First STI Conclave on “Traditional Knowledge for Sustainable Livelihoods” organised jointly by ISTIC-UNESCO and CSIR

 The International Science, Technology, and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation (ISTIC) under the auspices of UNESCO together with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) constituents, Traditional Knowledge Digital Library Unit (CSIR-TKDL Unit), New Delhi, and CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad, India is organizing a STI Conclave on “Traditional Knowledge for Sustainable Livelihoods” on 29-31 July 2024 at New Delhi, India.

Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, DG, CSIR and Secretary, DSIR inaugurated the first STI Conclave. The Guests of Honour were Dr. D. Srinivasa Reddy, Director, CSIR- IICT, Hyderabad and Dr. Benno Boer, UNESCO Natural Science Specialist in New Delhi. The Plenary Talk was delivered by Prof. Anant Darshan Shankar, Founder and Vice Chancellor of the Trans-Disciplinary University (TDU), Bengaluru.

The three-days Conclave has internationally acclaimed speakers from India on varied subject such as biodiversity, traditional cultural expressions, integrative health and research, national and international policies on TK, IPR and associated matters, besides South-South Cooperation. The ISTIC-UNESCO team was led by Prof.  Mohd Basyaruddin Abdul Rahman, Chairperson, Governing Council and Dr. Sharizad Dahlan, Director of the organization. From the CSIR, Dr. Viswajanani J Sattigeri, Head, CSIR-TKDL Unit and Dr. D. Shailaja, Chief Scientist, CSIR-IICT led the efforts on organizing the Conclave in India.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kalaiselvi remarked that the STI Conclave targets a topic which is the need of the hour considering that sustainability of lives is a matter of growing concern world over. She said that the Conclave provides a platform to bring awareness among the next-gen youth about the importance and value of the knowledge and practices inherited from our ancestors. Stating that modernity is always connected to the fundamentals of our traditional knowledge, she acknowledged that this Conclave rightly spreads the importance of bringing together traditions and modern S&T together.

Dr. Srinivasa Reddy, Director, CSIR-IICT highlighted the CSIR activities related to validation, innovation and integration of traditional medicines and modern S&T interventions as effective tools to address healthcare for all.

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Dr. Benno Boer elaborated on the three important aspects of sustainability through education, science and culture and how UNESCO brings together collaboration and cooperation to empower people and planet. He stated it was important to respect and live in harmony with nature for achieving sustainable living. He also spoke about the UNESCO’s platforms related to biodiversity spheres and the LINKS programs, that reiterates the need to explore and understand the meaning of local knowledge systems to conserve and preserve nature and thereby livelihoods.

The Conclave envisages promoting understanding and enhancing academic and professional capabilities under the theme of “Strengthening Competencies in Digitization, Preservation and Protection of Traditional Knowledge (TK) – Intellectual Property (IP) and People’s Rights”, among the participants with the aim to provide a platform for exchange of information on challenges related to TK in their countries and learn the best practices being adopted by India and others in safeguarding TK. The participants are from Indonesia, Philippines, Nepal, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Malaysia and India. The Conclave aims to emphasise the importance of engaging in collaborative learning models and expand the partnership and networks through engagement and cooperation for addressing the development challenges of the region, specifically through sustainable living through local knowledge systems.

About ISTIC-UNESCO

The International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation under the Auspices of UNESCO (ISTIC) is a UNESCO Category 2 Centre, the Malaysian Government has hosted since 2008. The Centre acts as an international platform offering sustainable programmes and services and augmenting sustainable development for South-South Cooperation. The Centre’s hosting is based on a six-year Agreement between the Malaysian Government represented by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and UNESCO. Its current Agreement is from February 2022 until January 2028. The Mission of the organization is to be “A leading international platform offering sustainable programmes and services in producing holistic talents towards institutional excellence and augmenting sustainable development for South-South Cooperation.” Its Vision is to be “A global leader in STI and the driving force for developing countries’ nation-building and socio-economic development.”

For more information, please visit: https://www.istic-unesco.org/web/about-istic/

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Housing and road development to every poor in Chhattisgarh

 Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a meeting with Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi today.

In the meeting, positive discussions were held on various topics including Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme.

