Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following are the opening remarks by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the Welcome Dinner of InnoEX 2025 today (April 12):
 
Margaret (the Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Ms Margaret Fong), å¾�常委 (Member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Ms Xu Xiaolan), 任秘書長 (the Secretary General of the World Internet Conference (WIC), Mr Ren Xianliang), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Hello! 你好! What a thrill to have you all here this evening! A very warm welcome to friends from around the world to the InnoEX 2025 in Hong Kong. 
 
This welcome dinner is a prelude to the InnoEX 2025, Hong Kong’s signature exhibition on innovation & technology (I&T) to start tomorrow. Also an anchor event of our vibrant Business of Innovation and Technology Week (BIT Week), InnoEX 2025 can be “digitised” into the magic figure of “12345” –
 

• 1 vision to connect global I&T power;
• 2 much to anticipate;
• 3 years in a row;
• 4 incredible days of a full programme from April 13 to 16; and
• 5 frontier tech areas we are going to focus on.

     InnoEX returns stronger and bigger this year, from countries and regions – from Hong Kong, Macao, and 16 Mainland provinces and cities, to France, Canada, India, the United Kingdom, Japan, Korea, and across ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Joining us first-time also include those from Australia, the UAE (United Arab Emirates), Malaysia, Sweden, and Luxembourg. 

To the familiar faces and all new friends, thank you so much for bringing your tech, your creativity and your interest to our city!

This year’s theme of InnoEX – “Innovate • Automate • Elevate” says it all: only with innovation powering the engine, automation steering the course, our journey towards a more prosperous economies and societies could be elevated to the next higher level. 

The five tech areas we focus this year, namely artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, low-altitude economy, and smart mobility, are the components of this autonomous vehicle, leading us to a better and smarter future.

Indeed, these aren’t just tech and small parts of an engine. They fundamentally change the way we work, connect, interact and grow. They change how we see the future.

And right here at InnoEX, you’ll see how these agents are applied in different places around the globe, and how ideas translate into impact on industries and people.

As the brand InnoEX implies, Hong Kong is also witnessing the exponential power of innovation. We may be like a GPU (graphics processing unit) in terms of physical size, but Hong Kong is huge in terms of innovative power – top-notch R&D (research and development), five world-class universities, 16 State Key Laboratories, and a staunch supporter of free economy and international partnerships. This is how we fuel novel ideas, groom talents, attract investment, and build an increasing robust I&T ecosystem.

And we believe innovation thrives when people come together – across sectors and borders, and blending cultures and values. That’s what the BIT Week and InnoEX are all about: a global stage with no boundaries and limits. This spirit of connection is echoed at the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit happening soon at this convention centre.

So this evening, we are here to start conversations; to cultivate friendships; and to scale possibilities. Whether you are a policymaker, buyer, exhibitor or tech leader – there is always a space here in InnoEX for you to spark something big.

Before I close, my heartfelt thanks to our incredible partner, HKTDC, and my fellow colleagues at the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and the Digital Policy Office for their hard work. You have made this possible.

To our guests: please enjoy the evening, get ready for four exciting days ahead, and make the best out of InnoEX! Thank you.

Source: Government of India

Ministry of Corporate Affairs hosts 5th ‘Candidate Open house’ for interns of PM Internship scheme

Interns Share their inspiring Journeys and experiences

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 6:13PM by PIB Delhi

The 5th Candidate Open House was hosted by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs on 11^th April 2025. The interns from PM Internship Scheme  reflected on their transformative journeys during the session.

As part of the Fifth online ‘Candidate Open House’, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs brought together interns of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme to share their early experiences. The session served as a vital touchpoint for aspirants, current interns, and industry stakeholders navigating the scheme.with a overwhelming presence of 557 participants

In the previous edition of the Open House on April 4, 2025, interns from ONGC shared compelling insights into their learning journeys, while Mr. Anil Bahuguna, Chief of Skill Development at ONGC, highlighted how the organisation is nurturing youth through core skills, soft skills, and overall personality development.

Carrying the momentum forward on 11^th April 2025, Mr. Priyo Roop Guha-HR Lead (Center of Excellence) from HDFC Bank shared how HDFC is actively partnering with the MCA’s PM Internship Scheme to shape aspiring students into job-ready professionals — grooming them with real-world exposure, guidance, and skill refinement. He also  shared that over 130 interns have joined across India under PMIS since December offering them frontline sales roles near home locations. Post-internship, many may be absorbed into full-time roles, making it a strong launchpad for banking careers.

