Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Government of India

Operation Sindoor was successfully executed because our formidable & professionally-trained Armed Forces were equipped with high-quality equipment, says Raksha Mantri at National Quality Conclave 2025

“India has always played the role of a responsible nation, but if anyone tries to take advantage of its restraint, they will face ‘quality action’”

No limit will become an obstacle in protecting India’s sovereignty, fully prepared for responsible responses in the future: Shri Rajnath Singh

“Expanding defence industrial ecosystem is providing an unprecedented strength to India”

“Need to develop global trust in our equipment to make India a developed nation & largest defence exporter by 2047”

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:53PM by PIB Delhi

“Operation Sindoor was successfully executed because our formidable & professionally-trained Armed Forces were equipped with high-quality equipment,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing the National Quality Conclave in New Delhi on May 08, 2025. Raksha Mantri commended the precision with which the Armed Forces executed the operation without harming any innocent person and with minimum collateral damage, terming it as unimaginable and a matter of great pride for the nation.

“In Operation Sindoor, nine terror camps were destroyed in Pakistan & PoK, and a good number of terrorists were killed. It shows the crucial role ‘quality’ plays in securing national interests,” said Shri Rajnath Singh.

Raksha Mantri asserted that India has always played the role of a responsible nation exercising great restraint and it believes in resolving issues through dialogue, however, if anyone tries to take advantage of this restraint, they will face ‘quality action’. He assured the nation that no limit will become an obstacle for the Government in protecting India’s sovereignty. “We are fully prepared for such responsible responses in the future as well,” he said.

Sharing his views on the theme of the conclave ‘Fast-tracking of Quality Assurance through Integrated Approach and Technology Enabled Processes’, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that fast-tracking quality assessment is the need of the hour in view of the disruptive changes and new transformations being witnessed in the defence sector across the globe.

Raksha Mantri voiced the Government’s emphasis on the empowerment of the defence production sector since 2014, based on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s philosophy of Defence Sovereignty. He said: “Defence Sovereignty means that until a country is capable and self-reliant in its defence needs, its independence cannot be considered complete. If we buy weapons and other defence equipment from abroad, we are outsourcing our security and leaving it at the mercy of someone else. Our government thought over it seriously and took a decisive step to achieve self-reliance. The expanding defence industrial ecosystem is providing an unprecedented strength to India”.

Shri Rajnath Singh added that equal emphasis is being laid on quality and quantity in defence production with many revolutionary steps being taken in that direction, including corporatisation of Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). He termed Quality as the Government’s priority Reform Agenda, highlighting that since the corporatisation of OFB, DPSUs have become internationally competitive and export-oriented, with efforts being made to advance quality production.

Raksha Mantri pointed out that one of the objectives behind the progress of the public sector has been to develop a Healthy Competitive Private Defence Ecosystem, which will strengthen India’s security through quality. “In today’s world, a strong brand value is important than just a product. The brand, which assures consistent quality and reliability, succeeds,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh appealed to the Armed Forces, Government QA agencies, DPSUs, private industry, research institutions, academia, and MSME representatives present on the occasion to build a world-leading state-of-the-art Brand India.  “Brand India means if an Indian company has promised something, it will definitely happen. ‘Whenever in doubt, go for India’ should be our USP,” he said.

On the major changes being witnessed in the global order, Raksha Mantri stated that when developed countries move towards re-armament, the demand for arms & equipment will increase. He cited the report of Stockholm International Peace Research Institute which said that the world military expenditure has reached $ 2,718 billion in 2024. He expressed hope that with coordinated efforts, the Indian defence manufacturing sector can make its mark globally with the Brand India philosophy. “Defence exports crossed the record figure of about Rs 24,000 crore in Financial Year 2024-25. Our aim is to increase the figure to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. The target is to make India a developed nation and the world’s largest defence exporter by 2047. To achieve the goal, we must develop global trust regarding the quality of our defence equipment,” he said.

While Shri Rajnath Singh acknowledged the efforts being made towards quality improvement, he stressed on the need to focus on using tools such as artificial intelligence, internet of things, and machine learning for real-time quality monitoring in today’s technology-driven era. He also called for updating standards and testing protocols to align with evolving global technologies. We need to focus on time-bound quality assurance clearances so that unwanted delays do not take place, he said.

