Month: April 2025

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 08 APR 2025 4:02PM by PIB Delhi

Ministry of Mines organized a National Workshop and Roadshow on the Exploration Licence (EL) regime and the upcoming Tranche-1 Auction of EL blocks at The Ambassador Hotel, today. The workshop served as a vital platform for engaging with stakeholders, fostering awareness, and sharing in-depth information on the policy, technical, and procedural aspects of the EL regime introduced under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023.

Delivering the keynote address Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Shri V.L. Kantha Rao highlighted the transformative potential of the EL regime in unlocking India’s deep-seated and critical mineral reserves. He noted that the policy marks a shift from passive ownership to active exploration, empowering private entities to undertake large-scale early-stage exploration for minerals like Lithium, REEs, Gold, Diamond, and PGEs.

To provide an overview of the Exploration Licence framework and its regulatory features, Shri Mustaq Ahmad, Director, Ministry of Mines, presented a detailed session on how the regime fosters private sector participation, facilitates advanced technologies, and creates a strong pipeline of mineral assets essential for India’s growth.

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) presented a technical snapshot of the EL blocks identified for Tranche-1 auction, based on preliminary reconnaissance. Shri S.K. Basir, Deputy Director General, GSI, outlined the geological potential of the blocks across ten states and emphasized their strategic importance.

To demystify the auction process, Shri Lovesh Singla, Vice President, SBI Capital Markets, explained the transparent e-auction methodology, eligibility criteria, and structure of the tender documents. This was followed by a walkthrough of the MSTC portal by Shri Setu D Sharma, Senior Manager, MSTC, highlighting the digital systems in place to ensure secure, real-time, and efficient bidding.

Further, Shri Sebabrata Das, Senior Geologist, National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET), introduced the financial support scheme available for EL holders under which partial reimbursement of eligible exploration expenses will be provided, reducing risk and encouraging higher participation.

Concluding the workshop, Shri Sanjay Lohiya, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines, reaffirmed the government’s vision to enable a competitive, technology-driven, and investment-friendly exploration ecosystem. He emphasized the need for collaboration between public and private players and urged all stakeholders to actively participate in the auction process.

Participants were also briefed on key auction timelines: the pre-bid conference is scheduled for April 22, 2025; the last date for submission of queries is April 30, 2025; tender documents are available for purchase until May 16, 2025; and bid submissions will close on May 26, 2025.

The workshop was attended by representatives from Central and State governments, PSUs, industry associations, exploration firms, and investors, reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to fostering an informed and transparent exploration regime in India.

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Shuhaib T

(Release ID: 2120042) Visitor Counter : 36

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is the English translation of the opening remarks by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, on public finance at the special meeting of the Legislative Council Finance Committee today (April 8):

Chairman and Honourable Members,

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 08 APR 2025 6:46PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today hailed the completion of 10 years of the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana, calling it a journey of “empowerment and enterprise.” He noted that with the right support, the people of India can do wonders.

Since its launch, the MUDRA Yojana has disbursed over 52 crore collateral-free loans worth ₹33 lakh crore, with nearly 70% of the loans going to women and 50% benefiting SC/ST/OBC entrepreneurs. It has empowered first-time business owners with ₹10 lakh crore in credit and generated over 1 crore jobs in the first three years. States like Bihar have emerged as leaders, with nearly 6 crore loans sanctioned, showcasing a strong spirit of entrepreneurship across India.

Responding to the X threads of MyGovIndia about pivotal role of Mudra Yojna in transforming the lives, the Prime Minister said;

“#10YearsofMUDRA has been about empowerment and enterprise. It has shown that given the right support, the people of India can do wonders!”

 

 

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MJPS/ST

(Release ID: 2120152) Visitor Counter : 47

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 08 APR 2025 6:44PM by PIB Delhi

In a notable advancement towards strengthening India’s energy independence and economic growth, the Ministry of Coal has signed Coal Mine Development and Production Agreements (CMDPAs) with the successful bidders of two coal mines—Marwatola-II and Namchik West—under the 11th round of commercial coal mining auctions.

These agreements mark another step toward the country’s goal of achieving self-reliance in coal production. Singhal Business Private Limited has secured the Marwatola-II block, while PRA Nuravi Coal Mining Private Limited has emerged as the successful bidder for Namchik West.

Of the two coal mines, one is fully explored and the other is partially explored. Combined, they are projected to generate an estimated annual revenue of Rs. 106.14 crore, based on a total Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of ~0.34 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). To operationalise these mines, a capital investment of approximately Rs. 55 crore will be required.

In terms of employment potential, the two blocks are expected to create around 460 direct and indirect job opportunities, contributing to the socio-economic development of their respective regions.

