Category: MIL-OSI

Source:

17th February, 2025 @ 9:30AM – Sheraton Hotel, Apia.

Rev Maauga Motu,

Members of the Diplomatic Corp,

Private Sector and Civil Society Organizations,

Representatives of Organizations of persons with disabilities from the Polynesian Sub Region,

President of the Nuanua o le Alofa,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Talofa lava,

I am honored to deliver the Keynote Address as Prime Minister of the Independent State of Samoa, to officially open the Peer and Collective Learning (PCL) -Talanoa (Forum) for Polynesian Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) 2025.

The Government of Samoa is committed to improving the lives of persons with disabilities. We are intentional to uphold the SDG mantra of ‘Leave No One Behind’ in our national development actions, our sectoral policies, programs and practices. Since ratification in 2016, we have taken concrete steps to implement the UNCRPD through our development efforts. The National Development Plan of Samoa demonstrates commitment to safeguard persons with disabilities across its priority areas. The National Disability Policy has translated the CRPD into national action to ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are realised through services and access to opportunities for persons with disabilities and their families.

Some specific areas of progress are; disability disaggregated data with the Washington Group short set of questions in our 2016 and one of the first three countries in the Pacific to produce its disability monograph out of the census. Recently, in 2021, through the partnership with UN agencies and the strong leadership of Nuanua O Le Alofa (NOLA) we have implemented the cash transfer program to persons with disabilities. We acknowledge the commitment and leadership from Nuanua O Le Alofa in its advocacy in supporting and working alongside Government to make a difference to the lives of persons with disabilities and their families. Like many other countries in our Pacific, ensuring that persons with disabilities are part of National Development Plans is another top priority to Samoa.

I am told that this week you have your ‘peer and collective learning exchange program’, a platform established by the Disability Rights Fund to support your learning and cross learning amongst organisations of persons with disabilities in the Polynesia subregion. The dialogue this week or Talanoa as the Samoan say, is constructive dialogue to enable your learning, support your growth, enable your development is also key to our indigenous way of learning. I am sure you are here to share your experiences, knowledge and discuss solutions that you can take back home, solutions to remove barriers, influence systems and processes and ensure that we as Government are inclusive of persons with disabilities and to understand your diverse needs, ensuring that NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND in our communities.

From a Government’s perspective, this is also an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the diverse initiatives that Governments within our sub region have to protect, promote and ensure the rights of persons with disabilities. To engage in constructive dialogue and to contribute to national developments and nation building as key partners and beneficiaries of these developments, whether its accessing health services, employment opportunities or any other mainstream services. I am aware that the Government must ensure that specific services such as sign language, peer support, carers or personal assistances are keys to your inclusion and participation.

I wish you well in your deliberations and learning this week. I now declare your meeting officially open.

Soifua.

Source: Government of India

Cabinet approves four multitracking projects across Indian Railways

To enhance line capacity, Indian Railways plans to undertake four multitracking projects aimed to ensure seamless and faster transportation of both passengers and goods; These initiatives will improve travel convenience, reduce logistic cost, decrease oil imports and contribute to lower CO2 emissions, supporting sustainable and efficient rail operations

The projects aim to enhance logistical efficiency by increasing the line capacity along the key routes for coal, iron ore, and other minerals; These improvements will streamline the supply chains, thereby contributing to accelerated economic growth

The total estimated cost of the projects is Rs.18,658 crore and will be completed upto 2030-31

The projects will also generate direct employment for about 379 lakh human-days during construction

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:02PM by PIB Delhi

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved Four projects of Ministry of Railways with total cost of Rs. 18,658 crore (approx.). The Four projects covering 15 Districts in 3 States i.e., Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by about 1247 Kms.