During the Open House, three interns—Niraj from Uttar Pradesh, Pralay from West Bengal, and Astha from Bihar—shared their inspiring journeys under the Prime Minister Internship Scheme, each reflecting a unique path of growth and transformation.

Niraj, a history graduate, spoke about his transition into the world of finance and banking. With full support from HDFC Bank, he was relocated from Delhi to a branch closer to his hometown, allowing him to learn and contribute meaningfully. From mastering core banking services to understanding financial products, his journey has been one of remarkable professional evolution.

Astha, a 22-year-old small-town girl from Naugachia, Bihar, dreamed of a job after graduating in commerce—but had no skills and wasn’t allowed to leave her town. Then a friend told her about the PM Internship Scheme—and it changed her life. Placed at a nearby HDFC branch, she is now confident, disciplined, handling banking products with ease, and proudly supporting her family. “I never imagined such an opportunity would come my way,” she says, now encouraging others to apply too.

Pralay, who left a fixed-salary job to join the internship, described how his background in economics found its true purpose in the banking sector. He emphasized that this learning experience has been far more valuable than a routine job. Encouraged by the constant support of his team, he is confident that the internship will pave the way for a full-time career in the industry.

Together, their stories exemplify how the PM Internship Scheme is not just about work experience—but about unlocking potential, building confidence, and shaping futures.

MCA officials urge candidates to remain proactive on the portal, via email, and by phone to receive the latest updates. With applications for Round 2 of the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme’s pilot phase currently open, eligible youth are encouraged to apply before the deadline on April 22, 2025. Stay engaged and take the first step toward your future!

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

 

NB/AD

(Release ID: 2121259) Visitor Counter : 13

Source: Government of India

Dr. Jitendra Singh Hails International Certification for Indigenously Developed Underwater Acoustic Test Facility

With Global Recognition, Acoustic Lab at NIOT Chennai Now Sets India’s global Standards in Underwater Technology

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

CHENNAI, April 12: 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 today hailed the global recognition and international certification of the Underwater Acoustic Test Facility (ATF) at the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai, describing it as a proud milestone in India’s journey towards scientific self-reliance in underwater acoustics and ocean technology.

After unveiling the commemorative plaque, Dr. Jitendra Singh witnessed a live demonstration of the facility’s capabilities, which include precise testing and calibration of a wide range of underwater acoustic instruments such as hydrophones, transducers, and acoustic modems—vital for both strategic and civilian applications.

Describing the facility as a “critical national asset,” the Minister highlighted its pivotal role in strengthening India’s self-reliance in ocean technology. “The Acoustic Test Facility enhances our ocean observation capabilities, supports tsunami detection systems, and reinforces national security through its strategic applications,” he said.

Established in 2004 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the ATF is India’s only facility accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) for hydrophone calibration. Since 2005, it has consistently maintained this accreditation and caters to a broad spectrum of users, including naval laboratories, IITs, universities, and major industrial players such as BEL, L&T, and Tata Power.

In 2018, the facility’s global competence was validated when it participated in a Key Comparison Test organized by the National Physical Laboratory, UK, alongside laboratories from seven other countries, including the US, UK, and Russia. The ATF’s calibration results matched international benchmarks, establishing its parity with top global labs.

In a significant milestone, the facility was recently recognized as India’s “Designated Laboratory” in the field of underwater acoustics under the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), Paris, through CSIR-NPL, effective January 30, 2024. This means NIOT now holds the national standards for measurements in underwater acoustics—a crucial responsibility for ensuring measurement accuracy across strategic sectors.

Experts say this recognition not only boosts India’s scientific credibility but also opens up opportunities for global collaborations in underwater research and maritime technology.

As India scales up its ambitions in ocean exploration and maritime security, the Acoustic Test Facility is expected to play a defining role in shaping future technologies, offering both precision and indigenous strength to the nation’s deep-sea endeavours.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2121247) Visitor Counter : 112

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

To echo the 10th National Security Education Day, the Immigration Service Institute of Training and Development (ISITD) held an open day today (April 12), drawing the participation of over 4 000 citizens. The open day featured a range of activities, including introduction and demonstrations of the daily work of the Immigration Department (ImmD), exhibitions, guided tours and booth games, with the aim to raise public awareness of national security and strengthen their sense of national identity through interactive experiences, while highlighting the ImmD’s values and mission in defending against national security risks and firmly guarding the country’s southern gateway. 

