Month: May 2025

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal Addresses Columbia India Energy Dialogue

 “India at the forefront of global energy transition; energy solutions must reflect equity, inclusiveness and development needs of the Global South” – Shri Piyush Goyal

“India achieved 2030 renewable energy targets eight years ahead of schedule”

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 8:38PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal addressed the Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi today, where he highlighted India’s leadership role in the global energy transition and reiterated the country’s commitment to inclusive and equitable climate action.

In his address, Shri Goyal underscored the collective responsibility of all nations in tackling climate change. “At the end of the day, the energy transition is something we all must contribute to. While the level and speed of transition will differ based on the developmental stage of each country, the commitment must be universal,” he said.

The Minister stressed that climate change is a real and urgent challenge and that each nation must craft its own unique solutions. “Pathways may be different, but the recognition of the problem is universal. India has consistently taken a leadership position. I suspect COP21 would not have had any concrete outcome without Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi rallying the Global South and making them part of the solution rather than being adversaries to it,” he stated.

Shri Goyal lamented that the promises made by developed nations at the Paris Agreement have largely remained unfulfilled. “Since 2015, the larger issue has not just been climate change, but the failure of the developed world to deliver on technology transfers, long-term concessional climate financing, and support under the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR),” he said.

Highlighting India’s achievements, Shri Goyal said, “India accounts for only 3% of global carbon emissions despite supporting 17% of the world’s population. We achieved our 2030 renewable energy target of 200 GW in 2022 itself—eight years ahead of schedule. Solar power alone has grown over 30 times in the last decade. India continues to submit its reports to the UNFCCC on time, setting an example for global compliance.”

The Minister emphasized the critical need to address the root causes of carbon emissions, particularly overconsumption and waste. “Excess consumption, especially in high-prosperity nations, leads to systemic carbon emissions—from farm to plate. Every step—production, packaging, transport, storage, and disposal—adds to emissions. This behavioural pattern must be addressed,” he added.

Reiterating India’s commitment to the clean energy transition, Shri Goyal highlighted the achievement of a 500-gigawatt interconnected national grid. This was made possible by Prime Minister Modi’s 2014 initiative to connect all regional grids and invest billions of dollars in creating a unified national power infrastructure.

He emphasized that this grid not only ensures 24/7 access to affordable energy across the country, but also strengthens the system to accommodate significantly more clean energy. In addition, India has prepared a robust framework for data centres, ensuring high levels of redundancy, reliability, and resilience. This, Shri Goyal noted, will boost economic growth, create opportunities for clean energy integration, and attract global investments.

Speaking on innovation and technology, Shri Goyal said that India has made rapid advances in sectors such as LED lighting, which witnessed one of the fastest revolutions globally, and is promoting electric mobility, green hydrogen, biofuels, ethanol blending and green ammonia. “India is rapidly emerging as a global destination for clean energy-powered data centres, with strong redundancies, reliability, and resilience built into our grid infrastructure,” he added.

Calling for global cooperation, the Minister urged Columbia University to collaborate with Indian Institutes of Eminence and consider setting up a campus in India. “This will benefit your students, open up vast opportunities, and further strengthen our knowledge partnership,” he said.

Shri Goyal concluded by asserting that India is engaging with the world from a position of strength, not shying away from change or competition. “India will be a friend and a partner in the shared prosperity of the world. We will not just participate in the global clean energy movement—we will lead it,” he affirmed.

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Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

(Release ID: 2127340) Visitor Counter : 84

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

In a major development, Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rhenus Logistics India Private Limited, today, to operate their barge services in various national waterways in India. Rhenus Logistics is a Germany-based international logistics service provider operating globally in more than 70 countries with an annual turnover of EUR 8.2 billion.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in New Delhi. Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW; Shri Vijay Kumar, Chairman, IWAI, along with other senior officials of the Authority and representatives of Rhenus Logistics India were present at the occasion.

Under the MoU, Rhenus Logistics will deploy 100 cargo vessels along with pusher tugs in a phased manner along NW-1, NW-2, NW-16 and the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) routes. During the first phase — starting from the third quarter of 2025, about 20 barges and six pusher tugs are expected to be deployed in these waterways. A combination of pushers and barges, to suit low-draft navigation in waterways, will be used to transport both bulk and break-bulk cargo across North and East India, North-East India, and subsequently to neighbouring countries. The operations will gradually be scaled up to include other national waterways in the country.