With these additions, the Ministry of Coal has now signed CMDPAs for a total of 120 coal mines auctioned under the commercial coal mining framework. These mines represent a cumulative PRC of 265.64 MTPA, with an estimated annual revenue generation of Rs. 37,300 crore and a projected investment of Rs. 39,900 crore. Moreover, they are expected to provide employment to nearly 3,59,200 individuals across the country.

The Ministry remains committed to strengthening domestic coal production through a transparent, investor-friendly auction process, ensuring energy security and supporting inclusive growth in line with the vision of a self-reliant India.

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Shuhaib T

(Release ID: 2120151) Visitor Counter : 52

Source: Government of India

Meeting between Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Israel’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Mr. Avi Dicter

Agreement signed to strengthen cooperation in the field of Agriculture

Work Plan exchanged between India and Israel in Horticulture Sector

Under the leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi, India is continuously working to strengthen its agriculture sector- Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan

India is a country that moves forward with the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”- Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Agreed to work together on food security, technology transfer, quality seeds, expanding CoEs, R&D, pest management, capacity building, and post-harvest technologies

To explore a Five-Year Seed Improvement Plan (FYSIP) to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability

Through joint efforts in agriculture, both countries will achieve meaningful outcomes and promote innovation and technology exchange

Posted On: 08 APR 2025 6:42PM by PIB Delhi

To enhance cooperation in the field of agriculture and food security, a high-level meeting was held today at the International Guest House, National Agricultural Science Complex, New Delhi, between the Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and Israel’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Avi Dicter. The meeting marks the first official visit of Mr. Avi Dicter to India in his capacity as Agriculture and Food Security Minister of Israel.

Both countries have taken a significant step forward in strengthening their agricultural partnership with the signing of Agriculture Cooperation Agreement and Work Plan during the high-level meeting held in New Delhi today. This Agreement will strengthen the cooperation in the fields of soil and water management, horticultural & agricultural production, post-harvest and processing technology, agriculture mechanization, animal husbandry and research & development.

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted that India believes in the ideals of “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah” (May all be happy, may all be free from illness) and “Parhit Saris Dharma Nahi Bhai” (There is no religion greater than serving others). He further emphasized that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is emerging as the fastest-growing major economy in the world.

He praised the role of MASHAV in the success of India-Israel Agricultural Work Plans, particularly through the network of 43 Centers of Excellence (CoEs) of which 35 fully functional CoEs across India. He noted that Israel’s concept of Villages of Excellence (VoE), aiming to connect 30 villages to each CoE, is a transformative step towards rural outreach. The Hon’ble Minister extended a cordial invitation to Israel delegation for World Food India 2025.

Mr. Avi Dicter, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of Israel, highlighted that Israel and India share a deep bond and both countries can work together in the development of high yielding seed varietiesand technology among other areas. He also added that given the challenges of climate change innovation in the agriculture sector is required to ensure food security in future.

The two sides agreed on the need to work together on several key areas, including food security, technology transfer, the development of high-quality seeds, the expansion of Centers of Excellence (CoE), research and development, pest management, capacity building, and the advancement of post-harvest technologies. Additionally, they agreed to explore to a Five-Year Seed Improvement Plan (FYSIP) to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Considering the challenges of increasing population and decreasing landholdings, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the need to enhance agricultural productivity. He underlined the importance of collaborative efforts between Indian and Israeli scientists to ensure that improved seeds reach farmers. The meeting also saw discussions on various innovations and other important issues related to agriculture.

Israeli side also showed keen interest in india’s digital agriculture mission and the way it is empowering farmers in India.

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reiterated India’s commitment to global welfare, highlighting how India and Israel can contribute significantly to resolving the global food security crisis. A Joint Working Group is being established to ensure continuous dialogue and the development of a clear roadmap with defined goals and timelines.

Both sides shared challenges & priorities in their agriculture sector and also reviewed the ongoing collaborations in the horticulture sector. They also exchanged views on the issues related to market access.

Besides the Ministers of Agriculture and Food Security of Israel, Ambassador Mr Reuven Azar and Yakov Poleg, Deputy Director General Foreign Trade and International Cooperationalso participated as part of members of the Israeli delegation. From the Indian side, Secretary DA&FW and DARE Sh. Devesh Chaturvedi along with Joint Secretaries of International Cooperation Division (IC), Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Natural Resource Management (NRM), Plant Protection (PP) and Joint Secretary (WANA) from Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) participated in the meeting.

The meeting concluded with warm wishes for a successful and productive visit to India.

