encompass emerging technologies, and enhancing penalties for offenses such as identity theft, online fraud, and child exploitation in cyberspace. These legislative efforts reflected a recognition that cyber threats were no longer confined to isolated incidents but had evolved into systemic risks capable of undermining national security, financial stability, and individual rights. At the same time, the judiciary began to rely more extensively on digital tools to enhance efficiency and accessibility. The Supreme Court and several High Courts institutionalized hybrid hearings, integrating virtual platforms into routine judicial practice. This digital transformation of the courts was not merely a response to pandemic exigencies but a structural innovation aimed at reducing backlog, democratizing access to justice, and aligning India’s judicial system with global trends in e-governance.

However, these developments also raised profound constitutional and policy questions. How should India reconcile the imperatives of cyber security with the fundamental right to privacy recognized in Justice K.A. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (AIR 2017 SC 4161); to what extent should regulatory frameworks impose obligations on intermediaries and digital platforms without stifling innovation?; and how can judicial reliance on technology avoid exacerbating the digital divide, particularly for marginalized communities with limited access to digital infrastructure? The year 2022 thus marked a pivotal juncture in India’s cyber law trajectory one in which legislative ambition and judicial innovation converged, but also revealed the enduring challenges of crafting a digital legal order that is both effective and equitable.

Legislative Developments in 2022

Information Technology Act, 2000 was amended in the year 2022 by Information Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2022 which came to be applied form 28th October 2022 so as to include new provisions in following manner

  1. Definition of Intermediary expanded (Section 2): – The scope of definition of “Intermediary” has been increased to include online gaming platforms and certain digital media services. By expanding the scope of definition, the law encompasses new categories of digital actors, ensuring they fall under the regulatory net.
  2. Exemption from Liability of Intermediary (Section 79):- By new Amendment Act, 2022 intermediaries retain conditional immunity from liability, but only if they comply with due diligence obligations under the amended rules. Platforms must act on user complaints within strict timelines which is prescribed 24 hours for acknowledgement and 15 days to resolve the complaint. This amendment shifts the balance toward conditional responsibility, reinforcing accountability from broad immunity.
  3. Grievance Redressal Mechanism (Section 79 (2) and Amendment Rules 2022):- For redressal of grievance relating to Intermediary under the Information Technology Act Grievance Officer is to be appointed by intermediary. Establishment of Grievance Appellate Committees under government oversight has also been prescribed. By virtue of this provision a quasi-judicial oversight structure under state authority upon private platform governance has been established.
  4. Due Diligence Required (Section 79 (3)):- Now Platforms will have to proactively monitor unlawful content, publish compliance reports, and provide clear user complaint mechanisms. This provision is in tune with European Union’s Digital Services Act.
  5. Cheating by Personation Using Computer Resources (Section 66 D):- By the Amendment Rules 2022 intermediary obligations has been extended to prevent impersonation and fraud in gaming environments.
  6. Compensation for Failure to Protect Data (Section 43-A):- Intermediaries have been made responsible to compensate for their failure to protect the data.
  7.  Monitoring and Collection of Traffic Data (Section 69 B):-The Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, authorize any agency to monitor and collect traffic data or information generated, transmitted, received, or stored in any computer resource. Any intermediary or person in charge of a computer resource must provide technical assistance and facilities to the authorized agency for online access or securing such data. The object of this provision is to enhance cyber security, identifying and preventing intrusions, and stopping the spread of computer contaminants.
  8. Cyber Terrorism (Section 66 F):- This provision was proposed to criminalize acts of cyber terrorism, including unauthorized access to computer resources with intent to threaten national security or disrupt essential services. It broadened the scope beyond hacking to cover coordinated cyber-attacks on infrastructure.
  9. Identity Theft and Fraudulent Digital Practices (Section 66 G):- The Amendment Act, 2022 prohibits identity theft in digital transactions, including misuse of biometric data, Aadhaar-linked services, and online banking credentials. It recognized the growing problem of impersonation in e-commerce and fintech platforms.
  10. Protection of Children (Section 67 B):- The Amendment Act, 2022 prohibits publishing or transmitting sexually explicit material involving children. The amendment emphasized stricter penalties and expanded definitions to include grooming and online solicitation.
  11. Emerging Digital Harm (Section 67 BA):- The Amendment Act, 2022 encompasses new categories of newly invented harmful online content, such as deep fakes, synthetic media, and digitally manipulated obscene material.

Reforms in Judicial and Institutional Developments

            By virtue of Amendments made in the year 2022 judicial and institutional developments have been reformed.

  1. Digitalization of Courts:- In 2022 the judiciary accelerated through e-filing, online cause lists, and virtual hearings. The Supreme Court institutionalized hybrid hearings, balancing physical and digital participation.
  2. Online Dispute Resolution:- Particular types of disputes like Consumer disputes, small claims, and fintech-related grievances are increasingly moved to Online Dispute Resolution platforms, reducing backlog and improving efficiency.
  3. Use of Artificial Intelligence in legal research:- A.I. tools and techniques have been started to be used to help courts and law man in solving the cases.