Union Minister Shri Sonowal called the MoU between IWAI and Rhenus Logistics India a bold step towards building a resilient multi-modal logistics ecosystem in the country. He termed it a significant moment for private participation in the IWT sector and expressed hope that it will open new opportunities of innovation and capital investments in the sector. This move will ensure effective utilisation and expansion of waterways infrastructure thereby lowering the operational costs, making IWT sector more competitive and responsive to market demands. 

The partnership between IWAI and Rhenus Logistics India is a testament to the success of Jal Marg Vikas Project being implemented with the financial assistance of the World Bank – for the capacity augmentation of National Waterway -1 (River Ganga). Under this project, IWAI is undertaking end-to-end maintenance dredging, building IWT terminals and navigational locks, setting up community jetties and providing navigational aids all along the waterway for smooth and efficient passenger and cargo movement.

With the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the able guidance of Hon’ble Minister, MoPSW, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, IWAI has made several infrastructural interventions to develop waterways as a robust engine of growth. The total number of operational waterways in the country has gone up from 24 to 29.  As on date, river cruises are being operated on 13 national waterways. Cargo traffic on national waterways has touched an all-time high of 145.84 million tonnes. The newly-introduced ‘Jalvahak’ Cargo Promotion Scheme is expected to further push this growth.  Launched in December last year, it incentivises cargo owners and movers to the extent of up to 35% of the total actual operating expenditure incurred on waterways journey thus making it more lucrative than before. A fixed scheduled service for cargo movement has also been initiated on NW-1, NW-2 and NW-16 via IBP route under the scheme.

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GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2127332) Visitor Counter : 22

Source: Government of India

Union Health Minister Shri J P Nadda inaugurates 2nd National Workshop on ‘Health Sector Disaster Preparedness and Response’ & ‘Fire Safety in Healthcare Facilities’

Union Health Minister highlights the need for capacity building and sensitization of all cadres of personnel working in health facilities in public as well as private sectors at all levels of healthcare delivery system

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi also has stressed on the need of regular fire safety audits of the institutions and to prevent the disasters before they occur: Shri Nadda

“Lack of sensitivity towards disaster and fire preparedness leads to complacency and complacency further leads to carelessness that proves to be a spark of fire, a spark of disaster”

iGOT course on ‘Fire Safety in Healthcare Facilities’ launched during the event

Best performing States/UTs during ‘Fire Safety Week’ felicitated

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 7:56PM by PIB Delhi

 

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, inaugurated the 2^nd National Workshop on ‘Health Sector Disaster Preparedness and Response’ & ‘Fire Safety in Healthcare Facilities’, at Dr Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, today. The workshop by Disaster Management Cell of the Union Health Ministry is being organized as a culmination of various activities organized by the Ministry as part of ‘Fire Safety Week’ in coordination with Disaster Nodal Officers from all States/UTs.

During his address, Shri Nadda underlined the continuous and proactive efforts of the Ministry towards disaster preparedness and fire safety, and stated that “the Ministry has been issuing various advisories, checklists etc. to all States/UTs and with time we have realized that we can move further in this direction.”

Highlighting the importance of the workshop, Shri Nadda stated that “this second workshop shows the commitment of the Health Ministry towards disaster and fire preparedness in healthcare facilities”. He also underlined that “we need to make our health facilities more resilient and resistant towards disaster and fire incidents. And that’s why it’s necessary to organize such disaster management workshops regularly.”   

Shri Nadda emphasized that “we should focus on the preventive part of the disasters so that uninterrupted, comprehensive and quality health services can be ensured and we can stay vigilant; mitigate and address unforeseen situations.”

Underlining the increased responsibility of healthcare facilities, Shri Nadda added that “since we work with high-load equipment and highly inflammable materials like oxygen and chemicals that not only save lives, but also are inflammable and might cause a hazard. Therefore, there is a need of increased sensitization towards them.”  