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PSF/KSR/AR

(Release ID: 2120150) Visitor Counter : 55

Source: Government of India

Today India Opens New Frontiers in Himalayan Climate Research, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh

Jammu & Kashmir spearheads India’s global initiative in climate research in Himalayas, says the Minister

India’s First-ever “High-Altitude Climate Research Station” Inaugurated in J&K by Union Minister, Launches Indo-Swiss Project ICE-CRUNCH

Jammu & Kashmir Joins Global Climate Leadership with Cutting-Edge Himalayan Research Centre

Posted On: 08 APR 2025 6:36PM by PIB Delhi

Today India opens a gateway into climate forecast and research in the Himalayas, said Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh while inaugurating the first-ever “Himalayan High Altitude Atmospheric and Climate Research Centre”  in the higher hill reaches of Nathatop, near here today.

This is a move that marks a significant milestone in India’s global leadership in climate science, said the Minister, adding that Jammu & Kashmir spearheads India’s global initiative in climate study and research in the Himalayas.

 The state-of-the-art facility, situated at one of the highest altitudes in the region, is expected to serve as a crucial gateway for cutting-edge climate research in the north-western Himalayas.

Coinciding with the inauguration, Dr. Jitendra Singh also flagged off the Indo-Swiss Joint Research Project “ICE-CRUNCH(Ice nucleating particles and cloud condensation nuclei properties in the North-Western Himalayas)” – a collaborative study between Indian scientists and researchers from ETH Zürich, Switzerland, aimed at exploring the properties of ice nucleating particles and cloud condensation nuclei in the region.

“This is not just a scientific milestone—it is a historic moment,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said, adding, “With the setting up of this station, we are opening up a new gateway into climate research and studies in the Himalayas. And India will be pioneering it.”

The minister underscored that the choice of Jammu and Kashmir for this facility was a conscious one, leveraging its high-altitude advantage for more accurate atmospheric and climate measurements. “The implication is that J&K also joins India’s global headways in addressing the climate concerns,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh reflected on how, India is now regarded seriously on the global stage in matters of climate action and research. “Today, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have become a leader,” he asserted, citing India’s commitment to net-zero targets and the increasing credibility of its climate strategies worldwide.

The Nathatop centre is a product of multi-tier collaboration—between the Government of India (through the Ministry of Science & Technology), the Government of Jammu and Kashmir (which provided the land), the Central University of Jammu (whose scientists will participate in research), and the Swiss National Science Foundation (which is providing international expertise).

Calling it a “synergised model” of governance and global partnership, Dr. Jitendra Singh said this collaboration mirrors India’s broader approach to climate resilience through coordinated efforts. He cited dedicated Himalayan missions such as the Aroma Mission and the Floriculture Mission, which are unlocking the region’s potential and adding value to India’s economy.

“Preserving the Himalayas is not a regional concern but a global imperative,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said, emphasizing that the region’s vast unexplored resources could play a pivotal role in India’s future economic growth.

He also highlighted major strides taken by the government in meteorological infrastructure, including the installation of three weather radars in Jammu and Kashmir, the setting up of a seismological observatory in Udhampur, and a massive 185% hike in budgetary allocation for climate and atmospheric research under Mission Mausam.

The newly Inaugurated Centre, a joint initiative of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the J&K Forest Department, and the Central University of Jammu, is located at an altitude of 2,250 meters above sea level. The site was strategically chosen for its clean air and minimal pollution, providing a rare opportunity to study atmospheric processes in free tropospheric conditions — a key requirement for understanding cloud formation, weather patterns, and aerosol interactions.

The Centre’s first set of measurements will be conducted under ICE-CRUNCH, bringing together Indian and Swiss scientists to study ice-nucleating particles and cloud condensation nuclei. These studies are crucial in understanding the role of aerosols in cloud microphysics and their broader implications on climate systems and precipitation in the Himalayan region.

According to experts, the Centre will serve as a long-term research hub affiliated with the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) Global Atmospheric Watch (GAW) Programme. In partnership with the Indian Meteorological Department, the aim is to conduct continuous atmospheric monitoring and eventually integrate data into global climate models.

Beyond scientific research, the Centre is expected to contribute to capacity building, training of young scientists, and development of climate modelling capabilities in India. It will also serve as a knowledge hub, offering training schools for students and professionals in atmospheric sciences.

As the curtains rose on this high-altitude research centre and the Indo-Swiss partnership took shape, it became clear that the Himalayas are no longer just the ‘water towers’ of Asia—they are fast becoming the nerve centre of global climate inquiry, with India leading the charge from the frontlines of Jammu and Kashmir.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2120147) Visitor Counter : 69

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

In response to the detection of a confirmed case of new Mpox (also known as Monkeypox) strain (Clade Ib) who was suspected locally infected in the United Kingdom (UK), the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (April 8) reminded members of the public to heighten vigilance, avoid close physical contact with persons suspected of contracting Mpox and seek medical advice as soon as possible if symptoms appear. High-risk target groups are advised to receive Mpox vaccinations.

