Month: April 2025

Source: Government of India

Raksha Mantri reviews maritime security situation & Indian Navy’s operational readiness during the Phase-1 of the first Naval Commanders’ Conference of 2025 in Karwar

21st century is Asia’s century; It is our responsibility to ensure peace & prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, says Shri Rajnath Singh

India stands for a free, open & rule-based order; Assess changing circumstances and ensure planning, resourcing & exercising accordingly: RM to Commanders

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 5:54PM by PIB Delhi

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh reviewed the maritime security situation, operational readiness of the Indian Navy, and the future outlook during the inaugural phase of the first Naval Commanders’ Conference of 2025 in Karwar, Karnataka on April 05, 2025. Raksha Mantri interacted with the Naval Commanders, with deliberations focussing on addressing contemporary security paradigms, formulating the way ahead to further the combat capability of the Navy, and addressing strategic, operational & administrative aspects. He was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials.

Addressing the Commanders, Shri Rajnath Singh commended the Navy’s contribution in strengthening India’s maritime security, surpassing the expectations of the people in every situation, and displaying continued commitment towards serving the nation with new energy & innovation.

Raksha Mantri asserted that it is a necessity to reorient the future roles of the Armed Forces amidst the present unpredictable geopolitical landscape. He referred to the acceptance of global experts that 21^st century is Asia’s century and India will have a crucial role to play, stating “It is our responsibility to ensure peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific as the region has become a focal point for the world”.

Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated that India stands for a free, open and rule-based order in accordance with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), urging the Commanders to assess the changing circumstances and ensure planning, resourcing & exercising accordingly, while remaining alert and prepared. “Security is an ongoing adaptation process, wherein there is a need to keep assessing, planning, and coming out with new ideas. We need to analyse how India can make its role more effective,” he said.

Emphasising that national security is of paramount importance to the Government, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Raksha Mantri stated that it has always been ensured that the requirements of the Armed Forces are fulfilled. “The speed at which the work of naval modernisation is being carried out for the last 10-11 years is unprecedented. Induction of new platforms, state-of-the-art equipment has significantly enhanced our Naval prowess and the morale of our brave sailors. It is a testimony to the fact that we are always standing with you in your preparations,” he said.

On 2025 being declared as the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence, Shri Rajnath Singh called for concerted efforts of all stakeholders to fulfil their commitment to reforms. “There are two types of reforms. One is policy reforms which are carried out at the level of the Ministries. Many officers look into policy-related issues, obtain feedback from everyone and formulate policies accordingly. The second type is ground-level reform. Whether it is related to training, R&D, financial or manpower reforms, your role is most important in all these. Till the time there is no convergence of top-down approach and bottom-top approach, we will not be able to achieve our reforms’ goal in the right manner,” he told the Commanders.

The conference is the apex-level, biannual event facilitating deliberations on significant strategic, operational, and administrative issues among the top Naval Commanders. It plays a pivotal role in emphasising India’s role as a ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the Indian Ocean Region, bolstering the Navy’s contribution to regional peace, security, and stability.

 The second phase of the conference will be held in New Delhi from April 07 to 10, 2025, witnessing a comprehensive review of major operational, materiel, logistics, HR development, training, and administrative aspects. Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of the Army Staff & Chief of the Air Staff will also engage with Naval Commanders during the Conference to foster synergy amongst the three Services and further drive the convergence efforts.

The Commanders will also engage with Foreign Secretary Shri Vikram Misri and Shri Amitabh Kant on issues related to foreign policy and international engagement. The Indian Navy’s quest to strengthen modernisation, indigenisation, and self-reliance in line with Government’s vision of Aatmanirbharta is the key focus area of the event.