Urging all the stakeholders to contribute to this duty, Shri Nadda stated that “the responsibility lies not only with the top tier officials but also with the grassroot workers and paramedics.”   Union Health Minister also underlined on the need to increase the confidence of the healthcare workers regarding disaster-response, for which he stressed on the necessity of practical knowledge and training along with the theoretical knowledge.

Shri Nadda emphasized that  “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi also has stressed on the need of regular fire safety audits of the institutions and to prevent the disasters before they occur”.  

Shri Nadda stressed on the need of sensitivity towards fire hazards and disaster preparedness in the healthcare facilities and urged all to be very cautious and clear about the sensitivity dimension along with regular fire safety audits as “lack of sensitivity towards disaster and fire preparedness leads to complacency and complacency further leads to carelessness that proves to be a spark of fire, a spark of disaster”.

Shri Nadda congratulated all the States/UTs, officers and stakeholders for their active participation during the ‘Fire Safety Week’ that was organized from 21^st to 25^th April, 2025.  Applauding the efforts of all States/UTs. Stressing on the need for collective actions, Union Health Minister highlighted the need for capacity building of all cadres of personnel working in different types of health facilities in public as well as private sectors at all levels of healthcare delivery system.

Shri Nadda also added that “this workshop is not only for government hospitals but for the entire healthcare landscape of the country including private hospitals, primary health centres, nursing homes, maternity centres, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and preventive facilities.”

Shri Nadda also expressed his expectations that the two-day intensive consultation during the workshop will result in action-oriented recommendations that will improve the resilience and responsiveness of healthcare facilities not only against fires but with an all-hazard approach thus ensuring that health facilities continue to provide care when their services are needed the most.

Addressing the gathering, Union Health Secretary, Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava stressed on the need to go over and beyond the compliance to regulatory norms and continue to strive towards a culture of fire prevention and preparedness while encouraging comprehensive disaster management planning and regular exercise of such plans at all levels.  

Stressing on the importance of preparedness of health facilities during disaster or fire incidents, Smt. Srivastava stated that “at time of disaster health facilities are the harbinger of hope for all those who have been affected by the disaster. Therefore, disaster management and particularly hospital disaster management becomes very important.” “Preparedness is the core element of ensuring that we meet each and very incident in effective manner”, she further added.

Smt. Srivastava also underlined that “considering the onset of summer, it is important to focus on fire safety in hospitals.”   

An iGOT course on ‘Fire Safety in Healthcare Facilities’ launched during the event. Best performing States/UTs during ‘Fire Safety Week’ were also felicitated during the event.

Ms. LS Changsan, Additional Secretary (Public Health), Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services, Sh. Rajendra Singh, Member and HoD, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) were present at the occasion. The event was also attended by senior officials/experts NDMA, National Institute of Disaster Management; Bhabha Atomic Research Center; Directorate General Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards; National Fire Service College, Nagpur; National Center for Disease Control; AIIMS New Delhi, Central Design Bureau; WHO– India Country office and representatives of various Central Government hospitals.

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HFW/HFM inaugurates National Workshop on Health Sector Disaster Preparedness and Response & Fire Safety/06 May 2025/1

(Release ID: 2127328) Visitor Counter : 70

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Labour Department (LD) is highly concerned about a fatal work accident that happened at a construction site in Fanling this afternoon (May 6), in which a male worker, while hanging nylon nets on a bamboo scaffold on the external wall of a building, fell from height to the ground. He was certified dead later in hospital. The LD is saddened by death of the worker and expresses its deepest sympathy to his family.

The LD’s spokesman said, “We commenced an immediate on-site investigation as soon as we were notified of the accident and have issued suspension notices to the contractors concerned, suspending the erection, alteration, dismantling and use of the bamboo scaffold on the external walls of the building. The contractors cannot resume the work process until the LD is satisfied that suitable measures to abate the relevant risks have been taken.”

The spokesman added, “We will complete the investigation as soon as possible to identify the cause of the accident, ascertain the liability of the duty holders and recommend improvement measures. We will take actions pursuant to the law if there is any violation of the work safety legislation.”

To prevent workers from falling from height while engaged in scaffolding work, the LD reminds employers to take suitable safety measures, including providing every worker engaged in the work with a suitable safety harness that is attached continuously to a suitable and secure anchor point, an independent lifeline or a fall arresting system, and ensuring the proper use of the safety equipment by the workers concerned throughout the work.

