Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 24 APR 2025 4:12PM by PIB Delhi

A new study has accurately estimated the abundance of Helium in our Sun for the first time. This could be a major step in assessing the opacity of the Sun’s photosphere.

Astronomers have traditionally assumed the abundance of Helium in the photosphere of Sun–like stars to be one tenth of that of Hydrogen by extrapolating from hotter stars, or from the outer atmosphere of the Sun (solar corona, solar wind), or from seismology studies of the interior of the Sun. None of these methods are based on direct observations of the photosphere due to the absence of Helium spectral lines.

An accurate and reliable measurement of the abundance of the element Helium in the photosphere of our Sun remains a challenge for astronomers to this day. The abundance of various elements in our Sun, or in any other star, is estimated from their absorption spectral lines. Since Helium does not produce any observable spectral lines from the visible surface, or the photosphere, of the Sun, its abundance has usually been estimated through indirect means.

Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has used Magnesium and Carbon features in the observed high-resolution spectrum of the Sun to accurately calculate the abundance of Helium in our Sun, in a recent study. This study published as a paper in “Astrophysical Journal, has been carried out by Satyajeet Moharana, B.P. Hema, and Gajendra Pandey, all from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, based on an earlier novel method developed by the latter two authors. Moharana is also a student at IISER Berhampur.

“Using a novel and consistent technique, whereby the spectral lines of neutral Magnesium and Carbon atoms in conjunction with the lines from the Hydrogenated molecules of these two elements are carefully modelled, we are able to constrain the relative abundance of Helium in the Sun’s photosphere now”, said Satyajeet Moharana, the first author of the published study and currently a PhD scholar at KASI, South Korea.

Fig: Abundance of carbon (from CI, CH and C2 lines) and magnesium (from Mg I and MgH lines) for different Helium/Hydrogen ratios.

 

“We analysed the lines of neutral Magnesium and the subordinate lines of MgH molecule, and the neutral Carbon and the subordinate lines of CH and C2 molecules, from the photospheric spectrum of the Sun”, said B.P. Hema. This was done by a careful calculation of the various parameters involved in the formation of the spectral lines. They then subjected the data to Equivalent Width analyses and spectrum syntheses.

“The abundance of Magnesium derived from its neutral atomic line must necessarily agree with the abundance derived from its hydrogenated molecular line”, she explained. Similarly, the abundance of Carbon derived from its neutral atomic line must agree with that derived from its molecular lines. The estimate of the abundance of these two elements from each of their lines depends, in turn, on the abundance of Hydrogen. Since Helium is the second most abundant element in the Sun after Hydrogen, the abundance of Helium is linked to the abundance of Hydrogen. This is the basic principle of this method.

“For example,”, explains Moharana, “if Helium was assumed to be slightly more abundant, this would proportionately decrease the abundance of Hydrogen, which will decrease the opacity of the Sun’s photosphere and decrease the availability of Hydrogen to form molecules with Magnesium and Carbon”. For a metal hydride (e.g. MgH or CH) line, a combined effect of the reduced continuum absorption and the line’s reduced absorption strength demands an increased metal abundance to fit the same observed line strength.

“In our analysis, we calculated the expected abundance of Mg and C for various values of the relative abundance of Helium to Hydrogen, from the atomic and molecular lines”, said Gajendra Pandey. For the Mg and C abundances to match their respective atomic and molecular features, the Helium to Hydrogen ratio that we infer are consistent with a value of 0.1.  

“Our derived He/H ratios are in fair agreement with the results obtained through various helioseismological studies, signifying the reliability and accuracy of our novel technique in determining the solar helium-to-hydrogen ratio. This study also confirms that the widely assumed and adopted (He/H) ratio of 0.1 is in fair agreement with our measurements.”, said B.P. Hema.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2124064) Visitor Counter : 30

