Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, chaired the 18th meeting of the Youth Development Commission (YDC) today (March 27).
At the meeting, members were briefed by government representatives on the latest implementation progress of the Youth Development Blueprint since its release in December 2022. Members were pleased to note that bureaux and departments have been promoting youth development work at full steam in accordance with the guiding principles as stated in the Blueprint. Apart from implementing some 160 specific actions set out in the Blueprint and nearly 60 measures that were introduced in 2023, various policy bureaux have also introduced over 30 youth-related new measures in the past year in response to the latest social situation and needs of young people. This ensures that the Blueprint is progressing with the times and can continue to respond to the changing needs of young people.
At the meeting, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) also reported on the latest developments of the Youth Link, which was established in September 2023. Members appreciated that the HYAB would continue to organise or provide a variety of activities for Youth Link members, covering youth dialogue sessions, exchange visits to the Mainland, participation in international affairs, volunteer services, special visits, etc, offering them opportunities to develop diverse talents and contribute to the community, and at the same time strengthening their communication and mutual trust with the Government. The Youth Link currently has over 18 000 youth members, effectively linking up participants of various government youth development programmes.
Mr Chan said, “Over the past two years, the Government has been implementing and actively updating the Blueprint measures on an ongoing basis. This clearly demonstrates the Government’s commitment and determination to promoting long-term youth development. I extend my gratitude to all members for their active participation in the implementation and promotion of the Blueprint, as well as their collaboration with bureaux and departments to transform the vision of the Blueprint into reality – creating a fostering environment where our young people can flourish and unleash their full potential.”
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, replies to the discussion on the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha, After the discussion, the lower house passed the Bill It is essential for national security to know who enters the country, when, for how long, and for what purpose
India is not a Dharamshala where anyone can come and settle for any reason, the Parliament has the authority to stop those who pose a threat to national security
Those who come to contribute to India’s economy are welcome, but those who come to spread unrest will face strict action
Now, there will be a complete, systematic, integrated, and up-to-date record of every foreign national coming to India
The new immigration law will be Transparent, Tech-driven, Time-bound, and Trustworthy
Since independence, India’s soft power has made a mark across the world, and this bill will give it new momentum and energy
The Modi government has framed the immigration policy with compassion, sensitivity, and awareness of threats to the nation
DMK MPs have never raised the issue of Tamil refugees
The “Immigration, Visa, and Foreigners Registration and Tracking” (IVFRT) system has been given a legal framework to monitor illegal immigrants and those overstaying beyond permitted durations
After three years of intensive deliberation, this bill will make the immigration system Simplified, Streamlined, Secure, and Systematic
District Police Module (DPM), known as the Foreigners Identification Portal, has been launched in over 700 districts of the country
Earlier, immigration checks used to take an average of 4-5 minutes per person at checkpoints; now it takes hardly 1-2 minutes
We have started a 360-degree screening of every foreigner across 24 parameters before allowing them entry into India
Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 9:24PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today replied to the discussion on the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha. After the discussion, the House passed the Bill.
Replying to the discussion, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah spoke about the importance of the bill and said that it will strengthen the country’s security and economy, pave the way to make our education system and universities global, lay a strong foundation for research and investigation in the country and make India number one in the world in every field by 2047.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that immigration is not an isolated issue but many issues of the country are directly or indirectly linked with it. He said that it is very important for the security of our country to know who are entering our borders, when are they entering, for how long will they stay and the purpose for which they are here. Shri Shah said that after the passage of this bill, a complete, systematic, integrated and up-to-date account of every foreign citizen coming to India will be maintained and through this we will be able to ensure the development of the country. He said that those who endanger the security of the country will be kept under strict surveillance and can also be monitored. He said that this bill will prove to be fulfilling all our objectives.
Shri Amit Shah said that India’s track record regarding migrants has been “spotless” for thousands of years, hence there is no need for a separate refugee policy. He said that such a policy is needed by the countries which are formed by geographical boundaries, whereas India is a geo-cultural country and our boundaries have been created by our culture. He said that India has a history towards refugees. He said that it is India where the world’s largest micro minority lives with utmost respect. He said that recently, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, citizens of 6 persecuted communities from neighboring countries have been given shelter under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Shri Shah said that India has always discharged its duties towards humanity and the need for a law was never felt for doing our duty. He said that our tradition and culture taught us the mantra of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and gave us its values.