These projects include:

1. Sambalpur – Jarapda 3rd and 4th Line                             
2. Jharsuguda – Sason 3rd and 4th Line                      
3. Kharsia – Naya Raipur – Parmalkasa 5th and 6th Line     
4. Gondia – Balharshah doubling    

The enhanced line capacity will improve mobility, providing enhanced efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways. These multi-tracking proposals will ease operations and reduce congestion, providing the much-required infrastructural development on the busiest sections across Indian Railways. The projects are in line with the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji’s Vision of a New India which will make people of the region “Atmanirbhar” by way of comprehensive development in the area which will enhance their employment/ self-employment opportunities.

The projects are result of PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity which have been possible through integrated planning and will provide seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods and services.

With these projects 19 New Stations will be constructed, enhancing connectivity to Two Aspirational Districts (Gadchiroli and Rajnandgaon). Multi-tracking project will enhance connectivity to approx. 3350 villages and about 47.25 lakh population.

Kharsia – Naya Raipur – Parmalkasa will provide direct connectivity to new areas such as Baloda Bazar, this will create possibilities for setting up of new industrial units including cement plants in the region.

These are essential routes for transportation of commodities such as agriculture products, fertilizer, coal, iron ore, steel, cement, limestone etc. The capacity augmentation works will result in additional freight traffic of magnitude 88.77 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum). The Railways being environment friendly and energy efficient mode of transportation, will help both in achieving climate goals and minimizing logistics cost of the country, reduce oil import (95 Crore Litres) and lower CO₂ emissions (477 Crore Kg) which is equivalent to plantation of 19 Crore trees.

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MJPS/SKS

(Release ID: 2118723) Visitor Counter : 145

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 9:02PM by PIB Delhi

Shri Tokhan Sahu, the Hon’ble Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, inaugurated the newly constructed Service cum Facilitation Centre and the renovated Administrative Block. He also launched the new e-Gazette 2.0 portal and the revamped websites of Department of Publication, Directorate of Printing and Government of India Stationery Office, marking a significant step towards Digital India Vision of Govt. of India.

In his address, the Minister congratulated the Department of Publication for its commendable citizen-centric initiatives. He emphasized that government services can reach their true potential only when they prioritize the needs and convenience of the citizens. He further highlighted that this approach will propel government services, ensuring broader accessibility, efficiency, effectiveness and transparency.

The facilities unveiled during the event are designed to enhance the functionality, comfort, and accessibility for both visitors and employees, thereby supporting the Department’s mission to deliver quality services while maintaining a conducive and efficient working environment.

The launch of the e-Gazette 2.0 portal and the new websites are in alignment with the government’s Digital India vision. These initiatives ensure that government services are more accessible, transparent, and citizen-centric, facilitating ease of doing business for the public.

The Department of Publication remains steadfast in its commitment to dissemination of information through Government Publication and meet the needs of the public, government agencies, and various stakeholders.

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SK

(Release ID: 2118596) Visitor Counter : 33

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:16PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met today with Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok.

Prime Minister reiterated India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. Enunciating India’s people-centric approach to the relationship, Prime Minister highlighted that cooperation between the two countries has brought tangible benefits to the people of both countries. He underlined India’s desire to forge a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on pragmatism.

Prime Minister urged that rhetoric that vitiates the environment is best avoided. On the border, strict enforcement of the law and prevention of illegal border crossings, especially at night, are necessary for maintaining border security and stability. Bilateral mechanism could meet as appropriate to review and take forward our ties.

Prime Minister underlined India’s concerns related to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed his expectation that the Government of Bangladesh would ensure their security, including by thoroughly investigating the cases of atrocities committed against them.

Prime Minister congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the Chair of BIMSTEC and looked forward to the forum further advancing regional cooperation under its leadership. The leaders agreed to enhance consultations and cooperation to advance regional integration, including under the BIMSTEC framework.

Prime Minister expressed his conviction that all issues of mutual interest between the two countries would continue to be addressed and resolved bilaterally through constructive discussions, in the interest of their long standing and mutually beneficial bilateral relationship.