Source: Government of India

India’s Record Cargo Movement on Inland Waterways

Achieves 145.5 million tonnes in FY 2024–25

Posted On: 24 APR 2025 4:12PM by PIB Delhi

Key Takeaways India achieved a record 145.5 million tonnes cargo movement on inland waterways in FY 2024–25, up from 18.1 MMT in FY 2013–14, registering a CAGR of 20.86%. The number of National Waterways increased from 5 to 111, with the operational length growing from 2,716 km (2014–15) to 4,894 km (2023–24). Massive infrastructure development including Multi-Modal Terminals (MMTs), Inter-Modal Terminals (IMTs), community jetties, floating terminals, and green tech like Hybrid Electric and Hydrogen Vessels.  Launch of Jalvahak Scheme with ₹95.42 crore budget offering 35% operating cost incentive for cargo owners and scheduled services on key routes (NW-1, NW-2, NW-16).  India aims to increase IWT modal share from 2% to 5%, and raise traffic to 200+ MMT by 2030 and 500+ MMT by 2047 under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision.

 

Record Cargo Movement Marks a Milestone in Inland Water Transport

 

In a significant achievement for India’s inland water transport (IWT) sector, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) reported a record-breaking cargo movement of 145.5 million tonnes in the fiscal year 2024–25. This milestone underscores the effectiveness of sustained investments and policy initiatives aimed at enhancing the country’s inland waterways infrastructure. The number of operational national waterways has also increased from 24 to 29 during the same period, reflecting a strategic push towards multimodal connectivity and sustainable transport solutions.​

Exponential Growth in Cargo Traffic in last ten years

Cargo traffic on National Waterways has increased from 18.10 (million metric tonnes) MMT to 145.5 MMT (million metric tonnes) between FY-14 and FY-25, recording a CAGR of 20.86%.

In FY-25, traffic movement registered a growth of 9.34% year-on-year from FY-24. Five commodities i.e. coal, iron ore, iron ore fines, sand and fly ash constituted over 68% of total cargo moved on NWs during the year. Passenger movement has also reached 1.61 crore in 2023–24.​

Expansion of National Waterways

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has expanded the number of National Waterways (NWs) from 5 to 111 under the National Waterways Act, 2016. Since 2014, the Government has invested around ₹6,434 crore to develop waterway infrastructure.

The operational length of NWs increased from 2,716 km (2014-15) to 4,894 km (2023-24). Major works include fairway maintenance, community jetties, floating terminals, Multi-Modal Terminals (MMTs), Inter-Modal Terminals (IMTs), and navigational locks.

To boost Ease of Doing Business, IWAI launched digital tools like Least Available Depth Information System (LADIS), River Information System (RIS), Car-D, Portal for Navigational Information (PANI), and Management Information and Reporting Solution (MIRS). Green initiatives such as Hybrid Electric Catamarans and Hydrogen Vessels are being introduced to reduce pollution and promote river tourism.

Targets and Sustainable Development

The Government of India has set ambitious targets for cargo movement via inland waterways.
IWAI aims to increase the modal share of freight movement through IWT from 2% to 5% and traffic volume to more than 200 million metric tonnes (MMT) in line with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and more than 500 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2047 as per the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.​

 

Policy Measures to Boost Inland Waterways

1. Jalvahak – Cargo Promotion Scheme
    

The Inland Water Transport (IWT) sector in India is still developing and needs support to shift cargo from road and rail to waterways. Although waterway transport is cheaper, overall logistics costs can be higher due to multimodal handling. To address this and promote IWT, the “Jalvahak” Scheme was launched on 15 December 2024 with a budget of Rs. 95.42 crores. It has two key components:

1. Financial Incentive: Cargo owners get a 35% reimbursement on actual operating costs for shifting cargo from road/rail to IWT, encouraging use of waterways.
2. Scheduled Services: Regular cargo services have been introduced to boost reliability and predictability.

Key routes include:

• Kolkata–Patna–Varanasi (NW-1)
• Kolkata–Pandu (NW-2 via Indo-Bangladesh Protocol route)
• Kolkata–Badarpur/Karimganj (NW-16 via IBP route)

The scheme covers cargo movement on NW-1, NW-2, and NW-16, benefiting surrounding regions and building trust in waterway transport.

2. Extension of Tonnage Tax to Inland Vessels
 Announced on 1st February 2025 during the budget, the tonnage tax regime has been extended to inland vessels registered under the Indian Vessels Act, 2021.