     Various thematic exhibitions and booth games were set up to introduce the public to the ImmD’s technologies used in detecting suspicious documents, counter-terrorism work, management work of detention centre and tactical equipment, etc. Members of the public could also try out training facilities, such as the mock immigration clearance hall and mock court room, to better understand how the ImmD has been leveraging the work of effective immigration control, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.

     In addition, the Immigration Department Youth Leaders Corps (IDYL) also set up an interactive booth, where IDYL members crafted panda and golden snub-nosed monkeys dough figurine for the members of the public on site, aiming to drawn public attention to endangered animal species while promoting the concept of ecological security and its importance to members of the public in a lively and interesting way.

     The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, and the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung attended the open day. Accompanied by directorate officers of the ImmD, they toured the exhibition booths, interacted with the public, and encouraged members of the Immigration Service to remain dedicated and steadfast in upholding national security.

     The open day offered an array of splendid programmes, including a musical performance by the Immigration Band and a Chinese-style foot drill demonstration by the Departmental Contingent. Holding flags printed with the five essential elements of the holistic approach to national security, the Departmental Contingent formed the shape of a shield, symbolising the logo of the National Security Education Day, as well as demonstrating the ImmD’s concerted efforts to safeguard the sovereignty, security and development interests of our nation. Afterwards, the Emergency Response Team of the Castle Peak Bay Immigration Centre demonstrated how to handle emergencies and quell disturbances professionally and promptly with the use of various firearms and anti-riot equipment, showcasing the ImmD’s capabilities to deal with incidents endangering public security and its commitment to maintaining the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. Also, there was a demonstration session of the ImmD’s vehicles at the open day, introducing the multi-purpose vehicle of ImmD’s Enforcement Division and the mobile identification tactical unit to members of the public, so as to help them to learn more about the ImmD’s work in preventing and defending against national security risks.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 5:32PM by PIB Delhi

Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), India’s leading coking coal producer, has taken a significant step in strengthening the nation’s healthcare infrastructure by expanding the Diplomate of National Board (DNB) medical training programs at its Central Hospital Dhanbad (CHD). The recent addition of an Ophthalmology (Eye) specialization course brings the total to five key disciplines, positioning CHD as the most comprehensive DNB training center among all Coal India subsidiaries.​

 

DNB Programs Offered at CHD:

• General Medicine :   4 seats (Post MBBS 3 years Course)
• General Surgery :     2 seats​ (Post MBBS 3 years Course)
• Anaesthesia :  2 seats​ (1 Post MBBS 3 years Course + 1 Post Diploma  2 years Course)
• Family Medicine :     2 seats​ (Post MBBS Diploma 2 years course)
• Ophthalmology :       2 seats​ (Post MBBS Diploma 2 years course)

 

The DNB qualification, awarded by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), is recognized as equivalent to MD/MS degrees in India, ensuring that CHD’s programs meet the highest standards of medical education. ​

Empowering In-House Talent and the Nation:

In a strategic move to enhance internal capabilities and serve the Coal Industry across the nation and entire Dhanbad with adjoining areas in the optimum ways, CHD has reserved 50% of the DNB seats for internal doctors from CIL and its subsidiaries, facilitating their advancement into specialized roles. The remaining 50% are open to candidates nationwide, corroborating a diverse and competitive learning environment.

BCCL’s Commitment to Holistic Nation-Building:

This initiative aligns with BCCL’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives, which encompass healthcare, education, and community development. By investing in advanced medical training, BCCL is not only contributing to the nation’s energy needs but also playing a significant role in enhancing healthcare services across India.

‘Today, BCCL has taken its Central Hospital Dhanbad to the forefront of leading healthcare institutes in the CIL family, furthering its vision of ensuring holistic healthcare infrastructure and wellness for all,’ CMD, BCCL, Shri Samiran Dutta.