According to the UK Health Security Agency, a patient residing in the North East of the UK was confirmed positive for new Mpox strain (Clade Ib) last month (March). The patient had no travel history prior to the onset of symptoms and no reported link with previously confirmed cases. The UK health authority has followed up contacts of the patient and no further cases identified. This is the first case in which a new Mpox strain has been detected outside Africa but without links with case in Africa.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

NEW INDIA IS “LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES” WITH RAPID REFORMS: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

INDIAN STUDENTS ABROAD ARE AMBASSADORS OF INDIAN VALUES AND CULTURE: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

INITIATIVES LIKE AYUSHMAN BHARAT HAVE CREATED ABUNDANT OPPORTUNITIES IN HEALTHCARE SECTOR ACROSS INDIA: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

INDIA CARES DEEPLY ABOUT WELFARE OF INDIANS LIVING IN EVERY CORNER OF WORLD: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

LOK SABHA SPEAKER INTERACTS WITH INDIAN STUDENTS AT SAMARKAND MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

Posted On: 08 APR 2025 6:17PM by PIB Delhi

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today stressed that New India has emerged as the “Land of Opportunities” with rapid reforms in every field. National initiatives like Ayushman Bharat have created abundant opportunities in the healthcare sector across India, he added. Addressing the Indian students at Samarkand Medical University, he said, “As Ayushman Bharat is expanding to include both government and private hospitals, there are ample opportunities for FMG doctors to gain valuable experience and contribute to the nation’s healthcare system.” The rapid growth in medical research and education in India has created numerous opportunities for the students to work in academic and research institutions, he noted.

Shri Birla lauded the Indian students studying abroad as ambassadors of Indian values and culture. Despite staying thousands of miles away, these students continue to be deeply rooted in Indian values and spread them in their host countries, he observed. As cultural and educational representatives of India, they also serve as key figures in strengthening the friendship and cooperation between India and Uzbekistan, he said. Shri Birla is on a four day visit to Uzbekistan leading the Indian Parliamentary Delegation (IPD) for the 150th Assembly of Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU).

Shri Birla conveyed to the students that the Government of India cares deeply for the welfare of Indians living in every corner of the world. He mentioned that India is dedicated to assisting and supporting overseas Indian students. Through initiatives like the ‘Help’ portal and the active involvement of Indian embassies abroad, the government ensures that Indian students face no obstacles in their education, safety, and career prospects. He noted with pride that, “Indian doctors have a global identity, and you should continue this tradition.” He added that India has always produced exceptional doctors, and these students will enhance healthcare systems worldwide with their knowledge and skills. He added that their global experience will pave the way for greater success in their medical careers and will make important contribution in deciding the future of global healthcare system.

Shri Birla urged the students to not only enhance their knowledge and skills but also embrace values such as dedication and compassion in their lives.

LOVE AND AFFECTION OF INDIAN DIASPORA IN UZBEKISTAN TOWARDS INDIA IS INSPIRATIONAL: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

During his visit to Uzbekistan, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla interacted with members of Indian Diaspora on Monday. Observing that the love and affection of the Indian Diaspora in Uzbekistan towards India is inspirational, Shri Birla noted that the efforts of the Indian community help strengthen India’s global identity.

Speaking about India’s growing economic might, Shri Birla highlighted that India today is the fastest-growing economy in the world, and its global reputation and innovation have created countless new opportunities. He added that the Indian Diaspora can contribute to this growth through investment and innovation. Shri Birla also encouraged the Diaspora to take full advantage of these opportunities as part of India’s drive for ‘Viksit Bharat.’

Shri Birla emphasized that the relationship between India and Uzbekistan goes beyond official visits and documents, and is also based on the people to people ties, cultural exchanges, and mutual respect between the people of both countries. He added that the role of the Indian Diaspora has been vital in strengthening the historical ties between India and Uzbekistan as they have contributed to the development of both the countries through their hard work and dedication. Shri Birla noted that language, cuisine, traditions, and cultural exchanges serve as the foundation of these strong ties. He added that the growing partnership between India and Uzbekistan in the fields of science, health, education, trade and technology is proving to be vital for the progress of both countries.

LOK SABHA SPEAKER MEETS CHAIRMAN OF THE PARLIAMENT OF GEORGIA

On the sidelines of the 150th Assembly of Inter-Parliamentary Union at Tashkent, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla met H.E. Shalva Papuashvili, Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia. On this occasion, Shri Birla shared his thoughts on strengthening parliamentary diplomacy and expanding cooperation in trade, tourism, and innovation. He also lauded Georgia’s support for India at multilateral fora and also to the Indian community there. Mentioning that India and Georgia share a deep cultural bond which opens immense avenues for future, Shri Birla called for enhancing youth exchange programmes, digital collaboration & people-to-people ties.

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AM

(Release ID: 2120133) Visitor Counter : 15