• Benefit: Provides a stable and predictable tax regime based on vessel tonnage rather than profits, thereby lowering the tax burden and encouraging broader adoption of inland shipping.

3. Regulatory Framework for Private Investment
The National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025 have been notified, enabling private investment in inland waterways infrastructure by establishing a clear legal and operational framework for the construction and management of jetties and terminals.

4. Port Integration
To ensure seamless multimodal logistics, the Multi-Modal Terminals at Varanasi, Sahibganj, and Haldia, as well as the Intermodal Terminal at Kalughat, are being transferred to Shyama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata for operation and management. This integration is expected to streamline cargo movement between ports and inland waterways.

5. Digitisation and Centralised Database
A centralised portal is being developed for the registration of inland vessels and crew, similar to the ‘Vahan’ and ‘Sarathi’ systems used for road transport. This initiative will:

• Simplify registration processes
• Provide real-time data on vessel and crew availability
• Enhance transparency and planning in the sector

6. Cargo Aggregation Infrastructure
To resolve issues related to sparse industrial presence along waterways, cargo aggregation hubs are under development:

• Freight Village at Varanasi
• Integrated Cluster-cum-Logistics Park at Sahibganj

The National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) and Indian Port and Rail Company Ltd. have been engaged to develop and provide rail connectivity to these logistics hubs.

7. Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route Operationalisation
Routes No. 5 & 6 between Maia and Sultanganj have been successfully trialled under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol. Regular operations will commence following consent from the Government of Bangladesh.

8. Engagement with Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)
More than 140 PSUs have been engaged to explore shifting a portion of their cargo to IWT. Ministries including Petroleum, Fertiliser, Coal, Steel, and Heavy Industries have been requested to align their cargo movement plans with the modal shift targets of the Maritime India Vision.

Infrastructure developments for inland water transport:

• Fairway Maintenance: Ongoing river training, dredging, channel marking, and surveys on National Waterways (NWs) to maintain a 35/45 m width and depths of 2.0 to 3.0 meters for vessel navigation.
• NW-1 (Ganga River): 49 community jetties, 20 floating terminals, 3 Multi-Modal Terminals (MMTs), and 1 Inter-Modal Terminal (IMT) built, along with 5 pre-existing terminals.
• NW-2 (Brahmaputra River): 12 floating terminals, MMTs at Pandu, Jogighopa, and terminals at Bogibeel and Dhubri for river cargo/cruise vessels. 4 dedicated jetties constructed at Jogighopa, Pandu, Biswanath Ghat, and Neamati.
• NW-3 (West Coast Canal, Kerala): 9 permanent terminals with godowns and 2 Ro-Ro terminals constructed.
• NW-68 (Goa): 3 floating concrete jetties in 2020, 1 in 2022 installed in Mandovi River.
• NW-4 (Krishna River, Andhra Pradesh): 4 tourist jetties commissioned.
• Other Projects: 12 Nos. floating jetties on NW-110 (River Yamuna) in Mathura-Vrindavan stretch in Uttar Pradesh, 2 Jetties on NW-73 (River Narmada) & 2 Jetties on NW-37 (River Gandak) in Bihar are under execution.

Navigating Towards a Sustainable Future

India’s concerted efforts in developing its inland waterways have yielded significant results, with record cargo movements and expanded infrastructure. The combination of strategic investments, policy initiatives, and digital innovations positions the country to further enhance its IWT sector, contributing to sustainable transportation and economic development. Continued focus on these areas will be crucial in achieving the ambitious targets set for the coming decades.​

References

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Anchal Patiyal

(Release ID: 2124061) Visitor Counter : 65

Source: Government of India

“TDB-DSTbacks Nature-Powered Innovation: Supports ‘uBreathe Life’ for Indigenous Indoor Air Purification Solution”

“Clean Air, Made in India: TDB-DST Funds Urban Air Labs’ Wall-Mounted Plant-Based Air Purifier to Boost Indoor AQI”

Posted On: 24 APR 2025 4:13PM by PIB Delhi

The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has taken a significant step toward advancing indigenous clean air technologies by extending financial support to M/s Urban Air Labs Private Limited, Gurugram, for their project titled “Development & Commercialization of a Made in India Efficient Wall-Mounted Air-Purification System for Indoor Premises.” This strategic intervention marks a commitment to improve the Air Quality Index (AQI) indoors through innovative, plant-based purification systems that remove both particulate and gaseous contaminants.