Raksha Mantri added that quality assessment agencies should always keep an eye on their deficiencies and work on overcoming them through modernisation and development of testing infrastructure. Continuous gap analysis in the field of niche technology will be an essential step, he said.

Organised by the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) under the aegis of Department of Defence Production, the conclave underscored the need to transition from legacy QA models to predictive, data-driven, and automated systems. Experts called for seamless collaboration across stakeholders to accelerate certification timelines, streamline inspections, and embed real-time quality oversight into defence production.

Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar spotlighted the role of innovation and industry collaboration in making India a leading defence exporter. In a transparent and interactive Open House session, he addressed queries from defence industry representatives and user agencies, reinforcing the Ministry’s resolve to simplify, digitalise, and modernise QA systems.

Key Highlights & Announcements

• A landmark session introduced the Industry 4.0/QA 4.0 Roadmap, developed jointly by DGQA and industry partners. It includes deployment of smart technologies like Internet of Things-enabled test benches, automated data capture, digital dashboards, and AI-powered analytics—aimed at reducing human error, enhancing efficiency, and enabling continuous quality monitoring across defence product life-cycles.
• The Draft Indian Military Airworthiness Bill was formally presented for final inputs. The Bill, crafted through an inclusive process involving multiple stakeholders, including MoD, DRDO, Services, DPSUs, and industry, proposes a statutory framework for the certification of military aircraft and airborne systems. A dedicated interactive session captured final feedback from user representatives and industry forums.
• A dedicated session explored strategies to boost the indigenous development of Explosives and Ordnance (E&O) stores. Experts examined the role of emerging technologies – AI/ML, Big Data, Additive Manufacturing, Silicon Photonics, Semiconductors, and Advanced Materials—in modernising E&O production, safety validation, and certification. The session reinforced the need for technological self-reliance in critical munitions and precision systems.

 

The National Quality Conclave 2025 concluded with a united commitment from all stakeholders to redefine defence QA as a strategic enabler, not just of compliance, but of national security, export capability, and indigenous innovation. The outcomes of the conclave are expected to catalyse India’s transformation into a global benchmark for defence quality assurance.

DG, DGQA Shri N Manoharan emphasised that the conclave had significantly strengthened the partnership between industry and defence stakeholders, while also advancing efforts toward standardisation and innovation in quality assurance.

Director General of Naval Armament Inspection Rear Admiral Rupak Barua, Director General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance Shri Sanjay Chawla, CMDs of DPSUs, senior MoD officers were also present on the occasion.

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VK/Savvy

(Release ID: 2127735) Visitor Counter : 2

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi

Recognizing the critical role of AI infrastructure in shaping India’s economic future, the NITI Aayog Frontier Tech Hub hosted a high-level workshop on May 8, 2025, focused on accelerating investments in AI-ready datacentres across Indian states. The workshop brought together senior officials from key state governments, central ministries and industry leaders to chart a strategic roadmap for positioning India as a global hub for AI infrastructure.

 The deliberations spotlighted the widening gap between India’s digital ambitions and its current compute capabilities. Although India generates nearly 20% of the world’s data, it accounts for just 3% of global datacentre capacity. With AI adoption surging across sectors, the need for reliable, scalable, and sustainable AI infrastructure has never been more urgent.

 The workshop urged states to move beyond land- and real estate-centric models and embrace a new paradigm anchored in access to clean energy, high-performance computing, and streamlined policy environments. Key themes included:

• The projected doubling of global electricity demand from datacentres and AI by 2026
• India’s unique advantages in renewable energy, deep engineering talent, and rapidly growing digital economy
• The need for coordinated reforms in power, policy, and regulation to attract hyperscale and sovereign AI investments

 Participants discussed the six critical pillars essential for AI datacentre readiness—land, power, network, compute, talent, and enabling policies. The conversation highlighted the urgency for states to think not just competitively within India, but globally, as countries like Vietnam, UAE, and Indonesia aggressively pursue AI investments.

 Speaking at the workshop, Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog, said:

 “India has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to become a global AI datacentre hub. With our clean energy leadership, unmatched tech talent, and strong policy momentum, we are well-positioned to deliver the world’s greenest and most cost-effective AI compute. But the competition is global. States must stop thinking only in terms of land and start thinking in terms of AI ecosystems — anchored in energy, innovation, and execution.”