 

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Shuhaib T

(Release ID: 2121245) Visitor Counter : 84

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Harbour phase of Indian Navy’s maiden initiative ‘Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise’ inaugurated by Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania & Raksha Rajya Mantri onboard INS Chennai at Dar es Salaam

Oneness & unity of purpose key to overcome maritime challenges and ensure a peaceful & prosperous future: Shri Sanjay Seth

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 9:26PM by PIB Delhi

The harbour phase of Indian Navy’s maiden initiative of Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise (AIKEYME) was inaugurated by Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax and Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth onboard INS Chennai at Dar es Salaam on April 13, 2025. AIKEYME, co-hosted by India and Tanzania, involves participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa.

Raksha Rajya Mantri also joined the digital inauguration of Weapons Training Simulator facility established at Arusha and inauguration of Defence Expo. In the Defence Expo, 22 companies from India are participating with their key products on display.

In his address, Raksha Rajya Mantri emphasised on oneness, and unity of purpose to overcome the vast maritime challenges and to ensure a peaceful & prosperous future. He recalled the age-old relations between India & Africa and reiterated the principle of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Region) for further strengthening the bond with our friends in Africa.

Shri Sanjay Seth stressed on the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,” highlighting the need for enduring partnerships in maritime security. He expressed gratitude to Tanzania for hosting AIKEYME 25, marking a significant step towards long-term collaboration.

Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania thanked India for co-hosting the Exercise and she termed the Exercise a strategic initiative to build strong maritime partnership. She underscored the necessity of a collective approach to address challenges such as piracy and trafficking.

Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to hosting future editions of AIKEYME and detailed the collaborative framework for regional maritime security, emphasizing innovation and information sharing. Her remarks firmly established that the relationship extends beyond military affairs, advocating for a broader regional cooperation.

Dignitaries present included the Chief of Defence Force, Tanzania People’s Defence Force, the Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, and the High Commissioner of India to Tanzania, reinforcing the importance of bilateral defence relationships. The event was punctuated by a parade of a 50-man guard and the stirring performance of the Indian Navy Band, embodying the spirit of maritime cooperation.

Raksha Rajya Mantri also briefly interacted with the crew of participating countries of the Exercise and IOS SAGAR ship. He did a walkaround of INS Chennai. He gifted 15 sets of Parachutes, books for NDC and a Tri-Services War Gaming Simulator to Tanzania as a token of strong bonds and friendship between the two countries.

The exercise represents commitment of the participating countries to a free, open and secure Indian Ocean. A new chapter has been added today to the growing relations between India and Africa. AIKEYME 25 and IOS SAGAR symbolize a transformative journey towards enhanced multinational collaboration in securing the seas, forging connections that transcend borders.

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VK/SR/VM/Savvy

(Release ID: 2121495) Visitor Counter : 88

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Officers of the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau and the Police Tactical Unit Headquarters (PTU HQ) of the Hong Kong Police Force reached new heights at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, which was held between April 9 and 13 in Geneva, Switzerland, and garnered the “International Press Prize” for the first time, the “Gold Medal with the Congratulations of Jury”, along with one Gold, one Silver, and one Bronze international award.

     Following a highly competitive judging process with international expert judges reviewing all the entries, the Force professionally presented the innovative technological solutions. The Force focused on the themes of “Building a Secure Cyberspace” and “Applying Technology”, demonstrating four solutions in the “Hardware, Software, Cybersecurity, Blockchain & Internet of Things (IoT)” category, winning five international awards, including:

     1) Scameter Series – A multi-layered public anti-scam initiative comprising a public-facing mobile app with real-time scam detection, open-data policies sharing threat intelligence with strategic stakeholders, and partnerships with banks to send public alerts on high-risk transactions (International Press Prize & Gold Medal);

     2) CryptoTrace – Jointly developed with the University of Hong Kong, this cutting-edge virtual asset analytics platform facilitates cryptocurrency tracing, fund flow analysis, and wallet correlation, accelerating fraud detection for frontline investigators (Gold Medal with the Congratulations of Jury);

     3) RAPID Engine – Through multilateral collaboration and proactive detection from various sources, RAPID Engine inspects newly registered suspicious websites. Utilising AI algorithms, RAPID Engine performs real-time analysis based on multidimensional rules such as domain characteristics and suspicious codes. Threat intelligence is simultaneously updated to the “Scameter Series” and sent to multiple internet service providers for blocking, effectively enhancing the public’s ability to resist phishing threats (Silver Medal);

     4) AI Visual Intelligence-enabled Glasses for Drone Operations – PTU HQ partnered with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, jointly developed an AI-powered image analysis system integrated with Augmented Reality (AR) smart glasses. This system enables real-time display of both flight footage and AI computational results directly on the AR glasses, allowing operators to receive critical AI insights without interrupting flight control (Bronze Medal);

The awards demonstrate the Force’s commitment to leveraging innovative technology to promote smart policing and improve operational efficiency. Additionally, the Force effectively employs AI to assist the public in combating fraud and enhancing law enforcement capabilities, particularly in tackling emerging types of crimes, including those related to virtual assets.