TDB’s financial assistance to this promising startup underscores its confidence in the project’s potential to deliver sustainable, science-backed air purification solutions. The support aims to promote innovation in climate-responsive technologies while strengthening India’s self-reliance under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ missions.

The core technology harnessed in this product blends natural plant-based filtration with advanced engineering. Based on the ‘Urban Munnar Effect’ and a patented innovation called ‘Breathing Roots’, the system enhances the natural air-purifying capacity of leafy indoor plants.

Air from the room is pulled toward the plant leaves, then directed into the soil-root zone, where the purification process intensifies. The device features a centrifugal fan that creates suction pressure, allowing the purified air—processed through the roots—to be released in 360 degrees across the indoor space.

Fitted within a specially designed planter box, the ‘uBreathe Life’ system stands out as a compact, aesthetic, and effective wall-mounted solution tailored for homes, offices, hospitals, and other indoor environments. It directly addresses the growing public health concern over poor indoor air quality and represents a game-changing innovation in the field of sustainable air purification.

Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary, TDB, said,
“TDB’s support to Urban Air Labs reflects our mission to back indigenous solutions that address pressing environmental challenges. The fusion of biotechnology and engineering in this project offers a scalable, sustainable way to enhance indoor air quality, aligned with the nation’s clean technology goals.”

Commenting on the support, Founders of M/s Urban Air Labs Pvt. Ltd. said,
“We are grateful to TDB for their belief in our vision. With this support, we aim to make plant-based, natural air purification a norm in Indian households and public spaces. It’s time we bring nature back indoors, powered by science and innovation.”

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2124065) Visitor Counter : 34

Source: Government of India

India Achieves Breakthrough in Gene Therapy for Haemophilia, Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews BRIC-inStem Trials

“Not Just Science, It’s Nation-Building”: Minister Hails Biotech’s Role in Future Economy

From Lab to Life: Bengaluru’s BRIC-inStem Leads India’s Bio-Revolution with Gene Therapy, Regenerative Science

Posted On: 24 APR 2025 4:30PM by PIB Delhi

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 inspected the various facilities at BRIC-inStem and reviewed ongoing clinical trials in collaboration with premier medical institutes and hospitals, including the landmark first-in-human gene therapy trial for Haemophilia conducted with CMC Vellore. Calling it a “milestone in India’s scientific journey,” the Minister hailed the institute’s contributions to preventive and regenerative healthcare.

During his visit, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the strategic importance of biotechnology in shaping India’s future economy and public health infrastructure. “This is not just about science—it’s about nation-building,” he said, commending the Department of Biotechnology’s (DBT) recent successes and its emergence from relative obscurity into national relevance.

India’s biotechnology sector has seen an extraordinary leap, growing 16-fold in the past decade to reach $165.7 billion in 2024, with a vision to touch $300 billion by 2030. The Minister credited this growth to enabling policy reforms, including the recently approved BIO-E3 Policy that aims to boost economy, employment, and environment through biotechnology. “We now have over 10,000 biotech startups compared to just 50 a decade ago,” he pointed out.

Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the creation of the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) that unified 14 autonomous institutions under one umbrella. “BRIC-inStem is at the cutting edge of fundamental and translational science,” he said, highlighting innovations like the germicidal anti-viral mask during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ‘Kisan Kavach’ that protects farmers from neurotoxic pesticides.

 

A highlight of the visit was BRIC-inStem’s Biosafety Level III laboratory, a key national facility for studying high-risk pathogens under India’s One Health Mission. “The recent pandemic taught us that we must always be prepared. Facilities like this will help us stay a step ahead,” Dr. Jitendra Singh stated.

The Minister also praised the newly launched Centre for Research Application and Training in Embryology (CReATE), which addresses birth defects and infertility by advancing developmental biology research. “With about 3 to 4 percent of babies born with some form of defect, this centre is vital for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes,” he said.