 The workshop was organized in partnership with Deloitte, the Knowledge Partner, and featured participation from ten states and representatives from defense, ministries of MNRE, Finance, DoT and Power. Distinguished attendees included Shri Rajiv Gauba, Member, NITI Aayog; Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog; Ms. Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow, NITI Aayog; and Mr. Romal Shetty, CEO, Deloitte South Asia.

 A strategic report titled “Accelerating AI Infrastructure Investments in India”, providing a comprehensive blueprint to unlock national-scale AI infrastructure investments was also launched in the workshop.

 This workshop is part of the NITI Frontier Tech Hub’s ongoing efforts to drive frontier technology awareness, readiness, and policy innovation across states and ministries—strengthening India’s journey to becoming a global leader in the AI-powered intelligence economy.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2127731) Visitor Counter : 2

Source: Government of India

INS SUNAYNA (IOS SAGAR) RETURNS TO KOCHI ON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF MONTH LONG DEPLOYMENT

IOS Sagar – A significant step in reinforcing India’s commitment to Regional Security and Collaborative Maritime Cooperation reflecting the vision of MAHASAGAR

Sagar Mission reaffirms India’s continued engagement with Maritime Neighbours towards building stronger ties and working towards a safer, more inclusive & secure IOR

Indian Navy strengthening Maritime Bonds, Capacity Building and Enduring Partnership with IOR Nations

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:43PM by PIB Delhi

Indian Navy’s maiden initiative of Indian Ocean Ship Sagar, jointly crewed by personnel from nine IOR Navies, concluded its month long deployment in SW IOR region and returned to Kochi on 08 May 25. Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command congratulated the crew of India and nine friendly foreign countries during the grand reception ceremony held at Naval Base, Kochi. The successful completion of the deployment marks a new chapter in maritime cooperation and underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding collective maritime interests, capacity building and enduring partnership with IOR nations.

IOS Sagar was flagged off by the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh from Karwar on 05 Apr 25. During the deployment, the ship undertook port calls at Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria and Male. The key highlights of the mission included joint naval exercises, professional & cultural exchanges and joint EEZ surveillance of key IOR nations – Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius & Seychelles. Strengthening regional maritime cooperation between India and African nations, the ship participated in AIKEYME 2025 alongside INS Chennai & INS Kesari, which was jointly hosted by India and Tanzania from 13 – 18 Apr 25. The exercise provided an opportunity for the crew of lOS Sagar to participate in the joint harbour phase and interact with the participating Navies. At Mozambique, a range of collaborative activities and community engagements were held promoting operational synergy and interoperability with the Mozambique Navy.

Reinforcing the enduring bond between India and Mauritius, the crew of IOS Sagar had fruitful engagement with the Mauritius Police Force and undertook coordinated patrol with the Mauritius Coast Guard. Visit to Port Victoria, Seychelles was marked with cross deck visits, training exchange, joint Yoga sessions and maritime engagement with Seychelles Defence Force. The ship held collaborative maritime security and regional outreach mission at Maldives prior to entering Kochi. This deployment exemplifies Indian Navy’s continued engagement with regional Navies and maritime security stakeholders of IOR nations to train together, exchange best practices and enhance interoperability and mutual understanding.

It was a unique experience for the 44 international crew of nine partner nations – Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Tanzania who jointly manned the ship alongside Indian Navy crew, truly signifying the motto of ‘One Ocean One Mission’. The journey of IOS Sagar which commenced with the combined harbour and sea training phase at SNC, Kochi in Mar 25 has been truly memorable for all the crew members. The professional and seamless integration of the international crew working together as a well knit and cohesive team truly reflects the spirit of camaraderie and maritime friendship. The mission is a testament to Indian Navy’s commitment as the ‘First Responder’ and ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in IOR towards the Gol’s strategic vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Region).

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VM/SKS                                                                                                    101/25

(Release ID: 2127730) Visitor Counter : 2

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

‘Arnala’, the first of the eight ASW SWCs (Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft), indigenously designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, was delivered to the Indian Navy on 08 May 25 at M/s L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli.

The warship has been designed and constructed as per the Classification Rules of Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) of GRSE with M/s L&T Shipyard, thus demonstrating the success of collaborative defence manufacturing.