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2118736) Visitor Counter : 55

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:11PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today approved the Vibrant Villages Programme -II (VVP-II) as a Central Sector Scheme (100% Centre funding), furthering its commitment for the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 for ‘Safe, Secured & Vibrant land borders’.  The Programme would help in the comprehensive development of the villages located in the blocks abutting international land borders (ILBs), other than the Northern border already covered under VVP-I.

With a total outlay of Rs.6,839 crore, the programme shall be implemented in select strategic villages in the States/UTs of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, J&K (UT), Ladakh (UT), Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal till the FY 2028-29.

The objective of the programme is to create better living conditions and adequate livelihood opportunities to ensure prosperous and safe borders, control trans-border crime and assimilate the border population with the nation and inculcate them ‘as eyes and ears of the border guarding forces’, crucial for internal security.

The programme shall provide funds for infrastructure development within the village or a cluster of villages, value chain development (through cooperatives, SHGs, etc), border specific outreach activity, education infrastructure like SMART classes, development of tourism circuits and works/projects to create diverse & sustainable livelihood opportunities in the border areas.

The interventions would be border-specific, state and village specific, based on Village Action Plans prepared in a collaborative approach.

All-weather road connectivity for these villages shall be undertaken under the already approved PMGSY-IV under the MoRD. A High-Powered Committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary shall consider suitable relaxations in schematic guidelines for effective implementation of schemes in the border areas.  

The programme aims to achieve saturation in existing individual and household level welfare schemes in the identified villages under convergence as per scheme norms. The programme also aims to saturate all villages in such blocks in 4 thematic areas, namely all-weather road connectivity, telecom connectivity, television connectivity and electrification through convergence under existing scheme norms.

The programme emphasizes enhancing vibrancy in these villages by organizing activities including fairs & festivals, awareness camps, celebration of National days, regular visits by Ministers, senior Government officers from Central and State/UT Government & night stays in such villages. This would boost the tourism potential and promote the local culture and heritage of these villages.

Technology would be leveraged and information databases like PM Gati Shakti shall be used for effective implementation of the project.

VVP-II along with VVP-I is a transformative initiative to make the border villages self-reliant and vibrant.

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MJPS/SKS

(Release ID: 2118730) Visitor Counter : 116

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:20PM by PIB Delhi

The scenic beauty of Kashmir’s tulip gardens has long been a major attraction for tourists, with vibrant displays at Srinagar drawing visitors each year. In a significant step toward promoting sustainable floriculture and enhancing farmers’ income, CSIR Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu a premier research and development institution of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) under the Union Ministry of Science and Technology, mandated with pre-clinical drug discovery, has also been implementing various societal Mission programmes like CSIR’s Aroma and Floriculture Mission. Under the CSIR Floriculture Mission, the key verticals include Generation of Quality Planting Material of High Value Floricultural Crops, Area Expansion under Floriculture, Urban Floriculture, Post-Harvest Processing and Value Addition, Integration of Floriculture with Apiculture, Establishing Marketing Linkages, and Domestication of Wild Ornamentals. Further, through the Mission activities, the institute has been dedicated to supporting farmers through research and development, particularly in high value floricultural crop cultivation.

In conformity with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, Prime Minister’s clarion call for self-reliant India, the pan India CSIR Societal Mission programmes envisioned by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology (Independent Charge) achieved remarkable achievements since last few years. The Institute has initiated tulip cultivation at its Bonera Station in the year 2022 with the primary objectives of indigenizing tulip bulb production, developing agro-technological protocols, and expanding crop cultivation. A spokesperson informed that the initiative which started with just 10,000 bulbs in 2022, has successfully produced over one lakh bulbs within just two years, grown over an area of more than 12 kanals this season.

 During media interaction held at Tulipgarden of Bonera Field Station, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director of CSIR-IIIM, Jammu, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that the Bonera Station currently houses eight tulip varieties under strategic research programmes to develop indigenous tulip bulbs, assess morphological characteristics, establish agro-technological protocols and evaluate varieties for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. He emphasized that indigenizing tulip bulb production will reduce India’s reliance on imports, create economic opportunities for farmers, and contribute to the overall growth of the floriculture sector.

