Government has Strengthened IBC with Six Amendments and 122 Regulatory reforms since its inception Over 8,000 CIRPs initiated, rescuing 3,485 debtors and realization of ₹3.58 lakh crore
Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:29PM by PIB Delhi
The legislative intent of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC) is to provide a consolidated framework for reorganization, insolvency resolution and liquidation of corporate persons, partnership firms and individuals for maximization of the value of assets. Further, IBC has had a significant impact on the health of the country’s banking sector and redefined the debtor creditor relationship.
According to the RBI Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in India (December 2024), the IBC emerged as the dominant recovery route, accounting for 48% of all recoveries made by banks, followed by the SARFAESI Act (32%), Debt Recovery Tribunals (17%), and Lok Adalats (3%) in the Financial Year 2023-24. Additionally, a report by the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A) (August 2023; available at www.ibbi.gov.in), analysed the financial performance of firms that underwent resolution under the IBC and found significant improvements in the profitability, liquidity, and overall financial health of resolved firms in the post-resolution period. These findings underscore the positive impact of IBC on business continuity and value preservation.
Till 31st December 2024, 8175 Corporate Insolvency Resolution Processes (CIRPs) have been initiated. Of these, 3485 Corporate Debtors (CDs) have been rescued which includes 1119 through resolution plans; 1236 through appeal or review or settlement and 1130 through withdrawal under section 12A. Further, 2707 CDs have been referred for liquidation. In 1119 cases that have yielded resolution plans, the realisable value for the creditors have been ₹3.58 lakh crore. This amounts to 162.79% of liquidation value and 87.58% of fair value.
To facilitate expeditious resolution process under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC) and to ensure proper implementation of the provisions of IBC, the Government has made six amendments to the IBC and 122 amendments in regulations since inception of IBC. Further, regular training and capacity-building programs for insolvency professionals, adjudicating authorities and other stakeholders are held to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the IBC ecosystem. Leveraging information technology such as digital platforms for automation and streamlining processes is another initiative to make the system more efficient, accurate, and faster, ultimately leading to better outcomes for all stakeholders.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Shri Harsh Malhotra stated this in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.
Banking Regulation Amendment Act 2020 has enhanced RBI’s Supervision Over Co-operative Banks RBI’s 2024 Master Direction on Fraud Management aims to enhance accountability and strengthen governance in Co-operative banks among many other steps
Amendments in Multi-State Co-operative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 Strengthen Governance and Transparency of cooperative societies; provision of Ombudsman
Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:28PM by PIB Delhi
The Banking Regulation Act, 1949 has been amended to provide additional powers to RBI for more effective regulation of Co-operative banks vide Banking Regulation (Amendment) Act, 2020. The major amendments pertain to areas such as management, audit, capital, reconstruction/ amalgamation, etc. The provisions of the Act have been brought into force for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) with effect from 26.06.2020. Post these amendments, interalia, the governance/management related provisions of the BR Act, (such as Section 10,10A,10B,35B,36AB, etc.), have become applicable to co-operative banks.
Further, the following measures are in place to prevent corruption and irregularities in cooperative banks:
RBI has issued Master Direction on Fraud Management for the Regulated Entities viz. Cooperative Banks in 2024 which contain comprehensive guidelines related to reporting of fraud, following of principles of natural justice, governance mechanism, implementation of early warning mechanism, staff accountability, fixation of responsibility of third parties and role of external and internal auditors, among others.
The Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework requires the identified UCBs to initiate and implement remedial measures in a timely manner, to restore their financial health and protect the interests of the depositors.
RBI has implemented a financial safety net for the account holders of banks (including cooperative banks) in the form of Deposit Insurance through DICGC.
RBI through “RBI Kehta Hai” has issued awareness material / useful information on aspects such as different types of frauds and their modus-operandi.
Amendment has been brought in the Multi-State Co-operative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 to strengthen governance, enhance transparency, increase accountability, reform electoral process and incorporate provisions of 97th Constitutional Amendment in the Multi State Cooperative Societies.
Following the amendment in the Multi–State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002, Cooperative Ombudsman has been appointed under Section 85A of the said Act. The Ombudsman office deals with complaints or appeals, from members of the MSCS regarding their deposits, equitable benefits of the Multi–State Co-operative Society’s functioning or any other issue affecting the individual rights of the concerned member.
The Cooperative Election Authority has been set up to strengthen governance and accountability, with a mandate to conduct free and fair election in all Multi-State Cooperative Societies.