Arnala is named after the historic fort ‘Arnala’ located off Vasai, Maharashtra, a reflection of India’s rich maritime heritage. The 77 m long warship, is the largest Indian Naval warship propelled by a Diesel Engine-Waterjet combination. The ship has been designed for underwater surveillance, search & rescue operations and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO). The ship is capable of undertaking ASW operations in coastal waters, along with advanced mine laying capabilities. The induction of ASW SWC ships would significantly boost shallow water Anti-Submarine Warfare capabilities of the Indian Navy.

Arnala’s delivery is yet another milestone in the Indian Navy’s quest for indigenous shipbuilding and upholding the Government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ with over 80% indigenous content.

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VM/SKS                                                                                                    100/25

(Release ID: 2127729) Visitor Counter : 2

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:32PM by PIB Delhi

A modular, flexible cattle cage developed by researchers that can be adjusted to fit different vehicles, complete with a ramp that doubles as a door can help ease transport of cattle in villages, particularly take farm animals to the cattle market.

In the heart of India’s rural landscapes, where cattle are vital companions to farmers, the journey from one town to another can often be perilous—not just for people, but for the animals.

Traditionally, cattle are transported in open or ill-fitted goods carrier trucks with no proper loading mechanisms. This exposes them to high stress, injuries, and even fatal accidents. These outdated practices also create logistical headaches for farmers and transporters, all while violating basic animal welfare norms.

An innovation by Prof. Sandip S. Patil from Guru Gobind Singh College of Engineering and Research Centre in Nashik, Maharashtra has the potential to change that scenario.

Through a project funded by DST-SEED (Science for Equity, Empowerment, and Development), his team has developed a cage that can make cattle transport safer, easier, and cheaper.

Fig 1: Prof. Sandip S. Patil & his team from Guru Gobind Singh College of Engineering and Research Centre in Nashik, Maharashtra

This is not just a cage, but a science-driven mobility solution designed with telescopic mechanisms, foldable ramps, and reinforced metal frames, engineered to reduce injuries, lower stress, and dramatically improve loading and unloading for cattle.

It is armed with telescopic sliding, that can match the size of the vehicle, a roller-assisted movement that allows for easy cage adjustment, foldable ramp cum door that provides a seamless way to load cattle and doubles up as a safety gate, a cross-link mesh design that adds durability while improving airflow. The design was tested with field surveys, farmer feedback, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to ensure proper ventilation.

The cage can reduce animal injuries and stress during transit and has simplified handling, especially for small-scale farmers. It is cost-effective and scalable, ideal for rural and semi-urban regions, compliant with animal welfare laws, potentially reducing legal issues for transporters and adaptable to double-storied configurations, making it suitable for larger vehicles and heavier loads.

Fig 2: Modular Cage with adjustable ramp for ease of loading and unloading as per the specified guidelines obtained from the user

This system can also be used in dairies, Gaushalas, veterinary operations and for safe and efficient short-distance livestock movement and can help communities by cutting losses, saving labour, and promoting humane transport practices.

The design has been recognized with patents and academic publications, including two Indian patents in 2024 for modular and double-storey versions.

Trial of the transport cage carried out in Ambad Village, Nashik.  Plans are underway to scale the project through CSR funding and wider implementation efforts.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2127726) Visitor Counter : 2

Source: Government of India

Delhi South CGST officials bust GST ITC fraud worth ₹7.85 crore; Chartered Accountant arrested

Investigations reveal misuse of over 80 GSTINs with a core group of 31 GSTINs engaged in circular trading, with no actual supply of goods or services

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:26PM by PIB Delhi

In a major crackdown on Goods and Service Tax (GST) fraud, the CGST Delhi South Commissionerate has uncovered a fraud on a large-scale involving fraudulent Input Tax Credit (ITC) claims amounting to Rs. 7.85 crore (approx.) by a South Delhi based Chartered Accountant.

Investigations revealed misuse of over 80 GSTINs (Goods and Services Tax Identification Numbers), mainly in the Palam/Dwarka area, linked to the Chartered Accountant’s email IDs and contact numbers. A core group of 31 GSTINs engaged in circular trading was identified, with no actual supply of goods or services.

