Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

According to the statistics, 1,692 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total amount of US$5,835,450,000 were approved from January to September 2024. This indicates a decrease of 0.29% in the number of cases, and a decrease of 26.82% in FDI amount compared to the same period of 2023.

With regard to inward investment from Mainland China, 27 cases were approved with an amount of US$16,917,000 from January to September 2024. This indicates an increase of 28.57% in the number of cases, but a decrease of 36.35% in the FDI amount compared to the same period of 2023. From July 2009 to September 2024, 1,613 cases were approved with a total investment amount added up to US$2,612,863,000.

In terms of Taiwan’s outbound investment (excluding Mainland China), 539 projects were registered from January to September 2024 with a total amount of US$41,561,939,000, indicating an increase of 30.19% in the number of cases, and an increase of 137.75% in the amount, as compared to the same period of 2023.

As for Taiwan’s outward investment to Mainland China, 274 applications have been approved from January to September 2024, indicating an increase of 10.04% compared to the same period of 2023. The approved investment amount is US$3,336,337,000, 31.93% more than the same period in 2023.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:51PM by PIB Delhi

Government is reviewing the financial performance of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) at national and regional levels. The agenda items for the review meetings, inter-alia, include:

1. Review of the performance of RRBs on Financial Parameters and technology upgradation.
2. Thrust on Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) portfolio.
3. Importance on loan diversification towards Agri-allied, MSME and Retail Sectors. 

 Financial health of RRBs has improved in the recent years as they have posted highest ever consolidated net profit of ₹ 7,571 crore during FY 2023-24. Also, the RRBs have shown consistent improvement in key financial parameters like CRAR, deposits, advances, NPA, CD ratio etc. The Key Financial Parameters of RRBs have improved consistently in past years. The Total Balance sheet Size of RRBs have increased from Rs. 7,04,556 Crore in FY 2021- 22 to Rs. 8,40,080 Crore in FY 2023-24. Further the Net NPA has declined from 4.7% in FY 2021- 22 to 2.4%  in FY 2023-24. Also the Credit to Deposit Ratio has increased from 64.5% to 71.4% from FY 2021-22 to FY 2023-24.

Government has also reviewed the progress made by RRBs in deepening financial inclusion in rural and remote areas by reviewing performance on various financial inclusion schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana etc.

This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

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NB/AD

(Release ID: 2114942) Visitor Counter : 170

Source: Government of India

Government has Launched Multiple Digital Initiatives for Transparency and Efficiency, Reducing compliance burden in corporate filings

MCA21 V3 gives Enhanced Security with Web-Based Forms and Multifactor Authentication

MCA Portal Mobile App provides stakeholders with easy access to various services available on MCA21 website

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:50PM by PIB Delhi

To prevent fraudulent filings, web-based online forms have been introduced in MCA21 V3, incorporating field-level validations and auto-prefill functionalities across forms. Furthermore, multifactor authentication has been implemented to verify the identity of users accessing the system. Additionally, measures such as masking private information from public view have been adopted to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the data.

The Ministry has introduced several digital initiatives to enhance transparency, efficiency, quickness in service delivery for reducing compliance burden and enhancing user experience, a few are listed below: 

1. The Centre for Processing Accelerated Corporate Exit (CPACE) for centralized processing of voluntary closure of Companies/LLPs.
2. The Centralized Processing Centre (CPC) streamlines the verification process for various Non-STP forms by consolidating operations at a single location, replacing multiple RoC locations. 
3. The MCA Portal Mobile App offers stakeholders seamless access to various services available on the MCA21 website. 
4. The Chatbot serves as a unified communication channel, allowing stakeholders to interact via chat or call for query resolution. 
5. The E-Adjudication system provides an end-to-end online platform for the processing of adjudication cases, ensuring efficiency and transparency.
6. Stakeholders can also raise tickets on the MCA21 portal to provide feedback and report grievances if any, regarding challenges faced.

The total number of corporate filings, processed through MCA21, have steadily increased from 67,02,788 in 2020-21 to 80,77,210 in 2023-24, reaching 84,30,731 by February 2025.