NABARD has framed guidelines for banks to report frauds to law enforcement agencies, viz State Police, State CID/Economic Offense Wing of the State, etc. for further investigation and appropriate action.
The Ministry of Cooperation (MoC) is responsible for strengthening of cooperative movement in the country and deepening its reach upto the grassroots to realise the vision of “from cooperation to prosperity”. They also promote the cooperative-based economic development model, including the creation of appropriate policy, legal and institutional framework to help cooperatives realise their potential. MoC also organizes training of personnel of co-operative institutions, including education of members, office bearers and non-officials.
This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.
UIDAI’s AI-Powered Aadhaar Face Authentication sees over 130.5 Crore transactions, revolutionizing biometric verification Face Authentication solution sees 21.6% monthly growth in March, serving millions nationwide and becoming trusted solution for fintech, government services and more
Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:25PM by PIB Delhi
The AI and machine learning (ML) based Aadhaar Face Authentication solutions developed in house by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has been witnessing a massive growth with over 78% of the total transactions coming alone in the FY 25 fiscal year, ended 31 March 2025.
Transforming service delivery across India
Since the face authentication solution was introduced in October 2022, UIDAI has recorded a cumulative transaction number of over 130.5 crore, of which close to 102 crores have been recorded in the 2024-25 financial year. It indicates the growing usage, adoption of this solution and how it is benefiting Aadhaar number holders seamlessly.
In the past 3 months (January-March), nearly 39.5 crore face authentication transactions have been recorded. In March alone, the face auth solutions have recorded more than 15.25 crore transactions, a 21.6% jump over the previous month.
This achievement underscores the trust and adoption of this new biometric authentication modality across diverse sectors including fintech, finance and telecommunications.
Dozens of government services offered by both the centre and states are using it for smooth delivery of benefits to targeted beneficiaries. Several flagship schemes including PM Awas (Urban), PM E-Drive, PM-JAY, PM Ujjwala, PM Kisan, PM Internship, are using Aadhaar face authentication.
Face authentication is also working as a robust alternative and helping senior citizens and all those who have issues with the quality of their fingerprints due to several reasons including manual work or health issues.
As of now, 102 entities both in government and private sector are using Aadhaar face authentication. This AI based modality works both on Android and iOS platforms. It is safe against any video replay attacks and static photo authentication attempts by anti-social elements and a contactless, anytime- anywhere modality.
This authentication modality enables users to verify their identity with just a face scan, ensuring convenience while upholding stringent security standards.
The identification of beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G) is based on the housing deprivation parameters and exclusion criteria prescribed under Socio Economic Caste Census (SECC)-2011 and due verification by the respective Gram Sabhas and completion of an Appellate Process. These parameters/criteria were applied on SECC 2011 database & Awass+2018 to identify the eligibility of beneficiaries under PMAY-G.
The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of PMAY-G for 5 more years (FY 2024-25 to 2028-29) to provide assistance for the construction of 2 crore additional rural houses. The Cabinet has also approved the updating of the Awaas+ List using modified exclusion criteria. A new survey is being conducted by the states/UTs using the technology-based (eKYC face based authentication) solutions to maximize transparency and ensure sanctity in the process right from the identification to completion of the houses as per the detailed below:
Awaas+ 2024 app- a unique app specially designed under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), having features of assisted survey through pre-registered surveyors, housing technology selection, face authentication, Aadhar based e-KYC, data capture of household, conditions of the existing house, time stamped, and geo tagged photo capture of existing house proposed site of construction. The app works in online as well as offline mode. “Self-Survey” facility is available for eligible household in Awaas+2024 app Survey for next phase of PMAYG (2024-29).
Usage of AI/ML model to curb fraudulent activity and provide information about possible malpractices.
Recommendation System – This module identifies various house attributes such as pucca wall, pucca roof, kutcha wall, kutcha roof, logo, window, door, and person in the uploaded photos of a completed house and recommends a final photograph for approval.
e-KYC feature – The app is integrated with Aadhaar and uses AI-enabled face authentication technology to conduct verification of PMAY-G beneficiaries.
Liveliness Detection: Eye Blink/ Motion detection feature in Awaas App for identification of the beneficiaries.
100% Aadhaar-Based Payments: Directly transferred to beneficiaries’ accounts.