The general duty provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance require employers to provide safe working environments, plant and systems of work for their employees. Those who contravene the relevant provisions are liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for two years.

 In regard to today’s accident, the LD will issue a Work Safety Alert through its mobile application “OSH 2.0”, website and email, giving a brief account of the accident concerned to duty holders, workers’ unions, professional bodies of safety practitioners and others, and reminding the industry of the importance of following safety precautionary measures to prevent a recurrence of similar accidents.

The LD will also remind the employer concerned of the liability for employees’ compensation under the Employees’ Compensation Ordinance, assist family members of the deceased to claim employees’ compensation and closely follow up on the case. For those with financial difficulties, the LD will assist them to apply for appropriate emergency funds. Subject to the needs and wishes of family members of the deceased, the LD will also liaise with the Social Welfare Department for financial or other assistance.

For the sake of securing the safety and health of employees at work, the LD appeals to employers to provide plant and systems of work that are safe and without risks to health. Employees should also co-operate with their employers, adopt all safety measures and use personal protective equipment provided properly to avoid endangering their own work safety and that of other workers.

Source: Government of India

A historic and ambitious deal to boost jobs, exports and national growth.

99% Indian exports to benefit from zero duty.

Opens up massive export opportunities for labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, marine products, leather, footwear, sports goods and toys, gems and jewellery, and other important sectors such as engineering goods, auto parts and engines, and organic chemicals.

Significant boost to trade in services, such as IT/ITeS, financial services, professional services, other business services and educational services.

Stronger strategic alignment and greater global mobility for aspirational young Indians.

Huge win with three-years exemption from social security payments for Indian employees working in the UK.

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 7:12PM by PIB Delhi

 

Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Sir Keir Starmer have announced the successful conclusion of a mutually beneficial India – UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This forward-looking Agreement is aligned with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and complements the growth aspirations of both the countries.

The engagement builds upon the discussions held between the two Prime Ministers on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in November 2024. Following the meeting between the two Prime Ministers, intense FTA negotiations resumed in February 2025 marked by several engagements between the Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal and the U.K. Secretary of State Mr. Jonathan Reynolds and their teams.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi stated in his social media post on X (formerly twitter) “In a historic milestone, India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, along with a Double Contribution Convention. These landmark agreements will further deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both our economies.”

The Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal thanked the Prime Minister for his guidance and encouragement which made the trade deal possible, and under whose visionary leadership India is looked upon as “Vishwa Mitra – Trusted Partner” of the world.

Mr. Goyal stated “This Agreement sets a new benchmark for equitable and ambitious trade between two large economies. It will benefit Indian farmers, fishermen, workers, MSMEs, startups and innovators. It brings us closer to our goal of becoming a global economic powerhouse. This FTA is not only about goods and services, but also about people, possibilities and prosperity. It protects our core interests while opening doors to India’s greater participation in global value chains”.

The Commerce Secretary Shri Sunil Barthwal emphasised that this FTA is a game changer and will set India further on the path of rapid economic growth and benefit India’s global integration. This is the most comprehensive free trade deal ever entered into by India and will be the gold standard for our future engagements.

The FTA takes place in the backdrop of growing economic relations between India and the UK as exemplified in the bilateral trade of about USD 60 billion which is projected to double by 2030.

This comprehensive and forward-looking agreement is the culmination of intense negotiations aimed at deepening trade and investment ties across a range of sectors, including goods, services and technology. It is designed to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth, ensure resilient supply chains and generate high-quality employment in India.

In an unprecedented achievement, India has secured an exemption for Indian workers who are temporarily in the UK and their employers from paying social security contributions in the UK for a period of three years under the Double Contribution Convention. This will make Indian service providers significantly more competitive in the UK.

