Pan-India expansion of Maternity Benefit Programme (MBP) to benefit pregnant and lactating mothers across the country 

 

Government of India is committed to ensure that every woman attains optimal nutritional status – especially from the most vulnerable communities as nutrition constitutes the foundation for human development.  This is all the more important during the period of pregnancy and lactation coupled with wage loss.  A woman’s nutritional status has important implications for her health as well as the health and development of her children.    

 

An under-nourished mother almost inevitably gives birth to a low birth weight baby. When poor nutrition starts in-utero, it extends throughout the life cycle, particularly in women.  Owing to economic and social distress many women continue to work to earn a living for their family right upto the last days of their pregnancy.  Furthermore, they resume working soon after childbirth, even through their bodies might not permit it, thus preventing their bodies from fully recovering on one hand, and also impending their ability to exclusively breastfeed their young infant in the first six months.

 

To address the above issues, Ministry of Women and Child Development, in accordance with the provisions of Section 4(b) of National Food Security Act, formulated a scheme for pregnant and lactating mothers called Maternity Benefit Programme – a conditional cash transfer scheme.  The Scheme provides cash incentives to pregnant and lactating women (i) for the wage loss so that the woman can take adequate rest before and after delivery; (ii) to improve her health and nutrition during the period of pregnancy and lactation; and (iii) to breastfeed  the child during the first six months of the birth, which is very vital for the development of the child.

 

Under the scheme, all Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers (PW&LM), excluding the Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers who are in regular employment with the Central Government or State Governments or Public Sector Undertakings or those who are in receipt of similar benefits under any law for the time being are eligible. The cash incentive of Rs.6,000/-  is payable in three instalments for the first two live births at the following stages:

 

 

Cash Transfer	Conditions	Amount (in Rs.)
First instalment (in first trimester of pregnancy)	·   Early Registration of Pregnancy, preferably within first three months. ·   Received one antenatal check-up.	3,000/-
Second instalment	·   At the time of institutional delivery.	1500/-
Third instalment (3 months after delivery)	·   Child birth is registered. ·   Child has received BCG vaccination. ·   Child has received OPV and DPT-1 & 2.	1,500/-

 

 

The cash transfer would be Aadhaar linked through the individual bank/post office account etc. in DBT mode.

Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, in his address to the nation on 31.12.2016 has announced pan-India expansion of MBP in all the districts with effect from 01.01.2017.  It is expected that annually about 51.70 lakh beneficiaries would avail of the benefit.

Expansion of MBP will have huge impact on the PW&LM as it will not only provide them compensation for the wage loss but will also provide them adequate nutrition and rest before and after delivery.  Mothers will have sufficient time to breastfeed the child during first six months of the birth.  Resultantly, it is expected that it will reduce mother mortality rate, IMR, under-nutrition and its adverse effects.

It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme and the cost sharing between Centre and States is 60:40 for all the States and UTs (with legislature), 90:10 for NER and Himalayan States and 100% GoI share for UTs without legislatures.  The total cost of the proposal for the balance period of 2016-17 and from 2017-18 to 2019-20 including Centre and State share is expected to be Rs. 12,661.00 crore.   Out of this, Government of India’s share for the balance period of 2016-17 (Rs. 584 crore) and from 2017-18 to 2019-20 (Rs. 7348 crore) is expected to be Rs. 7932 crore.

Detailed guidelines for implementation and monitoring of the scheme will be issued shortly.

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NB/UD

 

Global Crude oil price of Indian Basket was US$ 54.41* per bbl on 02.01.2017 

The international crude oil price of Indian Basket as computed/published today by Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas was US$ 54.41* per barrel (bbl) on 02.01.2017.

In rupee terms, the price of Indian Basket increased to Rs. 3701.40 per bbl on 02.01.2017 as compared to Rs. 3697.71 per bbl on 30.12.2016. Rupee closed weaker at Rs 68.02 per US$ on 02.01.2017 as against Rs 67.95 per US$ on 30.12.2016. The table below gives details in this regard:

 

*  Since Brent, Oman & Dubai prices are not available due to holiday on 02.01.2017, the price of Indian Basket Crude Oil cannot be derived. Therefore, price of Indian Basket as of 30.12.2016 has been considered.

 

YKB/Rk/Daily Crude Oil PriceLPG customers to now get a discount for on-line payment of LPG refill 

Oil Marketing Companies, viz IndianOil, BPCL & HPCL are now offering an upfront discount of Rs 5/- on every LPG refill to all LPG customers who will book and pay for their LPG cylinders online. Customers can make payment through existing online modes i.e net banking, credit & debit cards at the time of web-booking their refills.

Customers will get the discounted amount displayed on their screens – i.e. net amount i.e refill RSP minus (-) incentive amount of Rs.5/- which they need to pay for their refill transactions. The net discounted amount will also be shown on the cash memo accompanying the home-delivery of the LPG cylinder.

Under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, it the endeavour of all Oil Marketing Companies aim to encourage consumers to increasingly shift to such payment modes through digital platforms to achieve the objective of no-cash or less-cash based transactions. The incentive will encourage more and more LPG consumers to go for cashless mode transactions.

YB

Ministry Of Minority Affairs celebrates ‘Swachchhata Pakhwada’ 

The Ministry of Minority Affairs celebrated ‘Swachchhata Pakhwada’ beginning from 16th December, 2017. Five teams each led by a Joint Secretary/ Dy Director General level officer were formed to spearhead the efforts. In coordination with New Delhi municipal Corporation and Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the teams undertook activities for cleanliness drive wherever required.

The Swachhta Pakhwada kick started by Shri Ameising Luikham, Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs(MoMA) on 16 December 2016 at the Pt. Deen Dayal Antyodaya Bhawan, CGO Complex. The officials divided into different teams took up the cleaning of different areas surrounding the Office Block. The Secretary also addressed officials encouraging them to continue the cleanliness drive  even after the Pakhwada is over.

The Ministry team lead by Shri S K Dev Verman, Joint Secretary, visited the Gurudwara Rakab Ganj on 19 December 2016 and along with the Management members and others took up the cleaning of the areas around the Gurudwara. NDMC staff was also roped in for the purpose. The Ministry team later interacted with the Gurudwara officials who appreciated the initiative and requested that more such campaigns may be taken up. The Ministry also handed over four Trash bins to the Gurudwara.

A half Day workshop on Swachhta, inaugurated by Shri Luikham, Secretary, Minority Affairs, was organised by the Ministry on 19 December at Scope Complex to create awareness on the program. Officials from the Ministry and from the attached offices of the Ministry attended the Workshop along with special invitees from Buddhist Monastery and Rakab Ganj Gurudwara. Professor Warsi, ex-CLM and presently VC of Maulana Azad University, Jodhpur also attended the workshop. The speakers highlighted the importance of cleanliness in everyday life and its general positive effect.

A team of 28 officials and staff of the Ministry of Minority Affairs led by Smt. Rakhee Gupta Bhandari, Joint Secretary conducted Cleanliness Drive at Lakshmi Narayan Mandir (Birla Mandir), Mandir Marg, New Delhi on 20th December 2016.  The team reached at Mandir premises early in the morning at 7:45 AM and in about two hours completely cleaned the Mandir premises removing all the dust and other rubbish.  A team from New Delhi Municipal Corporation has also rendered necessary help in this endeavour.

A team of 30 officials and staff of the Ministry of Minority Affairs led by Sh. Mukat Singh, Deputy Director General conducted Cleanliness Drive at Hanuman Mandir at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, New Delhi on 21st December 2016. The team reached at Mandir premises early in the morning at 7.45 AM and in about two hours completely cleaned the Mandir premises removing all the dust and other rubbish.   A team from New Delhi Municipal Corporation has also rendered necessary help in this endeavour.

26  persons  took part in the Slogan writing competition organised by the Ministry held on 22^nd December, 2016, and 26  competitors  participated in the poster drawing completion organized by the Ministry held on 23^rdDecember, 2016.

A team of 24 officials and staff of the Ministry of Minority Affairs conducted Cleanliness Drive at Shri K.C. Samria, Joint Secretary at Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, Chandni Chowk, Opposite Red, Fort, New Delhi on 26th December 2016. The team reached at Mandir premises early in the morning at and in about two hours completely cleaned the Mandir premises in coordination with a team from Municipal Corporation of Delhi.

A team of 28 officials and staff of the Ministry of Minority Affairs led by Sh. Jaan-e-Alam, Joint Secretary conducted Cleanliness Drive at Monastery Buddha temple (Ladakh Buddhist Vihara), Bela Road, ISBT Kashmere Gate, Railway Colony, Civil Lines, New Delhi on 26th December 2016.

The Ministry is also compiling a collection of essays on Swachhta and its importance as enshrined in different religions. Once completed & reviewed, this may be released at on appropriate time. The different organization of the Ministry such as Central Waqf Board, National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation, NAWADCO, NCM, CLM also observed the Swachhta Pakhwada in their respective offices & branches. Officials from the Ministry also visited the Delhi based organizations to interact with their officials on the occasion.

*****

AT

Year End review: Ministry of Home Affairs 

Following are the highlights of the activities of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) during the year 2016:

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi chaired the Inter-State Council meeting in New Delhi (16.7.2016). The Union Ministers participated in the meeting along with the Chief Ministers and Administrators of States and Union Territories.  For the first time a meeting of the Inter-State Council had covered wide ranging topics of common interest to the Centre and the States. Previously Inter-State Council meetings focused on just one or two sectors. It is also important to add here that this meeting had been held after a gap of 10 years.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the DGPs Conference in Hyderabad. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the three-day conclave of DGPs at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad from November 25-27, 2016 and discussed issues ranging from terrorism to cyber crime.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR) 2016, held in New Delhi (3.11.16). This is the first major inter-governmental event after the adoption of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR). This Conference paved the way towards implementation of this Framework in the Asian region. It also devised a mechanism for monitoring its progress.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi released National Disaster Management Plan, 2016 in New Delhi (1.6.2016). This is the first ever national plan prepared in the country. The NDMP has been aligned broadly with the goals and priorities set out in the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. The Vision of the Plan is to “Make India disaster resilient, achieve substantial disaster risk reduction, and significantly decrease the losses of life, livelihoods, and assets – economic, physical, social, cultural and environmental – by maximizing the ability to cope with disasters at all levels of administration as well as among communities.

Civilian victims of cross border firing gets a compensation of Rs 5 lakh. (12.7.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh approved that the civilian victims of cross border firing along the border will be given a compensation of Rs 5 lakh. Any civilian who dies anywhere in the country due to terror attack, naxal violence, firing from across the border, shelling or IED explosion, will be given Rs 5 lakh as compensation uniformly.

Union Home Minister approved New Prison Manual 2016 (21.1.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh has approved the new Model Prison Manual, which aims at bringing in basic uniformity in laws, rules and regulations governing the administration of prisons and the management of prisoners all over the country.

Enhancement of representation of women in CAPFs (5.1.2016). Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh had approved the 33% posts at Constable level for being filled up by women.

Enhancement of Honorarium in respect of SPOs of Jammu & Kashmir to Rs. 6000 per month (1.1.2016). The Ministry of Home Affairs has enhanced the honorarium of Special Police Officers (SPOs) of Jammu and Kashmir upto Rs. 6000 per month from Rs. 3000 per month. The enhancement of honorarium is effective from 1.1.2016

Cabinet approved the facilities being extended to persons residing in India on Long Term Visa (13.7.2016). The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had approved the following facilities being extended to persons from Minority communities of Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan, namely Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians staying on Long Term Visa  (LTV) in India.  The move is aimed at easing out the difficulties being faced by them and includes the following benefits:- opening of bank account, permission for purchase of property for self-occupation and suitable accommodation for carrying out self-employment, permission to take self-employment, issue of driving licence, PAN card and Aadhaar number, allowing free movement within the State /UT where they are staying, transfer of LTV papers from one state to other etc.