The unit assistance provided to beneficiaries under PMAY-G is as per the approval of the Union Cabinet and at present the unit assistance of Rs. 1.20 lakh in plain areas and Rs. 1.30 lakh in North Eastern States, Hilly States (including UTs of J&K and Ladakh) is provided. The funding pattern between the Centre and the State for the NER States and Himalayan States [Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir (UT)] is 90:10 whereas for the rest of the States is 60:40 and for Union Territories without legislature, 100% funding are borne by the Centre.
In addition to the unit assistance, the beneficiaries are facilitated with 90/95 man days of unskilled labour wages through mandatory convergence with Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). Support of Rs. 12,000 for construction of a toilet is also provided through Swacch Bharat Mission – Gramin (SBM-G), MGNREGS or any other dedicated source of funding.
Some of the States/UTs are also providing top-up financial support over and above unit assistance to the PMAY-G beneficiaries for the house construction. To further support affordability, the scheme incorporates State-specific housing designs and promotes the use of local materials, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Under the scheme, to provide PMAY-G beneficiaries with the maximum number of benefits from different schemes, convergence with other schemes is encouraged. The guideline aids with the construction of toilets to be leveraged through convergence with SBM-G, MGNREGS, or any other dedicated source of funding. Convergence for piped drinking water, electricity connection, LPG gas connection, solar lanterns and cleaner cooking energy, solar roof-top, fulfilment of requirement of construction material through MGNREGS and linkage with SHGs platform for livelihood opportunities under Government programs is also being done.
This information was given by Minister of State for Rural Development Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
At the invitation of Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, the President of the Republic of Chile, H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font is on a State visit to India from 1-5 April, 2025, commemorating the completion of 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. President Boric is accompanied by Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Mining, Women and Gender Equality and Cultures, Arts and Heritage, Members of Parliament, Senior Officials and a large number of business leaders. Apart from New Delhi, President Boric will visit Agra, Mumbai and Bengaluru. This is the first visit of President Boric to India. Both President Boric and Prime Minister Modi had first met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024.
President Boric was accorded a warm and ceremonial welcome on arrival at Air Force Station Palam. Prime Minister Modi held bilateral talks with President Boric at Hyderabad House on 1 April 2025. He met President Droupadi Murmu who also hosted a Banquet in his honour and his accompanying delegation. Dr S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India called on President Boric.
President Boric and Prime Minister Modi recalled the historic diplomatic ties that were established in 1949, growing trade linkages, people-to-people linkages, cultural ties and also the warm and cordial bilateral relations between both countries. They expressed desire for further expanding and deepening of the multifaceted relationship between the two countries in all areas of mutual interests.
During their meeting, the two leaders comprehensively reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations spanning a wide range of sectors, including trade and investment, health and pharmaceuticals, defence and security, infrastructure, mining and mineral resources, agriculture and food security, green energy, ICT, digitization, innovation, disaster management, cooperation in science and technology, education and people-to-people linkages. The two sides agreed to continue regular exchanges at various levels to give further momentum to the bilateral relationship.
The two leaders noted that trade and commerce has been a strong pillar of the bilateral relations. While highlighting the positive effects generated by the expansion of the India-Chile Preferential Trade Agreement in May 2017, which has resulted in substantial increase in bilateral trade, the two leaders emphasized the need for further strengthening of bilateral trade mechanisms that could open new opportunities for expansion of bilateral trade. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the recent increase in visits of business delegations from both sides, which is strengthening trade and economic relations between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Boric for bringing in a large business delegation, which will help in intensifying business interaction between the two countries. Both agreed to continue the discussions for further enhancement of the trade relations.
President Boric conveyed that India is a priority partner for Chile in the global economy and stressed the need to explore strategies for enhanced and diversified trade between the two countries. The President and the Prime Minister acknowledged signing of the mutually agreed Terms of Reference and welcomed the launch of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement to achieve a deeper economic integration. The CEPA will aim at unlocking the full potential of the trade and commercial relationship between India and Chile, boosting employment, bilateral trade, and economic growth.
To further promote trade relations as well as people-to-people interactions, President Boric announced Chile’s decision to grant a Multiple Entry Permit for Indian businesspersons which will streamline the visa process. Prime Minister Modi welcomed and valued this measure, as it reflects the willingness of both parties to facilitate trade and investment and the shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations between Chile and India. Acknowledging the people-to-people linkages as an important pillar to promote bilateral ties and to facilitate business, tourism, student and academic exchanges, Indian side has already put in place a flexible visa regime, including by extending e-visa facility for Chilean travellers to India.
