Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

OTT’s Next Leap: AI, Interactivity, and Personalization Shape the Future of Streaming

WAVES 2025 panel discusses how technology is redefining content journeys across India’s digital entertainment space

Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 10:30PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 3 May 2025

 

In a conversation charged with vision and verve, the panel discussion “OTT Revolution: How AI, Personalization & Interactive Content Are Changing the Streaming Landscape” at WAVES 2025 brought together some of the most influential minds in the streaming industry. Moderated by Rohit Jain, President of Lionsgate Play Asia, the discussion explored how India’s deep storytelling legacy is undergoing a powerful transformation, as artificial intelligence and interactivity reshape how stories are told, delivered, and experienced.

Opening the session, Rohit Jain paid homage to India’s storytelling heritage and spoke of the fascinating shift underway and how technology is transforming not just what we watch but how we connect through stories.

Gaurav Gandhi, Vice-President for Asia-Pacific & MENA spoke of personalization as a layered process. “We begin by understanding what viewers want—their moods, their taste patterns. And in a multilingual country like ours, it’s also about enabling linguistic exploration,” he said.

Monika Shergill described today’s content landscape as a first in human history—a convergence of creativity and machine learning. “You may come for crime thrillers, but you also see what’s trending. The goal is to serve the viewer while building a shared cultural pulse,” she said.

For Bharath Ram, viewer behavior leaves a trail. “Most people, like Sherlock Holmes’ suspects, leave clues when they visit a platform. We follow those clues to recommend content -regional, niche, popular, everything that keeps them engaged,” he noted.

The discussion then turned to storytelling itself. Gaurav Banerjee, MD & CEO, Sony Pictures Networks India, invoked the enduring strength of a good story. “When something resonates with the moment, audiences will find it. The belief in blockbusters is about identifying stories and storytellers that meet the cultural moment head-on,” he noted, referencing homegrown cinematic successes that defied larger industry downturns.

Reflecting on the dramatic evolution from linear formats to creator-led ecosystems, Neeraj Roy highlighted the aggregation brought by digital platforms. “From music videos to massive creator universes, platforms like YouTube transformed everything. Now, with generative technologies, we stand at the edge of something even bigger,” he said.

The conversation then turned to interactivity. Gaurav Gandhi explained that Prime Video uses interactive features that enhance, rather than disrupt, the story. “You give just enough, never too much, to feed the fan journey,” he shared.

Monika Shergill elaborated on how Netflix has embraced interactivity, especially through its foray into gaming. “Immersion is the new engagement. And personalization helps every great story travel further,” she said.

Rohit Jain also raised the question of how great stories are discovered. Gaurav Banerjee responded that storytellers often find their voice organically. “The world is shifting. Take Bhuvan Bam, he found his moment, his voice. We just need to recognize those moments and play to them,” he said.

Monika Shergill closed by pointing to the untapped potential of India’s creative landscape. “We haven’t explored India enough. The human capital here is extraordinary.  Purpose-driven AI, paired with rich storytelling, can create value that lasts,” she said.

The panel closed on a note of optimism, about technology, but more importantly about imagination, immersion, and India’s boundless creative spirit.

 

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(Release ID: 2126694) Visitor Counter : 43

Source: Government of India

Content Piracy is no longer a localised issue but a global economic threat – Global Experts discuss measures to curb piracy, at WAVES 2025

Stakeholders Call for Centralized Anti-Piracy Task Force and Advanced Technology

Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 10:40PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 3 May 2025

 

At the ongoing WAVES 2025 conclave, a critical session titled “International Rights Holders’ Perspectives on Content Protection Strategies and Synergies” brought together global stakeholders to address the escalating threat of digital piracy and explore collaborative approaches to content protection.

Mr. Rajkumar Akella, noted filmmaker and anti-piracy advocate from the Telugu film industry, opened the discussion by emphasizing the vulnerability of regional cinema to piracy due to its expanding popularity. He highlighted the proactive efforts by the Telugu film industry, including the establishment of a dedicated Anti-Piracy Cell and Digital Piracy Team.