This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Shri Harsh Malhotra in Rajya Sabha today

 

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 NB/AD

(Release ID: 2114940) Visitor Counter : 157

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:49PM by PIB Delhi

Annexure-II

Status of fisheries infrastructure projects approved under Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)

Fishing Harbours

Sl No.	State	Name of the Project With Districts	Financial Year	Amount eligible for interest subvention	Loan Sanctioned	Loan Disbursed	Status	Physical Status	Financial Status
(i)	(ii)	(iii)	(iv)	(v)	(vi)	(vii)	(viii)	(ix)	(x)
1	Andhra Pradesh	Fishing Harbour at  Uppada in East Godavari	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	63.14%	40.87%
2	Andhra Pradesh	Fishing Harbour at  Machilipattinam in Krishna District	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	58.35%	59.95%
3	Andhra Pradesh	Fishing Harbour at Nizampattinam in Guntur District	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	61.10%	38.26%
4	Andhra Pradesh	Fishing Harbour at Vodarevu in Prakasham District	2019-2020	150.00	Nil	Nil	Project Yet to Start	NR	NR
5	Gujarat	Fishing Harbour at Porbandar-Phase: 2	2019-2020	150.00	Nil	Nil	To take up	NR	NR
6	Gujarat	Fishing Harbour at Navabandar	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	41.44	Project Ongoing	95%	90.00%
7	Gujarat	Fishing Harbour at Madhwad in Junagad District	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	4.02	Project Ongoing	14.19%	10.27%
8	Gujarat	Establishment of Fishing Harbour at Veraval – Phase: 2 in Gir Somnath District	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	1.66	Project Ongoing	47.59%	42.46%
9	Gujarat	Establishment of Fishing Harbour at Sutrapada	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	1.48	Project Ongoing	33.61%	19.82%
10	Kerala	Development of Arthunkal Fishing Harbour	2020-2021	150.00	150.00	0.50	Project Ongoing	NR	NR
11	Tamil Nadu	Fishing Harbour at  Tharangampadi in Nagapattinam District	2018-2019	120.00	108.00	107.94	Project Completed	100%	100%
12	Tamil Nadu	Fishing Harbour at  ThiruvottriyurKuppam in Tiruvallur District	2018-2019	150.00	150.00	135.655	Project Completed	100%	60%
13	Tamil Nadu	Fishing Harbour at Mudhunagar in Cuddalore	2018-2019	100.00	90.00	83.6281	Project Completed	100%	82%
14	Tamil Nadu	Fishing Harbour at  Vellapallam in Nagapattinam	2018-2019	100.00	100.00	42.6123	Project Ongoing	79%	76%
15	Tamil Nadu	Fishing Harbour at Azhagankuppam in Villupuram District	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	2%	1%
16	Tamil Nadu	Fishing Harbour at  Arcottuthurai in NagapattinamDisrtict	2019-2020	150.00	150.00	116.98	Project Ongoing	91%	89%
17	Tamil Nadu	Export Infrastructures in Mookaiyur Fishing Harbour in Ramanathapuram District	2020-2021	20.00	20.00	11.90	Project Completed	100%	90%
18	Tamil Nadu	Additional berthing facilities in Fishing Harbour at Thoothukudi	2020-2021	25.00	25.00	Nil	Project Completed	100%	100%
19	Tamil Nadu	Additional arrangements and Dredging the Fishing Harbour in Nagapattinam	2020-2021	6.00	6.00	5.79	Project Completed	100%	89%
20	Tamil Nadu	Extension of Fishing harbour in Kanyakumari	2020-2021	150.00	150.00	30.00	Project Ongoing	66%	54%
21	West Bengal	Infrastructural development at Deshpran Fishing HarbourPetuaghat.	2019-2020	3.25	0.00	Nil	Project Dropped	NR	NR
22	Maharashtra	Post Harvesting Facilities in Fisheries Habour at Ratnagiri	2022-2023	146.90	146.90	Nil	project ongoing	5%	0%
23	Maharashtra	Infrastructural Facilities in Fisheries Harbour at  Raigad.	2022-2023	150.00	150.00	Nil	project ongoing	45%	32%
24	Maharashtra	Infrastructure Facilities Fisheries Habour at Dapoli, Ratnagiri District	2022-2023	150.00	150.00	Nil	project ongoing	10%	7%
25	Maharashtra	Fisheries Harbour at Shrivardhan, Raigad	2022-2023	119.64	119.64	Nil	Project Yet to Start	NR	NR
26	Tamil Nadu	Modernisation of Fishing Harbour in Nagapattinam	2022-2023	81.00	81.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	79%	76%
27	Tamil Nadu	Additional Infrastructure facilities in Fishing Harbour at Thoothukudi	2022-2023	10.00	10.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	94%	84%
28	Maharashtra	Fisheries Harbour at Satpati, Palghar	2022-2023	150.00	150.00	Nil	Project Yet to Start	NR	NR