******

VK/VM/Savvy

(Release ID: 2119284) Visitor Counter : 63

Source: Government of India

Delhi becomes 35th State/UT to implement Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana

Historic day for Delhi as the National Health Authority, MoHFW enters into an MoU with the Government of NCT, Delhi

AB PM-JAY is not an insurance scheme, it is an ‘assurance’ scheme as it is built on trust: Shri JP Nadda

 “AB PM-JAY is the first scheme to bring 50 Crore people under its ambit on the basis of economic caste census”

“36 lakh frontline health workers, including ASHAs and Angadwadi workers were brought under this scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Bima Yojna to cover both health and life insurance”

“With around 30 lakh people belonging to 6.54 lakh families and an estimated 6 lakh senior citizens, about 36 lakh people in Delhi will be benefitted by the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme”

“Out-of-pocket expenditure has declined from 62% in 2014 to 38% today owing to AB PM-JAY”

Delhi government would be giving an additional top-up of 5 lakh over and above the 5-lakh cover provided by Central Government. Around 6.54 lakh families in Delhi will be benefitted under the scheme: Smt. Rekha Gupta

“Card distribution for the scheme will be initiated from 10th April 2025 onwards”

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 5:51PM by PIB Delhi

In a historic event, Delhi became the 35^th State/UT to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) after the National Health Authority (NHA) of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of NCT, Delhi.   

The agreement was signed between Smt. L.S Changsan, Addl Secretary, MoHFW & Chief Executive Officer, National Health Authority (NHA), and Dr S.B. Deepak Kumar, Secretary (Health & Family Welfare), Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of NCT Delhi, here today. 

The signing ceremony was presided by Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare & Chemicals and Fertilizers in presence of Smt. Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister, Government of NCT Delhi; Shri Harsh Malhotra, Union Minister of State for Corporate Affairs  and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways; Smt. Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare & Chemicals and Fertilizers; and Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, Minister, Health and Family Welfare & Transport and Information Technology, Delhi. Smt. Bansuri Swaraj, Shri Praveen Khandelwal, Shri Kamaljeet Sehrawat, Shri Manoj Kumar Tiwari, Shri Ramvir Singh Bidhuri and Shri Yogendra Chandolia – Members of Parliament (MPs) from NCT Delhi; Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary and Shri Dharmendra, Chief Secretary, NCT Delhi were also present during the event.

Addressing the gathering, Shri J P Nadda stated, “It is a moment of pride that the world’s largest health coverage scheme which has been in place across 34 states and UTs in the country is finally getting implemented in the national capital as well.” He stated that this scheme is built on trust, hence it is termed as an ‘assurance’ scheme, not an insurance scheme.

Shri Nadda noted that on the basis of economic caste census, 50 crore people were brought under this scheme, making it the first such scheme to do so. He also informed that 36 lakh frontline health workers, including ASHAs and Angadwadi workers were brought under this scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Bima Yojna to cover both health and life insurance. This, he stated, was done to bring these frontline workers under the ambit of comprehensive social security coverage.

The Union Health Minister stated that with the implementation of AB PM-JAY in Delhi, all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, irrespective of their socio-economic status, will be covered under Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana which provides Rs 5 lakh free health cover to all senior citizens of the age 70 years and above irrespective of their socio-economic status. This will provide health cover to all eligible senior citizens where all pre-existing diseases will be covered from day one.  “It is estimated that more than 6 lakh senior citizens in Delhi belonging to ~4.5 lakh families will be benefited”, he stated. “With around 30 lakh people belonging to over 6.5 lakh families and an estimated 6 lakh senior citizens, about 36 lakh people in Delhi will be benefitted by the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme”, he further stated.

Shri Nadda highlighted that through the AB PM-JAY scheme, 55+ crore beneficiaries were targeted comprising 12 crore families which covered 40% of the vulnerable population of India. He said that implementation of AB PM-JAY will help create a healthy, empowered and prosperous Delhi. He also highlighted that out-of-pocket expenditure has declined from 62% in 2014 to 38% today owing to this scheme.