Ms. Dawn Barriteau and Ms. Jihi Lee, international rights experts, underscored that piracy has evolved into a sophisticated, cross-border cybercrime. They noted the alarming shift from physical piracy to digital forms—facilitated by torrent sites, direct downloads, and social media platforms like Telegram. Ms. Lee added that in today’s ecosystem, piracy is no longer a localised issue but a global economic threat.

Highlighting emerging digital trends, speakers pointed out that while Korean content (K-dramas and K-pop) is widely consumed in India, their monetization models are driven by legitimate viewer engagement and brand collaborations, not piracy metrics. Conversely, Indian cinema is enjoying growing popularity in countries like Japan, opening both opportunities and risks on the international piracy front.

The session also examined how piracy funds broader criminal activities, including financial fraud and cybercrime. The discussion focused on addressing piracy through a comprehensive, global strategy. Key recommendations included the formation of a centralized anti-piracy task force with international representation to coordinate efforts across borders. There was also a call for increased investment in advanced digital monitoring and enforcement technologies to more effectively detect and prevent piracy. The speakers unanimously agreed that piracy is not just an economic loss but also poses a long-term threat to innovation, investment, and global cultural exchange.

 

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(Release ID: 2126700) Visitor Counter : 42

Source: Government of India

Safeguard your credibility, define your boundaries, communicate honestly – WAVES Panel Advises the Influencers in Social Media

WAVES 2025 Outlines Best Practices for Social Media Advertising for Influencers

Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 1:39PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 4 May 2025

 

A dedicated breakout session on Best Practices for Social Media Advertising for Influencers was held on Day 4 of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai today.

The panel comprised Ms. Saheli Sinha, Director, ASCII; Ms. Shibani Akhtar, Film Actor and Influencer; Shri Mayank Shekhar, Entertainment Journalist; and Shri Vinay Pillai, Chief Business Officer, Pocket Aces. The session was moderated by Smt. Tanu Banerjee, Partner, Khaitan & Co.

Deliberations focused on the growing role of influencers in the digital economy, and the ethical, creative, and legal frameworks required to strengthen the credibility of influencer advertising. The panel emphasised that authenticity, transparency, and content responsibility are key pillars for sustainable influencer marketing.

Ms. Shibani Akhtar highlighted the importance of staying true to one’s voice while creating branded content. She stated that effective influencer marketing requires creators to be involved in the content and branding process and to ensure that campaigns reflect personal belief and purpose. She urged influencers to build their brand organically and maintain authenticity as the foundation of all partnerships.

Advising creators to adopt platform-specific strategies and avoid a one-size-fits-all approach, Shri Vinay Pillai explained that each digital platform offers a different kind of audience engagement and demands tailored storytelling techniques. He stressed the importance of building a brand consciously, staying credible, and making data-informed content decisions that resonate with target audiences.

Shri Mayank Shekhar spoke on the evolution of digital influence and the blurring lines between celebrity and creator culture. He pointed out that in the current era, influence is not restricted to film and television but is now platform-led and niche-driven. He cautioned creators to safeguard their credibility and refrain from spreading misinformation or duplicating others’ work. He underscored the importance of integrity and fact-checking in sponsored content.

Ms. Saheli Sinha stated that influencers must be transparent about their partnerships and disclose whether a post is paid or promotional. She advocated for influencers to develop content that is ethical, informative, and reflective of their audience’s trust. She also shared that ASCII runs educational programmes to guide emerging creators on legal obligations, advertising standards, and content responsibility.

The panel collectively recommended that content creators should define their boundaries, communicate honestly with their followers, and stay aligned with advertising guidelines and platform regulations. Building a long-term relationship with audiences, they said, relies heavily on trust and clarity in advertising intent.

The session concluded with a strong endorsement of formalised best practices for influencer advertising and a call for continued industry efforts to promote transparency and professionalism in the digital advertising ecosystem.