Both leaders recognised the strategic importance of critical minerals for emerging technologies, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy transitions, both leaders agreed to accelerate collaboration in exploration, mining and processing along with research and development to promote investment across the entire critical mineral value chain for mutual benefit. They stressed on the need for building trusted and resilient supply chains including for critical minerals and advanced materials. The two sides agreed to work together on initiatives to strengthen supply chains and local value chains by fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and understandings in mining and minerals, including the possibility of long-term supply of minerals and materials from Chile to India.
Both leaders agreed to explore the opening up of new avenues for cooperation in health and pharmaceuticals, space, ICT, agriculture, green energy, traditional medicine, Antarctica, Science & Technology, management of natural disasters, sports, Startups, cooperatives, and audiovisual co-production, through the exchange of experiences and good practices among the agencies responsible for these matters.
President Boric acknowledged the role of the Indian pharmaceutical industry as one of the world leaders, and an important partner for Chile in the supply of affordable and high-quality products. Both sides agreed to facilitate private sectors of the two countries to increase trade in pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices. Both sides agreed to work on enhancing cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals sectors and address market access issues for Indian pharmaceuticals, as well as advancing in the recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia by Chile.
The two leaders noted the importance of traditional medicines and Yoga in preserving health and wellbeing of people and directed their officials for an early conclusion of the Memorandum of Understanding on Traditional Medicines to promote a more sustainable lifestyle. Towards this, both countries agreed to collaborate and intensify the promotion and use of evidence-based, integrative, Traditional Medicine, Homeopathy, and Yoga by signing an MoU.
Both sides agreed to work on promoting investments in infrastructure projects in each other’s countries. Chilean side welcomed Indian companies to participate in infrastructure projects including in railway sector.
The two leaders encouraged the two sides to work together to explore substantial areas for bilateral defence cooperation, including capacity building and defence industrial collaboration. Both agreed to share knowledge in developing and enhancing each other’s capabilities under the existing formal defence cooperation agreement in place. Indian side highlighted that Chile has been kept on priority while offering opportunities in training at Defence Services Staff College, NDC, NDA and HDMC, apart from slots for specialised courses in mountain warfare and peacekeeping operations previously made available. Indian side expressed its desire to receive and train Chilean military in areas of mutual interests.
Both leaders expressed their happiness on signing of the Letter of Intent to strengthen existing Antarctic cooperation, which will further facilitate partnership in Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources agendas bilateral dialogues, joint initiatives and academic exchanges related to Antarctica and Antarctic policy. Both India and Chile are Consultative Parties to the Antarctic Treaty and reaffirmed their commitment to deepen scientific understanding of Antarctic for the benefit of both parties and the global community.
The two sides welcomed the adoption and opening for signature of the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), as a key legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction and reiterated the resolve of their respective countries to preserve, protect and promote biodiversity, from land to sea, and agreed to work together and support each other in international forums dealing with these issues. Both countries reaffirmed their intention to strengthen a vision from the Global South in multilateralism, through cooperation and joint efforts, based on the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and the right to development.
Recalling the two countries’ decades-long partnership in space, the two leaders noted the ongoing engagements in the space sector between the two countries, including the launching of a satellite belonging to Chile (SUCHAI-1) by India in 2017 as a co-passenger under a commercial arrangement. Both leaders emphasized the importance of further cooperation to promote training and capacity building and research in space and astrophysics. In this regard, they welcomed the constitution of Space Executive Committee by Chile to work on cooperation including in the areas of exploration in space, R&D, training, satellite building, launch and operation and peaceful use of outer space with ISRO, IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre) and Startups.
Both leaders noted their respective dynamic information and digital technology sectors and stressed the need to explore synergies to enhance cooperation in this field. They expressed mutual interest in growth of investment, joint ventures, technological development and markets in the IT and digital space, including promoting collaboration in Digital Public Infrastructures (DPI), thereby democratizing access to digital services for people and businesses. Both leaders acknowledged the efforts by the two sides in exploring early implementation of cooperation in the digital payments sectors. They committed to work for developing closer cooperation between the vibrant Startup ecosystems of the two countries. Both leaders expressed their desire for advancing on signing of an understanding on cooperation in the areas of Digital Transformation to facilitate deeper engagement between tech communities of both countries.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reformed multilateralism and for comprehensive reforms of the UN Security Council, including its expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership to make it more representative, accountable, transparent, inclusive and effective, reflecting the geopolitical realities of the 21st Century. The Chilean side reiterated its support for India’s candidature for a permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UN Security Council. The two sides agreed to work together for promotion of democratic principles and human rights to strengthen the world peace stressing the importance of resolving all disputes through peaceful dialogue.