MHA constituted Committee to strengthen border protection. The Ministry of Home Affairs has constituted a Committee under the Chairmanship of Shri Madhukar Gupta, Retd. Home Secretary, in order to strengthen border protection and address the issue of gaps and vulnerability in border fencing along Indo-Pakistan border. The Committee presented its report to the Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh on 29.8.2016.

Union Home Minister chaired meeting for sealing Indo-Pak border, held in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan (7.10.2016). Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting of Chief Ministers/ Home Ministers of Rajasthan, Punjab, Gujarat and Jammu & Kashmir for sealing of Indo-Pak border in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Inaugurating the meeting, Shri Rajnath Singh sought the active participation of the states to secure the International Border with Pakistan by putting physical and non- physical barriers by December, 2018.

Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh reviewed Border Management (2.6.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh along with Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju reviewed the Border Management. Shri Rajnath Singh directed that complete Indo-Bangladesh border in Assam should be sealed.

Home Minister level bilateral talks between India and Bangladesh, held in New Delhi (28.7.2016). The Bangladesh delegation was led by the Home Minister Mr. Asaduzzaman Khan and Indian delegation by Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh. Speedy operationalisation of three bilateral MoUs; Effective implementation of coordinated border management plan; Bilateral Extradition Treaty amended to make it more effective

 Signing and Ratification of the BIMSTEC Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters (10.3.2016). The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the signing and ratification of the Bay of Bengal Initiative on Multi Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. The Ministry of Home Affairs has been designated as the Central Authority under Article 15 of the Convention. The BIMSTEC comprises of seven countries viz., Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh addressed the 7th Meeting of SAARC Ministers of Interior/Home, held in Islamabad, Pakistan (4.8.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh addressed the 7th Meeting of SAARC Ministers of Interior/Home, in Islamabad, Pakistan. The prominent items on the Agenda were terrorism, smuggling of narcotic drugs, cyber crime and human trafficking. Most of the participating nations strongly condemned terrorism in all its manifestations.

“On India’s behalf, I laid special emphasis on the scourge of terrorism. I am sure all the members of this august house would agree with me that the biggest challenge to the peace and prosperity of South Asia is terrorism. I called for hardening our resolve to eradicate this menace of terrorism. I also stressed on the need to ensure that terrorism is not glorified and is not patronized by any State.” (HM’s statement in Parliament on 5.8.2016)

2nd Anti-Drug Working Group meeting of Heads of Drug Control Agencies of BRICS countries, held in New Delhi (8.7.2016). The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 2nd Anti-Drug Working Group meeting. The Narcotics Control Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs organized the 2nd anti-drug Working Group meeting of Heads of Drug Control Agencies of BRICS countries. Delegates resolved to enhance capacity building to prevent and counter illicit drug trafficking. The meeting assumed significance as India hosted the eighth BRICS summit in Goa in October, 2016.

Union Home Minister addressed the 4th Ministerial Meeting of SAIEVAC, held in New Delhi (11.5.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh addressed the 4th Ministerial Meeting of the South Asia Initiative to End Violence Against Children (SAIEVAC).  Chairing the meeting Shri Rajnath Singh said that the safety, security, dignity and wellbeing of our children and young people will determine the wellbeing and strength of our countries.

Inter State Council (ISC) and Standing Committee of ISC Reconstituted (28.10.2016).             The Government has reconstituted the Inter State Council (ISC) and the Standing Committee of the Inter State Council.

Union Home Minister chaired 22nd meeting of Eastern Zonal Council at Ranchi (27.6.2016). The Eastern Zonal Council, consisting of the states of Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha and West Bengal, discussed the issues like modernisation of State Police Forces, measures to curb communal tension and Left Wing Extremism (LWE), curbing of drug trafficking, measures for bringing Green Revolution to Eastern India, issues relating to fisheries, productivity of livestock and poultry to usher Blue Revolution.

22nd meeting of Western Zonal Council held in Mumbai (21.10.2016). The 22nd meeting of the Western Zonal Council consisting of the States of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa and Union Territories of Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli was held at Mumbai, under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh. The Council took up issues related to coastal security, internal security, issuance of bio-metric identity cards to fishermen & issue of card readers, formulation of plans for countering terrorism, modernization of police force etc. Other important issues discussed were Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna (Urban) Mission, surplus lands of Central Government for ‘Housing for All : 2022’ and providing shelters to the urban homeless.

Constant monitoring of situation in Manipur following blockade in December, 2016. Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh on December 22, 2016 wrote separate letters to Manipur Chief Minister Shri Okram Ibobi Singh and Nagaland Chief Minister Shri T R Zeliang to bring the security situation in Manipur under control and ensure that there was no disturbance in movement of vehicles going through Nagaland. MoS (Home) Shri Kiren Rijiju on December 23, 2016 met Manipur Chief Minister shri Okram Ibobi Singh in Imphal over the economic blockade by Naga groups, and said the Centre will extend all assistance to restore normalcy in the state. Shri Rijiju visited the state with senior MHA officials to review the law and order situation in the wake of the economic blockade by the Nagas, who are opposing the creation of new districts from areas inhabited by Naga people.

Government of India and NSCN issue Joint Communique (12.8.2016). The political initiative of the Government of India and NSCN to amicably resolve the Naga political issue has received a new urgency and impetus during the last two years. The talks have become more purposeful, less ritualistic, more forthright and far more frequent.

Suspension of Operations Agreement with NDFB (P) Extended. (23.6.2016). A meeting of Joint Monitoring Group consisting of representatives of Government of India, Government of Assam and National Democratic Front of Bodoland (Progressive) was held. After discussions, it was agreed to extend Suspension of Operations for a period of six months upto December 31, 2016.

MHA held first round of tripartite talks with Govt. of Manipur and Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF) of Manipur in New Delhi (15.6.2016).

Union Home Minister chaired Southern Zonal Council meeting at Thiruvananthapuram (28.12.2016). The Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh said that all possible steps will be taken to preserve and strengthen the integrity and safety of our country, be it either from external or internal threat.

Shri Rajnath Singh chaired a review meeting on NATGRID (31.8.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of NATGRID in assisting the Intelligence and Law Enforcement Agencies in countering national and transnational crimes.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet had approved the appointment of Shri A.K. Patnaik, Additional Director, Intelligence Bureau as Chief Executive Officer, National Intelligence Grid, the first to head the agency. (13.8.2016)

The NATGRID framework is to be hosted on the infrastructure being constructed at New Delhi and Bengaluru. The NATGRID framework is expected to be implemented by September 30, 2018.

Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir assumed charge as the Minister of State for Home Affairs (11.7.2016).

MoS (Home) Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir reviewed the developmental projects in Daman & Diu during his visit to the Union Territory on December 17, 2016. During the visit, MoS (Home) Shri Ahir inaugurated the Coastal Police Station at Kadaiya. He directed the officials to expedite work on setting up the Coastal Police Station at Diu. Shri Ahir called upon the UT Administration to fill up the vacancies immediately so that the Coastal Police Station can operate at its full capacity at the earliest.

MoS (Home) Shri Kiren Rijiju inaugurated the BRICS meeting on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), held in Udaipur (22.8.2016). Shri Kiren Rijiju said India was willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with other BRICS nations and explore all possible areas of collaboration. He added that DRR is a high priority area for the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Cabinet approved Rehabilitation Package for Displaced Families from Pakistan occupied Jammu &Kashmir and Chhamb under the Prime Minister's Development Package for Jammu & Kashmir, 2015 (30.11.2016). The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi had approved Central Assistance of Rs. 2000 crore for 36,384 displaced families from Pakistan occupied areas of Jammu & Kashmir (POJK) and Chhamb following an announcement of Prime Minister's Development Package for Jammu & Kashmir-2015 in November, 2015. As per the package, Rs. 5.5 lakh cash benefit per family will be disbursed to the displaced families to enable them to earn an income and subsist their livelihood. The amount will be released to the State Government of J&K to be disbursed to eligible families through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

MHA sanctioned additional 10,000 SPOs for J&K (21.9.2016). Union Ministry of Home Affairs has sanctioned the engagement of additional 10,000 Special Police Officers (SPOs) in the Police Department of Jammu and Kashmir. The additional SPOs will be utilized especially for the security related requirements.

Cabinet approved raising of 17 Indian Reserve Battalions by J&K and LWE States. (27.1.2016). The Union Cabinet under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the raising of 17 India Reserve Battalions (IR Bns) by Jammu & Kashmir and Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected States. Local youths will be recruited. To achieve this, the States will relax the age and educational criteria, if required. In respect of the 05 IR Bns to be raised by J&K, 60% of the vacancies will be filled from the border districts of J&K for the posts of constables and class IV. For LWE states, 75% of the vacancies of constables will be filled up from 27 core districts under Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme.

Rs.1000 crores allocated to LWE affected states (6.1.2016). The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh approved the State wise allocation of Additional Central Assistance of Rs.1000 crores to 35 worst LWE affected districts in seven states.

Enemy Property Ordinance, 2016 promulgated (8.1.2016). The President of India promulgated the Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Ordinance, 2016 on January 07, 2016 to make amendments to the Enemy Property Act, 1968. The amendments will plug the loopholes in the Act to ensure that the enemy properties that have been vested in the Custodian remain so and they do not revert back to the enemy subject or enemy firm.

Cabinet approved grant of Permanent Residency Status to Foreign Investors (31.8.2016). The Union Cabinet under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the scheme for grant of Permanent Residency Status (PRS) to foreign investors subject to the relevant conditions as specified in the FDI Policy notified by the Government from time to time. The scheme is expected to encourage foreign investment in India and facilitate Make in India Programme. Under the Scheme, suitable provisions will be incorporated in the Visa Manual to provide for the grant of PRS to foreign investors.

Short term Yoga programmes included in Tourist Visa and e-Tourist Visa (2.6.2016). The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken a decision to include short term yoga programmes in Tourist Visa and e-Tourist Visa. Realizing the spread and importance of yoga world over, the Government has decided to include “attending a short term yoga programme” in the list of permissible activities under Tourist Visa. Besides, the Government has decided to include “attending a short term yoga programme” and “short duration medical treatment under Indian systems of medicine” in the list of permissible activities under e-Tourist Visa.

Visa on Arrival for Japanese nationals from March 1, 2016 (29.2.2016). As announced by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Visa on Arrival for Japanese nationals launched from 1st March, 2016. This facility can be availed for the purposes of business, tourism, conference and medical. Validity of this visa after entry will be for a period of 30 days. About 1.80 lakh Japanese nationals visit India every year on various kinds of visas. Business and Tourist Visas constitute around 78% of these.

Tourist Visa norms eased for people of Bangladesh above 65 years of age (19.8.2016). The Government of India has decided to increase the duration of tourist visa from one year to five years having multiple entry facility for the people of Bangladesh above 65 years of age.

Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh chaired high-level meeting in Srinagar on strategic issues (1.7.2016). A High Level meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh was held in Srinagar. The meeting was also attended by the Jammu and Kashmir Governor Shri NN Vohra and Chief Minister Ms. Mehbooba Mufti and several Senior Officers from the Centre and the State. The meeting deliberated upon the strategic issues pertaining to situation in the state with particular reference to development projects of the state.

Union Home Minister concluded visit to Srinagar (24.7.2016) The Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh concluded his 2 day visit to Srinagar on July 24, 2016. During the visit about 30 delegates including 8 from different political parties met the Home Minister. He also visited Anantnag and met civil society delegations. This wide ranging consultations has given the Union Home Minister an on-the-spot assessment of the situation and the views of a cross section of society.

Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh met wide spectrum of political parties in Srinagar on August 24, 2016 (24.8.2016). Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh held a series of meetings with a wide spectrum of political parties in Srinagar. Shri Rajnath Singh also chaired a meeting of Senior Officers of Security Agencies and State Government to review the security situation in the Kashmir Valley. He appealed to the J&K people to help maintain law & order and restore peace.

All Party delegation led by Shri Rajnath Singh concluded its visit to J&K (5.9.2016). An All Party delegation visiting Jammu and Kashmir concluded its 2-day visit on September 5, 2016. The Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh had said that the delegation’s talks with the various sections in J&K had been fruitful.

