The Union Cabinet has approved the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) on January 29, 2025. The NCMM aims to secure a long-term sustainable supply of critical minerals and strengthen India’s critical mineral value chains encompassing all stages from mineral exploration and mining to beneficiation, processing, and recovery from end-of-life products. The NCMM components also include ‘increasing domestic critical mineral production’ and ‘Acquisition of Critical Mineral Assets abroad’.
For acquisition of overseas mineral assets, the Ministry of Mines has established a joint venture company, Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL). KABIL has signed an Exploration and Development Agreement with CAMYEN, a state-owned enterprise of Catamarca province of Argentina, for exploration and mining of five Lithium Brine Block in Argentina in an area of 15703 Ha.
Further, an MoU has been signed between KABIL and Critical Mineral Facilitation Office (CMFO), Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISER), Government of Australia for carrying out joint due diligence and further joint investment in Li & Co mineral assets of Australia.
NCMM has provision of critical mineral processing parks for which there is budget provision of Rs. 500 Crore. Further, there is also budget provision of Rs. 1500 crore for recycling. In addition, there are also provisions for skill development and R&D activity support.
The governance framework of NCMM includes an Empowered Committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary with CEO of NITI Aayog and Secretaries of other stakeholder Ministries as members.
This information was given by Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.
​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (March 24) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Highland of Scotland in the United Kingdom (UK) and Union County of the State of New Jersey in the United States (US), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas, as well as from Essex County, Morris County, Somerset County and Middlesex County of the State of New Jersey adjacent to Union County, with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.
A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 910 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 1.34 million poultry eggs from the UK; and about 79 630 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 19.6 million poultry eggs from the US last year.
“The CFS has contacted the British and American authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.
International Workshop on Land Governance Kick Starts with Global Participation from 22 Countries in Gurugram, Haryana Fostering Cross-Country Knowledge Sharing; SVAMITVA Scheme Showcased as a Model for Rural Empowerment
Participants Gain Practical Insights into Drone Surveying and Geospatial Technologies for Sustainable Land Governance
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi
In a significant milestone, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) inaugurated the first-of-its-kind International Workshop on Land Governance today at the Haryana Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) in Gurugram. This six-day workshop, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, brings together more than 40 senior officials from 22 countries across Africa, Latin America, and South-East Asia to explore innovative approaches for addressing global land governance challenges. The inaugural session witnessed distinguished participation from senior officials, including Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; Shri Viraj Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs; Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; and Shri Ramesh Chander Bidhan, Director General, Haryana Institute of Public Administration. This landmark initiative strongly aligns with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to transform rural India through technological innovation and securing land rights.
In his address, Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, articulated the vision behind SVAMITVA and its potential for global replication, offering valuable insights into policy advancements and India’s strategic vision for land governance. “SVAMITVA represents more than just a land mapping exercise; it is a comprehensive approach towards rural empowerment through secure property rights”, Shri Lohani stated. He said “With over 3.17 lakh villages mapped across 67,000 sq. km, representing an estimated asset base of Rs.132 lakh crore, we have demonstrated the scalability and impact of this model. We are eager to share our experiences and learn from our international partners to collectively advance land governance worldwide”. Shri Lohani emphasized upon the transformative role of geospatial technologies in land governance, underlining the technical expertise that has made SVAMITVA one of the world’s largest rural mapping initiatives. He said, “The integration of drone technology with traditional surveying methods has revolutionized our approach to mapping rural inhabited areas, delivering unprecedented accuracy and efficiency”.
Addressing the International Workshop, Shri Viraj Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized upon the diplomatic significance of the workshop. Shri Singh said “This initiative exemplifies India’s commitment to South-South Cooperation and knowledge sharing. By bringing together nations facing similar challenges, we are fostering a collaborative approach towards addressing land governance issues globally.” He also highlighted the role of the ITEC programme in facilitating international cooperation and the role of collaboration with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in advancing ITEC’s objectives.
Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, said that the SVAMITVA Scheme exemplifies how innovative approaches can transform rural communities by securing property rights and unlocking economic potential. “SVAMITVA demonstrates how innovative approaches to land governance can directly contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty reduction, secure land tenure, and sustainable land use” he said. Shri Smit Shah, President of the Drone Federation of India, provided insights into India’s rapidly evolving drone ecosystem, highlighting how policy reforms and technological advancements have positioned India as a leader in drone-based solutions for land governance.