Union Home Minister said that India has the largest diaspora in the world which spreads across 146 countries. He said that Indian diaspora wants to contribute to the culture, education, science and economy of the whole world. He said that today the number of Indian NRIs is about 1 crore 72 lakh and this bill has been brought to ensure smooth movement of all these people and to address their concerns.
Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, our economy has moved from 11th to 5th position in the last 10 years and India has emerged as a bright spot in the economies of the world. He said that India is going to become a hub of manufacturing and in such a situation it is very natural for people from all over the world to come here, due to which the scale and size of our immigration has increased a lot. Shri Shah said that along with this, the number of people who take refuge and make the country unsafe for their vested interests has also increased. He said that all those who come here to contribute to the economy of India in a smooth manner according to the laws are welcome, but if any illegal person comes here to create unrest, they will be dealt with very strictly. Shri Shah said that there is strictness along with generosity in this policy and this policy has been made by keeping compassion, sensitivity in the heart and alertness towards the dangers to the country.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Prime Minister Modi has placed two resolutions before the 130 crore people of the country, to become the third largest economy of the world by 2027, and a fully developed nation by 2047. He said that to achieve both these goals, a system of simple, strong and contemporary laws is essential and that is why many new and historic laws have come in this House in the 10 years of Modi government. He said that works like three new criminal laws, CAA, abolition of 39,000 compliances for ease of doing business, IBC code in 2016, bank merger and ending NPA through it, and GST rollout by integrating 32 sales taxes in 2017 have been done in the 10 years. He said that the Modi government amended the UAPA law and the NIA Act and abolished Section 370 from Kashmir. He said that in these 10 years, the Modi government has done the work of strengthening every law in every sector.
Shri Amit Shah said that this bill will fulfil our dream of becoming the third largest economy and making our universities global as in the new education policy. He said that this will provide a good environment to those doing R&D in the field of research to work with a liberal mind and credibility, the dream of making the country the centre of excellence in sports across the world will be fulfilled, India will also become an international centre for mediation and arbitration. He said that this bill will create a very good environment for all these things. Shri Shah said that at present this entire system is spread under the purview of four Acts, but there is overlap among them and also there are many gaps. He said that this single bill will repeal these four Acts and bring a law which will fill all the gaps and will help in fulfilling our goal of making India a developed country by 2047 by eliminating repetition.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that a strong immigration policy will be of great importance in our goal of building a fully developed India by the year 2047. He said that this bill will make our system simple, streamlined, systematic, and secure. He said that along with this, this bill will also be transparent, track driven, time bound and reliable. Shri Shah said that this bill has been designed in the Home Ministry after three years of deep consideration on all aspects. He said that this bill should not be opposed for political reasons. Shri Shah said that under this bill, not only will a database of passengers coming to India be created, but it will also increase tourism a lot by exploiting all types of tourism potential here, which will greatly help in increasing India’s global branding. He said that this will be very beneficial in increasing employment and GDP. The Home Minister said that after 75 years of independence, today India’s soft power has made its mark in the whole world. He said that soft power means our Yoga, Ayurveda, Upanishads, Vedas and our organic farming system and today the whole world look up to India with hope.
Shri Amit Shah said that from the security point of view, this bill envisions ending drug cartels, illegal immigration cartels, arms and hawala trade from abroad which are weakening the country’s economy. He said that along with legal provisions, punitive actions for violations have been laid. He said that the three old bills were made in the British Parliament in 1920, 1939 and 1946 before the country got independence and today our entire immigration policy is going to be made in the new Parliament of New India, which is a historic thing. Shri Shah said that such an important policy of our country which ensures the security, trade and development of the country was made in a foreign parliament. He said that the old laws were made in the chaos of the First and Second World Wars and to protect the British government. He said that this bill has been made in the first phase of Amritkaal with a vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and in the interest of India.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that there were many overlaps in the old laws which we have eliminated we have also eliminated the lack of coordination between agencies and the complexity of data management and verification. He said that clarity of jurisdiction has been brought in this bill by eliminating contradictory provisions of the old laws. He said that a single bill will eliminate the legal confusion of passengers and officials and this comprehensive law will also greatly reduce the burden of compliance. Shri Shah said that we have fulfilled the need for mandatory documents for entry, stay and exit from India. He said that we have also given powers to arrest any person violating these. Shri Shah said that powers have also been given to deport any foreigner from India. The Home Minister said that in a way, work has been done with an open mind to make provisions as per today’s time. He said that there were a total of 45 sections in the old laws, but now this law will have 36 sections, 26 old and 10 new. Shri Shah said that our country is not a ‘Dharamshala’ where anyone can come and stay for any purpose. He said that if someone comes legally to spread prosperity in our country, then he is welcome, but if there is a threat our security, then our Parliament has the right to make a provision to stop him. He said that we cannot leave sensitive places and army establishments on our borders open for everyone.
Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah, said that the introduction of online tourist visas began in 2010 for citizens of five countries. He mentioned that till the previous government, this facility was limited to only 10 countries, but now it has been extended to 169 countries. He stated that the government’s goal is to promote tourism, but it is also important to ensure that foreign nationals stay here only for the designated period. They cannot stay permanently, nor can they become citizens of the country.
Shri Amit Shah said that the government has also introduced the ‘Visa on Arrival’ facility at 31 international airports and 6 major ports. In 2023, a new category called ‘Ayush Visa’ was also launched. Now, there will be a total of 9 categories of e-visa, which include e-Tourist Visa, e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, Medical Attendant Visa, e-Ayush Visa, e-Conference Visa, e-Student Visa, and e-Student Dependent Visa. He mentioned that by introducing e-visas in all these categories, the government has simplified the process for foreigners to come to India.
The Union Home Minister stated that the aim is to stop only those individuals whose intentions are not correct, and it is the right of the Government of India to make such determinations. He mentioned that the number of categories under the Ayush Visa has also been increased. To monitor illegal immigrants and those staying beyond the designated time frame, the “Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration, and Tracking” (IVFRT) system has been given a legal basis. The integration of all immigration posts with Indian Missions, Foreign Regional Registration Offices (FRRO), and Foreign Registration Offices (FRO) through an end-to-end integrated system has been completed. Shri Shah also stated that the District Police Module (DPM), known as the Foreigners Identification Portal, has been launched in over 700 districts across the country.
Shri Amit Shah stated that till 2014, there were 83 immigration posts, which have now increased to 114, marking a 37 per cent growth. The government has implemented several plans to modernize immigration posts. Previously, the average time for checking each individual at immigration checkpoints was 4-5 minutes, but now it takes hardly 1-2 minutes. He mentioned that the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP) has been implemented at eight major airports, where if a traveler has already filled in all the required information, the screening process is completed in just 30 seconds.
The Union Home Minister said that initially, there were 743 Integrated Check Post (ICP) counters, but now they have increased by 206 per cent to 2,278. He mentioned that during the previous government, the number of people arriving in India was 2.49 crore, whereas under the Modi government, till 2024, 4 crore people arrived in India. He added that during the previous government, 2.59 crore people left India, while under their government, the number has increased to 4.11 crore. He said that overall, the number of people coming to and leaving India was 5.08 crore before, but now it has risen to 8.12 crore, marking a 69 per cent increase. He emphasized that this is the highest growth in a single decade, and when considering all decades, this growth is more than 50 per cent in just one decade.
Shri Amit Shah said that individuals with malafide intentions will certainly be prevented from entering the country, as this is directly related to national security. He emphasized that our laws already provide authorities with the power to deny entry to foreign nationals. Authorities also have the right to allow visa holders to travel to any designated point within the country. However, the fact that authority has the power to deny entry does not mean they will act arbitrarily. The Home Minister clarified that the decision to stop someone will be made based on inputs from multiple agencies. Shri Shah mentioned that since 2014, a process has been established where, before stopping anyone, a thorough 360-degree investigation is conducted across 24 points.
Union Home Minister said that the interpretation of a damaged passport changes from time to time due to various incidents. While rules can be adjusted based on such incidents, the law itself cannot be altered. Therefore, the government has granted the authority to make rules under Section 30. Section 33 will apply to individuals who pose a threat to India’s security. He further emphasized that the Indian government has the right to gather information regarding the number of foreign teachers teaching and the number of foreign students studying at a university, and this information should be provided.
Shri Amit Shah said that our border with Bangladesh is 2,216 kilometers long, of which 653 kilometers have been fenced. Roads have also been constructed near the fence, and checkpoints have been established. The length of the Sage fencing is 563 kilometers, but of this, 112 kilometers are in areas where border fencing is not possible due to streams, rivers, and uneven terrain, where fencing cannot be erected. Fencing has been completed over 450 kilometers, and for the remaining 450 kilometers, the central government has written DO letters and issued 10 reminders, but the West Bengal government is not providing the land. Shri Shah mentioned that the Union Home Secretary had held seven meetings with the Secretary of Bengal, but they are unwilling to provide the land. He added that where the fencing work is to be started, members of the ruling party come and create disturbances. He said that the main reason for halting the 453 kilometers of fencing is the West Bengal government’s lenient approach towards infiltrators. Shri Shah further stated that after the 453 kilometers of fencing, 112 kilometers of the border will remain open. This 112 kilometers includes rivers, streams, and difficult geographical conditions, through which people infiltrate.