 

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(Release ID: 2126715) Visitor Counter : 76

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 1:50PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 4 May 2025

 

Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L Murugan released five significant Reports that collectively present a comprehensive overview of India’s dynamic and rapidly evolving media and entertainment ecosystem, at the ongoing WAVE Summit in Mumbai, yesterday.

Prepared by reputed national and international Agencies, these Reports provide valuable insights into the creator economy, content production, legal frameworks, live events industry, and data-backed policy support.

Statistical Handbook on Media & Entertainment 2024-25

The Statistical Handbook prepared by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting serves as an essential resource for data-driven policy and decision-making. It captures sectoral trends, audience behaviour, revenue growth patterns, and regional and national trajectories. The handbook is designed to inform and guide future policymaking and industry strategies, ensuring that they remain grounded in empirical evidence and practical realities. Highlights of the Handbook include:

• Publications registered with PRGI: increased from 5,932 in 1957 to 154,523 in 2024–25, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.99%.
• Books brought out by Publications Division: 130 books published in 2024–25 on themes such as children’s literature, history, freedom struggle, science, environment, and biographies.
• Doordarshan Free Dish: Expanded from 33 channels in 2004 to 381 in 2025.
• DTH Service: Achieved 100% geographical coverage by March 2025.
• All India Radio (AIR):
• • Now reaches 98% of India’s population (as of March 2025).
  • Number of AIR stations grew from 198 in 2000 to 591 in 2025.
• Private Satellite TV Channels: Increased from 130 in 2004–05 to 908 in 2024–25.
• Private FM stations rose from 4 in 2001 to 388 by 2024; the report provides a state-wise breakup as of March 31, 2025.
• Community Radio Stations (CRS): Expanded from 15 in 2005 to 531 in 2025, with state/district/location-wise details included.
• Film Certification: The number of Indian feature films certified grew from 741 in 1983 to 3,455 in 2024–25, with a cumulative total of 69,113 films certified by 2024–25.
• Film Sector Developments: Includes data on awards, international film festivals, and documentaries produced by NFDC.
• Digital Media and Creator Economy: Covers achievements under WAVES OTT, establishment of the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), and the Create in India Challenge (CIC).
• Landmark Chronology: Features significant milestones in the Information and Broadcasting sector including the establishment of PRGI, Akashvani, Doordarshan, INSAT-based TV services, and private FM radio.
• Skilling Initiatives: Information on training and capacity-building programmes under the Ministry.
• Ease of Doing Business: Measures implemented to facilitate simplified and transparent processes for media and content creators.

‘From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy’ – Report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

The Report  highlights the unprecedented scale and impact of India’s creator economy in the digital era. With 2 to 2.5 million active digital creators, India is home to one of the world’s fastest-growing creator ecosystems. These creators already influence more than $350 billion in annual consumer spending—a figure projected to triple and exceed $1 trillion by 2030.

The report urges stakeholders to look beyond numerical metrics and acknowledge the evolving role of creators as storytellers, culture-shapers, and economic drivers. For businesses, this shift implies moving away from transactional influencer engagements and building long-term partnerships rooted in authenticity, trust, and creative agility.

‘A Studio Called India’ by Ernst & Young – Envisions India as a Global Content Hub

The Report presents India not just as a content-consuming nation but as a studio to the world. It underlines India’s strengths — linguistic diversity, cultural richness, and a technologically adept talent pool — which position the country to create narratives that transcend borders.

India offers a 40% to 60% cost advantage in animation and VFX services, supported by a large, skilled workforce. The report also notes the increasing international appeal of Indian storytelling, with up to 25% of views on Indian OTT content now originating from overseas audiences. This phenomenon is not merely commercial—it represents a moment of cultural diplomacy, wherein India’s stories are forging emotional and cultural connections across continents.