Expert Committee for exploring other possible alternatives to Pellet Guns as Non-lethal Weapons constituted (26.7.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh approved the constitution of a seven-member Expert Committee under the chairmanship of Shri T V S N Prasad, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs for exploring the other possible alternatives to Pellet Guns as Non-lethal Weapons. The Committee submitted its report to the Union Home Secretary Shri Rajiv Mehrishi on August 29, 2016.

Union Home Minister met different delegations at Leh (3.10.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh met over 15 political parties, religious communities and civil society groups at Leh on October 3, 2016. They presented a joint memorandum for grant of UT status with legislature to Leh-Ladakh region.

Creation of a cell in MHA to address grievances of Jammu & Kashmir people (30.8.2016). The Ministry of Home Affairs nominated Director in J&K Division as the Nodal Officer for grievances relating to J&K persons, particularly students residing outside the State.

 

Text of the Joint Statement issued after the conclusion of Union Home Minister’s 3-day visit to Bahrain (25.10.2016). The two sides agreed that the exchange of high level visits has contributed to the implementation of important agreements between the two countries. The two sides agreed to actively implement the counterterrorism agreement, for which a joint committee was formed that held its first meeting in the sideline of the visit.

Cabinet gives ex-post facto approval to India-Bahrain Agreement on Cooperation in Combating International Terrorism, Transnational Organized Crime and Trafficking in Illicit Drugs, Narcotic and Psychotropic Substances and Precursors Chemicals, and ratification of the same (6.1.2016). The MoU shall come into force from the date of exchange of the instruments of ratification.

MoS (Home) Shri Kiren Rijiju addressed the First Asian S&T Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), held in Bangkok, Thailand (24.8.2016). Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju, a UN designated Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Champion for the Asia Region, attended the First Asian Science and Technology Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction held at Bangkok in Thailand.

Second Meeting of the High Level Group of Eminent Experts to strengthen the SAARC Anti-Terrorism Mechanism, held in New Delhi (22.9.2016). The Director, Intelligence Bureau, Shri Dineshwar Sharma has asked the SAARC nations to strictly enforce internationally mandated sanctions against terrorist entities and individuals. Shri Sharma also called upon the eight member States to ratify and enable various Conventions enacted by the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) grouping, including the Convention on Suppression of Terrorism and Additional Protocols and the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters. Meeting concluded on 23.9.2016.

Exchange of terrorist screening information Arrangement between India and USA signed in New Delhi (2.6.2016). An Arrangement between the authorized Governmental agencies of the Government of India and the Government of the United States of America for exchange of terrorist screening information was signed. As per this Arrangement, both sides shall provide each other access to terrorism screening information through the designated contact points, subject to domestic laws and regulations.

Three agreements between India and Switzerland on Mutual Visa Exemption, Return of Illegal Migrants and Arrangement for Dependent Persons of Diplomatic and Consular Mission to Perform Gainful Employment signed in New Delhi (6.10.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh met the visiting Minister for Justice and Police of Swiss Confederation, Ms. Simonetta Sommaruga. Shri Rajnath Singh stated that the two countries have made significant contributions to strengthen peace and prosperity based on their shared vision of a peaceful and progressive future.

MoU between India and United Arab Emirates on cooperation in preventing and combating of Human Trafficking (13.4.2016). The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and United Arab Emirates on cooperation in preventing and combating of Human Trafficking. The MoU will strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two countries and increase the bilateral cooperation on the issues of prevention, rescue, recovery and repatriation related to human trafficking especially women and children expeditiously.

Indo-Maldives talks on Terrorism (11.4.2016). During the visit of the President of Maldives to India, the Government of Maldives highlighted the need for capacity building in view of their concerns on counter terrorism. Both sides reiterated their commitment to coordinate efforts to counter terrorism and radicalization and enhance cooperation in counter terrorism operations, intelligence sharing and capacity building.

Shri Kiren Rijiju participated in the Symposium on ‘Shared Values and Democracy in Asia’ in Tokyo (19.1. 2016). The Minister of State (Home) Shri Kiren Rijiju underlined that Samvad/dialogue holds the key to good relations and that for the 21st Century to be the Asian century, democratic societies must work together to preserve and promote non-conflicting traditions and democratic values.

Union Home Minister reviewed relief operation in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu (13.12.2016). The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh held a high level meeting to take stock of the situation of the relief operations following the landfall of cyclone Vardah in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. NDRF had deployed its 19 flood and rescue teams in various parts of Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu affected by cyclone Vardah.

NDMA coordinated response and relief after Manipur Earthquake (4.1.2016). An earthquake of 6.7 magnitude occurred in District Tamernglong, Manipur state on 4.12016. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) immediately took action and started coordinating with the State Governments, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, NDRF, Ministry of Telecom and other concerned Government departments and agencies for search & rescue and relief. On 5.1.2016, the Cabinet Secretary Shri P. K. Sinha chaired a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee to take stock of ongoing Relief operations in Manipur.

Flood rescue and relief operation by NDRF (22.8.2016). The rescue and relief operations by National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in the flood affected various districts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh were in full swing. 56 flood rescue teams of NDRF were operational in various flood prone areas of the different states to assist the respective state administration in rescue and relief work. NDRF teams had evacuated/rescued more than 53,000 persons and provided medical assistance to 12,200 needy persons in this monsoon season.

Flood rescue and evacuation operation by NDRF in Maharashtra's Raigad District (5.8.2016). Massive search operations were carried out by NDRF and other agencies in Maharashtra's Raigad District. Four NDRF teams had been pressed into action to trace the missing victims in the Savitri River and its surroundings.

NDRF deployed in rain affected areas of Hyderabad, Karnataka and Telengana (25.9.2016). Continuous heavy rains lashed several districts of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telengana where normal life had been thrown out of gear due to flood-like situation. NDRF teams were in touch with the local administration and monitored the situation round the clock.

NDRF rescued 54 injured from the mangled bogies in Kanpur (20.11.2016). 05 search and rescue teams of NDRF were relentlessly engaged to extricate victims, trapped in the mangled bogies of Patna-Indore Express.Due to prompt response by NDRF, 54 passengers including 16 critically injured had been rescued and 31 bodies retrieved from the mangled bogies of derailed train.

Government approved subsidized helicopter services in J&K and Himachal Pradesh (9.9.2016). The Government accorded its approval for operation of helicopter services in the State of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh on a pilot basis in 10 sectors, as per the stipulation that the most inaccessible destination points should be chosen.

7th National Conference on Women in Police (6.1.2016). Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 7th National Conference on Women in Police. The Home Minister said that the women’s representation is not adequate and the Government is committed to give adequate representation to them.

Enhancement of Pension for Freedom Fighters under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme (18.8.2016). The existing pension scheme for Central freedom fighter pensioners and their eligible dependents has been restructured. The revised scale introduced with effect from 15.8.2016.

Outcome of probe by JIT on Pathankot (27.4.2016). A Five member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from Pakistan had visited India to collect, review and document physical evidences and to interview key witnesses and victims through the NIA  in connection with the Pathankot Airbase terror attack. The Pakistan JIT shared with NIA the results of investigations carried out by them in Pakistan. The case is under investigation in both the countries. The Government is in touch with the relevant Pakistani Authorities in the matter.

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KSD/NK/PK/KM

 

Union Home Minister lays the foundation stone of the Demonstration Housing Project by BMTPC for Lucknow 

The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone of the Demonstration Housing Project by BMTPC (Building Materials & Technology Promotion Council) for Lucknow through video conferencing here today. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh said this BMPTC project is a model housing project which will use ecofriendly materials and innovative technology to build houses for the poor.

 

Coming up at Aurangabad Jagir at Sarojini Nagar Tehsil in Lucknow on 0.38 hectare land provided by the State Urban Development Authority (SUDA) of the Uttar Pradesh state government, the BMTPC, an autonomous organization under Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, Government of India, has undertaken construction of 40 dwelling units (Ground Floor+1). Each Unit having built up area of 380 sq. feet, will consist of one living room, one bedroom, kitchen, one separate bath and WC. The Demonstration Housing Project will include onsite infrastructure facilities like water supply, tube well, sewerage system, drainage, concrete roads, interlocking tiles, boundary wall and external electrification, etc. Aiming to popularize new and emerging disaster resistant sustainable technologies in the construction sector, the Demonstration Housing Project is expected to cost around Rs.3.6 crores.

 

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Issuance Calendar for Marketable Dated Securities for the Period January 02, 2017 to February 10, 2017

 

Issuance Calendar for Marketable Dated Securities during January-February 2017

(From January 2 – February 10, 2017)

 

After reviewing the cash position of the Central Government, Government of India, in consultation with Reserve Bank of India, has revised the auction calendar for the issuance of Government dated securities for the remaining part of H2 of 2016-17 as under:

Calendar for Issuance of Government of India Dated Securities (January 02, 2017 to February 10, 2017)
Sr. No.	Week of Auction	Amount in (Rs. Crore)	Security-wise allocation
1	January 02-06, 2017	11,000	i)  05-09 Years for Rs. 2,000-3000 crore
			ii)  10-14 Years for Rs. 5,000-6,000 crore
			iii) 15-19 Years for Rs. 1,000-2,000 crore
			iv) 20 Years & Above for Rs. 2,000-3,000 crore
2	January 09-13, 2017	11,000	i)  05-09 Years for Rs. 2,000-3000 crore
			ii)  10-14 Years for Rs. 5,000-6,000 crore
			iii) 15-19 Years for Rs. 1,000-2,000 crore
			iv) 20 Years & Above for Rs. 2,000-3,000 crore
3	January 16-20, 2017	11,000	i)  05-09 Years for Rs. 2,000-3000 crore
			ii)  10-14 Years for Rs. 5,000-6,000 crore
			iii) 15-19 Years for Rs. 1,000-2,000 crore
			iv) 20 Years & Above for Rs. 2,000-3,000 crore
4	January 23-27, 2017	11,000	i)  05-09 Years for Rs. 2,000-3000 crore
			ii)  10-14 Years for Rs. 5,000-6,000 crore
			iii) 15-19 Years for Rs. 1,000-2,000 crore
			iv) 20 Years & Above for Rs. 2,000-3,000 crore
5	January 30-February 03, 2017	11,000	i)  05-09 Years for Rs. 2,000-3000 crore
			ii)  10-14 Years for Rs. 5,000-6,000 crore
			iii) 15-19 Years for Rs. 1,000-2,000 crore
			iv) 20 Years & Above for Rs. 2,000-3,000 crore
6	February 06-10, 2017	11,000	i)  05-09 Years for Rs. 2,000-3000 crore
			ii)  10-14 Years for Rs. 5,000-6,000 crore
			iii) 15-19 Years for Rs. 1,000-2,000 crore
			iv) 20 Years & Above for Rs. 2,000-3,000 crore
Total		66,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

            As hitherto, all the auctions covered by the calendar will have the facility of non-competitive bidding scheme under which five per cent of the notified amount will be reserved for the specified retail investors.

 

Like in the past, the Government of India/ Reserve Bank of India will continue to have the flexibility to bring about modifications in the above calendar in terms of notified amount, issuance period, maturities etc. and to issue different types of instruments including instruments having non-standard maturity and floating rate instruments depending upon the requirement of the Government of India, evolving market conditions and other relevant factors after giving due notice.

 

 

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DSM/MS/KA

 

 

Auction for Sale (Re-issue) of ‘Government of India Floating Rate Bonds

Auction for Sale (Re-issue) of Government Stocks 

Government of India have announced the Sale (re-issue) of (i) “Government of India Floating Rate Bonds 2024” for a notified amount of  Rs. 2000 crore (nominal) through price based auction, (ii) “6.79 per cent Government Stock  2029” for a notified amount of Rs. 5,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction, (ii) “6.57 per cent Government Stock  2033” for a notified amount of Rs. 2,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction, (iv) “6.62 per cent Government Stock, 2051” for a notified amount of  Rs. 2,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction. The auctions will be conducted using multiple price method. The auctions will be conducted by the Reserve Bank of India, Mumbai Office, Fort, Mumbai on January 6, 2017 (Friday).