Citing a recent LANCET study, Shri Nadda underlined that timely cancer treatment initiation has improved significantly because of the Ayushman Bharat Jan Aarogya Yojna. “Patients enrolled under AB-PMJAY saw 90% rise in access to cancer treatment within 30 days”, he stated.

Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Rekha Gupta said, “Citizens in Delhi will now be able to reap benefits from AB PM-JAY which provides free health cover of Rs. 5 Lakh to each beneficiary family per year. In addition, Delhi government would be giving an additional top-up of 5 lakhs over and above the cover provided by Central Government. Around 6.54 lakh families in Delhi will be benefitted under the scheme.”

She also highlighted that beneficiaries will now gain access to 1,961 health benefit packages from 27 medical specialties, featuring updated procedures and better rates for hospitals. She also informed that card distribution for the scheme will be initiated from 10^th April 2025 onwards.

Smt. Anupriya Patel said, “today is a historic day for the people of Delhi as this MoU reflects a common commitment of the Union and Delhi government to provide quality and affordable healthcare to residents of Delhi.”

Highlighting that AB PM-JAY is the largest health assurance scheme in the world, she stated that Rs. 1.75 crore out-of-pocket expenditure have been saved so far because of the scheme. She also noted that around 6.54 lakh families in Delhi will be benefited with timely and quality healthcare, including all senior citizens, aged 70 years and above.

 

Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, launched on 23^rd September 2018, has been a game-changer in healthcare, mainly for the millions of poor and vulnerable families across the country. In just five years, it enabled them with timely access and quality healthcare without burdening them with catastrophic health expenditure during medical emergencies.

******

MV

HFW/Delhi joins AB PM-JAY/05April2025/1

(Release ID: 2119281) Visitor Counter : 58

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 5:49PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister had a productive meeting today with the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Disanayaka, at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo. Ahead of the talks, Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Independence Square. Prime Minister is the first foreign leader to pay a State visit to Sri Lanka since President Disanayaka took office in September 2024.

2. ​The two leaders held detailed discussions in restricted and delegation level format on further deepening the special and close bilateral ties that are rooted in shared history and driven by strong people-to-people linkages. They reviewed cooperation in the fields of connectivity, development cooperation, economic ties, defence relations, reconciliation and fishermen issues. Prime Minister reiterated Sri Lanka’s importance in India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision MAHASAGAR. He conveyed India’s continued commitment to assist in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and stabilization.

3. ​Following the talks, the two leaders virtually inaugurated several projects. These include 5000 solar rooftop units installed at religious places across Sri Lanka and a temperature-controlled warehousing facility at Dambulla. They also virtually participated in the ground-breaking ceremony for the launch of the 120 MW Sampur Solar power project.

4. The two leaders witnessed the exchange of seven MoUs in the fields of energy, digitization, defence, health and multi-sectoral assistance in the Eastern Province. Prime Minister announced support for the development of the Thirukoneswaram temple in Trincomalee, the Sacred City project in Anuradhapura and the Sita Eliya temple complex in Nuwara Eliya. In the areas of capacity building and economic support, a comprehensive package for training an additional 700 Sri Lankan citizens annually, and the conclusion of Bilateral Amendatory Agreements on Debt Restructuring were also announced. In keeping with the shared Buddhist heritage of the two countries, Prime Minister announced that Holy Relics of Lord Buddha from Gujarat would be traveling to Sri Lanka for the International Vesak Day celebrations. List of MOUs and announcements may be seen here.

*********

MJPS/SR/SKS

(Release ID: 2119278) Visitor Counter : 91

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 5:47PM by PIB Delhi

The President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Disanayaka, today conferred on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana award, the country’s highest honour bestowed on foreign leaders. This is the first time that an Indian leader is receiving this award. The award was conferred on Prime Minister for his enduring contribution to strengthening India-Sri Lanka friendship.

2.​Accepting the award on behalf of 1.4 billion people of India, Prime Minister dedicated the honour to the special friendship between India and Sri Lanka and the age-old links between the people of the two countries.