Innovations in Geospatial Technologies and Drone Solutions
A major highlight of the inaugural day was the cutting-edge exhibition that highlighted the latest advancements in land governance, digital cadastral systems, and geospatial technologies. The event showcased a wide range of technological solutions, from precision drone mapping and 3D geospatial data analytics to integrated land administration systems. The exhibition also spotlighted high-precision surveying equipment and comprehensive GIS applications designed to enhance land governance. Local innovations in drone technology and UAV-based land administration solutions were prominently featured, alongside contributions from government bodies that demonstrated survey-grade drones, CORS & Rover systems, and other transformative tools. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in hands-on demonstrations of drone flight planning, data processing techniques, and real-time, high-accuracy surveying capabilities, offering a comprehensive look at the future of land management.
Technical Sessions Highlight SVAMITVA’s Impact and Methodology
On the inaugural day, participants also engaged in in-depth technical discussions on the modernization of land governance and its impact, as well as resource mobilization and administrative tasks. A comprehensive overview of the SVAMITVA Scheme was presented, emphasizing its objectives, implementation strategy, and its positive impact on rural communities, particularly in fostering financial inclusion and economic empowerment. Presentations from various countries, sharing their experiences and best practices in land administration systems were also made. Participants also benefited from practical drone demonstrations, interactive sessions with vendors, and knowledge assessments to reinforce learning outcomes.
Global Participation Highlights International Interest
The ongoing workshop has garnered significant international participation, with delegates from 22 countries, including Turkmenistan, Colombia, Zimbabwe, Fiji, and several others, underscoring the global significance of land governance issues.The workshop, which combines interactive technical sessions, field visits, and hands-on demonstrations, highlights India’s leadership role in South-South Cooperation. By offering technical expertise, policy guidance, and skill development opportunities through SVAMITVA, India is contributing to building institutional capacity for partner nations in land governance, property rights management, and rural development. The event explores challenges such as property disputes, outdated land databases, and the need for high-resolution digital maps. This six-day international workshop will continue with detailed technical sessions, field demonstrations, and visits to the Survey of India lab, providing participants with practical insights into drone-based surveying, data processing, and the integration of geospatial technologies in land administration.
About SVAMITVA Scheme: The SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Government of India implemented by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. It aims to provide rural property owners with “Record of Rights” by using drone surveying technology to map inhabited areas of villages. The scheme has successfully mapped over 3.17 lakh villages across India, representing an estimated asset base of Rs.132 lakh crore.
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj presented a short film on the #SVAMITVA_Scheme at the International Workshop on Land Governance at HIPA, Gurugram, highlighting its impact on rural land governance.
Researchers have developed a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) wherein flexible single crystals of an organic compound was used as the main component for the fabrication of a self-powered tactile sensor which was used to monitor finger joint movements. This has significant importance particularly in biomedical and robotic system development and could pave the way for their utilization as biomedical wearable devices.
Organic materials are gaining importance for optoelectronic applications because of their lower cost and environmental footprint, easy fabrication, and practical feasibility. Among various organic materials, single crystals are better suited for device fabrication because of their well-ordered packing and precise spatial arrangements. They also possess intrinsic long range structural order and anisotropy and tuneable optical and electronic properties, thereby resulting in superior device performance. Additionally, the ease of synthesis, crystallization, and device fabrication position organic single crystals as promising candidates to meet the evolving demand for next generation technologies.
Scientists from Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) demonstrated the first ever fabrication of TENG incorporating flexible single crystals of small organic molecules. The research involved has been published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.
Triboelectrification was attained in single crystals as a result of surface functionalization with positively and negatively charged moieties, viz. Zn2+ and F−, respectively, which resulted in different surface potentials thereby leading to reversible adhesion through electrostatic interaction and induction phenomena.
The TENG incorporating the single crystals was capable of charging commercial capacitors thereby ensuring its ability to be used as a self-powered touch sensor. Capitalizing on these features, a self-powered tactile sensor was fabricated to demonstrate limb movements.
The protocol adopted to vary the surface charge on single crystals through surface functionalization techniques was simple and scalable. Moreover, the TENG developed works in the non-contact mode and promises outstanding endurance properties.
The excellent mechano-electric sensitivity (∼102 mV/kPa until 6 kPa range) and response time (∼38 ms) establish the viability of flexible organic single crystals for mechanical energy harvesting and biosensing applications.
Biomechanical signal sensing using TENG. Photographs of TENG attached to a finger along with the measured output voltage response at (a) 30°, (b) 60°, and (c) 90° bending angles.