The newly developed Tulip Garden-cum-Experimental Field at Bonera, located in South Kashmir’s Pulwama, was opened to the public that drew thousands of enthusiastic visitors from all parts of the valley. The initiative marks a significant step toward positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for tulip bulb production in future, aiming to shift India from an import-dependent consumer to a self-sufficient producer. By integrating scientific advancements with floriculture tourism, the CSIR Floriculture Mission, besides fostering self-reliance in tulip production, also aims at enhancing the economic potential of the region’s farming communities.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2118738) Visitor Counter : 69

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in an accident in Nanded, Maharashtra

PM announces ex-gratia from PMNRF

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:21PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives in an accident in Nanded, Maharashtra. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.

The Prime Minister’s Office handle in post on X said:

“Saddened by the loss of lives in an accident in Nanded, Maharashtra. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.

An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi”

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2118739) Visitor Counter : 84

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:23PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, accompanied by the Prime Minister of Thailand, H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, today visited Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, popularly known as Wat Pho.

Prime Minister paid homage to the Reclining Buddha and offered ‘Sanghadana’ to senior Buddhists monks. Prime Minister also presented a replica of Ashokan Lion Capitol to the shrine of Reclining Buddha. On the occasion, he recalled the strong and vibrant civilizational ties that exist between the two countries.

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2118743) Visitor Counter : 70

Source:

Taumeasina Island Resort, Tuesday 18 February 18:30pm

Talofa lava and good evening to you all.

I am happy to join you this evening to bid farewell to Mr. Themba Kalua, who has served with dedication and commitment as the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau.

Let me first of all acknowledge the successful conclusion of the Government of Samoa–UN Country Implementation Plan (CIP) Workshop today, which brought together government officials, UN agencies, and stakeholders to set the priorities for our cooperation over the next three years. I am grateful to all who contributed their time, expertise, and insights to this important process.

Mr. Kalua, your tenure has been marked by steadfast leadership in strengthening the partnership between Samoa and the United Nations. Your efforts have added to Samoa’s voice and priorities being heard in regional and global discussions; your advocacy has led to increased UN technical expertise and engagement in areas important to our national development.

Notably, your tenure, though shortened, has fostered a more coordinated and integrated UN engagement, aligning with the UN Secretary-General’s reform agenda, which Samoa has strongly supported.

I would like to highlight three significant achievements of your tenure:

1️. Advancing Samoa’s SDG Implementation & National Priorities through the joint UN technical support for the preparation of Samoa’s Third Voluntary National Review (VNR), which was successfully presented at the High-Level Political Forum last year.

Additionally, we appreciate your support for the SDG Acceleration Initiative which the UN launched last year to help drive targeted actions in climate action including NDC 3.0, food systems transformation, gender-based violence, non-communicable diseases and economic development. The joint programs launched have reinforced collaborative, high-impact solutions to some of our development challenges.

2. UN’s Support to CHOGM 2024.

Samoa’s hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in October 2024 was a historic milestone. We thank you for your role in mobilizing and coordinating UN technical support to forums and events at CHOGM.

3. Hosting the UN Secretary-General in Samoa

Your leadership also ensured the successful hosting of the historic visit of the United Nations Secretary-General to Samoa last year. This visit reinforced the importance of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the global development agenda and reaffirmed Samoa’s role as a strong advocate for climate action, resilience, and sustainable development.

We are pleased to know that you will continue to influence the global agenda in ways that matter to Samoa and other SIDS in your new post.

Congratulations on your appointment as Director for the Pact for the Future Implementation in the Executive Office of the UN Secretary-General.

Samoa contributed to this landmark resolution, and we look forward to working with you in your new capacity to ensure that the unique challenges and aspirations of our region remain visible and well-supported at the highest levels of the UN.

We value our partnership with the United Nations, and I am confident that the Samoa UN Country Team will continue to build upon the strong foundation you and your predecessors have helped establish.