******

MJPS/SR/SKS

(Release ID: 2119277) Visitor Counter : 12

Source: Government of India

Government firmly committed to holistic development of minority communities: Shri Kiren Rijiju

Lok Samvardhan Parv to be inaugurated by Minority Affairs  Minister  at Srinagar tomorrow

Parv being  organized by the Ministry of Minority Affairs  will run up to April 13, 2025

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

The Government of India is firmly committed to the holistic development of minority communities, with a special focus on artisans who represent the rich cultural and traditional legacy of our nation, stated Union Minister of Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, ahead of the grand inauguration of Lok Samvardhan Parv in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.

Reflecting the vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, the Lok Samvardhan Parv will be inaugurated by the Minister at 3:00 PM tomorrow, at the Convention Centre Ground, Kashmir University, Srinagar. The event is being organized by the Ministry of Minority Affairs and will run up to April 13, 2025.

Shri Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, and Shri George Kurian, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, will attend as the Guest of Honour. Several other dignitaries, senior government officials, and stakeholders from across the country are also expected to attend.

The Lok Samvardhan Parv aims to provide a vibrant national platform for artisans and culinary experts from minority communities to showcase their crafts and traditional cuisines. Coinciding with the Tulip Season—a major tourist attraction—the event is expected to draw significant footfall, enhancing market exposure and livelihood opportunities for the participants.

The exhibition will feature over 100 artisans from 25 States and Union Territories, presenting a diverse array of handicrafts including:

• Kashmiri arts such as Carpet weaving, Paper Mâché, Sozni embroidery, Crewel, and Ari work
• Shawls from Punjab
• Handloom products from Uttarakhand
• Traditional jewellery from Nagaland
• Crochet work from Goa
• Cane and bamboo products from Assam
• Leather goods from Maharashtra
• Matka Silk and Baswara Sarees from Bihar

Additionally, 16 culinary experts from 12 States will offer a rich gastronomic journey through regional delicacies, including:

• Kashmiri Wazwan
• Gujarati cuisine
• Bihar ka Swad
• UP ki Chaat
• Flavour & Fire Paan

To further enrich the experience, daily evening cultural performances will celebrate the music, dance, and storytelling traditions of India’s minority communities.

As a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Lok Samvardhan Parv aligns with the ‘Vocal for Local’ mission, dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional arts, crafts, and cuisines. The event underscores the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to empowering artisans through market linkages, skill development, and financial inclusion, in collaboration with various partner organizations.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs warmly invites citizens, tourists, art lovers, and cultural enthusiasts to visit the Lok Samvardhan Parv and be part of this extraordinary celebration of India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

***

SS/ISA

(Release ID: 2119269) Visitor Counter : 107

Source: Government of India

Fourth Candidate Open House hosted by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs

 Interns of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme share their holistic development journey

ONGC Internships helping youth learn core skills, soft skills and contributing towards overall personality development: Skill Development Chief, ONGC India

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 4:11PM by PIB Delhi

As part of the fourth online ‘Candidate Open House’ hosted by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs on April 3, 2025, interns enrolled under the Prime Minister Internship Scheme shared their myriad experiences during the first few months of their ongoing internship. These Candidate Open Houses serve as a vital touchpoint for aspirants interested in the scheme, candidates navigating the registration and application process, current interns and industry.

In the previous edition of the Open House (March 27, 2024), interns from the Mahindra group shared their experiences while Mr. Don Lewis, Head of Skill Development & Education at Mahindra’s Farm Division shared his views on how an internship can provide a strong foundation for professional growth. In this Open House, Anil Bahuguna, Chief of Skill Development at ONGC India, elaborated upon how internships in ONGC are helping youth learn core skills, soft skills and contributing towards overall personality development.