Challenges Ahead

  1. The amendments allow government officials to order the removal of online content within very short periods, sometimes as little as two to three hours in urgent cases. This has raised worries that such broad powers, without proper judicial checks, could weaken fair legal procedures and constitutional protections.
  2. Social media sites, messaging apps, and other online platforms are under heavy pressure to meet strict deadlines prescribed under the law. Smaller platforms especially struggle because they don’t have the technical systems needed to act so quickly, which makes compliance difficult and increases the chance of content being removed unfairly.
  3. To avoid being penalized, online platforms often play it safe by removing content even when it’s unclear whether it is actually illegal. This can end up silencing genuine speech, discouraging people from freely expressing themselves, and weakening healthy democratic discussion.
  4. When government officers issue a “reasoned intimation” to flag content, the process is not fully open or clear. People and platforms often don’t understand why certain content is targeted, and since there is no strong system for appeal or review, accountability becomes weak.
  5. Words like “harmful,” “unlawful,” or “misinformation” are not clearly defined. Because of this vagueness, authorities have wide freedom in how they enforce the rules, which can be misused for political or ideological reasons.
  6. The amendments raise important constitutional concerns under Article 19(1) (a), which protects freedom of speech and expression. Courts have earlier stressed that any restrictions must be necessary and proportionate, but these new rules may not fully meet those standards.
  7. Online platforms must appoint grievance officers and quickly handle user complaints. But because there are so many complaints and no clear system to decide which ones should be addressed first, this becomes difficult, leading to inefficiency and chances of misuse.
  8. Global online platforms working in India face conflicting rules between Indian law and international standards, such as Europe’s GDPR. This makes compliance complicated and could discourage investment and innovation in India’s digital sector.
  9. Even after much discussion, a full Data Protection Act was not passed in 2022, which left personal data exposed and unprotected.
  10. Concerns grew about the use of opaque algorithms in areas like fintech, hiring, and law enforcement, as they raised doubts about fairness and accountability.

Conclusion

The year 2022 marked a turning point in India’s information technology law and digital governance framework. On one hand, legislative amendments to the IT Act reflected the government’s intent to modernize outdated provisions and respond to the rapid growth of digital platforms. On the other, judicial institutions began embracing digitalization, signalling a broader transformation in how justice and governance interact with technology. These developments highlight India’s recognition of the digital sphere as central to its socio-economic future. Yet, despite these important steps, several challenges remain unresolved. The absence of a comprehensive Data Protection Act left personal data exposed, raising serious concerns about privacy and individual rights. Cyber security threats continued to evolve in complexity, testing the resilience of India’s digital infrastructure. At the same time, issues of equitable access persisted, with rural and marginalized communities often excluded from the benefits of digital transformation. The reliance on opaque algorithms in areas such as fintech, recruitment, and law enforcement further raised questions of fairness, accountability, and transparency. These gaps underscore the urgent need for a holistic, rights-based approach to digital governance. Future reforms must not only encourage innovation and technological growth but also embed constitutional safeguards to protect freedom of speech, privacy, and equality. A balanced framework is essential one that promotes efficiency and modernization while ensuring that democratic values are not compromised.

India’s digital journey is at a crossroads. The choices made in the coming years will determine whether technological progress serves only a privileged few or becomes a tool for inclusive and just development. By aligning innovation with constitutional principles, India can build a digital ecosystem that is secure, transparent, and accessible to all, thereby ensuring that its digital transformation strengthens democracy rather than undermines it.

References

Aishwarya Agrawal, How Technology is Changing Law in India, Law Bhoomi (2022).

Bar & Bench, Judicial Innovations in Virtual Hearings (2022).

Derek RSN, Information Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2023 – Definitions Expansion (2023).

Internet Freedom Foundation, Analysis of IT Rules and Amendments (2022).

Juned, Brief Summary of Information Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2022 (2022).

Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Cybersecurity Breach Reports (2022).

NITI Aayog, Responsible AI for All: Strategy Paper (2022).

Press Information Bureau, Cybercrime Against Women – IT Act Provisions (2022).

Supreme Court of India, Annual Report on E-Courts Project (2022).

Yadul Krishna, New Technology Laws Raise Old Concerns, Times of India (2022).

https://analyticsindiamag.com/ai-features/indias-new-it-act-amendments-reopen-an-unsettled-debate

Click to access IT-Act-Amendment_Online-28-MAR-23.pdf

https://analyticsindiamag.com/ai-features/indias-new-it-act-amendments-reopen-an-unsettled-debate

Click to access IT-Act-Amendment_Online-28-MAR-23.pdf

https://broadbandindiaforum.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/IT-Act Amendment_Online-28-MAR-23.pdf