Search proceedings were conducted at 12 premises and multiple firms were found non-existent. During searches, several electronic devices relevant to investigation were seized, and statements of the relevant people were recorded. Multiple taxpayers admitted to have been relying entirely on the Chartered Accountant for GST filings, with login credentials and filings centrally controlled by him.

The offences committed by the accused are covered u/s 132(1)(b) and 132(1)(c) of the CGST Act, 2017 which is cognizable and non-bailable offence under Section 132(5) and punishable under Section 132(1)(i) of the Act ibid. Accordingly, the said Chartered Accountant was arrested under Section 69(1) of the CGST Act, 2017 and produced before Duty Magistrate on 07.06.2025 who remanded him to judicial custody for 14 days till 21.05.2025.

The case highlights a systemic abuse of the GST framework through impersonation, credential misuse, and collusive circular trading. Investigations are ongoing under CGST Act, 2017 to uncover the full scale of the fraud and identify all beneficiaries of the ineligible Input tax credit.

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NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2127723) Visitor Counter : 2

Source: Government of India

Union Ayush Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav Reviews Preparations for International Day of Yoga 2025

IDY 2025 will not just be successful, but inspirational for the entire world: Shri Prataprao Jadhav

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 4:21PM by PIB Delhi

Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush and Union Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare chaired a review meeting on 7th May in New Delhi to assess the ongoing preparations for the upcoming International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025, which will be celebrated on 21st June 2025 across the globe.

During the meeting, the Minister reiterated the Government’s vision to make this year’s celebration of yoga truly extraordinary and globally impactful.

Addressing the officials, Union Minister Ayush stated that “we will work with utmost sincerity and commitment to ensure that International Day of Yoga 2025 is not only a grand success but also serves as a source of inspiration for the entire world”.

He encouraged all stakeholders to approach the event with renewed energy and unity, stating that the efforts should reflect the spirit of ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’. He added that “Let us reach every corner of the country and every part of the globe with the message of holistic well-being through yoga.”

The meeting saw participation from senior officials of the Ministry of Ayush. The review focused on the planning and implementation of major initiatives such as:

• Yoga Sangam – Integration of yoga with institutions like schools, hospitals, and corporates
• Harit Yoga – Promoting eco-consciousness through yoga-linked plantation drives
• Yoga Connect – Engaging global and diaspora communities in yoga celebrations
• Yoga Bandhan – Fostering social unity and shared wellness through mass participation

Shri Jadhav also emphasized the importance of engaging the youth, educational institutions, and community leaders to amplify the message and participation in IDY 2025.

International Day of Yoga, observed annually on June 21st, has grown into a global cultural and wellness movement since its inception by the United Nations in 2015 at the initiative of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

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MV/AKS

(Release ID: 2127705) Visitor Counter : 7

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) strongly refutes the recent claims made in the newspaper “The Morning Standard” on 7th May 2025, under the caption “Potash reserve found, AAP Govt. says Centre discriminating on exploration.” GSI clarifies that decisions on exploration activities, including those pertaining to potash, are based entirely on scientific merit, geological data, and techno-economic feasibility—not on regional preferences.

GSI, a premier scientific agency under the Ministry of Mines, has been undertaking potash exploration in Punjab as part of its long-term national strategy. Potash-bearing formations in Punjab are part of the larger Nagaur-Ganganagar Evaporite Basin (NGEB), the majority of which lies in Rajasthan, with a smaller extension into Punjab.

GSI has carried out five reconnaissance (G4 stage) exploration projects in the districts of Ferozepur, Sri Muktsar Sahib, and Fazilka in Punjab since 1985-86. These studies revealed the presence of potash mineralization at significant depths ranging from 630 to 770 metres, primarily associated with halite, clay, and dolomite.

Two new G4 stage exploration projects have been taken up by GSI in the current Field Season 2025-26 in Rajpura-Rajawali and Gidranwali-Azimgarh blocks, Fazilka District, Punjab, covering 128 sq. km with 5100m of drilling across six boreholes. These projects were initiated based on the request of the Government of Punjab during the 64th meeting of the Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB), held in January 2025 at Bhubaneswar clearly demonstrating the GSI’s responsiveness to State inputs.