Calling for greater collaboration between scientific and medical institutions, he suggested that BRIC-inStem explore MD-PhD programs, integrate more with clinical research, and enhance visibility through coordinated communication strategies. “What’s being done here should echo across the country—not for publicity, but because the nation needs it,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by noting that India’s economy of the future would be bio-driven, with institutions like BRIC-inStem serving as torchbearers of this transformation. “As Mark Twain said, the economy is too serious a subject to be left to economists alone. Biotechnology is not just a science anymore—it is a pillar of our national strategy.”

 

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2124073) Visitor Counter : 18

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, and the Secretary of the CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee, Mr Wang Hao, leading the delegations of the governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Zhejiang respectively, held the High-Level Meeting cum the First Plenary Session of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference (the meeting-cum-plenary) in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, today (April 24). Both sides witnessed the establishment of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism, symbolising a new stage of all-round exchanges and co-operation between the two places. The Executive Deputy Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Zhou Ji, also attended the meeting-cum-plenary.

     Officials of the HKSAR Government that attended the meeting-cum-plenary included the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai; the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau; the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho; the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong; the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak; and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Carol Yip.

     Hong Kong and Zhejiang reached a consensus on the following 13 co-operation areas at the meeting-cum-plenary:

Joint pursuit of the Belt and Road development and business investment
———————————————————————-

     Strengthen co-operation on the Belt and Road Initiative between the two places. Encourage Zhejiang enterprises to actively participate in the Belt and Road Summit held in Hong Kong. Encourage Zhejiang enterprises to actively participate in relevant exchange and interface sessions organised by relevant authorities in Hong Kong.
 
     Promote the co-operation between Hong Kong and Zhejiang in the field of professional services. Support the introduction of Hong Kong management consulting, accounting, design, legal and dispute resolution service agencies.
 
     Continue to actively promote collaboration and exchanges on intellectual property between the two places through publicity initiatives and seminars.
 
Finance
———-

     Support Zhejiang Province in collaborating with the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and relevant securities institutions to organise and conduct business training to address enterprises’ inquiries regarding listing in Hong Kong.

     Encourage enterprises in Zhejiang Province and financial institutions in Hong Kong to engage in exchanges and co-operation.

Innovation and technology
——————————

     Jointly promote co-operation in technology research and development between Hong Kong and Zhejiang. Support higher education institutions, research institutes and enterprises in Hong Kong and Zhejiang to jointly launch research initiatives to achieve breakthroughs in core technologies in key fields, develop strategic emerging industries, and foster the development of future industries.

     Actively establish a two-way sci-tech financial investment and financing channel, and actively support Zhejiang’s high-tech enterprises in listing and raising funds, issuing local and foreign currency bonds in Hong Kong, etc.

     Encourage and support technology entities in Hong Kong and Zhejiang to take the lead in the establishment of technology co-operation platforms, and set up research and development centres, etc.

Aviation
———-

     Increase the frequency of flights between Hong Kong and the three airports in Hangzhou, Ningbo and Wenzhou in accordance with the market situation.

     Enhance the exchange of advanced airport management experience between airport personnel in Hong Kong and Zhejiang.
 
Legal and dispute resolution
——————————

     Continue to proactively support law firms of the two places to establish partnership associations and set up branches in each other’s places.

     Promote co-operation between the arbitral institutions of the two places in the arbitration of civil and commercial disputes in the areas of international trade, investment, maritime commerce, etc.

     Support and promote the expansion of exchange platforms for legal, arbitration, mediation, and other professional services between the two places.

Cultural exchange and tourism
——————————

     Strengthen cultural and tourism exchanges between the two places.

     Strengthen the exchanges and collaboration between the museums and arts and cultural institutions of Hong Kong and Zhejiang, and jointly organise international exhibitions.

Education
———-

     Promote the development of the Zhejiang-Hong Kong Vocational Education Alliance. Effectively carry out visits to Zhejiang for Mainland study tours of the senior secondary subject of Citizenship and Social Development and Mainland study tours for teachers.

     Facilitate more schools in the two places in forming sister school pairs for conducting exchange activities in diverse forms.