 

Fish Landing Centres

Sl No.	State	Name of the Project With Districts	FY	Amount eligible for interest subvention	Loan Sanctioned	Loan Disbursed	Status	Physical Status	Financial Status
(i)	(ii)	(iii)	(iv)	(v)	(vi)	(vii)	(viii)	(ix)	(x)
1	Odisha	Fish Landing Centre at Khordha	2020-2021	9.29	Nil	Nil	Project Dropped	NR	NR
2	Odisha	Fish Landing Centre at Khordha	2020-2021	7.56	Nil	Nil	Project Dropped	NR	NR
3	Odisha	Fish Landing Center at Bhadruk	2020-2021	7.85	Nil	Nil	Project Dropped	NR	NR
4	Tamil Nadu	additional facilities to Fish Landing Centre at Portonovo-Annankovil in Cuddalore	2020-2021	10.00	10.00	3.85	Project Completed	100%	100%
5	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Keelamunthal in Ramanathapuram	2020-2021	10.00	10.00	8.50	Project Completed	100%	100%
6	Tamil Nadu	Additional Infrastructure facilities to Fish Landing Centre at Mudasalodai Village in Cuddalore	2020-2021	9.50	9.50	6.05	Project Completed	100%	100%
7	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Chandrapadi village in Nagapattinum	2020-2021	10.00	10.00	Nil	Project Completed	100%	100%
8	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Vanagiri Village in Nagapattinam	2020-2021	8.00	8.00	4.85	Project Completed	100%	100%
9	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Keezhathottam Village in Thanjavur	2020-2021	8.00	8.00	7.89	Project Completed	100%	94%
10	Tamil Nadu	T-Jetty at Tharuvaikulam in Thoothukudi	2020-2021	10.00	10.00	10.00	Project Completed	100%	94%
11	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Mandapam (North) in Ramanathapuram	2020-2021	10.00	10.00	9.98	Project Completed	100%	95%
12	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Mandapam (South) in Ramanathapuram	2020-2021	10.00	10.00	9.98	Project Completed	100%	95%
13	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Aruvikarai Village in Tirunelveli	2020-2021	10.00	10.00	Nil	Project Completed	100%	100%
14	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Kottaipattinam, Village in Pudukottai	2020-2021	3.05	3.05	2.36	Project Completed	100%	94%
15	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Vadakkamapattinam, Village at Pudukottai	2020-2021	1.55	1.55	1.25	Project Completed	100%	97%
16	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Puthukudi, Village at Pudukottai	2020-2021	1.40	1.40	1.20	Project Completed	100%	99%
17	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Sattankuppam at Thiruvallur	2022-2023	8.00	8.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	25%	13%
18	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Sunnambukulam at Thiruvallur	2022-2023	8.00	8.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	92%	38%
19	Tamil Nadu	fish landing centre at Tsunami Nagar and Akkaraigori village in Cuddalore	2022-2023	4.50	4.50	Nil	Project Completed	100%	100%
20	Tamil Nadu	fish landing centre at Sonankuppam village in Cuddalore	2022-2023	5.50	5.50	Nil	Project Completed	100%	96%
21	Tamil Nadu	Fish landing centre at Chithiraipettai and Nanjalingampettai villages in Cuddalore	2022-2023	7.50	7.50	Nil	Project Ongoing	91%	47%
22	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Pudhukuppam and Anichankuppam Villages in Villupuram	2022-2023	7.00	7.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	77%	21%
23	Tamil Nadu	Fish Landing Centre at Mudhaliyarkuppam and Chettynagar Villages in Villupuram	2022-2023	7.00	7.00	Nil	Project Ongoing	95%	39%
24	Tamil Nadu	Fish landing centre at Sothikuppam and Rasapettai village in Cuddalore District	2022-2023	8.50	8.50	Nil	Project Ongoing	77%	53%
				182.20	157.50	65.90