Up to 5% of the notified amount of the sale of the stocks will be allotted to eligible individuals and Institutions as per the Scheme for Non-Competitive Bidding Facility in the Auction of Government Securities.

Both competitive and non-competitive bids for the auction should be submitted in electronic format on the Reserve Bank of India Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) system on January 6, 2017. The non-competitive bids should be submitted between 10.30 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. and the competitive bids should be submitted between 10.30 a.m. and 12.00 noon.   

The result of the auctions will be announced on January 6, 2017 and payment by successful bidders will be on January 9, 2017 (Monday).   

 

The Stocks will be eligible for “When Issued” trading in accordance with the guidelines on ‘When Issued transactions in Central Government Securities’ issued by the Reserve Bank of India vide circular No. RBI/2006-07/178 dated November 16, 2006 as amended from time to time.

 

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Government realizes Rs.21,432.38 crore, by end-November 2016, through CPSEs’ disinvestment receipts, constituting around 59.53 % of the Budgeted Target of Rs. 36,000 crore ; 

Government takes various steps to accelerate the disinvestment process including replacement of annual plan with rolling plans, Fast tracking of approval process and to make Disinvestment programme more inclusive by following an approach to reserve 20 per cent of shares on PSUs-OFS transactions for retail investors on a case to case basis. 

 

Year End Review - 2016

Dept. of Investment & Public Asset Management, Ministry of Finance

 

 

 

 

 

Following are the major reform measures, policy initiatives and achievements of the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM), Ministry of Finance:

A.        Disinvestment Target  and Achievements during  2016-17

           

The disinvestment target for the Current Financial Year 2016-17 has been estimated at Rs.56,500 crore comprising Rs.36,000 crore from disinvestment of CPSEs and Rs.20,500 crore from strategic disinvestment.

 

            During the current financial year 2016-17, the Government has so far realized Rs.23528.73 crore, which include Rs.21,432.38 crore through minority stake sale in 14 CPSEs and Rs. 2096.35 crore through strategic disinvestment. The total realization of Rs. 21,432.38 crore, by end-November 2016 through CPSEs’ disinvestment receipts, constitutes around 59.53 per cent of the Budgeted Target of Rs. 36,000 crore (CPSEs’ disinvestment).

 

B.        Reform Measures and Policy Initiatives:

 

(a)           Steps taken to accelerate the disinvestment process:

 

The Department has taken following measures to accelerate the disinvestment process:

 

(i)        Replacing annual plan with rolling plans.

(ii)      Creating a pipeline of proposals for CPSEs to take advantage of better market condition without any loss of time.

(iii)    Fast tracking of approval process.

(iv)    Disinvestment programme made more inclusive by following an approach to reserve 20 per cent of shares on PSUs-OFS transactions for retail investors on a case to case basis.

(v)      Based on the suggestion made by the Department, SEBI has reduced the notice period for an OFS transaction from T-2 to T-1 (T being the transaction day). This will help in minimizing the possibility of price hammering between the notice day and the transaction day and suitably protecting the interest of retail investors by providing them sufficient time to participate in the OFS transaction.

 

(b)              Restructuring and re-naming the Department to comprehensively manage the Government’s investment in PSUs as DIPAM

 

(i)            The Union Finance Minister has underlined the need for adopting a comprehensive approach to efficiently manage its investment in CPSEs as highlighted in Para 89 of his Budget Speech of 2016-17 as below:

 

“We will adopt a comprehensive approach for efficient management of Government investment in CPSEs by addressing issues such as capital restructuring, dividend, bonus shares, etc. The Department of Disinvestment is being re-named as the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM)”

 

 

(ii)         In the light of the announcement made, the Department has been  re-named as Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) which is in line with focus of the Government on management of its investment in Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) for accelerating economic development as well as augmenting the Government resources for higher expenditure. It also underlines the Government’s recognition of its investment in CPSEs as an important asset for accelerating economic growth and commitment to efficient use of its resources to achieve a better return on its investment in CPSEs.

 

(iii)       As announced in the Budget, guidelines on “Capital Restructuring of CPSEs” have also been issued by this Department on 27^th May, 2016. These guidelines supersede all previously issued guidelines by various Ministries/Departments from time to time and comprehensively deal with the inter-related issues on payment of dividend, buy back of shares, issue of bonus shares and splitting of shares. The focus of these guidelines is on optimum utilization of funds by CPSEs/Government to spur economic growth.

 

C.    The major achievements/highlights in respect of disinvestment of CPSEs are as under:

 

 

Details in this regard as follows:

 

(i)            NHPC OFS

 

CCEA in its meeting held on 10.09.2014 approved 11.36 per cent disinvestment in NHPC out of GoI shareholding of 85.96% per cent, through an OFS. The OFS took place on 27.04.2016 & 28.04.2016. The Government realised an amount of Rs.2,716.55 crore.

 

(ii)          MOIL Buyback

 

The Alternative Mechanism in its meeting held on 07.06.2016 approved participation of Government in Buyback of shares by MOIL. The MOIL buyback offer opened on 19.09.2016 and closed on 30.09.2016. The Government realised an amount of Rs.793.87 crore.

 

(iii)        NMDC Buyback

 

The Alternative Mechanism in its meeting held on 07.06.2016 approved participation of Government in Buyback of shares by NMDC. The NMDC buyback offer opened on 19.09.2016 and closed on 30.09.2016. The Government realised an amount of Rs.7,519.15 crore.

 

(iv)        BEL Buyback

 

The Alternative Mechanism in its meeting held on 05.08.2016 approved participation of Government in Buyback of shares by BEL. The BEL buyback offer opened on 06.10.2016 and closed on 21.10.2016. The Government realised an amount of Rs.1,802.60 crore.

 

(v)          NTPC Employee OFS –

 

NTPC Employee OFS was opened on 27.06.2016 and closed on 05.07.2016. The Government realised an amount of Rs.203.78 crore.

 

(vi)        NHPC Employee OFS

 

NHPC Employee OFS was opened on 04.11.2016 and closed on 11.11.2016. The Government realised an amount of Rs.21.27 crore.

 

(vii)      DCIL Employee OFS

 

DCIL Employee OFS was opened on 31.10.2016 and closed on 15.11.2016. The Government realised an amount of Rs.0.93 crore.

 

 

 

 

(viii)        NALCO OFS

 

CCEA in its meeting held on 19/02/2015 approved disinvestment of 10 per cent paid up equity of National Aluminium Co. Ltd (NALCO) out of Government of India’s shareholding of 80.93 per cent through Offer for Sale (OFS).  The Legal Advisers and Merchant Bankers have been appointed and non deal road shows are being conducted.

 

(ix)          Buyback of shares by NALCO

 

Board of NALCO in its meeting held on 25^th May, 2016 recommended buyback of fully paid equity shares not exceeding 64,43,09,628 (of face value Rs. 5 each) at price of Rs. 44/- per share.  Government of India also participated in said buyback.  On this account, GoI received an amount of Rs. 2831.71 crore and its share holding came down to 74.57 per cent, from 80.93 per cent prior to buyback.

 

(x)           HCL OFS

 

CCEA in its meeting held on 13/05/2015 had approved disinvestment of 15 per cent paid-up equity of Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL) out of Government of India’s shareholding of 89.95 per cent through Offer for Sale (OFS).  In first tranche, disinvestment of 7 per cent paid-up equity capital of HCL through OFS method was held on 29/09/2016 & 30/09/2016.  A total number of 6,47,65,260 equity shares were offered for sale at floor price of Rs. 62/- per share.  The issue was over-subscribed and GoI received an amount of Rs. 399.93 crores as disinvestment proceeds from the said transaction.

 

           (xi)          Buyback of shares by CIL

 

The Board of Coal India Limited in its meeting held on 11^th July, 2016 recommended buyback of fully paid equity shares not exceeding 10,89,55,223 ( Face value Rs. 10) at Rs. 335/- per equity share.  GoI participated in said buyback.  On this

account, Government of India received an amount of Rs. 2638.24 crore.  Post buyback, the GoI shareholding in CIL has slightly increased to 79.78 per cent from 79.65 per cent prior to buyback.

 

(xii)      CONCOR Employees OFS

 

Government has received an amount of Rs. 9.34 crore on account of transfer of shares to the employees of CONCOR held in September, 2016 post OFS of the Company.

 

(xiii)     IOCL   Employees OFS

 

Government has received an amount of Rs. 262 crore on account of transfer of shares to the employees of IOCL held in May, 2016 post OFS of the Company.

 

 

 

(xiv)     NBCC OFS

 

OFS of 15 per cent Government of India shareholding in NBCC was launched on 20th October, and completed on 21st October, 2016. The OFS's sale proceeds was Rs. 2201.14 crore.

 

(xv)      Disinvestment of SUUTI holdings

 

1,48,23,702 shares of Larsen & Toubro Ltd (1.62 per cent of the equity capital of the company) was sold out of SUUTI's strategic shareholding by bulk trades on 4th November, 2016. Government received an amount of Rs. 2096,34,65,993/- from this sale. Strategic holding of SUUTI comprise shares of Axis Bank, ITC Ltd. and L&T shares.

 

4. Strategic Disinvestment

 

            Procedure and mechanism for strategic disinvestment of CPSEs was approved by CCEA in February, 2016. The CCEA Note seeking in-principle approval on First and Second tranche recommendations of NITI Aayog on strategic disinvestment of CPSEs, incorporating the recommendations of CGD, thereon has been approved by CCEA in its meeting held on 27th October, 2016. Action has been initiated on the process of strategic disinvestment of the CPSEs accordingly.

 

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DSM/MS/KA

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is a Very Important Platform for Engagement of Government of India and State Governments with Overseas Indian Community: Shri Dnyaneshwar Mulay 

The 14th PBD Convention to held from 7 to 9 January, 2017 in Bengaluru in partnership with Karnataka on theme "Redefining Engagement with the Indian Diaspora.”

 

Following is the transcript of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2017: Curtain Raiser Briefing (January 2, 2017)

Official Spokesperson, Shri Vikas Swarup: Good evening friends and welcome to the first press briefing of 2017. Let me take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a very happy and peaceful 2017.

Today as you know we have gathered to give you a briefing on the forthcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2017. This is going to be the first PBD to be held under the new format about which External Affairs Minister had briefed you in her press conferences. So we are here to tell you more about this very important event which really marks the engagement with the diaspora for us.

I have with me a very distinguished panel, Secretary Overseas Indian Affairs and CPV, Shri Dnyaneshwar Mulay. Then I have with me Commissioner Industrial Development from the Government of Karnataka, Shri Gaurav Gupta and of course Mrs. Vani Rao Joint Secretary, Overseas Indian Affairs too.

The way we will handle this is Secretary OIA will give you a broad understanding of the program of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and what we expect from it and then Shri Gaurav Gupta will brief you on the Bengaluru specific and rather the Karnataka specific details. After all there is a particular reason why we chose to partner with the government of Karnataka this time so he will brief you in greater detail on that aspect. With that I give the floor to Shri Dnyaneshwar Mulay.

Secretary (CPV & OIA), Shri Dnyaneshwar Mulay: Good afternoon friends. The Ministry is organizing the 14th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention from 7 - 9 January in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is a very important platform for engagement of the government of India and the state governments with the overseas Indian community. PBD has been held traditionally on 9th January every year to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi as a Pravasi from South Africa to India.

Presently there are nearly 3.12 crore i.e. about 31.2 million overseas Indians settled globally, of which nearly 1.34 crore i.e. 13.4 million are Persons of Indian Origin and 1.78 crore i.e. 17.8 million are Non Resident Indians. The first PBD was held in January 2003 in New Delhi. So far 13 editions of the PBD Convention have been held, the last in Gandhinagar, Gujarat in January 2015 which coincided with the 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s return from South Africa.