CAD updates regulations on air passengers carrying lithium battery power banks to further enhance aviation safety According to the latest requirements, in addition to complying with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s relevant regulations on the carriage of items by passengers onboard, starting from April 7, local airlines should not allow their passengers to use power banks to charge other portable electronic devices and/or recharge power banks during flight. Stowage of power banks in the overhead compartments is also prohibited with the same effective date.
For any queries, passengers are advised to check with relevant airlines on the latest regulations before their flight.
The CAD will continue to maintain close communication with relevant parties and actively follow up on the implementation of these new regulations. Issued at HKT 19:06
Competition Commission of India (CCI) investigated 35 cartel cases in last five years CCI has Signed MoUs with Global Regulators for Competition Law Cooperation
Competition Act 2023 Introduced ‘Lesser Penalty Plus’ for Cartel Disclosures
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 6:15PM by PIB Delhi
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) investigated a total of 35 cartel cases across various sectors over the last five financial years (till 13.03.2025).
CCI has signed Bilateral/Multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Egypt, Mauritius, Japan, Brazil, BRICS (Brazil, the Russian Federation, People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa), Canada, European Commission, Australia and United States Department of Justice (DOJ) for cooperation in the field of competition law and policy. These MOUs include provision for enforcement cooperation between CCI and its MoU partners, subject to their respective legal framework, constraints, enforcement interests and available resources.
In addition, India has signed 14 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with its trading partners. Some of these FTAs have a separate Chapter on Competition, according to which each Party shall, in accordance with its laws and regulations, take measures which it considers appropriate against anticompetitive activities, in order to facilitate trade and investment flows between the Parties and the efficient functioning of its market.
The Commission has a Division for trend analysis and conducting research in various sectors of the economy to have a holistic view and to detect any anti-competitive activities. The Competition (Amendment) Act, 2023 introduced the concept of “lesser penalty plus” within the framework of Section 46 of the Act. Consequently, on 20.02.2024, the CCI (Lesser Penalty) Regulations, 2024 were notified, replacing the 2009 regulations and introducing a “lesser penalty plus”(LPP) mechanism to incentivize disclosures of cartels. The LPP mechanism was introduced to incentivize an existing lesser penalty applicant in respect of a cartel to give full, true, and vital disclosures about another cartel, hitherto not in the knowledge of the CCI.
To further widen the scope of cartel investigation, Hub & Spoke mechanism has been incorporated by introducing the Proviso in Section 3(3) of the Competition Act, 2002 through the Amendment Act 2023 which provides that an enterprise or association of enterprises or a person or association of persons though not engaged in identical or similar trade shall also be presumed to be part of the agreement under this sub-section if it participates or intends to participate in the furtherance of such agreement.
CCI, through its enforcement and advocacy mandate, seeks to promote and sustain competition in the markets by conducting market studies and advocacy events, imparting training about competition issues besides carrying out market corrections to eliminate distortions. The CCI conducted 1446 advocacy programmes during the last five financial years (till 19.03.2025).
This information was given by Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Shri Nirmala Sitharaman, in reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.
(Friday, 7 February 2025 at 6.30 – 9.00pm,Taumeasina Island Resort)
Reverend Siaosi Salesulu
Lau Afioga, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II and Masiofo
Members of the Council of Deputies
Ministers of Cabinet,
Chief Justice and Members of the Judiciary,
Speaker of the Legislative Assembly
Leader of the Opposition
Members of Parliament,
High Commissioner of New Zealand, Your Excellency, Si’alei Van Toor
Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Distinguished Guests gathered here tonight,
Talofa lava and Good evening to you all.
It is a pleasure for me to join you all at the reception this evening to celebrate the 185th anniversary of the signing of New Zealand’s founding document, “Te Tiriti o Waitangi” the “Treaty of Waitangi”. On behalf of the Government and People of Samoa I convey through you, Excellency Si’alei Van Toor our warm congratulations and felicitations to the Government and the People of Aotearoa New Zealand on the celebration of your national day.
This evening, we join in the celebration of the commemoration of Waitangi Day around New Zealand and other parts of the world in remembrance of the signing of the treaty. The occasion is an important marker in your country’s history and I understand that numerous events are held around the world and nationally to reflect the significance of the Treaty to national unity and the richness of New Zealand’s history and culture. I am told that the Kapa Haka Performers from Tauranga, the “Te Paringa Tai” are here and will perform for us this evening. Earlier on in the day, Te Paringa Tai had treated the Samoan public to another spectacular performance of songs and dances at the Matagialalua Friendship Park showcasing a bit of Aotearoa’s rich heritage and culture.