Union Home Minister said that during the previous government, illegal infiltrators used to enter through Assam, and now they enter through Bengal. Shri Shah mentioned that once his party forms the government in Bengal, the infiltration from there will also be stopped. He emphasized that the refugees who came to India during the time of independence are not considered infiltrators; they are true refugees. Those who came here to protect their religion and family are the real refugees. This is why we brought the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which does not discriminate. Shri Shah stated that Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Parsis, Christians, and Jains—any individual from these communities who comes to India will be welcomed. However, those who come for infiltration will definitely be stopped. Citizenship will be granted only to those who suffered persecution, who endured the horrors of partition, and whose families faced atrocities. While replying to the question posed by one of the members, Shri Amit Shah said none of the DMK MPs have ever raised the issue of Tamil refugees to him.
Union Home Minister stated that this bill has been introduced to replace four existing laws. All the shortcomings in these laws have been addressed, and the overlaps have been removed. He emphasized that in today’s world, international cooperation is essential to strengthen India’s economy, education, healthcare system, research, and legal framework, and we must also contribute to global progress. The Home Minister further explained that this bill has been designed with these objectives in mind, but foremost, it has been introduced with the security of the country as the top priority.
National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes, and Narcotics (NACIN) and Indian Maritime University (IMU) sign MoU for strategic knowledge partnership The MoU establishes a collaborative framework for training of CBIC officers in marine enforcement and operational capabilities, leveraging IMU’s academic and technical expertise and NACIN’s enforcement experience
Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 9:11PM by PIB Delhi
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes, and Narcotics (NACIN) and the Indian Maritime University (IMU) in Chennai, today. This collaboration aims to strengthen the Marine Customs Training Centre by enhancing the maritime enforcement and operational capabilities of CBIC officers, while also creating a platform for mutual learning and institutional synergy between NACIN and IMU.
The MoU was signed by Shri Gaigongdin Panmei, Principal Director General for NACIN, and Dr. Rajoo Balaji, Pro Vice-Chancellor for IMU (representing the Vice Chancellor), in the presence of Smt. Aruna Narayan Gupta, Member, Central Board of Indirect Tax and Customs, and, Additional Director Generals, Dr. M.G. Thamizh Valavan and Dr. Ezhilmathi K, along with Shri K. Saravanan, Registrar, IMU, and Dr. P.J. Rangachari, Director, IMU Chennai Campus, among other senior officials from both institutions.
Addressing the esteemed dignitaries and officials present, Smt. Gupta stated that the collaboration marks a significant step towards enhancing the capabilities of CBIC officers engaged in marine preventive work, thereby strengthening collective efforts in safeguarding national security.
This MoU between NACIN and IMU establishes a collaborative framework for the training of CBIC officers involved in marine operations. It outlines the development of a comprehensive training programme aimed at bridging existing knowledge gaps in maritime enforcement and operational practices. The curriculum will be enriched by incorporating both domestic and international perspectives. The collaboration seeks to mutually benefit both institutions—leveraging IMU’s academic and technical expertise and NACIN’s enforcement experience.
For CBIC, the collaboration significantly strengthens its marine enforcement capabilities by providing officers with specialized, hands-on training in advanced maritime technologies, aligned with global best practices. For IMU, this partnership offers a valuable opportunity to extend its academic reach into the domain of maritime enforcement, enhance the practical application of its training modules, and engage in collaborative research on emerging technologies such as drone surveillance and recent advancements in the maritime sector.
Furthermore, the MoU paves the way for the inclusion of personnel from other departments and international participants, underscoring the global relevance and strategic scope of this initiative.
The collaboration with IMU will further elevate NACIN’s capabilities by integrating academic excellence, cutting-edge technology, and global best practices into its training framework. This partnership not only ensures the development of a robust and future-ready maritime enforcement training ecosystem but also reinforces India’s commitment to fostering institutional synergies to safeguard its maritime interests. The Marine Customs Training Centre, empowered by this collaboration, is poised to emerge as a centre of excellence for marine enforcement training in the region and beyond.