‘Legal Currents: A Regulatory Handbook on India’s Media & Entertainment Sector 2025’ by Khaitan & Co

Recognizing that creativity must be complemented by regulatory clarity, Khaitan & Co. has prepared a detailed legal and regulatory handbook for the media and entertainment sector. Designed as a practical guide for producers, studios, influencers, and platforms, the handbook covers a range of key legal issues such as:

• Compliance norms for both domestic and foreign entities
• Incentive schemes for international productions
• Legal frameworks around influencer marketing and digital content
• Definitions and taxation implications in the gaming sector, including GST
• Protection of celebrity rights
• Ethical considerations and regulatory treatment of AI-generated content

This handbook is intended to equip stakeholders with tools for confident, compliant, and responsible engagement in the creative economy.

Whitepaper on India’s Live Events Industry

The White Paper on India’s Live Events Industry underscores the sector’s robust growth and shifting consumer dynamics. With a 15% year-on-year growth rate, the industry added ₹13 billion in revenue in 2024 alone.

The report notes that nearly half a million fans are now travelling between cities to attend events, reinforcing the emergence of event-based tourism in India. There is a rising demand for premium and curated experiences, and Tier-2 cities such as Shillong, Vadodara, and Jamshedpur are emerging as cultural centres.

To support and scale this momentum, the whitepaper highlights the need for:

• Upgraded event infrastructure
• Streamlined and simplified licensing processes
• Stronger and more transparent music rights frameworks
• Formal recognition of the live events sector under MSME and creative economy policies.

The Report calls for a strategic reimagining of India as not just a spectator in the global cultural arena, but a key stage in the international spotlight.

The launch event was attended by Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting; Shri R.K. Jena, Senior Economic Advisor, MIB; Smt. Meenu Batra, Joint Secretary, MIB; and Shri Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary, MIB and MD, NFDC. Representing the Knowledge Partners, Shri Vipin Gupta, Managing Director & Partner, Boston Consulting Group, Ms. Payal Mehta, Partner, Boston Consulting Group; Shri Ashish Pherwani, Partner, Ernst & Young; Shri Amiya Swarup, Partner, Ernst & Young; Ms.Tanu Banerjee, Partner, Technology and Media, Khaitan & Co; Shri Ishan Johri Partner Khaitan & Co; Shri Vinod Janardhan, Director, EVENTSFAQ Live; Shri Deepak Chaudhury MD, EVENTS FAQ also attended the event in Mumbai

Union Minister of State, Dr.L.Murugan (@Murugan_MoS) and Sanjay Jaju (@sjaju1), Secretary @MIB_India launch Reports at #Waves2025 on:-

▪️ Statistical Handbook on Media & Entertainment Sector 2024-25

▪️ From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy

▪️A Studio Called… pic.twitter.com/iI4vKeyj5X

— PIB India (@PIB_India) May 3, 2025

 

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(Release ID: 2126724) Visitor Counter : 80

Source: Government of India

From Policy to Practice: National Ayush Mission Delegates Immerse in Naturopathy at National Institute of Naturopathy, Nisarg Gram, Pune

From yoga demonstrations to satvik meals, delegates experience the holistic vision driving India’s traditional healthcare renaissance

Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:00PM by PIB Delhi

Following two days of intensive discussions and knowledge-sharing during the National Ayush Mission (NAM) Conclave 2025 at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala, over 100 senior delegates from across the country embarked on a post-conclave institutional visit to the National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN), Nisarg Gram, Pune. The visit aimed to deepen the experiential understanding of integrative healthcare and highlight best practices in Ayush-based public health delivery.

The delegation led by Smt. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, was joined by senior  NAM officials from across States/UTs including Shri Ranjan Kumar, Principal Secretary (Ayush), Government of Uttar Pradesh; and Shri Vivek Kumar, Special Secretary and Director General (Ayush), Government of West Bengal. Senior representatives from state governments, Ayush departments, and associated institutions were also part of the visiting group.

The program began with a warm reception at the Nisarg Gram auditorium, marked by a ceremonial lamp-lighting. Prof. (Dr.) K. Satya Lakshmi, Director, NIN, delivered a detailed presentation on the institute’s pioneering work in education, clinical services, and research in naturopathy and integrative medicine. NIN’s students and interns demonstrated Yoga which reflected the institute’s deep-rooted emphasis on wellness through traditional practices.