The PBD is often held in cities outside Delhi in partnership with states which have large diaspora populations outside Delhi. PBD Conventions have traditionally seen participation of a large number of Overseas Indians, however the convention was becoming a repetitive event without significant outcomes therefore the PBD format has been revamped under the guidance of Hon’ble EAM. The Government has therefore decided that the PBD Convention will henceforth be held once in two years. As per this decision in 2016, ten PBD Conferences were held in New Delhi on subjects of relevance to both overseas Indian community and the Government of India. To each of these conferences we invited overseas Indians who are domain experts in their respective fields, policy makers and stakeholders in India, enabling a direct dialogue between the overseas Indians and stakeholders in India.

The 14th PBD Convention will be held from 7 to 9 January, 2017, in Bengaluru in partnership with the State of Karnataka with the theme "Redefining Engagement with the Indian Diaspora.” We have been working closely with the government of Karnataka and the representative here today, to organize the event and we appreciate the cooperation and assistance which we are receiving from the state government and various departments which are involved on their behalf.

I will now run through some main program elements of the 14th PBD Convention. First, the Youth Pravaasi Divas. On January 7, the Youth PBD will be inaugurated by Shri Vijay Goel, Minister of State Independent Charge for Youth Affairs and Sports and Minister of State for External Affairs Gen V K Singh. Vice President of Surinam Mr. Michael Ashwin Adhin who is just 36 years old, will be the Special Guest.

Youth PBD seeks to reconnect young overseas Indians with their Indian roots and enhance their awareness of both contemporary India and the culture and heritage of India. The inaugural session will be about the theme "Role of Diaspora Youth in the Transformation of India.” Youth PBD will see participation of 160 Indian origin youth visiting under four of our "Know India” programs, 250 graduate and postgraduate students from the National Service Scheme and 200 students from Bengaluru colleges. This has been arranged so as to have a wider representation.

Highlight of the youth PBD will be sessions on start-ups and innovations which have a social impact in India and start-up ecosystem in Karnataka. The Karnataka government will host a cultural evening focusing on their State’s music and dance forms.

On 8 January, the PBD Convention will be inaugurated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister who will deliver the keynote address. Prime Minister of Portugal Dr. Antonio Costa will be the Chief Guest for the inaugural function. Ministers from Malaysia Dato’ Seri S. Samy Vellu, Special Envoy of the Government of Malaysia for Infrastructure, Dato’ Seri Dr. S Subramaniyam, Minister of Health and Mauritius Minister Mr. Prithvi Raj Singh Roopun will also participate in the PBD as special guests.

The Union Minister of HRD Shri Prakash Javadekar, Minister of Culture and Tourism Shri Mahesh Sharma, Minister of Health Shri J P Nadda, some ministers from the state governments and several Members of Parliament will also participate.

This will be followed by the Chief Minister's session. We invited all the Chief Minister to participate as the PBD is an excellent opportunity for them to connect with the diaspora and also showcase their respective States. Eight Chief ministers have so far confirmed including Karnataka, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh and Puducherry. There will be plenary sessions after lunch, the day culminates with a cultural evening hosted by the Minister of External Affairs to give a glimpse of India's varied forms of dance and music.

On January 9, i.e. the last day of the PBD convention there will be several plenary sessions on issues which are of significance to the Indian diaspora such as immigration to ECR countries, role of diaspora organizations, the Indian community in the Girmitiya countries etc. The Hon’ble President will deliver the valedictory address and confer the prestigious Pravaasi Bhartiya Samman awards on 30 Overseas Indians in India and abroad. From 2017 there will be 30 PBSA awards in each PBD convention as the awards will now be granted once in two years.

On January 9, 2017, Indian missions and consulates all over the world will also celebrate PBD in their respective jurisdictions with participation of the overseas Indian community. I would like to highlight some unique aspects of the PBD Convention this year.

The logo, you might have seen it already, the logo of the PBD was selected through an open competition launched in www.mygov.in earlier this year. We developed a portal www.pbdindia.gov.in which gives program and highlights of the convention and is being updated regularly. Delegate registration is also through this portal. All sessions in PBD 2017 will be in plenary format and there will be no concurrent sessions. This has been done to ensure good attendance in all the sessions. All sessions will be interactive to enable a direct dialogue with the delegates through a designated Q&A session during which Overseas Indian delegates can convey their suggestions and comments. All sessions will be live streamed globally.

One of the attractions at the PBD is an exhibition which will give an opportunity to delegates to know more about the government's ongoing programs and see the vast strides that the nation has taken in various sectors and states. For the first time the PBD exhibition will have five specific themes and zones i.e. Flagship programs of the Government of India, Schemes and programs for NRIs and PIOs, Opportunities in states for Business Investment Tourism, Incentives for NRIs and PIOs etc. then Indian Handicraft and Cultural Bazaar including sale and demonstration by artisans and finally Corporate Sector, where it will feature the Indian corporate sector and PSUs etc.

The highlight of the exhibition is again a pavilion about India's top 20 social innovators which will feature 20 start-ups selected on the basis of nationwide contest organized by the Ministry of External Affairs. The contest which was organized on mygov portal, call for applications from start-ups and innovators who had a social impact in India. The winner will be awarded a certificate and cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh. There will be a designated B2B meeting lounge in the exhibition area, this is being done for the first time. We have launched a B2B platform online www.pbdb2b.in through which delegates can pre-arrange meetings with each other, exhibitors, corporate sector and government official who are participating in the PBD.

To enable enhanced participation of young Indian diaspora, registration fees for this segment have been reduced substantially. The registration fees for group registrations have also been rationalized so that Indian associations, Community organizations and Indian Professional organizations abroad can participate in good numbers. Our Missions and Consulates abroad will also celebrate PBD on 9th January.

More than 4000 delegates are expected to participate. We have very good registrations so far and we are hoping that there will be more registrations in the coming days, particularly from the overseas participants. We look forward to welcoming diaspora groups from Malaysia, Mauritius, UAE and Qatar which are sending groups of Overseas Indians to the PBD. Qatar is in fact sending one of its largest delegations of Overseas Indians to the PBD, nearly 140 persons. We look forward to welcoming all of them at the PBD in Bengaluru.

A mobile app for convenience of delegates has been introduced for the first time. The app PBD 2017 is available in Google Play and Apple App Store and can be installed free of cost. The app will update the delegates about program and other highlights of PBD 2017 and will give real-time updates of the event. Coupled with the fact that the venue will have free Wi-Fi, the app is expected to prove to be a useful tool for delegates on the go. The app is also eco-friendly and in keeping with technology of the day.

We hope that the Convention will enable the government to continue our engagement with Overseas Indian Community, address some issues which pertain to them, take on board their suggestions and feedback. We will also celebrate at PBD, the achievements of the Indian diaspora and take pride in their success. With this I would conclude my opening remarks, if you have any questions I will be happy to take them. Thank you.

Official Spokesperson, Shri Vikas Swarup: I would like to thank Secretary, OIA, for giving this comprehensive briefing on the 14th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. I now turn to our representative from the Government of Karnataka Shri Gaurav Gupta, a senior IAS officer, to brief you on the Karnataka specific aspects of the PBD.

Representative of Karnataka Govt. Shri Gaurav Gupta: Good afternoon and happy New Year to all of you. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention organized by Ministry of External Affairs as a flagship event to connect India to the vast diaspora is being organized 7 - 9th January every year and this time Bengaluru has been chosen as the venue and Karnataka is the host state.

The main events related to Pravasi Bharatiya Divas are, 7th January, the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, with participation of young Indian origin youth. 8th January, the inauguration of PBD by Hon’ble Prime Minister, session with Chief Ministers of various states and the other plenary sessions and 9th there will four plenary sessions and conferment of Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards.

Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre has been finalized as the venue for conducting the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. This venue has been visited a number of times. There has been an MoU which has been signed between the Ministry of External Affairs and Government of Karnataka. As part of this, it is decided that the cost of hiring the venue is borne by the State government, the preparatory work and additional infrastructure at event venue is being taken up by the event manager appointed and paid for by Ministry of External Affairs.

Other responsibilities specified in the MoUs are being carried out by the State Government. In particular, issues of media, publicity and the outdoor branding etc. are being taken up by the State Government on the basis of creatives being provided by Ministry of External Affairs. State Government has also provided for budgetary support towards the venue cost, advertisement & media, cultural programs, food, transportation, accommodation etc. and Government has released the necessary funds for this purpose.

Hon’ble Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development, Government of Karnataka has held several meetings, seven meetings to be precise, with the senior officers of all departments concerned. The Ministry of External Affairs has also been present through its representatives in these meetings and beside that there are various committees that have been constituted for successful organizing of Pravaasi Bharatiya Divas. This includes Coordination committee under the chairmanship of far Hon’ble Minister, Monitoring committee under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary to Government of Karnataka and sub-committees are chaired by Additional Chief Secretaries to the Government.

The State Government is also organizing two sessions and their responsibility has been given to us. 7th January session to showcase start-up ecosystems in Karnataka which is titled "Fuelling Growth Through Disruptive Innovations,” knowing fully well that Karnataka and Bangalore are the start-up centers for India. So "Fuelling Growth Through Disruptive Innovation” is being organized by the Department of Information Technology, Bio-technology and Science & Technology.

Another session will showcase investment opportunities in Karnataka which is titled "Innovate, Invent and Invest in Karnataka.” We all know that Karnataka is one of the major recipient states for foreign direct investments and we look forward to engaging the diaspora for investments and investment opportunities in the State of Karnataka.

Karnataka Government will also be arranging cultural programs on 7th January which will be choreographed and presented by the Department of Culture. This will be followed by dinner for the Yuva Pravasi Bharatiya Divas delegates, again hosted by the State Government. We are also providing for university students participation in the Youth Pravasi Divas programs on the 7th of January.

On the 9th, lunch is also being hosted by the State Government. State Government is also organizing industrial visits on 7th and 10th January. These industrial visits are to various locations of interest, I will specifically mention visit to Information Technology Park Ltd in Whitefield organized by Department of Information Technology and Biotechnology, visit to IAMAI Mobile accelerator NASSCOM 10k start-up warehouse, NASSCOM-IoT Centre of Excellence in Diamond district Domlur organized by Department of Information Technology and visit to the Electronics City Association and Bangalore Bio-innovation Centre Bangalore organized by Department of Biotechnology, Government of Karnataka. And also the fourth visit to High-tech Defence and Aerospace Park Devanahalli. This will be organized by the Karnataka Industries Department.

We are also organizing a number of sightseeing tours which are being organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, which includes day-sightseeing tours around Bangalore. Mysore, Kabini and such other places by Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation on payment basis. I would also like to mention that the State Government has been allocated one thousand square meters of exhibition space at the PBD Exhibition for showcasing the policies, and progress of State Government and public sector undertakings.

The design and execution of this Karnataka pavilion is also being taken up by us. We also are organizing the media & publicity through newspapers, hoardings, airport hoardings, bus shelters and bus branding and through skywalks, gantries and metro pillars etc. Newspaper advertisements will also be taken up on 8th and 9th January by the State government on the basis of the list forwarded by Government of India.

We are organizing a number of liaison officers for assisting the guests and also arranging for protocol. The list of speakers, the MPs of Parliamentary Committees and External Affairs, Chief Ministers of 9 states, Chief Guest and Special guest for Youth Pravasi Divas who are invited and this list of liaison officers has been shared and we have also held one session to brief them about the arrangements required.

Shuttle services are also being provided between the city and the Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre, the venue is about the 15 to 20 km away on the Tumkur road and the commute time will be typically about one hour.

As regards to security, a lot of effort has gone into this. Traffic management plan and security plan for the participating dignitaries has been prepared by the Home Department. Additional CCTV cameras and baggage scanners sought by the police department are being arranged and regarding parking space outside the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre and across the National Highway 4 on Tumkur road have been blocked. The NHAI has been asked and they have agreed to remove the median opposite the venue on the event day so that we can have smooth flow of traffic.