Union Minister said that the Central Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is committed to the development of housing and roads for every poor in Chhattisgarh. The Central and State Governments will jointly complete the public welfare works of the state. Union Minister Shri Chouhan said that houses of all the poor in the state will definitely be built; no poor brother or sister will be deprived of housing under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural). The Central Government is already giving adequate funds to the State Government under public welfare schemes; the present State Government will work seriously in this regard and make good use of the funds.

Shri Chouhan said that the Central Government is also working promptly to build roads under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana in the remote areas of Chhattisgarh. The Central Government is committed to work speedily on the proposals of rural roads in collaboration with the State Government.

Senior central and state officials including Secretary, Rural Development Ministry, Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh were also present in the meeting.

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Lok Samvardhan Parv

 The valedictory function of ‘Lok Samvardhan Parv’ was presided over by Shri George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying yesterday ( 28th July 2024) . As part of its 100 days’ programme, the Ministry of Minority Affairs is organising “Lok Samvardhan Parv” to showcase the schemes, programmes and achievements of the Ministry and also highlighting the activities undertaken in convergence with partner organisations and success stories under its various schemes. This Parv is being organized at Dilli Haat, New Delhi.

 

 

During his valedictory address, the Minister of State appreciated the ‘Lok Samvardhan Parv’ which has proved to be a platform to popularize the schemes and achievements of the Ministry. He observed that the ‘Lok Samvardhan Parv’ has showcased schemes and programmes and achievements of Ministry of Minority Affairs through poster exhibition. Besides unique schemes and success stories of State Channelizing partners of NMDFC were also exhibited in the ‘Lok Samvardhan Parv’.

Shri George Kurian expressed satisfaction that prominent knowledge partners of the Ministry of Minority Affairs viz. National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), National Institute of Design (NID) participated and showcased the artisans supported by them under various schemes of Ministry of Minority Affairs. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) YuWaah also highlighted the work of artisans through young people and their partner organizations. He appreciated the Government E Marketplace (GeM), which has assisted the artisans in providing assistance for online marketing. In addition the knowledge partners of NMDFC viz. Ambedkar University, Delhi have assisted in organizing this event. He also appreciated the Ministry for organizing workshops on various aspects of export marketing through Export Promotion Council of Handicraft (EPCH) everyday, which were attended by the Artisans as well as visitors in the Dilli Haat.

 

The Minister also appreciated the cultural evenings organized during the Lok Samvardhan Parv, which have depicted the rich cultural heritage of all minority communities such as Singhi Chamm (Lion Dance), Manipuri Dance, Bhangra, Langa & Manganiar, Mando, Siddhi Goma, Karagattam, Phaag Dance, and Folk Dance of Kerala.

It was observed that workshops organized in origami, Doll & toy Making and sketching/paintings saw participation  by children from various Delhi schools such as Anglo Arabic Sr. Secondary School, Ajmeri Gate, Guru Harkrishna Public School Tilak Nagar, Jamia Milia Islamia Sr. Sec. School, Hira Lal Jain Sr. Sec. School etc. This would help in inculcating interest in rich traditional heritage amongst the young generation. The added attraction amongst the young visitors has been quiz competition on general awareness wherein they were rewarded with food coupons for right answers.

Lok Samvardhan Parv is celebrating and showcasing over 70 exquisite handicraft and handloom products from various States made by 162 artisans belonging to various minority communities. These participants include artisans promoted under various schemes of Ministry through NIFT, NID and other Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs). Further the artisans have also been nominated by respective State Channelising Agencies of NMDFC. Till 27th July, 2024 the total sales achieved by the artisans was Rs.1.03 Cr.

He also observed that Lok Samvardhan Parv is testimony of the inclusive development programme of the Ministry which has benefitted a large number of persons from all the minority communities, through convergence with partner organization. The Ministry is striving to fulfil the mantra of “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas Sabka Vishwash Sabka Prayas”.

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PROVIDING PUCCA HOUSES TO ALL IN URBAN AREAS

 ‘Land’ and ‘Colonization’ are State subjects. Therefore, schemes related to housing for their citizens are implemented by States/Union Territories (UTs). However, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs supplements the efforts of States/UTs by providing Central assistance under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana- Urban (PMAY-U) since 25.06.2015 to provide pucca houses with basic civic amenities to all eligible urban beneficiaries across the country. The scheme has four verticals namely, Beneficiary-led individual house construction/enhancements (BLC), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), “In-Situ” Slum Redevelopment (ISSR) and Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS).