Willkilinton Deori and Aditi Kashyap – both ONGC interns from Jorhat –  spoke about their internship journey so far covering multiple aspects.  For Willkilinton, the internship has already made him a more disciplined person. Since he is expected to go to his internship location daily (weekdays), Deori feels more aware about following a daily schedule and allocating adequate time to different activities. Aditi is involved in data processing in a hydrocarbon exploration project. Before this internship, she had only read about hydrocarbons in theory. Now as part of her internship, she is involved in data processing of hydrocarbons using a specialized software called ‘Geodesk’.

Jaya Aishwariya, an intern from Karaikal, Puducherry, mentioned that she commutes 30 km to her internship location. On hearing this, Anil Bahuguna, Chief of Skill Development at ONGC India readily offered to provide accommodation near the site to facilitate her internship journey. Jaya spoke candidly, both in English and Tamil, eager to continue her internship and progress in her career. 

Avi Rana, another intern from Delhi, shared that several classroom trainings were conducted on diverse topics such a human resource and finance by senior managers from ONGC. These sessions covered both technical knowledge and soft skills trainings – functions of HR, understanding and interpreting financial statements, knowledge of relevant digital tools, presentation skills and communication skills. Avi feels that she is now a more confident person because of the personality development trainings she’s been part of in her internship training. Even her ONGC supervisors agreed that the trainings have significantly helped mitigate her stage fright.

Aditya and Venkat, interns from Andhra Pradesh, said that they feel very comfortable in their internship environment to interact with their supervisors and seek help in case of difficulties. Aditya also shared that interns receive a food reimbursement of up to ₹5,000 per month. Additionally, they are provided with accommodation facilities and travel by bus, just like full-time employees.

All the interns shared experiences that symbolises the impact of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme in providing exposure to youth across India to professional environments in top companies of India for upskilling and a well-rounded professional experience.

An integral part of this scheme is the participation form top companies to contribute towards enhancing employability of Indian youth. Mr.  Anil Bahuguna, Chief of Skill Development at ONGC India provided an overview of ONGC’s operations and its active involvement in the scheme, especially focusing on additional benefits provided by the company including additional financial assistance, accidental insurance, food allowance, accommodation, personal protection equipment etc. Like ONGC, over 200 participating companies are offering additional benefits such as subsidized or free meals, travel and accommodation assistance, reimbursements, and other forms of financial support to their interns.

Mr. Bahuguna also spoke about ONGC’s efforts to ensure a holistic development experience for interns. For instance, Mr. Rajdeep Singh, former Indian hockey player and currently manager at ONGC conducts sessions with the interns to share his sporting career experiences and how they’ve shaped him as an individual.

Furthermore, Mr. Bahuguna also explained  ONGC’s intern selection process and potential pathways to full time employment in companies engaged in hydrocarbon exploration & development business. ONGC on its part  is planning to encourage its service providers  to utilise services  of suitable ONGC trained interns post their internship . For this, ONGC will soon modify contractual terms with its service providers.

MCA officials reiterated that the selection process has commenced for some of the internship opportunities and so the candidates should be alert on the portal and regularly check the status of their applications.  The application phase for Round 2 of the pilot phase of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme is currently underway and April 15, 2025, is the last date for eligible youth to apply.

For more information visit: https://pminternship.mca.gov.in/

****

NB/AD

(Release ID: 2119249) Visitor Counter : 56

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 4:10PM by PIB Delhi

Section 233 of the Companies Act 2013 provides for merger or amalgamation of certain companies (Fast Track Merger) through approval of Central Government [Delegated to Regional Directors].  Pursuant to Para 101 of the Budget Speech (2025-2026), it has been decided to widen the scope of such mergers.  For this purpose, a  draft notification (along with an Explanatory note) proposing amendment in the Companies (Compromises, Arrangements and Amalgamations) Rules, 2016 has been placed on the website of the M/o Corporate Affairs (www.mca.gov.in). 