Key Highlights of the India-UK FTA:

• The FTA with the UK is a modern, comprehensive and landmark agreement which seeks to achieve deep economic integration along with trade liberalisation and tariff concessions.
• The FTA ensures comprehensive market access for goods, across all sectors, covering all of India’s export interests. India will gain from tariff elimination on about 99% of the tariff lines covering almost 100% of the trade value offering huge opportunities for increase in the bilateral trade between India and the UK.
• The FTA provides positive impact on manufacturing across labour and technology intensive sectors and opens up export opportunities for sectors such as textiles, marine products, leather, footwear, sports goods and toys, gems and jewellery and other important sectors such as engineering goods, auto parts and engines and organic chemicals. This will substantially improve Indian goods competitiveness in the UK vis-a-vis other countries.
• The FTA will have significant positive gains for employment in India.
• India will benefit from one of the most ambitious FTA commitment from the UK in Services such as IT/ITeS, financial services, professional services, other business services and educational services, opening up new opportunities and jobs.
• The FTA eases mobility for professionals including Contractual Service Suppliers; Business Visitors; Investors; Intra-Corporate Transferees; partners and dependent children of Intra-Corporate Transferees with right to work; and Independent Professionals like yoga instructors, musicians and chefs.
• Immense opportunities for talented and skilled Indian youth will open up in the UK which is a major global centre for digitally delivered services due to its strong financial and professional services sectors and advanced digital infrastructure.
• India has secured significant commitments on digitally delivered services for Indian service suppliers, specially in professional services such as architecture and engineering, computer related services and telecommunication services.
• The exemption for Indian workers who are temporarily in the UK and their employers from paying social security contributions in the UK for a period of three years under the Double Contribution Convention will lead to significant financial gains for the Indian service providers and enhance their competitiveness in the UK market that would create new job opportunities as well as benefit large number of Indians working in the UK.
• India has ensured that non-tariff barriers are suitably addressed to ensure free flow of goods and services and that they do not create unjustified restrictions to India’s exports.
• The FTA seeks to promote good regulatory practices and enhance transparency that are in sync with India’s own focus on domestic reforms to enhance the ease of doing business.

As two leading democracies and global innovation hubs, India and the UK reaffirm their commitment to strengthening economic cooperation and working together to address global challenges. The India – UK FTA sets a new benchmark for fair, ambitious, and modern trade agreements worldwide.

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Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan

(Release ID: 2127321) Visitor Counter : 140

Source: Government of India

Chief Minister of Nagaland Calls on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh in New Delhi

“Centre Prioritising Science & Technology-Led Growth in North East”, says Dr. Jitendra Singh

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 6:35PM by PIB Delhi

NEW DELHI, May 6: Chief Minister of Nagaland, Shri Neiphiu Rio, called on 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 in New Delhi today.

Shri Y. Patton, Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister of Nagaland, and Smt. Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Minister for Horticulture and Human Resource Development, also accompanied the Chief Minister during the meeting.

The meeting focused on collaborative efforts to further accelerate development in Nagaland through key initiatives of the Government of India, particularly in areas related to science and technology, administrative reforms, and good governance.

Reiterating the highest priority given to the Northeast by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, Dr. Jitendra Singh underlined the Centre’s priority to promote innovation, scientific research, and technology-driven development in the North Eastern region. Discussions included the potential for expanding science and technology infrastructure in the State, encouraging start-ups and incubation centres, and promoting scientific temper among youth through programs of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).

The Union Minister also apprised the Chief Minister about various schemes under the Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy that could be leveraged for development applications in remote and hilly terrains, including the use of geospatial technology for planning, disaster management, and agricultural productivity.

Matters related to administrative reforms and civil service capacity building were also discussed.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) is committed to enhancing governance standards in the North East by conducting regular training, mid-career interventions, and digital capacity building programmes for officials from the region.

The Chief Minister expressed appreciation for the Government of India’s continued focus on the North East and conveyed Nagaland’s willingness to partner more actively in national missions. He sought further support for skilling, entrepreneurship promotion, and public grievance redress mechanisms tailored for the region.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of sustained Centre-State coordination to ensure the effective implementation of flagship initiatives and to unlock the full development potential of Nagaland and the wider North Eastern region.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2127313) Visitor Counter : 40

Source: Government of India

India’s first human Space mission “Gaganyaan” programme has entered its final phase: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Gaganyaan Yields High Returns at Low Cost, Showcasing India’s Space Efficiency: MoS Space Dr. Singh

Gaganyaan Spurs Tech Spinoffs and Industry Growth, Becomes India’s Mission: Dr. Jitendra Singh

India Targets Crewed Spaceflight in 2027 as Gaganyaan Moves into Final Leg

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 6:30PM by PIB Delhi

NEW DELHI, May 6 : India’s first human Space mission “Gaganyaan” programme has entered its final phase, with the first human spaceflight now scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.