Toll free exclusively lanes for movement of PBD delegates during the event days has been arranged. Fire and emergency services are in place. The work of asphalting of four helipads and connecting road to BIEC has been initiated and this will be over soon. 2000 Souvenirs Mysore inlay work on Rosewood is being prepared by Kanaka Handicraft Development Corporation for presentation to the delegates. Karnataka tourist guidebooks are being arranged by the Department for insertion in the delegate kits.

City beautification works have been initiated by the Municipal Corporation of Bangalore i.e. Bangalore Development Authority and Horticulture Department. Action has been initiated for setting up the dispensary & emergency health services in the venue premises. Disaster management plan, a detailed disaster management plan is in place and also there have been special permissions issued by the Commercial Tax Department for transport of goods to and from the venue for the exhibition participants.

Temporary TIN numbers for exhibition participants who wish to sell items is also being arranged. Facilitation desk for dignitaries and delegates is arranged in the airport for coordination between the logistics partner of MEA and the International airport in Bangalore. There are other works which are relating to infrastructure in the city, a road over-bridge near the venue has been completed, uninterrupted power supply is being provided and arrangements have also been made for issue of passes for the registered delegates in consultation with MEA. MEA is printing the passes and the distribution will be taken care of by us. We were providing a center for this purpose. The details of several other programs are with me and as and when required I will share with you.

Thank you.

****

YSK/Uma

BHIM will create Equality 

Ambedkar’s name to take Centre - Stage in India's economy :  Ramesh Jigajinagi                                    

The new indigenously developed payment app 'BHIM'  (Bharat Interface for Money)    has been named after the main architect of Indian constitution,    Bhim Rao Ambedkar. Through this app, Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar's  name will take the  centre-stage in India's economy. The day is not far, when people will conduct their business through this app.  This app will create financial equality in the Country, as envisaged by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar ’ said Ramesh Jigajinagi , Union Minister of State, Ministry of Drinking water and sanitation. 

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi  has been introducing many welfare Schemes for the Developments of Dalits, backward classes and financially backward class people. Indeed, BHIM will curb black money system and create equality in the society. It will support them, he said.   

BHIM is a biometric payment system app using Aadhar platform, and is based on Unified Payment Interface (UPI) to facilitate e-payments directly through bank. It was launched to stress on the importance of technology and digital transactions. It can be used on all mobile devices, be it a smartphone or a feature phone with or without internet connection, he added.  

The payments through the new system (BHIM App) can be made by just a thumb impression after the bank account is linked with Aadhaar gateway. Indeed, the technology through BHIM will empower poorest of the poor, small business and the marginalised section.

Recalling that India, once described as golden bird (Sone ki Chidiya), became poor due to certain mistakes, Our PM’s visions to regain the Country’s potential and its past glory once again. The Prime Minister also appealed to the people to undertake at least five transactions daily through mobile phones and let the country lead the digital movement.

The new app is expected to minimise the role of plastic cards and point of sale machines. The app will eliminate fee payments for service providers like MasterCard and Visa, which has been a stumbling block in people switching to digital payments.

The app can be used to send and receive money through smartphones. Money can also be sent to non UPI supported banks. Bank balance can also be checked through the app. Currently Hindi and English are supported in the app, with more languages coming soon. Indicating that the e-wallet app will feature fingerprint verification in future, "Only thumb will be needed to make a payment. Thumb will be your bank now".  People should utilize the app and support this to curb black money and to create  financial equality, he appealed. 

******

SNC

 

Defence Minister compliments Directorate General Defence Estates for its successful Swachhta Campaign 

Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar appreciated the efforts of Directorate General Defence Estates (DGDE) in translating the concept of Swachh Bharat campaign into reality. Addressing a press conference, here today on the successful conclusion of Swachhta Pakhwada in the cantonments under the aegis of DGDE, the Minister said during the pakhwada, DGDE has managed to dispose of nearly 10,800 MT of garbage through Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) from their cantonments which is itself an achievement. On this occasion, the Minister also released a booklet on the ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in cantonments’ during the pakhwada.

 

In his welcome address, Additional DGDE Shri P Daniel gave a presentation on the activities of its 62 notified cantonments in the successful implementation of the Swachhta Pakhwada, which was observed from 01 to 15 December 2016 all over India. He said cantonment boards are now trying to introduce Solid Waste Management System in their areas on the lines of the system being operated in Goa. The boards have also introduced modern bio-digester toilets developed by DRDO and all efforts are on to declare all cantonments as ‘Open Defecation Free’ as per guidelines of the Ministry of Urban Development

 

Shri Daniel further said that after checking, it was confirmed that no insanitary latrines were found in any cantonment and 171 toilets were attended to during the pakhwada. He also mentioned that approximately 762 kms of drains and sewers were cleaned, intensive cleaning of roads and trimming of roadside trees and management of trenching ground were executed during the exercise.  To create more awareness about the Swachhta campaign, DGDE has now decided that such activities will be carried out periodically by cantonment boards under the motto ‘Swachh Chhavni Swasth Chhavni’, to sustain the momentum of the Swachh Bharat Campaign. The message of the campaign will also be spread through a Mini Marathon and a drawing/painting competition, which will be organised by all cantonments on 15 and 22 January 2017 as part of the Republic Day celebrations, he added.

 

The function was attended by Minister of State for Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri AK Gupta, Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) Shri Prabhu Dayal Meena, Director General Defence Estates Shri Jojneswar Sharma and Addl Secretary (MoD) Shri JRK Rao.

 

NW/NAo/DM/RAJ

Dr Jitendra Singh discusses Manipur situation with state Governor Dr Najma Heptulla 

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh called on the Governor of Manipur, Dr. Najma Heptulla, here today and discussed the prevailing situation in the State.

 

Dr. Jitendra Singh brought to the notice of the Governor that during the last few weeks, there have been a series of representations from different sections of Northeastern society, expressing their concern and at the same time, also offering inputs and suggestions. He said, he has been, from time to time, placing these inputs before the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and the concerned agencies. The Central Government is not only keeping a close watch on the recent developments in the State but is also constantly offering all kinds of possible cooperation and assistance to the State Government, he added.

 

Dr. Najma Heptulla shared her observations and experiences about the recent developments in the State. Dr. Najma Heptulla said she has been personally interacting with different sections and groups, both from political as well as social spectrum, in a sincere bid to ensure peace and amity in the region.

 

Dr. Najma Heptulla also gave a brief resume of the discussions held by her with different members of the State Government including the Chief Minister and her assessment of the situation as it prevails today. She also shared the written chronological record of various meetings held by her and the deputations received by her during the last two to three months.

 

Dr. Jitendra Singh assured the Governor that he would continue to keep in regular touch with her and seek her inputs. At the same time, he said, he will also convey the Governor’s observations to all the concerned in the Union Government.

 

Year End Review: Ministry of AYUSH 

            The Ministry of AYUSH made a number of important strides in the year 2016 to strengthen and popularise the alternative systems of medicine. Only two years old Ministry organised a series of programmes in the direction of providing affordable, reliable and easily accessible medical facilities to the masses. Schemes were introduced to boost research and MOUs were signed to enhance cooperation with other countries in the field of Homeopathy, Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine. 

 

The patient-centric approach of the AYUSH systems of medicine, namely Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha & Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy hold significant potential for finding solutions to India’s public health challenges. The Ministry continued to make special efforts to promote these Systems.

 

CELEBRATION OF INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA:

 

Government of India continues to take global leadership in the observation of the International Day of Yoga on 21st June every year, and uses the occasion to propagate this holistic approach to health and well-being across the national boundaries. In India, an estimated 50 lakh people participated in yoga training programmes of up to 1 month duration held as part of the observation of the International Day of Yoga in 2016, making it an unprecedented exercise in promotion of preventive healthcare in India.

 

The second International Day of Yoga was celebrated by organising various events concerning Yoga including Mass Yoga Demonstration at National and International level.  The main event of Mass Yoga Demonstration was organized at Capital Complex, Chandigarh on 21st June, 2016.  Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared two Awards- International and National Awards for outstanding contribution in Yoga.  Prime Minister also declared to focus on Yoga for diabetes during the current year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Large number of people joined PM at IDY-2016 at Chandigarh)

 

A National Yoga Olympiad was also jointly organized by National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) under the Ministry of Human Resource Development and Ministry of AYUSH.

 

191 United Nations (UN) Member-States celebrated the 2nd International Day of Yoga spread across an entire week from June 18-26, 2016.

 

 

CELEBRATION OF 1^ST NATIONAL AYURVEDA DAY:

 

The Ministry of AYUSH celebrated the First National Ayurveda Day on 28th October, 2016 by organizing the daylong Seminar on Ayurveda & Diabetes.

 

A Seminar on theme “Ayurveda for Prevention and Control of Diabetes” was organized during the celebration of National Ayurveda Day at Constitution Club of India, New Delhi. A documentary film on ‘Ayurveda and diabetes’, “A Protocol for prevention and Control of  Diabetes through Ayurveda” and a Compendium of selected research papers on Ayurveda for diabetes care were released during the Seminar.  “Mission Madhumeha through Ayurveda” was also launched for prevention and control of diabetes through Ayurveda.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NATIONAL AYUSH MISSION:

 

The Government of India has approved and notified National AYUSH Mission (NAM) on 29.09.2014 which envisages better access to AYUSH Services; strengthening of AYUSH educational institutions, facilitate the enforcement of quality control of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani & Homoeopathy (ASU &H) drugs and sustainable availability of ASU & H raw-materials in the States/UTs during 12th Plan.

 

The National AYUSH Mission (NAM) inter-alia makes provision for the following:-

o        Co-location of AYUSH facilities at Primary Health Centers (PHCs), Community Health Centers (CHCs) and District Hospitals (DHs).

o        Up gradation of exclusive State Government AYUSH Hospitals and Dispensaries.

o        Setting up of up to 50 bedded integrated AYUSH Hospital.

o        Upgradation of State Government Educational Institutions.

o        Setting up of new State Government AYUSH Educational Institutions including Yoga and Naturopathy in the State where it is not available.

o        Strengthening of State Government/ Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy (ASU&H) Pharmacies and Drug Testing Laboratories (DTL).

o        Cultivation and Promotion of Medicinal Plants.

o        Provision has also been kept for flexible components under.

NAM for which 20% of the resources have been earmarked, an amount of Rs. 331.01 Crore has been released to 33 States/UTs during 2015-16 under NAM. Further, till date an amount of Rs 290.09 Crore has been released to 28 States/UTs during 2016-17.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION:

 

The Ministry of AYUSH took the following activities to globalized the popularity of AYUSH Systems of medicine:-

 

A two-day India-US Workshop on Traditional Medicine was organized at New Delhi on 3-4 March, 2016 in association with DHHS, US Embassy, New Delhi. The event would pave way for the future collaborations with US in the field of Traditional systems of Medicine. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(India-US Workshop on Traditional Medicine)

The Ministry of AYUSH supported the organization of ‘International Convention on World Homoeopathy Day’, on 9-10 April, 2016 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi organized jointly by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) and Liga Medicorum Homoeopathica Internationalis (LMHI). LMHI is an International registered professional organization, committed to development, promotion and research in Homoeopathy in various parts of world through its worldwide network and has representation in different countries. The Convention provided an excellent platform to deliberate on the existing scenario of Homoeopathy in India and other countries; evolve framework and strategy for development of Homoeopathy; interdisciplinary and international research co-operations; and to promote appropriate integration of Homoeopathy into health care system in different countries.

 

An MoU for setting up of a Homoeopathy Chair at Yerevan State Medical University (YSMU), Armenia and an MoU on cooperation in the field of Research & Education in Homoeopathic Medicine with College of Homoeopathy (COH), Ontario was signed on 9th April, 2016 during the “International Convention on World Homoeopathy Day” at New Delhi.