Both leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross border terrorism and shared their resolve to stand together in common fight against global terrorism. They agreed that terrorism must be combated through concerted global actions.
The two leaders called upon all UN member countries to implement the UNSC Resolution 1267 and work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure and disrupt terrorist networks and all terror financing channels. Both reiterated their commitment to work together in Financial Action Task Force (FATF), No Money For Terror (NMFT) and other multilateral platforms to combat terrorism. The two leaders also reiterated the importance of early finalization of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.
The two leaders committed themselves to the vision of a rules-based international order that respects sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, ensures freedom of navigation and overflight as well as unimpeded lawful commerce, and that seeks peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, notably the UNCLOS.
Prime Minister Modi appreciated the participation of Chile in all the three editions of the “Voice of Global South” Summits, reflecting the commitment in bringing together countries of the Global South to share their development perspectives and priorities. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Boric for sharing his valuable perspectives and ideas at the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit held in August 2024 and noted that both countries have strong convergence on several contemporary global issues, including on the need for effective global governance reforms and equitable access for Global South countries to clean and green technologies. President Boric welcomed India’s leadership in strengthening engagements between countries of Global South.
President Boric appreciated India’s leadership in G20 which brought the development agenda to centre stage and acknowledged the transformative and inclusive role of technology, with a focus on unlocking the potential of digital public infrastructure (DPI). Both Leaders recognized that India’s G20 Presidency has championed Voice of the Global South by bringing to fore key initiatives and outcomes, such as inclusion of African Union in G20, promotion of Lifestyles for sustainable development (LiFE), advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), reforms of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and focus on women-led development. In this regard, and with the aim of promoting greater integration and representativeness within the G20, India will support the inclusion of Chile and Latin American countries in the discussions as G20′ guest countries.
The two sides recognized the challenges for their economies presented by climate change and the transition to low emissions climate resilient economies. Accordingly, they expressed keen desire to promote clean energy and sustainable development through development of more efficient energy technologies. The two leaders called for increased joint investments in renewable energy, green hydrogen, utilization and storage technologies, energy efficiency, and other low-carbon solutions that will have the potential to accelerate sustainable economic growth and foster job creation.
President Boric welcomed India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and reiterated strong support as a member since November 2023. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Chile joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in January 2021 aiming to make systems and infrastructure resilient to achieve the objectives of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, both leaders valued Chile’s offer of hosting the 7th Meeting of the ISA Regional Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean.
Recognizing the growing significance of technology enabled learning solutions, skills development, and institutional capacity building, India and Chile reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in these areas. Both countries have agreed to facilitate partnerships between EdCIL (India) Limited and key Chilean institutions, including the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities (CRUCH), the Chilean Ministry of Education, and technical training centres (CFTs), thereby focusing on digital learning, research exchanges, smart education infrastructure, and vocational training programs, leveraging the strengths of both nations to drive innovation and knowledge-sharing in education.
Prime Minister Modi, highlighting the transformational changes taking place in education sector in India under National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, encouraged leading Chilean universities to strengthen academic and research partnerships with Indian institutions and build institutional linkages through joint/dual degree and twinning arrangements. Given mutual strengths of both countries in astronomy and astrophysics, both leaders agreed to strengthen institutional engagements in these domains. The two leaders welcomed the proposal for establishment of an ICCR Chair on Indian Studies in one of the universities in Chile and directed the officials to examine the feasibility for an early implementation.
Both leaders welcomed the ongoing cooperation in training and capacity building in the field of diplomacy and noted the potential for further enhancement for cooperation in this area, in line with global diplomatic endeavours and new technology making diplomacy more efficient.
The two leaders acknowledged the role of cultural ties in bringing the people of the two countries closer to each other. They lauded the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and Chile and appreciated the long-standing cultural exchanges between the two nations. The leaders applauded the growing interest in the study of the cultures and languages in both countries with Spanish being among the popular foreign languages in India. They stressed the mutual interest in further strengthening India – Chile cultural cooperation and the reinforcement of cooperation among cultural institutions of the two countries. They welcomed the signing of new Cultural Exchange Program to promote bilateral exchanges in music, dance, theatre, literature, museums and festivals.