     Encourage higher education institutions in Zhejiang Province to further deepen co-operation with higher education institutions in Hong Kong and carry out various forms of collaborative projects, such as joint scientific research, academic seminars, and teacher-student exchanges.

Youth development
——————–

     Actively explore the introduction of a quality internship programme in Zhejiang under the Thematic Youth Internship Programmes to the Mainland.
 
    Support Hong Kong youths to participate in short-term experiential programmes at innovation and entrepreneurial bases in Zhejiang.
 
     Encourage and support Hong Kong youth entrepreneurial teams funded under the Youth Development Fund of the Government of the HKSAR to expand their businesses to Zhejiang.
 
Health and Chinese medicine
——————————

     Strengthen exchanges and co-operation between the two sides in areas such as clinical talents, primary healthcare and hospital management.

     Support Hong Kong service providers to develop Hong Kong-Zhejiang joint ventures, co-operative medical institutions and wholly owned medical institutions in accordance with the law.

     Expedite academic and talent exchanges in Chinese medicine between the two places, and strengthen co-operation in the area of international standardisation of Chinese medicine.

Environmental protection
——————————

     Promote the implementation of the co-operation agreement signed between the Radiation Monitoring Technical Center of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and the Hong Kong Observatory. Support technical staff of both sides in conducting regular technical discussions.

     Strengthen technical exchanges and co-operation in the field of carbon monitoring.

     Strengthen exchanges and discussions between Hong Kong and Zhejiang in areas such as environmental protection-related industry and technological innovation.

Housing
———-

     The two parties will engage in collaborative exchanges encompassing innovative housing technologies, intelligent construction, resource conservation, as well as low-carbon and emission-reduction initiatives.

     The two parties will strengthen collaboration in innovative housing technologies, smart estate management, and the development of harmonious communities through reciprocal visits and professional training exchanges.

Talent and civil service exchange
——————————

     Strengthen communication and connections with renowned schools in Hong Kong.
 
     Continue to promote and deepen exchanges between civil servants from both sides, and launch a new round of the exchange programme under the guidance of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

Facilitation measures for Hong Kong people on the Mainland
————————————————————

     Fully implement the policies and measures introduced by the relevant Central Government departments to facilitate the development of Hong Kong and Macao residents on the Mainland, and facilitate Hong Kong people studying, working and living in Zhejiang.

     Explore the expansion of the scope of application of the Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents in various government and public services in Zhejiang.

Co-operation memorandum signing ceremony
—————————————-

     At the meeting-cum-plenary, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, and Vice Governor of the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government Mr Lu Shan, signed the “Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism” and the “Co-operation Memorandum of the High-Level Meeting cum First Plenary Session of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference”. The documents (Chinese only) are in Annex 1 and Annex 2.

     In addition, four co-operation agreements were signed by government departments and statutory bodies of the two places:

(i) Memorandum of Understanding on Enhancing Zhejiang/Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Co-operation;
(ii) Letter of Intent on Strengthening Exchanges and Co-operation in Innovative Housing Technologies, Smart Estate Management and Well-being Community;
(iii) Memorandum of Understanding on Promoting High-Quality Economic and Trade Co-operation; and
(iv) Memorandum of Understanding on Jointly Promoting Youth Development Co-operation.

     The co-operation agreements (i), (ii) and (iv) signed by the government departments of the two places (Chinese only) are in Annexes 3 to 5.

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh hails a decade of Panchayati Raj Reforms under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership on Panchayati Raj Diwas, in Bihar

Finance Commission Grants for Gram Panchayats increased sevenfold  in the last 10 years; Panchayat Representatives being trained in Premier Institutions: Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh

Centre Awards Six Panchayats, Three Institutions; Women Sarpanches of Motipur ( Bihar) , Dawwa S (Maharashtra) & Hatbadra (Odisha) Lead the Spotlight

Posted On: 24 APR 2025 6:45PM by PIB Delhi

On the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day, 24th April 2025, a historic  event was organized at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat in Madhubani District of Bihar in the august presence of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The national commemoration was marked by vibrant participation from elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), beneficiaries of several government schemes, and local residents. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on this occasion launched/ laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects amounting to over Rs.13,480 crores. These initiatives spanned across key sectors including housing, rural development, power, transportation, and connectivity. In his address, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening grassroots democracy and empowering Panchayats as the driving force behind rural transformation. Addressing from the soil of a Gram Panchayat, Shri Modi underlined the spirit of Gram Swaraj and the role of Panchayats in building a developed and inclusive India.