Disclosing this while speaking at a media interaction at National Media Centre here today, 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 provided detailed updates on the mission’s current status, technological progress, and the broader economic dividends emerging from India’s cost-effective space programme.

ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space, Dr V. Narayanan also accompanied the Minister.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said, the successful completion of the TV-D1 mission and the first uncrewed Test Vehicle Abort Mission earlier this year have laid a strong foundation for the upcoming test schedule. The second Test Vehicle mission (TV-D2) is slated for later in 2025, followed by the uncrewed orbital flights of Gaganyaan. These milestones will culminate in India’s maiden human spaceflight in 2027, launching Indian astronauts into orbit aboard an Indian rocket from Indian soil.

Calling it a “historic mission,” Dr. Jitendra Singh underlined that the Gaganyaan programme goes far beyond scientific achievement. “It represents India’s rise as a global space power built on indigenous technology, fiscal prudence, and visionary political leadership,” he said. He also recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had clearly laid out India’s long-term ambitions in space, including setting up the Bharatiya Antariksha Station by 2035 and sending the first Indian to the Moon by 2040.

The Human-rated LVM3 vehicle, the Crew Escape System, and the Crew Module and Service Module are all undergoing final stages of testing and integration. He confirmed that the uncrewed orbital Gaganyaan mission is on track for launch later this year, with recovery trials already conducted with the Indian Navy and more sea recovery simulations planned.

Training of astronauts is also progressing steadily.

The media was informed that the four Indian Air Force pilots, selected as astronaut-designates, have completed training in Russia and are undergoing further mission-specific training in India. Their health, psychological fitness, and simulation-based operational readiness are being continuously assessed at India’s astronaut training facility.

While sharing these technical advancements, both Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised the cost-efficiency of the mission. “The expenditure being incurred on the Gaganyaan project is minimal when compared to similar human spaceflight missions conducted by other countries,” the Minister said. He added that the mission’s returns, both in terms of technological innovation and economic stimulus, far exceed the costs involved.

The programme has already given rise to multiple spinoffs—advancements in robotics, materials, electronics, and medicine—and is fostering deeper collaboration with Indian industry. “Today, Gaganyaan is not just ISRO’s mission. It is India’s mission,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said, noting the vital role played by the private sector and startups following policy reforms initiated by the government.

The Chairman too echoed the view that Gaganyaan is catalysing India’s emergence as a self-reliant space power, inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. With the crewed mission expected in 2026, India is poised to join an elite group of nations that have independently developed the capability for human spaceflight.

As Gaganyaan advances with focused precision, it serves not just as a leap in scientific capability but as a powerful symbol of India’s long-term economic and strategic aspirations in space.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2127312) Visitor Counter : 83

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer welcome the conclusion of a mutually beneficial India -UK Free Trade Agreement and the Double Contribution Convention

The two leaders describe it a historic milestone in bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

The Agreements will foster trade and economic cooperation, boost innovation and job creation, promote mobility

Prime Minister Modi invites PM Starmer to visit India

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 6:28PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom H.E. Sir Keir Starmer had a telephone conversation today. The two leaders welcomed the successful conclusion of an ambitious and mutually beneficial India–UK Free Trade Agreement along with the Double Contribution Convention.

The Leaders described it a historic milestone in the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that would foster trade, investment, innovation and job creation in both the economies. Both agreed that the landmark agreements between the two big and open market economies of the world will open new opportunities for businesses, strengthen economic linkages, and deepen people-to-people ties.

PM Starmer said that strengthening alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of their Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy.

The two leaders agreed that expanding economic and commercial ties between India and the UK remain a cornerstone of the increasingly robust and multifaceted partnership. The conclusion of a balanced, equitable and ambitious FTA, covering trade in goods and services, is expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade, generate new avenues for employment, raise living standards, and improve the overall well-being of citizens in both countries. It will also unlock new potential for the two nations to jointly develop products and services for global markets. This agreement cements the strong foundations of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and paves the way for a new era of collaboration and prosperity.