PMAY-U is a demand driven scheme and Government of India has not fixed any target for construction of houses. Based on the demand for housing in the urban areas, States/UTs prepare project proposals and after approval of State Level Sanctioning & Monitoring Committee (SLSMC), these are submitted to this Ministry for sanctioning of admissible Central assistance by Central Sanctioning & Monitoring Committee (CSMC). Government of India is providing its fixed share as Central assistance of ₹1.0 lakh per house under ISSR, ₹1.5 lakh per house for AHP and BLC verticals of PMAY-U. Under CLSS vertical of PMAY-U, an interest subsidy at the rate of 6.5% which amounts upto ₹2.67 lakh per house was provided for beneficiaries of Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Lower Income Group (LIG) category. The remaining cost of the house as per Detailed Project Report (DPR) is shared by States/UTs/Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)/Beneficiaries.

Central assistance under PMAY-U is released to States/UTs in three installments of 40%, 40% and 20%. The release of Central assistance is incumbent upon fulfillment of mandatory compliances by the concerned States/UTs as per operational guidelines and other instructions issued by Ministry of Finance. Due installment of Central assistance is released as soon as requisite compliances are achieved in sanctioned projects.

Based on the proposals submitted by States/UTs, a total of 118.64 lakh houses have been sanctioned under PMAY-U by the Ministry as on 15.07.2024. Of the sanctioned houses, 114.33 lakh have been grounded for construction; of which 85.04 lakh have been completed/delivered. State/UT-wise details of number of houses sanctioned, grounded, completed/delivered along with Central assistance sanctioned and released under PMAY-U is given at Annexure.

The timeline for completion of projects varies from State to State and generally it takes 12-36 months in different verticals of the scheme and as per DPRs of respective projects. The completion timeline for houses depends on various factors like availability of encumbrance free land, statutory compliances for start of construction, arrangement of funds by beneficiaries etc. States/UTs have been advised to expedite the construction of sanctioned houses so that all houses are completed within the stipulated timeline. The scheme period, which was earlier upto 31.03.2022, has been extended upto 31.12.2024, except for Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) vertical, to complete all the houses sanctioned without changing the funding pattern and implementation methodology.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Tokhan Sahu, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

Annexure 

States/UTs-wise details of number of houses sanctioned, grounded for construction and completed/delivered along with Central assistance sanctioned and released so far under PMAY-U

Sr. No.

 

Name of the
State/ UT

Physical Progress of Houses (Nos)

Financial Progress in respect of Central Assistance (in Crore)

  

Sanctioned

Grounded

Completed/ Delivered

  

 Sanctioned

 Released

  

1

States

Andhra Pradesh

21,37,028

19,90,937

9,73,837

32,568.27

23,800.26

  

2

Bihar

3,14,477

3,05,811

1,47,979

4,950.45

3,368.00

  

3

Chhattisgarh

3,02,663

2,89,128

2,38,894

4,810.98

4,088.81

  

4

Goa

3,146

3,146

3,145

74.76

75.04

  

5

Gujarat

10,05,204

9,83,778

9,18,185

21,064.34

19,805.76

  

6

Haryana

1,15,034

93,153

68,114

2,171.64

1,673.50

  

7

Himachal Pradesh

12,758

12,668

10,705

215.95

202.02

  

8

Jharkhand

2,29,156

2,13,534

1,42,810

3,603.31

2,987.87

  

9

Karnataka

6,38,121

5,73,160

3,69,449

10,614.43

7,168.29

  

10

Kerala

1,67,322

1,47,721

1,23,453

2,781.18

2,293.45

  

11

Madhya Pradesh

9,61,147

9,49,265

8,01,068

15,930.45

15,284.69

  

12

Maharashtra

13,64,923

11,16,949

8,55,339

25,548.21

19,323.37

  

13

Odisha

2,03,380

1,80,647

1,47,148

3,176.98

2,479.75

  

14

Punjab

1,32,235

1,16,264

83,894

2,342.54

1,825.79

  

15

Rajasthan

3,19,863

2,64,357

1,91,971

5,891.46

4,693.97

  

16

Tamil Nadu

6,80,347

6,63,430

5,70,294

11,185.30

10,135.67

  

17

Telangana

2,50,084

2,44,219

2,24,659

4,475.66

3,718.27

  

18

Uttar Pradesh

17,76,823

17,33,051

15,47,101

27,962.68

26,065.17

  

19

Uttarakhand

64,391

60,160

34,504

1,176.51

940.86

  