ABOUT THE MARINE CUSTOMS TRAINING CENTRE
The National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes & Narcotics (NACIN) is the apex institution of the Government of India for capacity building in the field of indirect taxation. Functioning under the administrative control of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), NACIN plays a pivotal role in training and developing the human resource capabilities of India’s indirect tax administration. The new NACIN campus at Palasamudram, Andhra Pradesh, inaugurated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on 16th January 2024, stands as a symbol of the government’s commitment to excellence in training. Among its many state-of-the-art facilities, the campus houses the Marine Customs Training Centre, developed as part of NACIN’s mission to enhance the skill sets and operational readiness of Customs officers engaged in marine enforcement.
This cutting-edge centre is equipped with Full Mission Ship Maneuvering Simulators and Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) simulators, offering immersive, hands-on training in ship navigation, collision avoidance, and emergency response. It also provides practical facilities for firefighting drills, seamanship training, and operation of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). Additionally, officers are trained in marine search and rescue operations, firearm proficiency, and life-saving techniques—preparing them for a wide range of real-world maritime scenarios. Designed to simulate realistic operational conditions, the training environment at the centre ensures that officers are well-prepared to tackle challenges such as maritime security threats, smuggling interdiction, and emergency response. The facility is also envisioned as a shared resource for training personnel from other government marine enforcement agencies, fostering inter-agency collaboration and enhancing national maritime enforcement capabilities.
ABOUT IMU
The Indian Maritime University (IMU), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, is a premier institution for maritime education, training, and research. It offers world-class training and education in maritime-related fields and is renowned for its significant contribution to the development of India’s maritime sector. With campuses across the country, IMU provides a broad spectrum of programs and actively collaborates with industry and government bodies to advance maritime capabilities through academic excellence and specialized training.
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke with HM King Philippe of Belgium today. Shri Modi appreciated the recent Belgian Economic Mission to India led by HRH Princess Astrid. Both leaders discussed deepening the strong bilateral ties, boosting trade & investment, and advancing collaboration in innovation & sustainability.
In a post on X, he said:
“It was a pleasure to speak with HM King Philippe of Belgium. Appreciated the recent Belgian Economic Mission to India led by HRH Princess Astrid. We discussed deepening our strong bilateral ties, boosting trade & investment, and advancing collaboration in innovation & sustainability.
@MonarchieBe”
It was a pleasure to speak with HM King Philippe of Belgium. Appreciated the recent Belgian Economic Mission to India led by HRH Princess Astrid. We discussed deepening our strong bilateral ties, boosting trade & investment, and advancing collaboration in innovation &…
MeitY secretary inaugurates India’s first Nano Electronics Roadshow in IISC Bengaluru; 7 colleges showcase 0ver 100 intellectual properties (IPs) and more than 50 technologies MeitY leading India’s semiconductor surge with innovation, 85,000 Skilled workforce amnd $100 Billion market by 2030: Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in partnership with IISc Bengaluru, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Kharagpur, and IIT Guwahati, successfully hosted India’s first Nano Electronics Roadshow on March 27, 2025, at the National Science Seminar Complex, IISc Bengaluru. The Roadshow was inaugurated by Shri S Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, along with Shri Abhishek Singh, Addl. Secretary, MeitY
India’s vision of a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem
This marked a significant milestone in India’s vision of a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem. The roadshow showcased over 100 intellectual properties (IPs), more than 50 groundbreaking technologies, and the innovation of over 35 promising startups—all backed by six state-of-the-art nanoelectronics centers across the country.
Taking forward Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s clarion call for Atmanirbhar Bharat, the conference highlighted India’s technological leadership in the electronics and semiconductor domain, driven by cutting-edge research and innovation at Nano Centers established by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology within the IISc and IIT ecosystem. The roadshow served as a platform for over 700 industry leaders, policymakers, and academics to explore areas of collaboration around strategies for strengthening India’s nanoelectronics ecosystem.
India’s Semiconductor Future
Addressing the gathering, Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY underscored the critical role of MeitY’s Nano Centers in fostering innovation and talent development to build a semiconductor-ready workforce of 85,000 professionals. He emphasized that the event represents a significant initiative by the ministry and the Government of India, symbolizing convergence and fostering industry-academia collaboration, with the government playing a catalytic role in shaping India’s technological and industrial future. “A key focus of the ministry is aligning various efforts to advance the India Semiconductor Mission, one of the world’s most extensive subsidy and grant programs. With nearly 70-75% of investments in major semiconductor facilities coming from taxpayer money, every Indian is a stakeholder in this mission. Infact, 20% of the workforce in semiconductor design is in India. Ensuring its success is a collective responsibility shared by the government, industry, and academia.” He further added, “India’s semiconductor demand, currently at $45-50 billion, is expected to reach $100-110 billion by 2030.”