Fisheries Training Centres

Sl No.	State	Name of the Project	FY	Amount eligible for interest subvention	Loan Sanctioned	Loan Disbursed	Status	Physical Status	Financial Status
(i)	(ii)	(iii)	(iv)	(v)	(vi)	(vii)	(viii)	(ix)	(x)
1	Himachal Pradesh	Establishment of State of art of Fisheries Training Centres, Gagret Dist. Una	2020-2021	5.00	5.00	0.54	Project Ongoing	25.25%	20.91%
2	Tamil Nadu	Construction of Integrated office building for Training Centre to the Fishermen at Trichy in Trichy	2020-2021	4.00	4.00	Nil	Project Completed	100%	94%
3	Tamil Nadu	Construction of Integrated Training Centre and Offices at Cuddalore	2020-2021	5.00	5.00	3.92	Project Completed	100%	98%
4	Tamil Nadu	Construction of Training Centre at Radhapuram in Tirunelveli District.	2020-2021	1.60	1.60	1.56	Project Completed	100%	95%
5	Tamil Nadu	Establishment of Training Centre	2022-2023	5.00	5.00	Nil	Project Completed	100%	NR
6	Tamil Nadu	Establishment of Training Centre at Mettur Dam in Salem District.	2022-2023	3.00	3.00	0.03	Project Ongoing	NR	NR
7	West Bengal	Capacity Expansion and modernisation of Govt. Freshwater Fisheries Research & Training Center, Kulia, Kalyani, Nadia	2024-2025	5.00	Nil	Nil	Project Yet to Start	NR	NR

Processing Plants

Sl No.	State	Name of the Project	FY	Amount eligible for interest subvention	Loan Sanctioned	Loan Disbursed	Status	Physical Status	Financial Status
(i)	(ii)	(iii)	(iv)	(v)	(vi)	(vii)	(viii)	(ix)	(x)
1	Andhra Pradesh	Expansion of Processing Plant, M/s Ananda Foods, Ramayanapuram village, Bhimavaram, West Godavari District	2020-2021	8.82	8.82	8.82	Project Completed	100%	100%
2	Karnataka	Establishing Fish Processing Unit at Bangalore, by M/s Sashimi Foods Pvt.Ltd.,	2020-2021	0.68	Nil	Nil	Project Yet to Start	NR	NR
3	Odisha	EXPANSION OF SHRIMP PROCESSING UNIT OF “HIGHLAND AGRO”	2022-2023	9.13	25.00	25.00	Project Completed	100%	100%
4	Andhra Pradesh	Proposal of M/s Agro products, Andhra pradesh for setting up of a state-of-the -art shrimp processing unit in Nellore,Andhra Pradesh	2024-2025	37.39	Nil	Nil	Project Yet to Start	NR	NR
5	Maharashtra	A greenfield fish &Shrimp processing project proposed by M/s Pushpai Marine Exports Private Limited	2024-2025	22.51	Nil	Nil	Project Yet to Start	NR	NR
6	Maharashtra	Fish Processing Unit	2024-2025	5.07	Nil	Nil	Project Yet to Start	NR	NR

This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

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(Release ID: 2114939) Visitor Counter : 126

Source: Government of India

Global Head of IBM Corporation, an American multinational Technology Company headquartered in New York with presence in over 175 countries, Shri. Arvind Krishna called on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh to explore potential joint collaborations in Quantum, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and geospatial AI solutions

Both sides acknowledge the transformation of India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi which has placed this country as a frontline nation in AI and next-generation technologies

Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirms government’s pro-technology and forthcoming stance on innovation ecosystem with synergistic collaboration and partnership with the Private sector

S&T Minister reiterates Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering support for a deep tech enabled India with indigenous solutions

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:49PM by PIB Delhi

In a significant step towards elevating India’s global position in emerging technologies, Global Head of IBM Corporation, an American multinational Technology Company headquartered in New York with presence in over 175 countries, Arvind Krishna called on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh to explore potential joint collaboration in Quantum, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and geospatial AI solutions.