20

West Bengal

6,68,953

6,12,998

4,00,257

10,773.50

7,675.93

  

Sub- total (States) :-

1,13,47,055

1,05,54,376

78,52,806

1,91,318.59

1,57,606.50

  

21

North East States

Arunachal Pradesh

8,499

8,070

7,753

182.38

161.18

  

22

Assam

1,76,643

1,60,473

1,02,712

2,674.26

2,065.73

  

23

Manipur

56,037

48,657

14,699

841.39

471.91

  

24

Meghalaya

4,758

3,793

1,632

72.35

43.31

  

25

Mizoram

39,605

39,215

11,069

607.80

447.22

  

26

Nagaland

31,860

31,841

22,850

503.91

393.41

  

27

Sikkim

316

316

202

6.13

7.09

  

28

Tripura

92,854

84,751

74,049

1,494.35

1,273.47

  

Sub- total (N.E. States) :-

4,10,572

3,77,116

2,34,966

6,382.57

4,863.31

  

29

Union Territories

A&N Island

376

376

47

5.84

2.93

  

30

Chandigarh

1,256

1,256

1,256

28.78

28.78

  

31

DNH & DD

9,947

9,947

9,230

214.40

200.27

  

32

Delhi

29,976

29,976

29,976

692.53

692.53

  

33

J&K

47,040

42,894

24,244

724.94

483.48

  

34

Ladakh

1,307

1,014

843

30.22

24.05

  

35

Lakshadweep

–

–

–

–

–

  

36

Puducherry

15,995

15,271

9,994

254.12

223.19

  

Sub- total (UT) :-

1,05,897

1,00,734

75,590

1,950.84

1,655.23

  

Grand Total  :-

118.64 Lakh

114.33 Lakh*

85.04 Lakh*

2.00 Lakh Cr.

1.64 Lakh Cr.

  

* Includes completed (3.41 lakh)/ grounded (4.01 lakh) houses of JnNURM during mission period.

4th anniversary of National Education Policy 2020 with Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024

 The Ministry of Education celebrated the 4th anniversary of the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 with Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024 in New Delhi’s Manekshaw Centre Auditorium today. Minister of State for Education & Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Shri Jayant Chaudhary and Minister of State for Education & Development of North Eastern Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar were present at the event. Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary, Department of Higher Education; Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy; academicians, Vice Chancellors of the universities, officials, and students, also attended the event.

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The Ministers launched several significant NEP 2020 initiatives of the Ministry of Education, such as Dedicated TV Channels to facilitate learning of various Indian languages, a Tamil Channel; Primers for early graders in 25 Indian languages in pursuance to 54 already done; 10 Bagless days Guidelines aimed to transform learning into a fun, stress-free experience in schools; Career Guidance Guidelines, a massive library of over 500 job cards; NMM (National Mission for Mentoring) and National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) in Braille and Audio Books; School Innovation Marathon by AICTE, NITI Aayog, and AIM; and a book on Graduation Attributes and Professional Competencies. They also unveiled four books and lecture notes aimed at promoting the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) among students and teachers.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, in his message, said that the four-year journey of NEP 2020 has been about bringing in transformative change in the country’s education system for nurturing a new generation of learners. NEP 2020 stands as a symbol of hope for transforming the learning landscape, harnessing the country’s demographic dividend, empowering the population and driving socio-economic development, he also mentioned. He said the implementation of NEP has made learning more vibrant and guided in making the country’s education more futuristic, rooted, global and outcome-oriented. Expressing his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he reiterated his commitment to implement NEP in letter and spirit to make the country a 21st-century knowledge economy.

He also appreciated the musical performance of ‘Panch Pran’ by the students of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan at the function, which was inspired by the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

While addressing the audience Shri Jayant Chaudhary highlighted the immense impact of the teachers and the values and contributions they make in shaping the lives of their students. Reigns of the country truly lies in the hands of the teachers, he added. Farmers, scientists, and teachers are the three pillars of society who envision the nation’s future, he said. Shri Chaudhary also mentioned how, following the recommendations of the stakeholders of the education ecosystem, the forward-looking policy in the shape of the NEP 2020 was formulated. Breaking away from the legacy of the old system, it revolutionised the educational landscape and aligned it with the needs of the 21st century, he added.