Diving into the vision and significance of the Roadshow, Shri Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, MeitY, highlighted the revolution technology has been bringing in all our lives and how the whole world of technology is shrinking. Commenting on the industry-academia collaboration, he added, “Under the India AI mission, through the INUP program and other initiatives, startups, entrepreneurs, and researchers are solving real-world problems, driving India to the forefront of cutting-edge technology. Together, with the pioneering efforts of institutions like IISc, IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, and others, we are building an ecosystem that ensures India remains a leader in this revolution.”
Research meets real-world innovation
The Nano Centers established by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology at IISc and IITs are driving India’s edge in the deep-tech race, fostering breakthrough technologies and strategic advancements. At the Nano Electronics Roadshow held at IISc Bengaluru, these academic hubs demonstrated their impact by bridging research with real-world applications, featuring 48 cutting-edge tech demos presented by students from the Nano Centers.
The event not only served as a platform for pivotal industry dialogues but also emerged as a hub for collaboration between the startup ecosystem and academia. This synergy aimed to accelerate the journey of cutting-edge technologies from labs to consumers’ reach. It also facilitated the signing of 4 MoUs between the academia and the industry, driving partnerships and technological advancements- IISc with KAS Technologies and Antigone Solutions Private Limited, Center for Nano Science and Engineering with India Electronics & Semiconductor Association (IESA), and Madnani Chemdist Novatech LLP with Primary Healthtech Private Limited.
The roadshow represents a significant step forward in India’s semiconductor journey, showcasing the latest breakthroughs in chip design, fabrication, and nanoelectronics. Alongside, it also recognized and rewarded the innovative startups, celebrated for their exceptional contributions and transformative work in the sector. With this, we witnessed many startups coming forward and demonstrating technology that can revolutionize the Indian tech ecosystem. This event holds great significance in the semiconductor domain, as it paves the way for the development of more indigenous technologies aimed at addressing critical societal challenges.
Bringing together government officials, industry leaders, researchers, and startups, the event served as a catalyst to shape India’s next big leap in technology and innovation.
Utpal Shah, SVP, Tata Electronics; Anand Ramamoorthy, Micron; Govindan Rangarajan, Director, IISc; and Juzer Vasi, IIT Bombay. Other prominent dignitaries included Dr. V. Narayanan, Chair, ISRO; Rangesh Raghavan, India Head, Lam Research; V. Ramagopal Rao, VC, BITS Pilani; Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO, Anusandhan National Research Foundation, also present at the event
PM meets high-powered delegation from Keizai Doyukai to discuss about deepening economic cooperation between India and Japan PM highlights the Japan Plus system developed in India, to facilitate and fast-track Japanese investments in India
India’s governance is policy-driven, and the government is committed to ensuring a transparent and predictable environment : PM
India’s youth, skilled workforce, and low-cost labor make it an attractive destination for manufacturing: PM
Given India’s vast diversity, the country will play a major role in the AI landscape: PM
The delegation expressed support and commitment to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047
Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 8:17PM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received a high-powered delegation from Keizai Doyukai (Japan Association of Corporate Executives) led by Mr. Takeshi Niinami, Chairperson of Keizai Doyukai, and 20 other Business delegates to hear their views and ideas to deepen economic cooperation between India and Japan at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, earlier today.
The discussion covered strengthening bilateral trade, enhancing investment opportunities, and fostering collaboration in key sectors such as Agriculture, Marine Products, Space, Defence, Insurance, Technology, Infrastructure, Civil aviation, Clean energy, Nuclear Energy and MSME partnership.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership and reaffirmed India’s determination to provide a business-friendly environment. He highlighted the Japan Plus system developed in India, to facilitate and fast-track Japanese investments in India. He further emphasized that there should be no ambiguity or hesitation for investors. India’s governance is policy-driven, and the government is committed to ensuring a transparent and predictable environment.
Prime Minister spoke about the immense scale of growth of aviation sector in the country. He also mentioned that India is also working towards building significant infrastructure, including the construction of new airports and the expansion of logistics capabilities.
Prime Minister said that given India’s vast diversity, the country will play a major role in the AI landscape. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with those involved in AI, encouraging them to partner with India.
Prime Minister also highlighted that India is making significant strides in the field of green energy, having launched a mission focused on biofuels. He said that the agricultural sector, in particular, stands to benefit from biofuels as an important value addition.
Prime Minister talked about opening up of insurance sector and about ever widening opportunities in cutting edge sectors in space and nuclear energy.