Union Minister of Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, in his address highlighted the transformation witnessed by Panchayats across India over the past decade. He emphasized how digital tools such as eGramSwaraj have empowered local self-governments, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and ease of living in rural India. The Union Minister underlined the significant increase in financial devolution to PRIs that is nearly seven times more compared to the 13th Finance Commission in the last ten years.

“A truly developed India cannot be imagined until its villages and Panchayats are fully developed,” stated Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh. The  event was also graced by Bihar Governor Shri Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister of Bihar Shri Nitish Kumar, and several Union Ministers, public representatives and senior officials, including Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

In his address, Union Minister of Panchayati Raj outlined the transformative progress made under the leadership of the Prime Minister in empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions over the last decade. He highlighted a seven-fold increase in fund devolution to Panchayats, advancements like the e-Gram Swaraj portal for enhanced transparency, weather forecasting at the Panchayat level, and leadership development through training at prestigious institutions like IIMs. The Union Minister emphasized the special focus on strengthening women’s leadership in Panchayats through targeted skill development initiatives. Shri Singh said that Prime Minister’s decision to address the nation from a Gram Panchayat underscores the government’s commitment to grassroots democracy. He called the national celebration at Lohna Uttar a historic moment in India’s journey towards a self-reliant, inclusive, and sustainable rural governance system – a solid foundation for a truly Viksit Bharat.

A major highlight of the event was the conferring of the Climate Action Special Panchayat Award (CASPA), Atma Nirbhar Panchayat Special Award (ANPSA), and Panchayat Kshamta Nirman Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar (PKNSSP), recognizing exemplary contributions in Climate Action (CASPA), Self-Reliance (ANPSA), and Capacity Building (PKNSSP). A total of six Gram Panchayats and three institutions from eight States were felicitated. Notably, three award-winning Panchayats – Motipur (Bihar), Dawwa S (Maharashtra), and Hatbadra (Odisha) are headed by women Sarpanches, exemplifying the role of women leadership in driving local development. 

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Aditi Agrawal

(Release ID: 2124144) Visitor Counter : 24

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation Dr Ashish Kumar Bhutani inaugurates the state-of-the-art packaging facility of National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) in Noida, Uttar Pradesh

The facility is dedicated to packaging pulses and organic products while maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and quality

Cooperation Secretary termed it as a major milestone in NCOL’s journey to promote and distribute high quality, organic products under the brand ‘Bharat Organics’

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has envisioned a greater role for cooperatives in making India the largest organic producer in the world

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry is taking several initiatives to increase market access for organic produce of farmers

NCOL is passing on the benefits of its venture to its member farmers, thereby encouraging them to adopt organic farming in greater numbers

NCOL aims to ensure premium prices to farmers for their hard work towards organic farming and make organic food affordable and accessible to Indian consumers

Mother Dairy is committed to make ‘Bharat Organics’ available across its channels to benefit accessibility to the customer and it stands for purity & trust

Posted On: 24 APR 2025 7:29PM by PIB Delhi

Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation Dr Ashish Kumar Bhutani today addressed the inauguration of the state-of-the-art packaging facility of National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the facility is designed to optimize efficiency while maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and quality. It is dedicated to the packaging of pulses and a wide range of organic food products.

Speaking at the occasion, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Dr Ashish Kumar Bhutani said that the inauguration marks a major milestone in NCOL’s journey to promote and deliver high-quality, sustainable organic products under the ‘Bharat Organics’ brand.  He said that the NCOL has a huge role to play in empowering farmers and expanding access of market to genuine organic produce across India. He said Bharat Organics is making healthy food accessible to all for a healthier India.