Exploration work in these two blocks is currently in progress, and based on the outcome and promising indicators, GSI will consider scaling up these blocks to G3 and G2 stages in future programmes. Additionally, GSI is undertaking gravity-magnetic surveys under its National Geophysical Mapping Programme (NGPM) in the region to delineate mineralised zones, given that the area is mostly covered by thick soil and Quaternary sediments.

GSI reaffirms its commitment to the mineral development of all Indian states, including Punjab. In addition to the ongoing potash projects, GSI has regularly included Punjab in its national exploration strategy.

GSI urges all stakeholders to appreciate that scientific exploration is a technical endeavour driven by geological evidence, resource viability, and national priorities.

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Shuhaib T

(Release ID: 2127693) Visitor Counter : 20

Source: Government of India

Our Prime Minister Has Exemplified Kautilya’s Philosophy in Action – Vice-President

Our Prime Minister, a Great Visionary, Believes In Big Scale and Massive Transformation, Says VP

VP Quotes Kautilya – “A Neighbouring State Is an Enemy, and Enemy’s Enemy Is a Friend”

Kautilya Declared—“The Happiness of the King Lies in the Happiness of His People”; This Is the Nectar of Governance, Says VP

Democracy Did Not Start With the Constitution; It Is Rooted In Expression and Dialogue—Anant Vaad of Vedic Culture, highlights VP

Vice-President Interacts With the Kautilya Fellows from the India Foundation in New Delhi

Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 2:33PM by PIB Delhi

The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said, “Our Prime Minister has exemplified in action Kautilya’s philosophy. Kautilya’s thought process is a treatise in governance, virtually encyclopedic for every facet of governance—statecraft, security, role of the king—now those elected. In our multipolar world of shifting alliances….we had a concept—fly-by-night concept. Same can be seen with the alliances. Kautilya imagined then that this will be ever shifting. Let me quote Kautilya: ‘A neighboring state is an enemy, and enemy’s enemy is a friend.’ Which country knows better than Bharat? We always believe in global peace, global fraternity, and global welfare.”

Interacting with the Kautilya Fellows from the India Foundation in New Delhi today, Shri Dhankhar said, “Our Prime Minister, a great visionary, believes in big scale. He believes in massive transformation. And after a decade of governance, the results are written on the wall. It is after a long gap of several decades, that we have a Prime Minister continually in the third term. And that is making all the difference.”

Kautilya had one great emphasis, the Vice-President said, “Democracy has to be participatory; development equally has to be participatory. He laid great emphasis on individuals contributing for national welfare. A nation is defined by decorum, discipline — that is individualistic in nature. Similarly, I quote Kautilya: ‘Just as one wheel alone does not move a cart’…..Administration cannot be accomplished single-handedly.”

He highlighted how these ethos are reflected in contemporary governance, “This nation has an administration which is innovative. In the country, we had some districts that were lagging behind. Bureaucrats did not venture into those areas. Prime Minister Modi created a nomenclature for those districts: ‘Aspirational Districts’. And now, those ‘Aspirational Districts’ have turned out to be lead districts in development. Prime Minister Modi suddenly thought that people are going to metros. Tier 2, Tier 3 cities must also be hubs of economic activity. He devised a mechanism of smart cities. Smart cities were not in the context of infrastructure or beauty. It was in the context of facilities being available for entrepreneurs, for students.”

Reflecting on the foundational principles of power and governance, the Vice-President said, “Power is defined by limitations. Democracy is nurtured when we are ever mindful of the limitations of power. If you go deep into Kautilya’s philosophy, you will find all this converges only to one essence, nectar of governance—welfare of the people.”

Quoting Kautilya’s Arthashastra, Shri Dhankhar noted, “Kautilya declared, ‘The happiness of the king lies in the happiness of his people.’ If you look at constitutions of any country that are democratic, you will find this philosophy is the underlying spirit and essence of democratic governance and democratic values.”

Concluding with a reflection on India’s civilizational ethos, the Vice-President remarked, “Democracy is nurtured best when expression and dialogue complement each other. That distinguishes democracy from any other form of governance. And in India, democracy did not start with our Constitution coming into force or we getting independent from foreign rule. We have been a democratic nation in spirit for thousands of years. And this expression and dialogue, complementary mechanism—Abhivyakti, Vaad Vivaad—has been known in Vedic culture as Anant Vaad.”

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JK/RC/SM

(Release ID: 2127671) Visitor Counter : 212

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region