The Keizai Doyukai delegation, comprising senior business leaders from Japan, shared their plans for India. They also expressed interest in exploiting complementarities between India and Japan in human resource and skill development. Both sides expressed optimism about future collaborations and looked forward to deepening business and investment ties in the years ahead.
Niinami Takeshi, Representative Director, President & CEO, Suntory Holdings Ltd appreciated the thriving relations between India and Japan under PM Modi. He said he sees huge opportunity for Japan to invest in India. He emphasized on the vision of PM Modi of Make in India, Make for the World.
Tanakaa Shigehiro, Corporate Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Government Affairs Officer, NEC Corporation remarked that PM Modi explained very clearly his vision and expectations for Japanese industry to invest in India.
The meeting underscored Japanese business’ support and commitment to the vision for Viksit Bharat @2047 in a meaningful and mutually beneficial manner.
The RoSCTL Committee, Department of Revenue has extended the last date for the submission of data for review of Rebate of States and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) on Export of Garments and Made-Ups rate from 31.03.2025 to 15.04.2025.
RoSCTL Committee, chaired by Shri G.K. Pillai, Secretary (retd.), Government of India has been constituted for updating the recommended ceiling rates schedules under Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (i.e., RoSCTL) Scheme. The Committee is entrusted with the responsibility to interact with the administrative Ministries, Export Promotion Councils, Commodity Boards, Trade Bodies and other stakeholders so as to elicit relevant data, to work out the modalities for calculation of duties/ taxes/ levies at the Central, State and Local level, borne on the exported product covered under the RoSCTL Scheme and collectively review the set of previously recommended ceiling rates schedules covering exports of goods under the RoSCTL Scheme.
The committee is scheduled to submit its report in May 2025. The Committee requested Export Promotion Councils (EPCs)/Trade & Industry Associations for submitting the data in prescribed format by 31.03.2025. On the request of EPCs and Exporters, the timeline for submission of data has been extended upto 15th April, 2025. Extension of the date for the submission of data for review of rate under scheme will provide a chance to exporter/industry members for submitting the data.
Industry representatives, Exporters and EPCs may submit the relevant data before the Committee.
90th Meeting of Network Planning Group under PM GatiShakti evaluates key Infrastructure projects NPG evaluates Road, Railway and Metro Projects
Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 7:55PM by PIB Delhi
The 90th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) convened today to evaluate infrastructure projects in the Road, Railway, and Metro sectors. The meeting focused on enhancing multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency in alignment with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP).
The NPG evaluated five projects (two Road, two Railway, and one Metro) for their conformity to the PM GatiShakti principles of integrated multimodal infrastructure, last-mile connectivity to economic and social nodes, and intermodal coordination. These initiatives are expected to boost logistics efficiency, reduce travel times, and deliver significant socio-economic benefits across regions. The evaluation and anticipated impacts of these projects are detailed below:
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
Upgradation to 2/4-lane with paved shoulder configuration of NH-165 from Aakiveedu to Digamarru
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) proposes the upgradation of NH-165 from Aakiveedu to Digamarru in Andhra Pradesh’s West Godavari district. The project aims to enhance interconnectivity by upgrading the existing road to a 2/4-lane paved shoulder configuration, improving connectivity between NH-216 and NH-65.
The enhanced highway is expected to alleviate congestion on existing roads by providing an alternative corridor for commercial traffic, reducing urban congestion, and improving road safety.
Upgradation of NH-754K single lane/2-lane to 2-lane with paved shoulder from Lakhpat to Santalpur
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) is undertaking the upgradation of NH-754K from a single/2-lane road to a 2-lane configuration with paved shoulders in Gujarat’s Kachchh and Patan districts. The project includes both brownfield improvements and greenfield bypass/realignment sections to optimize connectivity. The improved corridor will play a crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity by linking NH-341 and facilitating better access to Bhuj Railway Station and New Bhuj Airport.
Ministry of Railways (MoR)
Construction of new BG railway lines between Jajpur–Keonjhar Road to Dhamara Port
The Ministry of Railways, through the East Coast Railway, proposes the construction of a 101.26 km-long Broad Gauge (BG) railway line from Jajpur-Keonjhar Road to Dhamara Port via Aradi under the Khurda Division. This greenfield project aims to enhance freight movement and passenger connectivity in Odisha’s Jajpur and Bhadrak districts. The railway line will provide a direct link between industrial clusters, coal fields, and Dhamara Port.