The two leaders expressed satisfaction on the progress made to finalise the agreement on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters which will lead to strengthening linkages between the relevant agencies to counter illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and, in general, to investigate, prevent and suppress contraventions of Customs laws, as well as sharing of best practices and capacity building. They also welcomed the efforts by two sides to sign an agreement on cooperation in the disability sector which would contribute to a more humane and just society where no one is left behind. The two leaders directed their officials to conclude these documents at an early date.
Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining regular interaction on matters of mutual interest. They reiterated their willingness to build on opportunities to promote and expand the bonds of cooperation and understanding that characterizes the bilateral relationship.
President Gabriel Boric thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for warmth and hospitality accorded to him and his delegation during the visit and invited him to pay an official visit to Chile at a mutually convenient time.
The government has employed Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods and IoT-enabled systems to improve crop productivity, sustainability and farmer livelihoods and to address various challenges in the agricultural sector to aid farmers etc. Some initiatives including Kisan e-Mitra are given below:
‘Kisan e-Mitra’, is a voice-based AI-powered chatbot, developed to assist farmers with responses to their queries on PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. This solution supports 11 regional languages and is evolving to assist with other government programs. At present, it handles over 20,000 farmer queries daily and so far, more than 92 lakh queries have been answered.
The National Pest Surveillance System, for tackling the loss of produce due to climate change, utilizes AI and Machine Learning to detect pest infestation in crop issues, enabling timely intervention for healthier crops. This tool, currently used by over 10,000 extension workers, allows farmers to capture images of pests to help them mitigate pest attacks and reduce crop losses. At present, it currently supports 61 crops and over 400 pests.
AI-based analytics using field photographs for satellite-based crop mapping being used in Crop-weather matching monitoring of crops sown.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Paris witnessed a moment of cultural pride as Stream-Story, a film produced by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), under the Ministry of Culture was awarded the Mention Spéciale – Prix du Patrimoine Culturel Immatériel 2025 (Special Mention – Intangible Cultural Heritage Award 2025) at Cinéma du Réel, one of the world’s most prestigious documentary film festivals.
Sponsored by the French Ministry of Culture’s Direction Générale des Patrimoines et de l’Architecture, this award recognizes cinematic works that preserve and celebrate the intangible cultural heritage of humanity—oral traditions, rituals, performing arts, and indigenous knowledge systems.
A Film That Brings Forgotten Traditions to Life
At its heart, Stream-Story is more than just a film—it is a poetic tribute to kuhl, the centuries-old water channels of Himachal Pradesh. These intricate irrigation systems, sustained by generations of community wisdom, are not just engineering marvels but also vessels of storytelling, folklore, and ecological philosophy.
Through a stunning visual and auditory experience, Stream-Story transforms water into a narrative force, flowing through time and memory, revealing the deep connection between people, nature, and tradition.
A Milestone for IGNCA and India’s Cultural Heritage
IGNCA representative Prof. Achal Pandya (Head, Conservation Division, IGNCA) while receiving the award said, “This international recognition is a proud achievement for IGNCA, an institution dedicated to preserving India’s vast artistic and cultural legacy. Stream-Story not only elevates a lesser-known yet vital part of India’s heritage but also reaffirms the power of cinema as a living archive—one that does not merely document but immerses, interprets, and evokes.”
Accompanying the film, a meticulously researched companion book, also published by IGNCA, expands on the themes of Stream-Story, weaving together history, myth, field studies, and visual storytelling. Together, the film and book form a unique cultural diptych—a once-in-a-lifetime artistic endeavor that brings India’s intangible heritage to the global stage.
This award at Cinéma du Réel marks a landmark moment for Indian cultural cinema, spotlighting the importance of preserving living traditions before they fade into obscurity. Stream-Story stands as a testament to the resilience of heritage, the beauty of oral traditions, and the timeless wisdom embedded in our natural world.
The Government has approved the Digital Agriculture Mission in September 2024 with a total outlay of Rs. 2817 Crores. The Mission envisages the creation of a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Agriculture, such as AgriStack, Krishi Decision Support System and a comprehensive Soil Fertility & Profile Map to enable a robust digital agriculture ecosystem in the country. This, in turn, would drive innovative farmer-centric digital solutions and make reliable crop-related information available to all farmers on time. The AgriStack DPI consists of three foundational registries or databases associated with the agriculture sector, i.e., Geo-Referenced Village Maps, Crop Sown Registry and the Farmers Registry, all created and maintained by the State Governments/ Union Territories.