 

The Ministry of AYUSH signed a Project Collaboration Agreement with the World Health Organization (WHO), Hqs, Geneva on 13th May, 2016. Under the agreement benchmarks would be developed for training in Yoga and practice in Ayurveda, Unani and Panchkarma.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Signing of agreement between M/o AYUSH and WHO at Geneva)

 

The Ministry of AYUSH has signed an MoU on cooperation in field of Traditional Medicine with the Ministry of Health & Sports of the Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar on 29th August 2016 in the presence of  Prime Minister of India, and President of Myanmar at New Delhi. The MoU will provide a structured framework to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the areas of traditional medicine. 

 

Five AYUSH Information Cells have been set up by the Ministry to disseminate authentic information about AYUSH Systems of Medicine in Israel, Tajikistan, Peru, Russia and Tanzania.

 

An MoU for cooperation in the field of Traditional medicine was signed between United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Convention, USA and Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian medicine (PCIM) on 24th August, 2016 at Ministry of AYUSH, New Delhi.

 

The Ministry of AYUSH in collaboration with Ministry of External Affairs, RIS and others organized a two-day BRICS Wellness Workshop at Bengaluru during 10-11 September, 2016. Traditional Medicine / Wellness experts from the BRICS countries participated in the BRICS Wellness Workshop. Simultaneously, a four day AROGYA fair, a comprehensive Health and Wellness Fair showcasing strengths of Traditional Systems / Wellness sector in India as well as other BRICS partner countries was also organized by the Ministry of AYUSH during 10-13 September, 2016 at Bengaluru.

 

CCRH has signed an MoU with University of Maimonides, Argentina for cooperation in the field of Homoeopathy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(MoU signed between CCRH and University of Maimonides, Argentina)

 

CCRAS has signed two MoUs one each with the University of Latvia and Instituto Universitario del Gran Rosario and The Government of Fundacion de Salud Ayurveda Prema, Argentina for setting up of Academic Chairs in Ayurveda; and two MoUs one each with The TEL AVIV SOURASKY MEDICAL CENTER (TASMC), ISRAEL and University of Alberta, Canada for Cooperation in the field of Ayurvedic Medicine.

 

Ministry of AYUSH organized the 9th Annual meeting of the International Regulatory Cooperation for Herbal Medicines (IRCH) during 8-10 November 2016 at New Delhi. IRCH has been working to protect and promote public health and safety through improved regulations for herbal medicine across the globe. India is one of the 33 members of IRCH and has regularly been participating in the Annual IRCH working group meetings. The meeting was attended by 17 Member Countries with 33 delegates including 3 WHO officials. Quality of herbal material & products and vigilance of herbal medicines were deliberated in detail for promotion and facilitating the safe use of herbal medicines.  The event provided an excellent platform to showcase the strengths of AYUSH systems of medicine.

 

As a result of concerted efforts made by the Ministry of AYUSH in collaboration with Ministry of Culture and Ministry of External Affairs, Yoga has been inscribed in the UNESCO's representative list as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on 1st December, 2016 which would further propagate ideas of peace and tolerance in other countries.

 

The Ministry of AYUSH organized the “BRICS High Level Meeting on Traditional Medicinal Knowledge” on 16th December 2016 at New Delhi as part of the 6th BRICS Health Minister’s Meeting. The High Level Meeting was organized as a follow up to the “Goa Declaration” adopted at the 8th BRICS Summit. There were country presentations from each of the BRICS countries on the status of Traditional/Alternative Medicine in their respective countries followed by the discussions on way forward for bilateral and multilateral collaboration among the BRICS countries on Protection of Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge at International Forum; mutual recognition of pharmacopoeias, practice and practitioners; and import/export of Traditional/Alternative Medicines etc. An extensive  deliberations led to finalization of the Action Plan which was unanimously adopted by the BRICS Member Countries.

 

Commercialization of AYUSH Medicine:

 

The National Research Development Corporation has licensed Ayurvedic formulation ‘AYUSH-82’ for management of Diabetes and Ayurvedic Drug ‘Ayush-64’ for treatment of Malaria. Both the medicines are developed by Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) an Autonomous Organisation under the Ministry of AYUSH.

NRDC has licensed five companies during the year 2016 for manufacture of AYUSH-82.

National Research Development Corporation has so far licensed 13 Ayurvedic technologies developed by CCRAS, M/o AYUSH to more than 33 companies in India.

 

INFORMATION EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION:

 

An important initiative of the Ministry for promoting and propagating AYUSH systems is organization of Arogya Fairs, which began in 2001, has spread to all parts of the country.  During the year 2016-17, two State Level Arogya fairs have been organized at Shillong & Shimla and two National Level Arogya fairs at Bangalore and Kolkata in collaboration with the State Government and the collaborative Trade Promotion Organizations like FICCI, CII, World Ayurveda Foundation, ASSOCHAM etc.

 

 

 

NATIONAL INSTITUTIONS:

 

North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Homoeopathy- Shillong has been inaugurated by Honble MOS(IC)(AYUSH) on 22^nd December, 2016.  It is a state of the art institute consisting of Ayurveda College and Homoeopathy College along with attached hospital is of Ayurveda and Homoeopathy of 100 beds and 50 beds respectively. The objective of the institute is to provide better medicinal/clinical facilities to the people of North East Region and Sikkim.

 

The following two new Institutes are to be operational during the current year(2016-17):

 

(i).        The All India Institute of Ayurveda established at New Delhi has been conceived as an Apex Institute of Ayurveda with 200 bedded referral hospital for imparting education in the field of Ayurveda at M.D. and Ph.D level.

 

(ii)        North Eastern Institute of Folk Medicine (NEIFM), Pasighat-Arunachal Pradesh: It is the Centre of Excellence and Apex Research Centre for all aspect of Folk Medicine knowledge. The objective of the institute is to provide better medical/clinical facilities in  Region

           

The Ministry of AYUSH has also planned to establish an All India Institute of Homoeopathy at Narela, Delhi, All India Institute of Unani Medicine at Ghaziabad (Uttar Pradesh) and an All India Institute of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy each at Goa and Panchkula(Haryana).

 

EDUCATION POLICY:

 

The Ministry has taken a policy decision for processing of the cases of ASU Colleges for grant/denial of permission to take admission in UG/PG courses under section 13C/13A of the IMCC Act, 1970 for the academic session 2016-17.

 

During the academic session 2016-17, permissions have been granted as per the provisions of section 13A of the Indian Medicine Central Council (IMCC) Act, 1970:

 

                    i.            to establish forty two new Ayurveda colleges with total 3200 seats in UG (BAMS) course, four new Unani colleges with total 260 seats in UG (BUMS) course and one new Siddha college with total 100 seats in UG (BSMS) course,

 

                  ii.            to increase the admission capacity by 800 UG (BAMS) seats & 12 PG seats in the existing  32 Ayurveda colleges and by 94 UG (BUMS) seats in existing 04 Unani Colleges, and

 

                iii.            to open new Post-Graduate Courses in existing 24 Ayurveda colleges with 330 PG seats.

 

Out of 297 existing ASU Colleges, the permission for the period not exceeding five years was accorded to 81 Ayurveda colleges, 14 Unani College and 05 Siddha colleges from the academic session 2016-17 and conditional permission was accorded for the academic session 2016-17 to 135 Ayurveda colleges, 23 Unani colleges and 03 Siddha colleges. For the Academic Session 2016-17, permission denied to 36 ASU (31 Ayurveda, 01 Siddha & 04 Unani) Colleges

 

RESEARCH INSTITUTES:

 

Five autonomous Research Councils, namely, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy (CCRYN), Central Council for Research in Unani Medicines (CCRUM), Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS) and Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) with the mandate to under-take research in their respective system are functioning under the Ministry of AYUSH.  Besides  major works undertaken by these Research Councils relating to clinical research,  fundamental research,  collaborative research, outreach programmes, seminar, publications, infrastructure development, the Research Councils initiated a string of actions towards promotion of AYUSH system.    Some of the major achievements are as below:-

 

(i)       An award scheme has been approved by the Ministry of AYUSH whereby  CCRAS during the Dhanwantri day, conferred honours to pioneers in the field of Ayurveda viz.,  best research paper award; young scientists award; life time achievement award and best teacher award.  Similar award system has been approved for Homoeopathy also.

      

(ii)      Further, in order to  establish a  merit oriented research work-force; induction  of quality researchers  for its projects; and help   universities and scholars to conduct quality research work, the Ministry of AYUSH has approved  fellowship scheme for providing grants to eligible research scholars for pursuing  Ph.D programmes from an institute of their choice.  For selecting scholars from AYUSH stream, an all India competition is being conducted by the Research Councils, namely, AYUSH NET is  scheduled to be held on 8/1/2017. 

 

(iii)     To furtherance the cause of education related to AYUSH system, the Ministry has approved starting of M.D and Ph.D programmes at CCRUM’s clinical centres at Srinangar and Hyderabad.  The Homoeopathy institute under CCRH at Kottayam have been identified as a potential education centre for mental disease and it has been decided to strengthen its infrastructure accordingly.

 

(iv)     In order to align the system of AYUSH with modern medicines, it has been decided to jointly study the leads available with the AYUSH for drug development.  The leads have been identified by experts from AYUSH and ICMR.

 

(v)      During recent years, Ministry has proactively publicised the treatments available with AYUSH system  in leading newspapers for prevention and management of dengue and chickungunya.  The Central Research  Councils have developed guidelines for management and prevention of dengue, chickungunya with their respective system of medicine to counter these diseases.  Wide publicity through prominent newspapers have been carried by these councilsduring July, 2016 to October, 2016.  CCRH has also developed guidelines for prevention and management in the case of  Japanese encephalitis.

 

(vi)    CCRYN through various organisations related to Yoga in the Country conducted Yoga camps throughout the Country during the International Yoga Day.  Around 10 Lakh participants benefitted from this programme.  Further, during 2^nd October, 2016, the CCRYN conducted National Campaign on Diabetes through  various Government/ Non Government organisations.    

  A multi-centric trial on diabetes has been initiated through CCRYN at a total cost of Rs. 5.6 Crores.

 

 

NATIONAL MEDICINAL PLANTS BOARD:

 

National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) set-up under a resolution of Government of India, has been implementing the following scheme for development of the medicinal plants sector in the country:

 

 

 VIRTUAL MARKET PLACE FOR MEDICINAL PLANTS:

 

In the collaboration with CDAC- Hyderabad, NMPB has launched an online virtual platform ‘www.e-charak.in’ and a mobile application ‘e-charak’ which could be downloaded through google play store in any android mobile phone. This application and online platform would work to create a trade linkages between buyers and sellers.

 

 

 COLLECTION OF MANDI PRICE OF HIGH DEMANDED MEDICINAL PLANTS:

 

In collaboration with Federation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Stakeholders (EFDMAPS), New Delhi, NMPB is sourcing the monthly Mandi price of high demanded medicinal plants from 10 major herbal mandies of India. These monthly prices are published in website of NMPB for all the stakeholders.

 

 

 CONFERENCE ON AGROTECHNOLOGY:

 

            NMPB has supported three national level Seminar/ Workshop/ Conference for a total sanctioned amount of Rs. 15.00 lacs during the financial year 2015-16.

 

1.     A national level seminar namely “National Seminar on “Dissemination of Agrotechnology of important Medicinal Plants Developed through NMPB Issues and Challenges”” was organized at Ch. Brahm Prakash AyurvedCharakSansthan, Najafgarh, Delhi on 28-29^th February, 2016 including a Buyer-Seller Meet. 

 

2.      A National level Conference namely “National Conference on Agrotechnology, Commerce and Sustainable use of Medicinal Plants” was organized at NASC Complex, Pusa, New Delhi on February 6-7, 2016.  Five lead papers of 20 minutes each and 2-4 oral presentations of 10 minutes each.