Delegates then undertook a guided tour of the 25-acre campus, which included visits to the hospital block, academic infrastructure, Gandhi Memorial Hall, and residential quarters. A satvik meal was served at the Annapurna Mess, thoughtfully curated to reflect the dietary philosophy of naturopathy. The visit concluded with a reflective stop at Bapu Bhavan, a serene space dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of self-care, simplicity, and nature-based healing.

Inaugurated by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Nisarg Gram represents a ₹213.55 crore investment in advancing integrative health. The campus houses a 250-bed naturopathy hospital, a multidisciplinary research and extension center, and a state-of-the-art medical college offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and paramedical programs. Additional facilities include hostels, yoga halls, auditoriums, wellness cottages, and the historic Gandhi Memorial Hall, creating a holistic environment for education and healing.

The visit reinforced the role of institutions like NIN in driving evidence-based naturopathy and promoting integrative healthcare as envisioned by the Ministry of Ayush under the NAM framework.

“The visit to Nisarg Gram offered an inspiring extension to the NAM Conclave, allowing delegates to witness integrative healthcare in action. It reaffirmed our commitment to promoting evidence-based, sustainable, and Gandhian approaches within the Ayush ecosystem.” said Ms. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush.

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MV/AKS

(Release ID: 2126744) Visitor Counter : 29

Source: Government of India

Pune Railway Station to Undergo Major Transformation; World-class facilities including four new platforms are planned

Inauguration of Hadapsar-Jodhpur Express; major relief for Rajasthani citizens in Pune

Moves underway for Pune-Nagpur Vande Bharat, new Pune-Nashik routes – Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:16PM by PIB Mumbai

Pune, 3 May 2025

 

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today said, that considering the historic and industrial significance of Pune city, the government has decided to completely transform Pune railway station. He added that under this major initiative world class facilities will be provided on the railway station including four new platforms.

He was speaking  after inaugurating two new express trains – Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express and MGR Chennai Central–Bhagat Ki Kothi Express – by flagging them off from Hadapsar near Pune in Maharashtra. Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, Minister for Higher and Technical Education and Parliamentary Affairs Chandrakant Patil, and Members of Parliament Shrirang Barne and Medha Kulkarni were present on the occasion. Union Ministers of State L. Murugan (from Chennai) and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (from Jodhpur) joined the event virtually.

   

Vaishnaw said that  development plan for six railway stations – Pune, Hadapsar, Khadki, Shivajinagar, Uruli Kanchan, and Alandi – is in the final stage. He also stated that discussions have been held with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding the introduction of a Pune–Nagpur Vande Bharat train. He added that trial runs are underway on new alignments for the Pune–Nashik railway corridor, which holds strategic importance due to the presence of a world-class testing laboratory at Khodad. Additionally, work on the third and fourth railway lines on the Pune–Lonavala route will be completed shortly.

   

Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol expressed confidence  that the Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express will greatly benefit the Rajasthani community residing in Pune. Railway development projects worth ₹1 crore are underway in the state. Under the Amrit Bharat Scheme, development works are progressing at Pune, Hadapsar, Uruli, and Shivajinagar stations. 

MP Medha Kulkarni demanded the launch of a new train between Pune and Nashik, especially in view of the upcoming Kumbh Mela.

Schedule for Hadapsar–Jodhpur Express:

The train will run regularly from May 5, 2025.

• Departure from Hadapsar: 7:15 PM | Arrival at Jodhpur: 3:00 PM the next day
• Departure from Jodhpur: 10:00 PM | Arrival at Hadapsar: 5:00 PM the next day

Halts: Chinchwad, Lonavala, Kalyan, Vasai Road, Vapi, Surat, Vadodara Junction, Ahmedabad, Mehsana, Palanpur, Abu Road, Pindwara, Jawai Bandh, Falna, Rani, Marwar Junction, Pali Marwar, and Luni.