The meeting between the two delegations took place in the backdrop of India’s recently launched National Quantum Mission, positioning the country as a global leader in quantum technologies.

During the discussion, both sides acknowledged the transformation of India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi which has placed this country as a frontline nation in AI and next-generation technologies.

They deliberated on possibilities of integrating geospatial AI solutions to drive innovation and technological advancements across various sectors.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, reaffirmed the Government of India’s pro-technology stance and its commitment to fostering a robust innovation ecosystem. He highlighted the government’s proactive approach in welcoming private sector participation, citing recent breakthroughs in the space sector following its unlocking for private investment. He also referenced the Union Budget announcement allowing non-government sectors to participate in nuclear energy development as a testament to India’s commitment to deep-tech innovation.

Emphasizing the need for global collaboration, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that India is now more open than ever to partnerships with private sector players to scale up technological advancements at a global level. He highlighted the role of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) in creating a strong research ecosystem and expressed confidence in the potential of Indian youth to achieve the goals of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

The Union Minister reiterated the government’s unwavering support for a deep-tech enabled India, emphasizing indigenous solutions and self-reliance in critical technologies. He also asserted that India is at par, if not ahead, of other nations in the field of emerging technologies.

Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, actively participated in the discussions, assuring full support from government institutions to facilitate technological collaborations.

From the IBM delegation, Sandip Patel, Country General Manager and MD; Kishore Balaji, Executive Director – GRA; and Amith Singhee, Director, IBM Research India & CTO, were also present, expressing their commitment to deepening IBM’s engagement with India’s technology ecosystem.

The meeting marked a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in quantum computing, AI, and deep-tech innovations, with synergistic collaboration between the government and private sector driving the nation toward a technologically advanced future.

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(Release ID: 2114941) Visitor Counter : 149

Source: Government of India

Government Strengthens financial assistance for Loan Schemes for Entrepreneurs, Farmers, Small Businesses and startups

PMMY Offers Collateral-Free Loans for Small Businesses across Four Categories

New Loan Scheme for first-Time Entrepreneurs announced in Union Budget 2025-26

In Union Budget 2025-26, the government raised MISS loan limit for KCC borrowers from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh

Jan Samarth Portal: One-Stop Digital Platform for Easy access to 15 Government Loan Schemes

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:48PM by PIB Delhi

The Government runs many credit Schemes for small traders, farmers and startups. The details of few of these schemes are mentioned below.

It provides collateral-free institutional credit through Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) i.e. Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs), Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs).

Any individual, who is otherwise eligible to take a loan and has a business plan can avail loan under the Scheme. The loan is available for income generating activities in the manufacturing, trading, services sector and also for activities allied to agriculture across four loan products, viz. Shishu (loans up to Rs. 50,000), Kishore (loans above Rs. 50,000 and up to Rs. 5 lakh) and Tarun (loans above Rs. 5 lakh and up to Rs. 10 lakh).  Loans upto Rs. 20 lakh under Tarun Plus category are given to those entrepreneurs who have availed and successfully repaid previous loans under the ‘Tarun’ category.

The objective of the Scheme is to facilitate loans from Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) of value between Rs. 10 lakh and    Rs. 1 crore to at least one Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) borrower and one Woman borrower per bank branch for setting up greenfield enterprise in manufacturing, services or trading sector, including activities allied to agriculture.

Under both the Schemes, the prospective borrowers may avail the loan for trading, activities allied to agriculture and for new business.

As per para 32 of Union Budget 2025-26 “A new scheme will be launched for 5 lakh women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes first- time entrepreneurs. This will provide term loans upto Rs.2.00 crore during next 5 years.  The Scheme will incorporate lessons from successful Stand Up India Scheme.  Online capacity building for entrepreneurship and managerial skills will also be organized.”