Shri Chaudhary emphasised the importance of States as they are the important stakeholders .He appealed to them to be a partner in the journey with a collective effort and strategy that will benefit the entire education ecosystem involving students, teachers, administrators, and more. He also expressed his gratitude to Shri Dharmendra Pradhan for emphasising the future challenges and how they are to be mitigated. The benefit of the progressive, forward-looking and expansive NEP 2020 can be achieved only with its collective implementation, Shri Chaudhary added. Shri Chaudhary specifically mentioned the presentation on APAAR, which he termed as practical for highlighting not only the positive points but the challenges as well.

Dr. Sukanta Majumdar in his address expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his farsighted and progressive ideas that shaped the NEP 2020 which embraces the ideal of education as a transformative journey for personal development, beyond making it just a means to obtain certificates. NEP 2020 includes India’s rich heritage, the synthesis of traditional knowledge with modern advancements, and the integration of value education with nation-building at its core, Dr. Majumdar said. He also said that the Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam, embodying the essence of “Vikas bhi Virasat bhi,” represents a unique participatory dialogue steered by stakeholders from every corner of the education sector. Dr. Majumdar also expressed his gratitude to Shri Dharmendra Pradhan for successfully spearheading the NEP 2020 for the last three years.

Commending the reformist agenda of the NEP 2020, Shri K. Sanjay Murthy highlighted on seamless integration of school and higher education through the APAAR platform. Presenting a vote of thanks Shri Sanjay Kumar informed how Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has mentioned NEP 2020 as the basis for radical change and urged everyone to take the recommendation of the Policy to the grassroots level. He also informed about the week-long campaign, “Shiksha Saptah” that was celebrated in schools all over the country.

Shri Govind Jaiswal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Education, made a presentation on Credit accumulation and seamless creditization of all types of learning including skilling by using the Platform of APAAR ID.

Akhil Bharatiya Siksha Samagam (ABSS) has been conceptualized as an event to celebrate the adoption of National Education Policy 2020 to reinvigorate the commitment of various stakeholders for its effective implementation and to realize the collective strength for achievement of shared goals through collaborative efforts.

ABSS 2024 witnessed six thematic sessions on different themes & initiatives of NEP 2020 related to Schools and Higher Education. These are:

 

  1.  Importance of Sustainability in Education Curriculum, Job Prospects, Industry-Academia Collaboration

(ii) PM SHRI (School Education & Skilling)

  1.  Role of HEIs in promoting STEM & enhancing GER through Vidyashakti

(iv) Equivalence of Curriculum and Assessment across all School Boards

(v) Role of Ranking and Accreditation in Enhancing Quality

(vi) NCF-FS and NCF-SE Salient Features and Implementation Roadmap

 

The event was attended by State Education Secretaries, State Project Directors of Samagra Shiksha, SCERT Directors, State Directors of Primary Education and Secondary Education, Chairperson, State School Boards including CBSE, Head of Autonomous Bodies of DoSEL, Regional Officers of CBSE, KVS, NVS, Principals of DIETs and Schools, Students from KV, JNV, CBSE schools, VCs / Directors / Heads of HEIs – 80 from CFIs and 100 from State Universities, State Project Directors of RUSA, Officials of DoSEL, DoHE, MSDE, UGC, AICTE, NETF, NCVET, NIEPA, ICSSR, ICHR, Officials from other Ministries, Heads of CSO, Panelists for the Breakaway sessions etc.

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

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

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

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SR/Savvy

Tomatoes procured from three centres, Price Stabilisation Fund not used

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Atomic Energy inaugurates ‘One DAE One Subscription’

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

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

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

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

About ODOS

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

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

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

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Coaching has become a flouring industry with returns

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

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

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

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

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

 

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Construction Accidents, Injuries, and Legal Cases

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

Alt: Construction worker

Fall from Heights

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

Electrocution

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

Demolition Accidents

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

Trench Collapses

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

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

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

Alt: Books

To Know Your Rights

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

To Have Protection against Fraud and Malicious Acts

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

To Solve Legal Problems You May Encounter in Daily Life

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

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

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

Alt: A woman making a heart with her hands

Prioritize Your Physical Health

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

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

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

Nurture Your Mental and Emotional Well-Being

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

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

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

Create a Support Network

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

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

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

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

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

Bangalore, Karnataka, India

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

About Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence

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

 

Vision:

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

 

Mission:

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

Sri Madhusudan Sai Global Humanitarian Mission

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