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the State Level Cooperative Conference in Bhopal as the Chief Guest

Since the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation, there has been a significant change in the cooperative sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and now this sector is moving forward rapidly

MoU signed between NDDB and MPCDF to increase the contribution of cooperative dairy societies in milk production in Madhya Pradesh

MOU will expand cooperative dairy to every village of Madhya Pradesh

Setting up of cooperative milk producing societies in villages will increase milk processing capacity manifold, this will also make farmers prosperous

The Modi government, in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh government, is committed to take every possible step for the welfare of the farmers of the state

During the time of opposition government, the cooperative sector in MP had collapsed, now it is a golden opportunity to revive the cooperative sector

Three multi-state cooperatives created by the Modi government are providing farmers a fair price for their produce, a platform for export and profits are reaching directly to their bank accounts

PACS, which earlier used to provide only short-term agricultural loans, are now providing more than 20 types of services, which has increased their income

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 7:12PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the State Level Cooperative Conference organized in Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, as the Chief Guest. Many dignitaries including Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, State Cooperation Minister Shri Vishwas Sarang and Secretary of the Union Ministry of Cooperation Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani were present on the occasion.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that there are a lot of possibilities in the three sectors of agriculture, animal husbandry and cooperatives in Madhya Pradesh and a lot of work is required to exploit them to the fullest. He said that for years the cooperative movement in the country was becoming moribund and was divided at different levels in the country. The reason for this was that the cooperative laws did not change as per the times.

Shri Amit Shah said that in our Constitution, except for multi-state cooperatives, all cooperatives are a state subject. He said that no initiative was ever taken to make laws according to the rapidly changing conditions in the country. Keeping in mind the geographical conditions, rainfall conditions, rural development, agricultural development and animal husbandry dimensions of each state, no thought was ever given at the national level. Shri Shah said that no thought was ever given, because there was no Cooperation ministry at the national level.
Shri Shah said 75 years after independence, the Prime Minister of the country, Shri Narendra Modi, established the Cooperation Ministry and he got the privilege of becoming the first Cooperation minister.

Union Minister of Cooperation said that Since the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation, there has been a significant change in the cooperative sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and now this sector is moving forward rapidly. He said that the limits that were in our Constitution are still there. Even today, cooperation is a state subject. Shri Shah said that the Government of India cannot make any legal changes in the field of cooperation. However, efforts have been made to revive the Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), promote the dairy sector, cooperation in the field of production, smooth management of urban cooperative banks, district cooperative banks and rural banks. He said that the Ministry of Cooperation first worked on creating model by-laws for PACS and sent it to the state governments for approval. Today the whole of India has accepted these model by-laws. Expressing gratitude to the states for accepting the model by-laws, Shri Shah said that this step has brought new life to the cooperative sector. He said that unless PACS is strengthened, the three-tier cooperative structure cannot be strengthened. He said that earlier PACS used to provide only short-term agricultural loans, in which they used to earn about half a percent income. But today PACS are providing more than 20 types of services and the new reforms will also increase the income of PACS.

Shri Amit Shah said that today PACS have been allowed to provide services like Jan Aushadhi Kendra, water distribution, common service centers. He said that today more than 300 schemes are available to the people on PACS computers. One does not need to go out of the village to get railway tickets, electricity bills, water bills, birth and death certificates, all these facilities are now available in PACS. Shri Shah said that many PACS have earned income from these services. PACS can now also become fertilizer dealers, start petrol pumps, distribute cooking gas and also manage the ‘Har Ghar Nal’ scheme.

Union Minister of Cooperation said that under the new bylaws, work was done to create Multi Purpose PACS (MPACS) by merging PACS, dairy cooperative societies and fishery cooperative societies. He said that the Government of India has computerized all the PACS in the country at a cost of Rs 2500 crore. Madhya Pradesh ranks first in the country in computerization of PACS. Now the District Cooperative Bank and State Cooperative Bank are connected to NABARD due to computer network. Along with this, transparency has also come in the field of cooperation due to the arrangement of online audit.