This occasion is an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come in our partnerships towards the achievement of common goals, for people, peace and prosperity. Have they remained relevant and mutually beneficial?
Samoa and New Zealand continue to enjoy a warm and close friendship underpinned by the foundation of our shared history and a unique “Treaty of Friendship”. There have been exchanges of high-level visits of Heads of State and Government, ministers and parliamentarians reflecting the prominence both countries accord to strengthening people-to-people links. The exchange of high-level visits signifies the maturity of our relations and the mutual respect we hold in high regard for each other. It is not unusual for us to ask ourselves how far the uniqueness of our Treaty of Friendship can go; particularly as we crave for facilitative short-term travel to visit families or explore business opportunities.
Last October, we hosted leaders of the Commonwealth including New Zealand’s Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs. We take this opportunity to again express the sincere appreciation of the Government of Samoa and its people to the Government of New Zealand and its people and Samoa’s other key partners, for the generous support and assistance provided, ensuring that Samoa and the Pacific successfully hosted the first meeting of Commonwealth leaders in our Blue Pacific region. A mammoth undertaking it was, but made possible through the generosity and magnanimity of our development partners including New Zealand and the commitment and dedication of many people. What we did not have the resources for, was provided, the capacity gaps were filled even if temporarily and the readiness to support was assured. The high standard and quality of the services provided left a legacy of Samoa’s enhanced ranking and capability to deliver high-quality logistical support for future international meetings.
The close relations between our two countries is reaffirmed by the 2024 Statement of Partnership – O le Fogavaa e Tasi which identifies the priority areas of cooperation including partnerships, security, empowering communities, building climate resilience and inspiring growth which are in alignment with Samoa’s aspirations and priorities as outlined in the “Pathway for the Development of Samoa.” We also acknowledge with gratitude the confidence of the Government of New Zealand in the use of country systems reflected in the extension of budget support under the Joint Policy Action Matrix involving our other development partners as well.
Samoa appreciates the continued commitment of the Government of New Zealand to diligently carry out the Operation Resolution for the HMNZS Manawanui working in tandem with the Samoan authorities and other development partners for the removal of fuel and pollutants from the site. Like our Pacific neighbours, the coastal and marine environment are significant for the sustenance of our local communities and we will continue to work in partnership with the Government of New Zealand and our other development partners to ensure the success of this Operation.
Excellency,
We look forward to the continuation of the excellent bilateral relations and partnership between Samoa and New Zealand for the benefit of our two countries and our peoples.
To conclude, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I respectfully invite you all to join me in proposing a toast:
“To the unity and prosperity of the Government and the People of New Zealand. Happy Waitangi Day!”
SOIFUA
Photo by the Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)
India’s Digital Revolution Earns Global Recognition: Dr. Jitendra Singh From DBT to Space Startups: Union Minister Showcases India’s Tech Leadership
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:21PM by PIB Delhi
NEW DELHI, March 24 : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored India’s leadership in digital public infrastructure and technology innovation at the “ET Telecom 5G Congress”, emphasizing the transformative strides made in the last decade under the Digital India initiative.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s success in pioneering digital public infrastructure, which has become a model for the world. He pointed to the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme, launched during the early years of the Modi government, as a game changer. “The real litmus test of this digital transformation came during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring seamless transactions and financial inclusion without disruptions,” he said.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also spoke about the Swamitva scheme, which empowers citizens by enabling digital mapping of land ownership, reducing dependence on traditional revenue officers. “With nearly 70% of India’s villages already mapped, this initiative represents the true spirit of citizen-centric governance,” he added.
Emphasizing India’s technological advancements, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that the country has emerged as a global leader in multiple domains, from space exploration to biotechnology. He cited India’s rapid ascent in the Global Innovation Index—from 81st place to 39th—as a testament to the nation’s innovation ecosystem. “India is now ranked sixth globally in patent filings, with 56% of those patents coming from resident Indians. This marks a dramatic shift from earlier decades when Indian talent sought recognition abroad,” he remarked.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to scientific research and innovation, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to the launch of a viability fund for space startups, a new National Research Foundation, and the recent decision to open up the nuclear sector to private players. “In the first 100 days of Modi 3.0, we allocated Rs 10,000 crore for space startups and launched a pioneering biotechnology policy—BioE3—focusing on environmental sustainability, employment generation, and economic growth,” he said.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also touched upon the role of women in India’s scientific advancements, stating that women are not just participating but leading critical missions. “India’s first solar mission, Aditya-L1, was led by a woman scientist, marking a paradigm shift in gender representation in STEM fields,” he noted.