The Government has targeted to generate Farmer IDs of 11 crore Farmers in the country by 2026-27 and to conduct Digital Crop Survey in all the States/UTs from Kharif 2025. As of 28.03.2025, a total of 4,85,57,246 Farmer IDs have been generated. Further, Digital Crop Survey has been conducted in 436 Districts in Kharif 2024 and 461 Districts covering more than 23.90 crore plots have been surveyed in Rabi 2024-25.
Further, the Government is providing technical and financial support to all the States/ UTs for the timely implementation of the Mission:
Software for Farmer ID and Digital Crop Survey.
Providing training to the State officials.
Support for hiring human resources for creating a Project Monitoring Unit.
Providing Cloud Infrastructure for implementing the project.
The Department of Expenditure (DoE), Ministry of Finance, has announced a Scheme for Special Central Assistance (SCA) to States for Capital Investment 2024-25 with a total allocation of Rupees 5000 Crores. As of 28.03.2025, an amount of ₹ 1076 Crore has been released to six States of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
Further, the Government has advised the States to adopt a Camp-mode approach, under which financial assistance of Rs. 15,000 per camp has been provisioned to the States to encourage States to organize field-level camps and mobilise local administration.
To accelerate the creation and verification of Farmers’ Registry, Rs. 10/- per Farmer ID has been provisioned from the administrative fund of the PM KISAN Scheme. This amount will be utilized to provide honorarium to the field functionaries involved in the creation of the Farmers’ Registry.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
CBIC to introduce electronic processing of import/ export through personal carriage by air passengers from 1st May 2025 at specified airports Nine airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur to allow personal carriage export of gems and jewellery
Seven airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur to allow personal carriage import of gems and jewellery
Four airports at Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai to allow personal carriage samples/prototypes of machinery
Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, has introduced electronic processing of Bill of Entry/ Shipping Bill pertaining to gems and jewellery/samples/prototypes through personal carriage by air passengers from 01.05.2025 onwards at specified airports.
The export/import through personal carriage shall be subject to the provisions of Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 and Handbook of Procedures (HBP), 2023.
The facility of personal carriage will be available, for export of gems and jewellery in the nine airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur) specified in para 4.87 of HBP and for import of gems and jewellery in the seven airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur) specified in para 4.88 of HBP. In case of samples/prototypes of machinery, the facility is initially being made available in Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai airports.
The harmonised procedure and electronic processing will promote ease of doing business for such mode of transaction especially for gems and jewellery and high-end manufacturing.
Ministry of Steel and all PSUs/institutions under its administrative control viz. SAIL, NMDC, RINL, KIOCL, MOIL, MECON, MSTC, NISST, JPC & BPNSI observed the ‘Swachhata Pakhwada’ from 16th-31th March, 2025. This was as per the Calendar of Swachhata Pakhwada for the year 2025 released by the Department of Drinking water and Sanitation. Officers/officials of the Ministry and employees in various plants/Units of PSUs spread across the country participated in various activities organized during the pakhwada.
The Pakhwada commenced by administering of ‘Swachhata Pledge’ ceremony at the Ministry of Steel. Cloth Banners and Standees were displayed at prominent places in the office premises of the Ministry for spreading awareness. Cleaning activities were undertaken in the premises of the Ministry thoroughly. ‘Shramdan’ by Officers/Officials of Ministry was done which included recording and weeding out of old files & records, removal of old posters/banners etc. Cleanliness inspection of rooms of Ministry was also conducted by a team of officers to observe cleanliness in Ministry of Steel. The PSUs organized the ‘Steel Safety Day’ on 28th March, 2025. Swachhata Pakhwada concluded in Ministry and all PSUs/institutions under the Ministry on 31th March, 2025 with determination of continuing the cleaning activities throughout the year.
During the Swachhata Pakhwada, PSUs/institutions under the Ministry have taken up various activities such as administration of swachhata pledge, cleaning up of townships, factories, nearby villages/slums, cleaning up of schools run of adopted by them under Swachh Vidyalaya, awareness program on curbing use of single use plastic etc. PSUs under administrative control of Ministry of Steel are also drawing up elaborated plans for the FY 2025-26 under Swachhata Action Plan which includes removal/reduction of slag, removal/reduction of iron ore fines and recycling of gaseous waste in power generation.