Kisan Credit Card (KCC), introduced in 1998, is a banking product that provides farmers with timely and affordable credit for purchasing agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, as well as for meeting cash requirements related to crop production and allied activities.  In 2019, the KCC scheme was extended to cover the working capital requirements of allied activities, viz. Animal Husbandry, Dairy and Fisheries.

Government of India under Modified Interest Subvention Scheme provides Interest Subvention of 1.5% to banks for providing short-term working capital loans upto Rs. 3 lakh at 7% p.a. Further, a Prompt Repayment Incentive of 3% is also provided to farmers on timely repayment of loans. Therefore, effective interest rate for farmers is 4%. In the Union Budget 2025-26, the Government has announced to enhance loan limit under the MISS from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh for loans taken through the KCC.

The Jan Samarth portal is a one-stop digital platform for linking fifteen Government-sponsored loans and subsidies Schemes. It provides a quick and efficient way to apply for loans and obtain approvals based on a digital evaluation of the applicant’s data. Further, many Banks and financial institutions have developed online platforms and mobile apps for end to end digital processing of loan applications, reducing the need for physical paperwork and in-person visits.   

This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

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NB/AD

(Release ID: 2114938) Visitor Counter : 168

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:47PM by PIB Delhi

In the year 2018-19, Government of India has extended the facility of Kisan Credit Card to fishers and fish farmers to meet their working capital requirements. Under the scheme, farmers receive KCC loans up to Rs.2.00 Lakhs (fishers & fish farmers) at a subsidized interest rate of 7%. To facilitate this, an up-front interest subvention (IS) of 1.5% is provided to financial institutions by the Govt. of India and additionally, farmers who repay their loans promptly on time, receive a 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI), effectively reducing the interest rate to 4% per annum. Besides, the collateral-free loan limit for KCC fisheries has also been enhanced  from Rs.1.60 lakh to Rs. 2.00 lakh from 01.01.2025. Moreover, in the Union Budget 2025-26, the Government of India has increased the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) lending limit of loans up to ₹5 lakh to enhance credit accessibility for fishers, farmers, processors and other fisheries stakeholders under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme. Till date, 4,63,492  KCC cards have been issued to fishers and fish farmers with a loan amount of Rs. 2982.58 crore in all States/UTs.

Besides, the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, with effect from financial year 2018-19 is implementing Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) with a total fund size of Rs 7522.48 crore.  FIDF inter-alia provides concessional finance for development of various fisheries infrastructure facilities to the Eligible Entities (EEs), including State Governments/Union Territories, State entities and other Stakeholders for development of identified fisheries infrastructure facilities.  Under FIDF, the Department of Fisheries provides interest subvention up to 3% per annum for providing the concessional finance by the NLEs at the interest rate not lower than 5% per annum. A total of 141 projects with outlay of Rs.3947.54 crore have been approved under FIDF.

Further, in order to provide social security measure to fishers, the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India under ongoing Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) provides Group accidental insurance coverage to fishers wherein the entire insurance premium amount is borne by the Central and State Government, with no contribution from the beneficiary. The insurance coverage provided includes (i) Rs.5,00,000/- against death or permanent total disability, (ii) Rs.2,50,000/- for permanent partial disability and (iii) hospitalization expenses in the event of accident for a sum of Rs. 25,000/. During the last three years (2021-22 to 2023-24) and current financial year (2024-25) of the implementation of the PMMSY, 131.30  lakh fishers with an average of 32.82  lakh fishers annually have been enrolled for providing insurance coverage under the Scheme.

  This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

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(Release ID: 2114934) Visitor Counter : 120

Source: Government of India

Global CEO of Eli Lilly, world’s pioneer Insulin manufacturing Company, David Ricks called on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh to discuss strengthening partnership, with a focus on Insulin and Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) therapies as well as biomanufacturing

The talks also covered the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for insulin therapies, as well as clinical trials for advanced treatment options

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:47PM by PIB Delhi

Global CEO of Eli Lilly, world’s pioneer Insulin manufacturing Company, David Ricks 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 to discuss strengthening partnership, with a focus on Insulin and Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) therapies as well as biomanufacturing.