 

 

3.      A National level Workshop namely “National Workshop on Agrotechnology and profit-enhancing marketing strategy for Medicinal Plants” was organized at Doon University, Dehradun on 2-3^rd June, 2016.  The Workshop focused on 15 medicinal plants which are more commonly grown in the Himalayan region and are of commercial importance. 

 

 365 days campaign on Medicinal Plants:

       

  As desired by PM Office, a 365 days campaign on Medicinal Plants “to spread awareness” has been launched by NMPB at Jaipur on 20^th and 21^st August 2016. CEOs and representatives of 21 State Medicinal Plants Board (SMPB) and 450 farmers from all over India participated in the launch of 365 days campaign. The objectives of 365 days Campaign are indicated below:

 

·      To generate awareness about the importance of medicinal plants in masses.

 

·      Plantation of medicinal plants in community, government and private land and

 

·      Involvement of State Government, local people, NGO, Students, Civil Society, other stakeholders of medicinal plants and people’s representatives in the activities relating to medicinal plants.

 

Published Volume-III of Agro-Techniques for 22 selected medicinal plants.

 

Published pamphlets of 32 species of medicinal plants.

 

Guggal trees comes under the category of threatened. NMPB has successfully identified and digitized the Guggal sites of Rajasthan State.

 

 

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PM's Address at the Inauguration of the 104th Session of the Indian Science Congress, Tirupati

 

Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Shri E. S. L. Narasimhan

 

Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu

Union Minister for Science & Technology, and Earth Sciences, Dr. Harsh Vardhan

Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, and Earth Sciences, Shri Y. S. Chowdary

General President of the Indian Science Congress Association, Professor D. Narayana Rao

Vice Chancellor of Sri Venkateswara University, Professor A. Damodaram

Distinguished Delegates

Ladies and Gentlemen.

 

I am delighted to begin the New Year with distinguished scientists from home and abroad in the holy city of Tirupati.

I am happy to inaugurate this 104^th session of The Indian Science Congress in the panoramic campus of Sri Venkateswara University.

And I appreciate the Indian Science Congress Association for choosing an appropriate theme “Science & Technology for National Development” for this year’s session.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

 

The nation will always be grateful to the scientists who have worked tirelessly to empower our society by their vision,  labour, and leadership.

In November 2016, the country lost one such eminent scientist and institution builder, Dr. M.G.K. Menon. I join you in paying tribute to him.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

 

The speed and scale of changes we encounter today are unprecedented.

How are we going to respond to these challenges that we do not even know could arise? It is a deep-rooted curiosity-driven scientific tradition which allows quick adaptation to new realities.

Tomorrow’s experts will come from investments we make today in our people and infrastructure. My government is committed to supporting different streams of scientific knowledge; ranging from fundamental science to applied science with emphasis on innovations.

 

Distinguished Delegates.

In the last two sessions of the science congress, I presented before you several key challenges and opportunities for the nation.

 

Some of these important challenges are in the key sectors of clean water & energy, food, environment, climate, security, and healthcare.  

We equally need to keep an eye on the rise of disruptive technologies and be prepared to leverage them for growth. We need to clearly assess the challenges and opportunities for our technology readiness and competitiveness.

I have been told that the Technology Vision 2035 document released in last year’s Science Congress, is now developing into a detailed roadmap for twelve key technology sectors. Further, NITI Aayog is evolving a holistic science and technology vision for the country.

One important area that needs to be addressed is the rapid global rise of Cyber-Physical Systems. This has the potential to pose unprecedented challenges and stresses to our demographic dividend. But we can turn it into a huge opportunity by research, training and skilling in robotics, artificial intelligence, digital manufacturing, big data analysis, deep learning, quantum communication and Internet-of-Things.

There is a need to develop and exploit these technologies in services and manufacturing sectors; in agriculture, water, energy & traffic management; health, environment, infrastructure and Geo Information Systems; security; financial systems and in combating crime.

We need to develop an Inter-Ministerial National Mission in the Cyber-Physical Systems to secure our future by creation of basic R&D infrastructure, manpower and skills.

 

Distinguished Delegates.

 

The oceans that surround the Indian peninsula have over thirteen hundred of our islands. They also give us a seven and a half thousand kilometre coastline and 2.4 million square kilometres of Exclusive Economic Zone. 

They contain enormous opportunities in energy, food, medicine and a host of other natural resources. The ocean economy should be a significant dimension of our sustainable future.

I am told, that the Ministry of Earth Sciences is working to launch a Deep Ocean Mission to explore, understand and harness this resource in a responsible way.  This could be a transformative step for the prosperity and security of the nation.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

Our best science and technology institutions should further strengthen their basic research in line with leading global standards. Translating this basic knowledge into innovations, start-ups and industry will help us achieve inclusive and sustainable growth.

SCOPUS database indicates that India now ranks sixth in the world with respect to scientific publications, growing at a rate of about fourteen percent  as against the world average growth rate of about four percent. I am sure that our scientists will further meet the challenges of enhanced quality of basic research, its technology translation and its societal connect.

By 2030 India will be among the top three countries in science and technology and will be among the most attractive destinations for the best talent in the world. The wheels we set in motion today will achieve this goal.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

Science must meet the rising aspirations of our people. India fully appreciates the strong role science and technology plays in meeting the societal needs. We must address the problems of urban-rural divide and work for inclusive development, economic growth and employment generation. To enable this, there is a need for a new overarching structure that will coordinate with all the relevant stakeholders.

 

Our ability to mount and execute large, transformational national missions requires effective partnerships that integrate with a large stakeholder base.  The effectiveness of these missions can be ensured only by getting out of our deep rooted silos, and adopting a collaborative approach, which is essential to address our multifarious development challenges rapidly and effectively. Our ministries, our scientists, R&D institutions, industries, start-ups, universities and IITs, all should work together seamlessly. In particular, our infrastructure and socio-economic ministries must make appropriate use of science and technology.

Our Institutions could consider inviting outstanding scientists from abroad including NRIs for long term research associations. We should involve foreign and NRI PhD students in post-doctoral research in our projects.

Another empowering factor for scientific delivery is the Ease of Doing Science. If we want science to deliver, we must not constrain it.

Building a strong Science and Technology infrastructure that is accessible to academia, start-ups, industry and R&D labs is a priority of the government. We need to address the problems of ease of access, maintenance, redundancy and duplication of expensive equipments in our Scientific Institutions. The desirability of establishing professionally managed, large regional centers in PPP mode housing high value scientific equipment should be examined.

On the lines of Corporate Social Responsibility, the concept of Scientific Social Responsibility needs to be inculcated to connect our leading institutions to all stakeholders, including schools and colleges. We must create an environment for sharing of ideas and resources.

The brightest and best in every corner of India should have the opportunity to excel in science. This will ensure that our youth get high-end training exposure to the best of science and technology to make them job-ready in a competitive world.

To this end, I would exhort the National Laboratories to connect with schools and colleges to develop appropriate training programs. This will also help with the effective use and maintenance of our vast scientific and technological infrastructure.

Laboratories, Research Institutions and Universities in each major city region, should be interlinked to function on a hub and spoke model. The hubs will share major infrastructure, drive our national science missions and be the engines that link discovery to application.

 

College teachers with background in research can be connected to the neighbouring universities and R&D institutions. Outreach activities from the institutions of eminence to schools, colleges and polytechnics will activate the latent Science and Technology manpower from the educational institutions in your neighbourhoods. 

 

Distinguished delegates,

Seeding the power of ideas and innovation in schoolchildren will broaden the base of our innovation pyramid and secure the future of our nation. As a step in this direction, Ministry of Science & Technology is initiating a programme focused on students of classes 6 to 10.

 

The programme will scout, mentor, reward and showcase ten lakh top innovative ideas focused on local needs from 5 lakh schools.   

We must provide equal opportunities to the girl child to enroll and excel in the under-represented disciplines of science and engineering and ensure continued participation of trained women scientists in nation building.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

For a large and diverse country like India, technology needs to span a wide range; from advanced space, nuclear and defence technologies to rural development needs in providing clean water, sanitation, renewable energy, community health, etc.

While we excel globally, we also need to develop local solutions that fit our unique context.

There is a need to develop appropriate Micro-Industry models for the rural areas that use local resources and skills to meet the local needs and generate local enterprise and employment.

For example, we should develop a host of technologies based on efficient co-generation for clusters of villages and semi-urban areas. These technologies should aim to convert agri and bio-waste to satisfy multiple needs of electricity, clean water, crop-processing and cold storage.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

 

The role of science in planning, decision making, and governance has never been more important.

 

We need to develop and deploy Geo-information Systems to meet the development goals of our citizens, Gram Panchayats, Districts and States. A coordinated effort by the Survey of India, ISRO and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology can be transformative.  

For sustainable development, we must take strong measures to focus on Waste to Wealth Management in the critical areas of electronic waste, biomedical and plastic wastes, and solid waste and waste water solutions.

We are scaling up R&D on clean carbon technologies, technologies for enhancement of energy efficiency and increased and efficient use of renewable energy. 

Focus on environment and climate remains our priority to ensure sustainable development. Our strong scientific community can also effectively address our unique challenges. For example, can we find farmer-centric solutions to the problem of crop burning? Can we redesign our brick kilns for reduced emissions and greater energy efficiency?

Science and technology is a key factor in the Startup India Programme launched in January 2016. Two other strong initiatives are Atal Innovation Mission and NIDHI - the National Initiative for Development and Harnessing Innovations. These programmes focus on building an innovation driven enterprise ecosystem. Further, Public-Private partnerships with CII, FICCI and high technology private companies are being pursued to strengthen the innovation ecosystem.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

Our Scientists have contributed strongly to the strategic vision of the nation.

 

The Indian space programme has put India among the top space faring nations. We have achieved a high degree of self-sufficiency in space technology, including launch vehicle development, payload and satellite building, applications for development and the building of core competence and capacity. 

 

The Defence Research & Development Organisation has played the role of a force multiplier for the Armed Forces with its systems and technologies. 

We are leveraging strategic international partnerships and collaborations based on the principles of mutuality, parity and reciprocity, to make Indian Science globally competitive. We are also placing special emphasis on building strong relationships with our neighbouring countries and multilateral fora such as BRICS. The best of global science is helping us unravel creation’s mysteries and develop cutting-edge technologies. Last year, we activated the 3.6 meter optical telescope in Devasthal in Uttarakhand made with Indo-Belgian collaboration. Recently, we approved the LIGO project with USA to construct a state-of-the-art detector system in India.

 

Distinguished Delegates,

In conclusion, I wish to reiterate that the Government remains committed to provide the best support to our Scientists and Scientific Institutions.

I am sure that our scientists will scale up their efforts ranging from the quality of basic sciences to technology development to innovation.

Let Science and Technology become a strong tool of inclusive development and betterment of the weakest and poorest segments of our society.

Together, we will prevail to make a just, equitable and prosperous nation.

Jai Hind.

 

***

 

AKT/HS

Group of Secretaries presents ideas on “Transport and Communications” to PM

 

As a follow-up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s exhortation, Groups of Secretaries to the Government of India, today began the second of round of presentations on ideas for transformative change in various areas of governance.

The first such set of eight presentations had been made in January 2016. Nine such presentations are envisaged this time.

Today, the first group presented their ideas on the “transport and communications” sectors.  

Union Ministers, and officials from the NITI Aayog were also present on the occasion.

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President of India’s message on the eve of Independence Day of Myanmar

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar on the eve of their Independence Day(January 4, 2017).

In a message to His Excellency U HtinKyaw, the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the President has said, “On behalf of the Government and people of India and on my own behalf, I extend to you warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.

India and Myanmar cherish our long standing close and friendly relations.  I warmly recall your visit to India in August, 2016, on which occasion we reviewed our bilateral relationship and jointly identified the areas of shared interest where we would like to strengthen our cooperation to our mutual benefit.  I am confident that our efforts will meet with success and contribute to the realization of our respective developmental goals.

 I take this opportunity to extend my best wishes for your personal well-being and success and the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Myanmar”.

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