Prime Minister Modi invited Prime Minister Starmer to visit India. The leaders agreed to remain in touch.

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MJPS/ST

(Release ID: 2127311) Visitor Counter : 376

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh set to inaugurate Global Space Exploration Summit GLEX 2025

GLEX 2025 to Spotlight India’s Expanding Footprint in Global Space Leadership

India Set to Welcome 1800+ Global Delegates at Yashobhoomi, Delhi for the Space Conference

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 6:15PM by PIB Delhi

New Delhi, 6 May 2025 — India is set to host the 12th edition of the Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX 2025) from 7th to 9th May 2025 in New Delhi.

The three-day global summit, themed “Reaching New Worlds: A Space Exploration Renaissance,” will be inaugurated by the Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, MoS Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.

Addressing the curtain raiser media interaction, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s emergence as a global space leader over the past decade, attributing this transformative journey to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jointly organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as the host, and the Astronautical Society of India (ASI) as the co-host, GLEX 2025 marks a milestone in India’s expanding leadership in the global space community.

Since its inception in 2010, the Global Space Exploration Conference has become a premier platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation. GLEX 2025 continues that legacy with record-breaking participation, drawing over 1800 attendees, including 233 international delegates from 36 countries. In an unprecedented academic engagement, 1,275 abstracts have been submitted from 57 countries — the highest ever for an IAF global conference.

A total of 1,275 abstracts from 57 countries were received. Among them 822 abstracts constituting 64% of the total were submitted from India, while 453 abstracts, making up 36%, were received from international contributors. Another highlight of this year’s submissions is the high participation of students, who contributed 562 abstracts, underscoring the growing global interest and engagement of the next generation in space exploration.

The conference will feature 10 parallel technical sessions covering 15 thematic areas, and over 240 interactive presentations are scheduled. A highlight of the event will be the Plenary Sessions addressed by leading global figures in space exploration, including: Union Minister of State for Space Dr. Jitendra Singh. Josef Aschbacher, ESA (Europe); Kazuyoshi Kawasaki, Japan; V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO; Jill Smyth, USA; Wu Weiren, China; Salem Al Marri, UAE.

GLEX 2025 also places a strong emphasis on public engagement through an extensive astronaut outreach programme, featuring nearly 10 astronauts including: Hazzaa AlMansoori (UAE); Alper Gezeravci (Türkiye); Michael López-Alegría (USA/Spain); Angad Pratap (India); Rakesh Sharma, India’s first astronaut.

Another key highlight will be the inauguration of a space exhibition by Dr. Jitendra Singh, featuring stalls from 22 leading organizations, including Indian space startups, global space companies, and ISRO.

Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of ISRO, along with a contingent of senior space scientists, was also present during the curtain raiser media interaction, reflecting ISRO’s strong commitment to the success of GLEX 2025.”

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2127310) Visitor Counter : 32

Source: Government of India

India Reaffirms Commitment to Buddha’s Teachings at UN Vesak Day-2025 in Vietnam

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Conveys President and PM’s Greetings at UN Vesak Celebrations

Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 4:47PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, today addressed a distinguished global gathering at the United Nations Vesak Day-2025 Celebrations held at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City. On behalf of President Smt. Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Rijiju extended warm greetings to the international audience celebrating this sacred occasion.

In his address, Shri Rijiju emphasized the enduring relevance of Lord Buddha’s teachings in today’s world and highlighted India’s ancient and continuing commitment to sustainability, peace, and human dignity. He underscored how the message of the Buddha serves as a guiding light in the face of contemporary global challenges.

The grand ceremony was graced by the presence of the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, H.E. Luong Cuong, and the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, among several heads of state and spiritual leaders. Eminent Buddhist figures including the Supreme Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, Most Venerable Thich Tri Quang, and the Chairman of the International Organizing Committee for UNDV, Most Venerable Prof. Dr. Pra Brahmapundit, were also present.

The 2025 celebrations, themed “Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity; Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development,” convey a powerful message amid global uncertainties.

Sacred Holy Relics of Lord Buddha are being exhibited with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the Mahabodhi Society of India, the National Museum of India, and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). The relics are currently on display at Thanh Tam Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City and will travel to Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21, 2025.

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

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