Comments/suggestions on the draft amendment rules may be sent latest by 05^th May, 2025 through e-Consultation Module on the website of Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

****

NB/AD

(Release ID: 2119247) Visitor Counter : 73

Source: Government of India

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal confers ‘Startup Maharathi’ Awards at Startup Mahakumbh 2025

Maharathis are the warriors of India’s innovation journey: Shri Piyush Goyal

Second Fund of Funds for Startups worth ₹10,000 crore approved to boost deep-tech and early-stage innovation

Startup India Desk to be set up to serve as a helpline for startups

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 9:08PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal conferred the ‘Startup Maharathi’ Awards on the concluding day of Startup Mahakumbh 2025 in New Delhi today. Addressing a packed audience of entrepreneurs, innovators and ecosystem enablers, the Minister lauded all participants, stating that each one of them is a “Maharathi”—a skilled warrior and vital contributor in India’s startup revolution.

“Maharathi is every one of the 2,400 participants of this grand challenge. Every one of the 3,000 exhibitors at Startup Mahakumbh is on the path to success,” said Shri Goyal, as he acknowledged the immense talent and potential of India’s startup ecosystem.

He encouraged young founders to set ambitious goals and rise beyond the limitations of the present. “The potential you hold will make you a great contributor to India’s journey in this Amrit Kaal. Let the Startup Mahakumbh ignite aspirations that go beyond the current realm of reality,” he added.

Comparing the scale of the event with previous years, the Minister informed that while last year saw around 3,000 visitors, this year the Mahakumbh witnessed a record footfall of 2.3 lakh visitors, underlining India’s exponential growth trajectory in the innovation space.

Shri Goyal also shared that 40% of the applicants for the Maharathi Grand Challenge were from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and many were women-led startups. “Women are taking a lead in India’s development and contributing with great enthusiasm,” he remarked.

The Minister emphasised that the Government is creating an enabling environment for startups through landmark reforms in Ease of Doing Business. “Over 40,000 compliances have been simplified or removed, and many laws have been decriminalized so that startups can work freely and fairly,” he said.

Announcing a key initiative, Shri Goyal revealed that a dedicated Startup India Desk will be set up in the Ministry of Commerce & Industry to serve as a helpline for startups across India, accessible via a simple 4-digit toll-free number in regional languages.

He also said that the Second Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) with a corpus of ₹10,000 crore, has been approved by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. This year, ₹2,000 crore will be disbursed to SIDBI as the first installment. A significant portion of the fund will be reserved for seed funding of small startups and to support deep-tech innovation.

“Through this fund, we aim to foster the development of cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics, quantum computing, machine learning, precision manufacturing and biotech,” he stated.

The objective is to provide early-stage financial support to budding entrepreneurs who often face challenges in accessing traditional forms of capital. This allocation will empower startups working on disruptive technologies by enabling them to scale prototypes, undertake research and development, and accelerate go-to-market strategies.

The fund will especially focus on startups operating in cutting-edge domains such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, precision manufacturing, biotech, and semiconductor design, where long gestation periods and high capital requirements often pose hurdles. By mobilising patient capital, the Government aims to build a strong pipeline of indigenous technology solutions that can address national priorities and position India as a global innovation leader.

This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to nurturing a self-reliant and forward-looking startup ecosystem, where young innovators from every corner of India have equal access to resources and opportunities.

Shri Goyal further urged SIDBI to establish at least one support centre in every state to provide basic infrastructure and shared facilities for early-stage entrepreneurs. Recalling his interaction with a startup that had invested in its own 3D printer due to the lack of shared facilities, the Minister stressed the importance of accessible prototyping resources.

“We must unlock India’s full potential through facilitation, not regulation. The Government is here to support your journey, not control it,” he concluded.

Shri Goyal called upon India’s youth to lead the way in emerging sectors like AI, semiconductors and deep-tech, and shape the nation’s path to Atmanirbhar Bharat.