 

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(Release ID: 2126625) Visitor Counter : 66

Source: Government of India

WAVEX 2025 Highlights Investment Potential of M&E Startups; working on dedicated angel network for M&E

30 startups were given one-on-one pitching opportunities at WAVES

Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 2:15PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 4 May 2025

 

WAVEX 2025, the flagship startup initiative under the World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) being held in Mumbai is a promising intersection of innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment.

Shri Ashutosh Mohle, Joint Director at the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), set the tone with a succinct overview of WAVEX, underscoring its vision of nurturing startups in the M&E space and providing a national platform to scale up their ideas.

Sandeep Jhingran, Chief Growth Officer, Internet and Mobile Association of India (IMAI), expressed satisfaction with the promising response to the initiative. “We received over a thousand applications. Thirty of them pitched directly to investors and over half of them are already in active conversations,” he revealed, emphasizing that such efforts are essential to give focused attention to M&E startups.

Investor voices added further perspective to the transformative potential of the initiative. Shri Rajesh Joshi, Venue Partner from Warmup Ventures, reflected on his personal journey from being a startup founder to becoming an investor. “Life has come a full circle…We’re now speaking with 11 startups,” he added.

Shri Mustafa Harnesswala, Founder of CABIL, highlighted the traditional reluctance in funding this space. “Many shy away from investing in media and entertainment. WAVES is shifting that mindset. We’re now working on creating a dedicated angel network for M&E, and even exploring global linkages through collaborations with international governments.”

The panel also fielded questions from the media, offering insight into the evolving startup landscape. When asked how investors differentiate meaningful content, Rajesh cited the example of “Giggle,” a startup app that is creating a platform that helps avoid cyberbullying and sexual content, calling it a benchmark for responsible innovation.

On gender representation, Sandeep acknowledged the limited participation of women entrepreneurs. “We’re committed to doing better. In the future editions we hope to see more women entrepreneurs coming in,” he added.

Expanding on the event’s format, Sandeep Jhingran shared that 30 startups were given one-on-one pitching opportunities in 2 days; Mustafa Harnesswala emphasized the need for monetization strategies for content creators, stating that initiatives like WAVES help bridge that gap.

WAVEX 2025 continues to establish itself as a game-changer in the startup ecosystem for the M&E sector, breaking old boundaries and fostering new opportunities for innovators across India.

 

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(Release ID: 2126731) Visitor Counter : 127

Source: Government of India

WAVES is a powerful platform for collaborators and content creators: Himesh Reshammiya

WAVES 2025 Shines a Spotlight on Indian Music – “Taking Indian Music to New Heights”

Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 5:46PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 4 May 2025

 

The third day of the WAVES 2025 Summit delivered a landmark session titled “Taking Indian Music to New Heights,” featuring a high-powered panel of industry visionaries and changemakers who gathered to discuss the global rise of Indian music and the opportunities ahead.

This compelling session brought together some of the most respected names from both Indian and international music industries, who shared insights on artist development, music publishing, digital growth, international collaborations, and industry innovation.

Himesh Reshammiya, the renowned Bollywood music composer and singer, described WAVES 2025 as a powerful platform for collaborators and content creators. He emphasized the importance of preparation for newcomers, advising them to always keep their music portfolio ready and polished. Reflecting on his own journey, he acknowledged that while there were limited opportunities in the past, today’s aspiring artists can leverage independent platforms and social media to showcase their talent. However, he stressed that the most critical factor remains the quality of the music – it must be appealing and melodious to truly connect with audiences and make a mark in the industry.

Kwee Tiang, Vice President at Universal Music, shared insightful perspectives on the evolving dynamics of the Asian and global music markets. He reaffirmed Universal Music’s commitment to nurturing Indian talent and building global pathways for their success, while underlining the need for a more sustainable and value-driven music consumption culture in India.

A leader in music technology and copyright protection, Dr. Richard Gooch, Chief Technology Officer, IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry), emphasized the role of data-driven strategies and global standards in safeguarding and promoting Indian music on international platforms.

Representing one of the world’s largest music publishing entities, Dinraj Shetty, Executive, Sony Music Publishing shared insights on music rights management and how Indian songwriters and composers can better monetize their work in the streaming age.