Eli Lilly, a global pharmaceutical giant headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana and a global pioneer in Insulin production for Diabetes and several other drugs particularly for Cancer etc has a significant presence in India through its subsidiary, Eli Lilly and Company (India) Pvt. Ltd. The company imports and markets medicines for diabetes, gastric cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other critical diseases. Its operations also extend to Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka through partnerships with local pharmaceutical firms.

The talks also covered the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for insulin therapies, as well as clinical trials for advanced treatment options.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, himself a renowned Endocrinologist, emphasized on carrying out studies particularly for India, as there is difference in metabolic disorders faced in India and the rest part of the world. He stressed that food habits and phenotype are different thus central obesity and visceral obesity is quite prevalent.

With diabetes being a major health concern in India, discussions on expanding insulin production and accessibility hold immense significance. Dr. Jitendra Singh, who has been vocal about leveraging biotechnology for affordable healthcare solutions, welcomed the dialogue, emphasizing India’s growing capabilities in pharmaceuticals and clinical research. The conversation aligns with the government’s broader push for self-reliance in drug manufacturing and innovation in life sciences.

Referring to India’s push for affordable healthcare for all and the importance of generic medicine, Dr. Jitendra Singh said “Both Generic Medicine and advancement in specialized medicine can co-exist in India.

Eli Lilly’s engagement aligns with the government’s broader vision of achieving self-reliance in drug manufacturing and advancing innovation in life sciences. Dr. Jitendra Singh has emphasized that bio-manufacturing plays a crucial role in India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by reducing import dependence and ensuring wider access to cutting-edge therapies. He has pointed out that India’s robust pharmaceutical industry, evolving biotech ecosystem, and highly skilled scientific workforce position the country as a potential global leader in bio-manufacturing. The Minister has also highlighted the importance of government-industry collaboration in accelerating research, streamlining regulatory processes, and driving innovation, particularly in insulin production and treatments for non-communicable diseases.

Eli Lilly’s engagement with India comes at a time when the country is focusing on bolstering its pharmaceutical industry, not just for domestic needs but also as a global supplier. The potential establishment of a Centre of Excellence could serve as a critical step in making insulin therapies more accessible, reinforcing India’s role in combating lifestyle diseases.

The meeting underscores the increasing collaboration between global pharmaceutical firms and the Indian government, with a shared vision of enhancing healthcare accessibility and advancing research in non-communicable diseases.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2114936) Visitor Counter : 147

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has today issued its response to the back-reference received from Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in respect of TRAI’s recommendations dated 24.04.2024 on ‘Telecommunication Infrastructure Sharing, Spectrum Sharing, and Spectrum Leasing’.

Earlier, DoT, through a reference dated 07.12.2021 under Section 11 (1) (a) of the TRAl Act, 1997, requested TRAI to provide recommendations on allowing sharing of core network elements such as MSC, HLR, IN etc., among telecom operators. Subsequently, DoT, through a reference dated 10.02.2022, mentioning its earlier reference dated 07.12.2021, informed that “to promote optimum resource utilization among the licensees, it is proposed to allow sharing of all kinds of telecom infrastructure and network elements among all categories of service providers licensed under the Section 4 of Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 for provision of authorized telecom services”, and requested TRAI to provide recommendations on the subject.

Considering the request of stakeholders to permit inter-band spectrum sharing and leasing of spectrum in the country, the Authority decided to take up the issues related to spectrum sharing and spectrum leasing along with the issues related to infrastructure sharing in the stakeholders’ consultation.

After a comprehensive consultation with stakeholders, TRAI sent its recommendations on ‘Telecommunication Infrastructure Sharing, Spectrum Sharing, and Spectrum Leasing’ to DoT on 24.04.2024.

Subsequently, DoT, through a back-reference dated 13.02.2025, informed TRAI that as per Section 11(1) of the TRAI Act 1997 (as amended), such recommendations on ‘Telecommunication Infrastructure Sharing, Spectrum Sharing, and Spectrum Leasing’ dated 24.04.2024, where the Government has reached a prima-facie conclusion that these recommendations may not be accepted or may need modification are being referred back to TRAI for its reconsideration.