***

Abhishek Dayal / Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

(Release ID: 2119385) Visitor Counter : 78

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 8:36PM by PIB Delhi

​Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid his respects at the ‘Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial’ in Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, near Colombo, today.

The IPKF Memorial commemorates the soldiers of the Indian Peace Keeping Force, who made the supreme sacrifice in defending the unity and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka.

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2119368) Visitor Counter : 63

Source: Government of India

India Marks 62nd National Maritime Day Honouring Seafarers as the Nation Advances towards a Sustainable Maritime Future

“Prosperous Seas – Developed India and Youth for Blue Economy and Green Growth” was the theme of the this year’s Maritime Week 

“The ocean connects us not just to trade, but to opportunity, growth, and national progress:” Sarbananda Sonowal

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 7:59PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) celebrated the 62nd National Maritime Day across the country with great enthusiasm and reverence, honouring India’s rich maritime heritage and the exceptional contribution of seafarers to the nation’s growth and global connectivity.

This year’s theme, “Prosperous Seas – Developed India and Youth for Blue Economy and Green Growth,” reflected the importance of sustainable growth in the maritime sector and the critical role of youth in driving innovation and environmental stewardship.

The National Maritime Day Celebration Committee (NMDCC), Delhi chapter, under the aegis of the Directorate General of Shipping, MoPSW, organised the central celebration at the Vinay Marg Sports Ground in New Delhi today. The function was graced by the Union Cabinet Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, as the Chief Guest.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “On National Maritime Day, we honour the unwavering spirit of our seafarers and the maritime community who keep India’s economy sailing forward. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, we continue to strengthen our ports, empower coastal shipping, and embrace innovation. We reaffirm our commitment to making India a global maritime leader. The ocean connects us not just to trade, but to opportunity, growth, and national progress.”

Week-long celebrations were held across the maritime sector, including flag pinning ceremonies for the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Governors of maritime states, blood donation camps, wreath-laying ceremonies to honour fallen seafarers, and national-level seminars on maritime development and the future of the Blue Economy.

Adding further, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India’s maritime sector is undergoing a historic transformation. With our vast Blue Economy, cutting-edge port infrastructure, and future-ready shipping ecosystem, the sector is emerging as a powerful force multiplier in our journey towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’. National Maritime Week is a celebration of our seafarers, our coastal communities, and our unwavering commitment to building a sustainable, secure, and globally competitive maritime future for India.”

During the event, Shri Sonowal interacted warmly with the cadets during the refreshment session, engaging in meaningful conversations about their aspirations and training. The Union Minister interacted with female cadets, encouraging them to lead from the front in shaping the future of India’s maritime landscape. Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Interacting with the young cadets on the sidelines of National Maritime Week was truly inspiring — their passion and commitment reflect the bright future of India’s maritime journey. I wished them best of luck and commended them for their most important role as the nation builders via a strong, vibrant, modern and efficient maritime sector.”

To foster community engagement and promote a healthy maritime spirit, sporting events such as football, cricket, volleyball, javelin throw, relay races, and sprints were organised with active participation from maritime professionals. These activities underscored the values of teamwork, resilience, and camaraderie that are hallmarks of life at sea.

The Ministry also recognised the outstanding services of individuals and organisations in the maritime sector by conferring awards and commendations to honour their dedication and achievements. The event was also attended by the Secretary (Shipping), Joint Secretary (Ports), Directors, and Under Secretaries from the Ministry, reflecting the strong institutional presence and commitment to maritime advancement. Around 510 trainees and faculty members participated in the event.

The 62nd National Maritime Day not only honoured the legacy of India’s maritime pioneers but also reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to a greener, more inclusive, and innovation-driven maritime future. National Maritime Day commemorates the historic voyage of ‘S.S. Loyalty’, the first Indian-owned steamship, which sailed from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919. This momentous event marked India’s foray into international shipping and laid the foundation for the nation’s proud maritime journey.

***

GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2119352) Visitor Counter : 111