Furkating–New Tinsukia doubling in connection with Lumding–Tinsukia–Dibrugarh doubling project
The Ministry of Railways proposes the doubling of the Furkating–New Tinsukia railway section, covering 193.89 km in Assam as part of the larger Lumding–Tinsukia–Dibrugarh Doubling Project. This brownfield project aims to enhance railway capacity, improve freight and passenger movement, and support economic development in Golaghat, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Dibrugarh, and Tinsukia districts.
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)
Metro Rail Corridor from Noida Sector 142 to Botanical Garden (Noida)
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) proposes the extension of the Noida Metro Rail Corridor from Sector 142 to Botanical Garden, covering 11.56 km. This brownfield project aims to enhance urban mobility in Noida and Greater Noida, reducing congestion on roads and improving public transport accessibility. The corridor will serve as a crucial link between Noida Metro Rail Corporation’s (NMRC) Aqua Line and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation’s (DMRC) Blue Line at Botanical Garden, offering seamless integration for commuters.
These infrastructure projects, aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, will significantly enhance connectivity, improve logistics, and contribute to regional and national economic growth. The meeting was chaired by Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Shri Pankaj Kumar.
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi has stressed upon the Five Pillars of Transformation encompassing technology absorption, structural changes, human resource development and increasing cohesion between the three services. Delivering the valedictory address of the Higher Defence Management Course (HDMC-20) at the College of Defence Management (CDM), Secunderabad, Gen Dwivedi gave a holistic roadmap of the Indian Army to become a future ready combat force.
The COAS highlighted the Army’s commitment to becoming a technologically advanced, adaptive and self-reliant force capable of addressing complex future challenges. He stressed upon the need to move from process driven approach to outcome driven approach to transition from measure of performance to measure of effectiveness. The COAS underscored the alignment of the Army’s transformative goals and deliberated upon the three phases of Era of Transition, Era of Consolidation and Era of Control.
Gen Dwivedi emphasised that Armed forces must be mobile, agile and technoligically competent; capable for contributing in all spheres of national security towards achieving vision viksit bharat by 2047 through Atmanirbharta, and remain a key pillar of national power and a preferred security partner in the region.
The event marked the successful completion of the flagship Higher Defence Management Course by 167 officers from the Indian Armed Forces, including 14 officers from friendly foreign nations. HDMC is a premier program designed to equip senior military officers with strategic foresight, management expertise, and decision-making acumen crucial for higher defence management and policymaking roles.
The COAS addressed the Future Strategic Leaders on multitude of significant issues from transformation of the armed forces to role and responsibilities towards nation building. He exhorted the graduating officers to be imaginative and develop the attitude and adaptability to channelise their ability and imbibe the principles of Truth, Trust and Transparency to deal with future challenges. As a mark of recognition, the COAS felicitated meritorious officers for their outstanding performance, acknowledging their exemplary contributions and academic excellence.
The valedictory ceremony was graced by senior military officials, faculty members and distinguished guests, underscoring the significance of the occasion. The graduating officers are now poised to take on critical command and staff roles and carry forward the invaluable knowledge and strategic insights gained at CDM, reinforcing their commitment to national security and higher defence management.
UIDAI & IIIT-H launch biometric challenge to test age invariance in fingerprint algorithms UIDAI’s benchmarking challenge aims to improve fingerprint authentication for children
Biometric challenge offers ₹7.7 lakh prize and tech collaboration opportunities
Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 7:21PM by PIB Delhi
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), in collaboration with IIIT-Hyderabad has launched a large-scale competition to test age invariance in biometric algorithms.
The first phase of the Biometric SDK Benchmarking challenge focuses on fingerprint authentication, testing 1:1 matching algorithms for children aged 5-10 years, with updates after 5-10 years. UIDAI ensures that participant submissions are evaluated securely, with anonymized datasets and no sharing of data with participants.
Global Participation Encouraged:
Researchers and developers globally are invited to enhance their biometric models using UIDAI’s unique, field-collected dataset for improving accuracy in real-world conditions.
The challenge runs from March 25, 2025, to May 25, 2025, with registration details available on the UIDAI website and https://biochallenge.uidai.gov.in/
The challenge offers prizes worth ₹ 7.7 lakhs (USD 9,000) and the opportunity to collaborate with UIDAI in advancing biometric technologies.
Following the fingerprint challenge, UIDAI will also launch SDK benchmarking competitions for iris and face authentication.
Aadhaar is serving as a key pillar of good governance and digital inclusion in India and Aadhaar number holders are carrying out nearly 90 million authentication transactions daily for availing various services and benefits.