On behalf of the Government and people of Samoa, I would like to express my gratitude for your service to Samoa. We wish you all the very best and look forward to continuing our collaboration in your new role.

SOIFUA

February 28, 2025

Source:

REMARKS by the Prime Minister, Honourable Fiame Naomi Mataafa On the occasion of the celebration of the Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan hosted by the Ambassador of Japan, H.E Ryotaro Suzuki

(Friday, 21 February 2025 at 6.30-8.30pm, Taumeasina Island Resort)

Reverend Semikueva Fa’atoafe Ugapo

Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II and Masiofo

Members of the Council of Deputies

Cabinet Ministers

Speaker of the House

Leader of Opposition

Members of Parliament

Chief Justice and Members of the Judiciary

H.E Ryotaro Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan

Members of the Diplomatic Corps

Ladies and Gentlemen.

Talofa and a pleasant good evening to you all.

I would like to thank Your Excellency, Ryotaro Suzuki, for the invitation to say a few words at this evening’s reception to celebrate the 65th birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, Emperor Naruhito.

The celebrations this evening, is also about the relationship that both our countries established with the aim to nurture and enhance friendly relations.

Japan and Samoa have developed strong cordial relations that have prospered over the years. Japan and Samoa established diplomatic relations in April 1973 and this year marks 52 years of mutually beneficial partnership.

Like our other development partners, Japan’s generous assistance through development cooperation has ensured that programs which Samoa could not invest in nor manage without the requisite technical expertise were well accommodated and resourced to overcome the constraints. The JICA volunteer programme in Samoa is an integral aspect in our relationship. The deployment of JICA volunteers to critical areas such as education, health, water/sanitation and environmental management has contributed immensely to the development of these areas.

Japan continues to provide key economic infrastructure with related heavy-duty equipment. Last year, we signed an MoU under Japan’s Grant Assistance for

Economic and Social Development Programme for the procurement of a new drilling rig for the Samoa Water Authority and the Exchange of Notes for the new Health Science Campus and resource centre at Le Papaigalagala campus

Japan is committed to funding small-scale projects that directly benefit our village communities contributing to their social and economic development. A number of valuable projects funded under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grass Roots Human Security Projects recently, included the reconstruction of the Samatau Primary school, the building of the Avele College Hall, the construction of the Mental Health Facility of Goshen Trust Mental Health Services, the handover of a Mobile Dental Clinic to the Ministry of Health, the handover of water tank trucks and pumper water tanks to FESA and the handover of 5 Toyota Landcruisers to the Samoa Water Authority to assist with routine inspection and repair works. Two weeks ago, Japan and the Samoa Umbrella for Non-Governmental Organisations (SUNGO) signed an agreement for the construction of the Samoa Integrated Training Centre for Community Development.

Your Excellency,

Our bilateral relations have achieved much through people-to-people exchange activities and the comprehensive development efforts of both countries. The exchange of high-level visits plays a crucial role in enhancing cooperation and commitment in our bilateral relations. In February 2024, Samoa hosted the visit of Japan’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon Ms. Yoko Kamikawa. We also received a senior level visit from the Japanese Ministry of Justice in support of democratic governance with a reciprocal visit of our Minister of Justice and delegation to Japan.

In July last year, I attended the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM10) in Tokyo and had the opportunity to meet bilaterally with Prime Minister Kishida discussing cooperation that are aligned with the “2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent” which would translate to activities addressing country needs and the delivery of assistance bilaterally.

These are, but a few highlights of the remarkable partnership our two countries have engaged in recently that continue to foster effective cooperation for the development of Samoa and reap mutual benefits for our two countries.

Your Excellency,

To conclude, I would like to offer our warmest congratulations on the celebration of his Majesty Emperor Naruhito’s birthday.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I invite you all to please raise your glasses with me and let us pay tribute: “for the continued good health and prosperity of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito, and to continuing good relations between Samoa and Japan.”

Ia Manuia!

March 18, 2025