Vikram Mehra, Managing Director of Saregama, emphasized the symbiotic relationship between artists and music labels, stressing that both deserve respect for the industry to grow. He noted that artists must be valued for their creativity, while labels should be acknowledged for their financial investments in music. Mehra also highlighted the need for a robust subscription-based market, smoother government policies, and stricter action against piracy, which has significantly harmed the music industry.

Jay Mehta, Managing Director of Warner Music India, shared his vision for the future of the Indian music industry, highlighting the contrast between the country’s rapidly growing GDP and the relatively stagnant growth of its music sector. He pointed out that despite the economic expansion, the music industry hasn’t kept pace, primarily due to challenges in monetization and consumer behavior. However, Mehta expressed optimism, stating that Indian consumers are willing to pay but only when the content is truly compelling and high-quality. He emphasized the importance of discovering fresh talent, promoting genre diversity, and building strong connections between Indian and global music scenes to unlock the industry’s full potential.

A key voice in the policy and regulatory space, Fernandes provided a macroeconomic overview of India’s music industry and advocated for stronger frameworks, rights protection and digital innovation.

The Session was skillfully moderated by Scott De Mercado, a respected music entrepreneur and global consultant, with insightful questions that drew out the distinctive viewpoints and forward-looking ideas of each speaker. Emphasizing the central role of creators, he remarked that artists are the true heroes of the industry, and the ecosystem must be built to support and empower them.

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/LekshmiPriya/Poushali/Aparajita/Priyadarshini/ Darshana | 177

(Release ID: 2126801) Visitor Counter : 22

Source: Government of India

Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan Announces Two Genome-Edited Rice Varieties Developed in India
India Becomes the First Country in the World to Develop Genome-Edited Rice Varieties

The new genome varieties hold the potential for revolutionary changes in higher production, climate adaptability, and water conservation

Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 5:58PM by PIB Delhi

Key Highlights:

• “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has achieved a historic milestone in scientific research,” said Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
• “Under the guidance of the Prime Minister, agricultural research has been given a new direction,” added Shri Chouhan.
• “This is a golden opportunity for the agriculture sector,” stated Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
• “These new varieties will play a leading role in heralding the second Green Revolution,” emphasized Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan today announced the development of two genome-edited rice varieties, in India, at Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Auditorium, NASC Complex, New Delhi. This marks a new beginning in the field of scientific research and innovation. A large number of scientists and farmers attended the event.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India’s vision for a developed nation is being realized, and farmers are moving towards prosperity. Today’s achievement will be written in golden letters. During the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Prime Minister Modi had called upon farmers to adopt modern techniques to overcome agricultural challenges. Inspired by his words, ICAR scientists have made exceptional achievements in the field of agriculture with the creation of these new varieties.”

He further said that the development of these new crops will not only enhance production but will also yield positive results in environmental terms. It will save irrigation water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thereby lowering environmental pressure. This is a classic example of getting both benefits – increased production and environmental conservation.

Shri Chouhan emphasized that in the coming times, there is a need for ensuring food security, increasing nutritious production, and providing food for both India and the world, while making India the food basket of the world. He stated, “We are proud that our efforts have led to the export of 48,000 crore worth of Basmati rice annually.”

The Minister also urged the need to take further steps to increase production of soybean, arhar, tur, lentils, urad, oilseeds, and pulses.

Shri Chouhan also introduced the “Minus 5 and Plus 10” formula, explaining that it involves reducing the area of rice cultivation by 5 million hectares while increasing rice production by 10 million tons in the same area. This would free up space for the cultivation of pulses and oilseeds.

He urged the farmers, especially the young farmers, to adopt advanced farming techniques. Shri Chouhan said, “We need to take agricultural research to the farmers. When agricultural scientists and farmers come together, miracles will happen.”

Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, virtually congratulated the scientists.

Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, DA&FW, MoEF&CC, highlighted that the new varieties announced by ICAR today could be a game-changer for Indian agriculture:

Dr. M.L Jat, Secretary (DARE) and Director General (ICAR), emphasized the importance of demand-driven research, highlighting the need to gather feedback from farmers about their specific requirements. This approach will ensure that research outcomes are tailored to meet the needs of farmers and effectively reach them with the right solutions.

On this occasion, the Minister honored the scientists who contributed to the research of the two varieties. Dr. Vishwanathan C, Dr. Gopal Krishnan S, Dr. Santosh Kumar, Dr. Shivani Nagar, Dr. Archana Vats, Dr. Soham Ray, Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh and Dr. Pranjal Yadav, were honored for their work on Pusa DST Rice 1. Dr. Satyendra Kumar Mangruthia, Dr. R.M. Sundaram, Dr. R. Abdul Fiyaz, Dr. C.N. Neerja, and Dr. S.V. Sai Prasad were honored for their contribution to the development of of DRR Rice 100 (Kamla).

Dr. Devendra Kumar Yadava, Deputy Director General, (Crop Science) ICAR, Dr. R.M. Sundaram, Director, ICAR-Indian Rice Research Institute, Hyderabad, Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh, Former Director, ICAR, and Dr. C.H. Srinivas Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI also addressed the event.

Background:

ICAR has developed India’s first genome-edited rice varieties – DRR Rice 100 (Kamla) and Pusa DST Rice 1. These varieties have the potential to bring about revolutionary changes in terms of higher production, climate adaptability, and water conservation.

These new varieties were developed using genome-editing technology based on CRISPR-Cas, which makes precise changes in the organism’s genetic material without adding foreign DNA. Genome editing of SDN 1 and SDN 2 types of genes has been approved under India’s biosafety regulations for general crops.

In 2018, ICAR initiated genome-editing research to improve two major rice varieties – Samba Mahsuri and MTU 1010 – under the National Agricultural Science Fund. The outcome of this research is the two advanced varieties that offer the following benefits:

• A 19% increase in yield.
• A 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
• A saving of 7,500 million cubic meters of irrigation water.
• Improved tolerance to drought, salinity, and climate stresses.

The DRR Rice 100 (Kamala) variety was developed by ICAR-IIRR, Hyderabad, based on Samba Mahsuri (BPT 5204). Its objective is to increase the number of grains per panicle and it matures 20 days earlier (~130 days). Due to its shorter duration, it helps save water and fertilizers and reduces methane gas emissions. Its stalk is strong and does not fall. The rice quality is similar to the original variety, Samba Mahsuri.

The second variety, Pusa DST Rice 1, was developed by ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, based on MTU 1010. This variety can increase yields by 9.66% to 30.4% in saline and alkaline soils, with the potential for up to 20% increase in production.

These varieties have been developed for states such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala (Zone VII), Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh (Zone V), Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal (Zone III).

The development of these varieties is a significant step toward India’s goal of becoming a developed nation and promoting sustainable agriculture. In the 2023-24 budget, the Government of India allocated ₹500 crores for genome editing in agricultural crops. ICAR has already initiated genome-editing research for several crops, including oilseeds and pulses.

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PSF/SRK/A

(Release ID: 2126802) Visitor Counter : 87

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 6:32PM by PIB Delhi

The Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, chaired a meeting to review the performance of Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Limited (CMPDI) today at Ranchi. The review meeting was attended by Shri Manoj Kumar, Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD), CMPDI, Shri Shankar Nagachari, Director (Tech./CRD); Shri Ajay Kumar, Director (Tech./P&D/RD&T), GM/HoDs and other Sr.officials of CMPDI.

During the review meeting, CMPDI’s performance in various areas of operation like Exploration, Report Preparation, Capex, R&D projects, Solar Projects, CSR initiatives during 2024-25 was presented, along with targets for 2025-26.

The Minister appreciated CMPDI’s performance and emphasized the importance of introducing new technologies in coal washing, exploration of critical minerals and increasing the use of solar energy in Coal India Limited (CIL).

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Shuhaib T

(Release ID: 2126812) Visitor Counter : 38