Concluding his address, Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded India’s thriving StartUp ecosystem and the increasing global recognition of Indian talent. “Indian professionals are now the preferred choice in global innovation hubs, known for their dedication and work ethic. The world is looking at India not just as a participant but as a leader in the digital and technological revolution,” he affirmed.
As India continues to set benchmarks in digital governance and scientific innovation, Dr. Jitendra Singh’s remarks reinforce the country’s commitment to leveraging technology for inclusive growth and global leadership in emerging sectors.
LegCo to consider Courts (Remote Hearing) Bill The Legislative Council (LegCo) will hold a meeting on Wednesday (March 26) at 11am in the Chamber of the LegCo Complex. During the meeting, the Second Reading debate on the Courts (Remote Hearing) Bill will resume. If the Bill is supported by Members and receives its Second Reading, it will stand committed to the committee of the whole Council. After the committee of the whole Council has completed consideration of the Bill and its report is adopted by the Council, the Bill will be set down for the Third Reading.
Meanwhile, the Electoral Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2025, the Buildings Energy Efficiency (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Supplementary Medical Professions (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Merchant Shipping (Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships) Bill will be introduced into the Council for the First Reading and the Second Reading. The Second Reading debate on the Bills will be adjourned.
On Government motion, the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development will move a proposed resolution under the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation Ordinance to resolve that the maximum percentage prescribed for section 13(2) of the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation Ordinance is 95 per cent. The proposed resolution is set out in Appendix 1.
On Members’ motions, Mr Dennis Leung will move a motion on accelerating the development of a smart government to better assist the public in integrating into the life in the Greater Bay Area. The motion is set out in Appendix 2. Mr Chan Siu-hung and Mr Steven Ho will move separate amendments to Mr Leung’s motion.
Mr Tommy Cheung will move a motion on reviewing the effectiveness of the small class teaching mode in primary and secondary schools. The motion is set out in Appendix 3. Mr Chu Kwok-keung will move an amendment to Mr Cheung’s motion.
Members will also ask the Government 22 questions on various policy areas, six of which require oral replies.
Government has taken several initiatives to facilitate ease of access to credit to Women Entrepreneurs Government has announced a new Loan Scheme for Women, SC/ST Entrepreneurs in the Union Budget 2025-26
Credit to women by Public Sector Banks has seen a substantial increase over last 5 years
Jan Samarth Portal simplifies access to 15 government
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 6:17PM by PIB Delhi
The Government reviews all credit linked schemes from time to time and takes several initiatives in order to facilitate ease of access to credit to the entrepreneurs including women entrepreneurs.
As per para 32 of Union Budget 2025-26 “A new scheme will be launched for 5 lakh women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes first- time entrepreneurs. This will provide term loans upto Rs. 2.00 crore during next 5 years. The Scheme will incorporate lessons from successful Stand Up India Scheme. Online capacity building for entrepreneurship and managerial skills will also be organized.”
The entrepreneurs are also provided collateral free loans upto Rs. 20 lakh to enable them to set up or expand their business activities under Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) launched on 8th April 2015.
Further, as informed by Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the details of credit extended to women by Public Sector Banks during the last five years is as under:
Credit to women by Public Sector Banks
(No. of A/cs in Lakh and Amount in ₹ Crore)
Financial Year
No of A/cs
Amount Outstanding
Mar-20
207.60
488,459.43
Mar-21
289.46
731,617.22
Mar-22
305.56
836,200.08
Mar-23
350.90
1,008,935.62
Mar-24
387.24
1,169,279.00
The Government has taken various steps towards effective implementation of the Schemes and for addressing the challenges faced by potential beneficiaries including women which, inter alia, include intensive publicity campaigns, simplification of application form, Credit Guarantee Scheme, providing support in Stand-Up India Scheme by reduction in margin money as well as inclusion of activities allied to agriculture.
The Jan Samarth portal is a one-stop digital platform for linking fifteen Government-sponsored loans and subsidies Schemes. It provides a quick and efficient way to apply for loans and obtain approvals based on a digital evaluation of the applicant’s data. Further, many Banks and financial institutions have developed online platforms and mobile apps for end to end digital processing of loan applications, reducing the need for physical paperwork and in-person visits.
This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.