In this regard, after a careful examination, TRAI has sent its response to the back-reference to DoT. TRAI’s response to the back-reference has also been placed on the TRAI’s website (www.trai.gov.in).

For any clarification or information, Shri Akhilesh Kumar Trivedi, Advisor (Networks, Spectrum and Licensing), TRAI may be contacted at Telephone Number +91-11-20907758.

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Samrat/Allen

(Release ID: 2114933) Visitor Counter : 168

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:45PM by PIB Delhi

The uniform ban on fishing for 61 days is implemented annually by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India beyond territorial waters on both the coasts for 61 days (i.e., 15^th April to 14^th June in the East Coast, and 1^st June to 31^st July in the West Coast) based on the recommendations of the Technical Committee and in consultation with the coastal States/Union Territories (UTs). The traditional non-motorized units are exempted from this uniform fishing ban imposed in the Indian EEZ beyond territorial waters. Similarly, the coastal States/UTs are also implementing the fishing ban within their territorial waters in line with the uniform ban implemented in the EEZ. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) implemented by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India, the livelihood and nutritional support for socio-economically backward active traditional fishers is provided during the fishing ban/lean period. Livelihood and nutritional support for 5,97,709 fisher families has been provided annually during fishing ban/lean period, at a total investment of Rs.1059.94 crores during 2020-21 to 2023-24.

As informed by the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt. of India, there has been an import of fish and fish products worth 722.01 million USD to India in the last 3 years (FY 2021-22 to FY 2023-24), including import in the state of Tamil Nadu. As informed by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) under the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, there has been an export of fish and fish products worth 23,235.78 million USD from India in the last 3 years (FY 2021-22 to FY 2023-24), including fish and fish products worth 2,607.99 million USD from the state of Tamil Nadu.

In order to promote the export of marine products, the Department of Fisheries, Government of India has taken several steps, these inter-alia include support through PMMSY for branding, standards and certification, training and capacity building, creation of post-harvest infrastructure with emphasis on seamless cold-chain and development of modern fishing harbours and fish landing centers, etc. In addition, to address the critical infrastructure requirements of fisheries and aquaculture sectors, the Department of Fisheries, GoI during 2018-19 has created the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) with a total fund size of Rs 7522.48 crore to provide concessional finance to states/UT and private sector. In this regard the supported activities included development of 27,823 ice plant /cold storages and transportation facilities with an investment of ₹1362 Cr, acquisition of 1398 Deep Sea Fishing Vessels (₹ 1310 Cr) and up-gradation of 1338 fishing vessels (₹ 193.64 Cr). Further, Department of Fisheries has also approved the projects for export oriented fish species such as Scampi, Mud crab, Asian Seabass, Cobia etc. and supported the state-of-the-art aquaculture production technologies like RAS and Biofloc. In addition, Department of Fisheries, GoI has notified Tuna Cluster in the Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Seaweed Cluster in the Lakshadweep and has issued the Guidelines for promoting diversified species and Nucleus Breeding Centre (NBCs)/Broodstock Multiplication Centre (BMCs) under the Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act, 2005 (amended in 2023). Apart from this, to ensure the sustainability and uninterrupted supply of Indian seafood material to the US Market, the Department is supporting a Marine Mammal Stock Assessment Project at the cost of around ₹ 13.29 Cr. In order to meet the requirements of the export markets for wild-caught shrimp, the Department of Fisheries is facilitating the installation of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) in shrimp trawlers by including TEDs as a separate line item under the PMMSY scheme, and has advised the maritime states/UTs to mandate TED usage in trawl nets through amendments in their respective Marine Fisheries Regulation Acts. To strengthen India’s seafood sector globally, the Government is facilitating ease of business by amending Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act (Amendment) 2023. In addition, the Department is conducting Investors meets, Stakeholders consultation and also advising the States/UTs to encourage the farmers to attend the technical and demonstration workshops/training programs related to seed and feed, technology infusion, ornamental fisheries, hatchery technologies etc. on periodic basis in order to increase in productivity and quality of fishery produce.

This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

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AA

(Release ID: 2114930) Visitor Counter : 116