Dr Bhutani said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry is taking several initiatives to increase market access for organic produce of farmers. Cooperation Secretary said that the inauguration of the packaging facility of NCOL marks a critical step in the organisation’s efforts to scale operations and expand the reach of certified organic produce, while delivering fair value to primary producers.

Dr Bhutani said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has envisioned a greater role for cooperatives in making India the largest organic producer in the world. Being in the cooperative sector, NCOL is passing on the benefits of its venture to its member farmers, thereby encouraging them to adopt organic farming in greater numbers.

With 21 organic products, including pulses, cereals, spices and sweetners, already launched, Bharat Organics is available through 200+ SAFAL outlets in Delhi NCR, It is also being launched across major e-commerce & Q-Com platforms like Swiggy, Blinkit, BigBasket, Amazon, Flipkart, etc. It is also available at all NCCF and NAFED, outlets, who also happen to be our promoter members. Bharat Organics shall soon be available across all Reliance outlets.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of NCOL Shri Meenesh Shah said that NCOL aims to ensure premium prices to farmers for their hard work towards organic farming and make organic food affordable and accessible to Indian consumers. He said NCOL lays extra emphasis on the authenticity of certified organic products under the Bharat Brand name, by mandatorily testing each batch for 245+ pesticide residues.

Speaking on the occasion, Managing Director of NCOL, Shri Vipul Mittal said that it is our proud privilege to launch this range of ‘Bharat Organics’ pulses, while celebrating the international year of cooperation, chaired by India in 2025. The packaging carries this logo along with a QR code to test authenticity of the product. The consumer can scan this code and check the PR test report of the said batch.

Addressing the event, the Managing Director of Mother Dairy Shri Manish Bandlish, emphasized that Mother Dairy is committed to make ‘Bharat Organics’ available across its channels to benefit accessibility to the customer. Mother Dairy stands for purity & trust for the last 50 years for the customers of Delhi.

NCOL was established by the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, in 2023 as an umbrella organization for the aggregation, procurement, certification, testing, branding, and marketing of organic products produced by the cooperative sector. NCOL operates with the support of relevant government ministries, following a “Whole of Government” approach, and is aligned with the national vision of “Sahkar se Samriddhi”.

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RK/VV/RR/PR/PS

(Release ID: 2124157) Visitor Counter : 36

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 24 APR 2025 7:58PM by PIB Delhi

A nine member delegation held the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment meeting with the South African side in Pretoria, South Africa on 22nd – 23rd April, 2025. The discussions were held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere and were fruitful. There was enthusiastic response towards greater cooperation, addressing pending issues, boosting trade and investment, greater people to people contacts.

The JTC was co-chaired by Mr. Malose Letsoalo, Chief Director, Bilateral Trade Relations, The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Republic of South Africa; and Ms. Priya Nair, Economic Adviser Department of Commerce. Official delegation from India consisted of officials from High Commission of India in South Africa, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. The officials of both India and South Africa actively engaged in the proceedings of the India-South Africa JWGTI.

Both sides explored potential areas of collaboration such as Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare, Agriculture, MSME, Jewelry manufacturing among others. Major points for discussion in JWGTI included revival of CEO Forum, investment cooperation, Market access issues with regard to agricultural products, Recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia, Local Currency Settlement System, Fast payment systems/Unified Payment Linkage system, Discussion on India-SACU PTA etc. to further expand trade and economic ties between both the countries.

In a comprehensive dialogue, both sides undertook a detailed review of recent developments in bilateral trade and investment ties and acknowledged the vast untapped potential for further expansion. To this effect, both sides identified several areas of focus for enhancing both bilateral trade as well as mutually beneficial investments.

South Africa is the largest trading partner of India in the Africa region. Bilateral trade between India and South Africa stood at USD 19.25 billion in 2023-24. Indian businesses have invested over US$ 1.3 billion in South Africa from April 2000 to September 2024. These investments traverse diverse sectors, encompassing pharmaceuticals, IT, automotive, banking, and mining.

The deliberations of the 2nd Session of India-South Africa Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment on 22nd April, 2025 were cordial and forward-looking, indicative of the amicable and special relations between the two countries.

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Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan

(Release ID: 2124166) Visitor Counter : 52