Shri Amit Shah said that the computerized PACS are working in 13 languages ​​of India. The Government of India has developed such software for PACS that will work for farmer in his language to open a bank account, i.e. it will work

Source: Government of India

Lighting Up Kashi

Sacred City, Smart Future

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 6:58PM by PIB Delhi

“India today is carrying forward both development and heritage together, Our Kashi is becoming the best model for this.”

 

~Prime Minister Narendra Modi

 

Kashi isn’t just a city—it’s a living soul. It breathes through the ripples of the Ganga and the quiet strength of its people. Here, ancient stones whisper stories of the past while glass-fronted buildings reflect the promise of tomorrow. The city where life and death meet at Manikarnika Ghat, now welcomes wide roads, smart lighting and modern corridors. This is Kashi’s journey—where the sacred and the smart co-exist, not in conflict, but in harmony. A place where every street holds a story and every step leads to a blend of soul and structure.

On April 11, the ancient city of Kashi witnessed a moment of progress. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth over ₹3,880 crore in Varanasi.It was a celebration of growth—what PM Modi called a true “festival of development.”

Ten years ago, a trip through Varanasi meant endless traffic and dusty detours. Today, the city is rewriting that story. Projects like the Phulwariya flyoverand theRing Road are easing traffic woes, saving precious time for daily commuters and lakhs of pilgrims. Travel between districts like Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Balliaand Mau has become faster and more connected than ever before.

PM Modi also laid foundation stone for—a road bridge connecting Varanasi Ring Road and Sarnath, long-awaited flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih, and a highway underpass road tunnel on NH-31 at the Varanasi International Airport worth over Rs 980 crore. These projects aren’t just concrete and steel; they’re the backbone of a growing city opening up to the world.

To brighten up lives and lighten up the city, Prime Minister Modi gave a major push to Kashi’s power network. He inaugurated two400 KV and one 220 KV substations—projects worth over ₹1,045 crore. Add to that a ₹775 crore boost with new substations in Chaukaghat and Ghazipur.

But real power lies not just in wires, but in wisdom. Staying true to his vision of “education for all,” the Prime Minister opened new doors of learning. Rural education got a lift with 356 libraries and 100 Anganwadi centres. He also laid the foundation for revamping 77 primary schools under the Smart City Mission.

One of the most heartwarming transformations in Purvanchal has come through Banas Dairy. It has helped turn thousands of small dairy farmers into confident entrepreneurs. Over ₹105 crore in bonuses were distributed to livestock-rearing families—most of them women.These women, now proudly known as “Lakhpati Didis”, are a shining symbol of real empowerment.

PM Modi also highlighted how schemes like the Kisan Credit Card, free vaccinations for livestock, and the Rashtriya Gokul Mission are helping farmers. They’re raising healthier animals and finding better markets for their produce.

Once, people from Purvanchal had to travel far for good medical care. Through the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, lakhs of families in Uttar Pradesh have received free treatment and saving lives.PM Modi personally handed out Ayushman Vay Vandana cards to elderly citizens—ensuring free medical care for all above 70, regardless of income.

Development in Kashi is not just about roads and hospitals—it’s about dreams too. With new stadiums and a world-class sports complex, young athletes from Varanasi are now getting the platform they need to shine. PM Modi reminded everyone that if India wants to host the 2036 Olympics, our youth need to begin their journey now—and Kashi is making sure they’re ready.

From the rhythmic beats of the tabla to the intricate designs of zardozi, Varanasi’s rich culture is gaining international fame. Over 30 local products from Varanasi and surrounding districts now carry the prestigious GI (Geographical Indication) tag, including the famous thandai, red stuffed chilli, tiranga barfi and even Jaunpur’s imarti and Pilibhit’s flute.

PM Modi also announced the creation of an Ekta Mall, a space where the diverse crafts and products from across India will be showcased under one roof—right here in Kashi.

As Varanasi stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, the city proves one simple truth: development is most meaningful when it touches lives and preserves the soul of a place.With folded hands and firm resolve, Kashi moves forward—proud of its past, and prepared for its future.

 

References

Lighting Up Kashi

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria

(Release ID: 2121462) Visitor Counter : 103