Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 4:32PM by PIB Delhi

The Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season 1, launched as a flagship initiative under the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), is gearing up for a spectacular finale at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, from 1st to 4th May 2025. With registrations now officially closed for all 32 challenges, CIC has achieved a significant milestone, receiving nearly 1 lakh registrations, including over 1,100 international participants. The challenges have attracted entries from over 60 countries, reflecting the global appeal and reach of this pioneering initiative. From this exceptional pool of talent, 750 finalists will be given the opportunity to showcase their creative skills and outcomes at Creatosphere, a specially curated platform featuring innovation across animation, comics, AI, XR, gaming, music, and more, as part of WAVES 2025. The winners of these challenges will be conferred the prestigious ‘WAVES Creator Awards’ in a grand red carpet ceremony on Day 2 of the event.

The Creatosphere at WAVES will witness remarkable global participation, with 43 international finalists showcasing their talents, adding a truly international dimension to this celebration of creativity. These finalists represent over 20 countries, including Argentina, Nepal, Germany, Bermuda (BOT), the United States, Greece, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Laos, Thailand, Tajikistan, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Russia, Maldives, Malaysia, and Japan. Notably, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Tajikistan each contributes 6 finalists, followed by 5 each from Indonesia and Maldives, and 4 from Mauritius. The United States is represented by 2 finalists, while Russia, Canada, Argentina, Laos, Malaysia, Bermuda, Egypt, Thailand, and the United Kingdom each have 1 finalist. This diverse international presence underscores the global appeal and growing reach of the Create in India Challenge.

In India, the challenges saw enthusiastic participation from across all 28 states and 8 Union Territories, underscoring the truly national footprint of the initiative. The list of finalists across the challenges reflects remarkable regional representation, with participants hailing from across the country from Assam and Meghalaya in the East to Gujarat in the West and from Himachal Pradesh in the North to Kerala in the South.

Celebrating the energy of youth, the Create in India Challenges are overwhelmingly driven by young creators predominantly in their 20s, reflecting a vibrant ecosystem of college students, early-career professionals, and teen innovators. With the youngest finalist just 12 years old and the oldest at 66, the initiative showcases a truly inclusive creative platform that transcends age.

The Create in India initiative champions grassroots innovation while celebrating diversity in purpose and participation. From making education accessible through the Innovate 2 Educate Challenge to reviving India’s textile legacy with “Make the World Wear Khadi,” the challenges span tradition and technology. “India: A Bird’s Eye View” captures the nation’s spirit through breathtaking aerial visuals by filmmakers and Drone Didis, using drone technology for storytelling and community empowerment.

As excitement for WAVES 2025 reaches its crescendo, the Create in India Challenge has emerged as a powerful expression of India’s creative ambition, unlocking new opportunities for talent and reaffirming the nation’s rising leadership in the global media and entertainment landscape. With its vibrant mix of Indian and international participation, the Create in India Challenge has grown into a dynamic global platform, empowering voices across regions and generations, and truly embodying the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision that “WAVES should reach every home and every heart.”

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith | 98

(Release ID: 2122688) Visitor Counter : 91

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 17 APR 2025 10:20PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal hosted ‘Rongalir Enajori’, a vibrant celebration to mark Rongali Bihu and the Assamese New Year at his official residence in Delhi on Thursday.

The event was graced by Chief Minister of Delhi, Ms. Rekha Gupta   as Chief Guest and Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju as Guest of Honour, and several dignitaries, artists, and members of the Assamese and Northeastern communities residing in the national capital region.

Extending his heartfelt wishes, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Rongali Bihu brings new energy and inspiration for all of us to move forward for the nation’s progress. This festival is not just about celebration — it is about unity, tradition, and our shared cultural identity.”

Shri Sonowal added that despite being far from home, the celebration in Delhi reflects the deep connection every Assamese holds with their roots. “As nature bursts into colours, the sound of the Bihu songs with the rhythmic beats from Dhols (traditional drums) fills the air with joy and pride. This Bihu connects us with our heritage and fills us with new hope and enthusiasm,” he said.

He further emphasised that festivals like Bihu are symbols of India’s cultural unity and urged the youth to preserve and carry forward this rich legacy. Quoting Bhupen Hazarika, Shri Sonowal remarked, “Spring is the soul of the people. It inspires us to dedicate ourselves to the progress of our nation.”

He also highlighted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’, stating, “We must take a pledge during this spirited season to play an active role in building a developed and self-reliant India.”

Chief Minister Ms. Rekha Gupta lauded Shri Sonowal for organising the event and said, “Rongali Bihu carries the message of harmony and goodwill. It showcases the beauty of India’s cultural diversity while reinforcing the strength of unity. I extend my best wishes to the people of Delhi as well as from Assam on this festive season as we pray for peace and prosperity to all.”

Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju also addressed the gathering and praised the cultural synergy between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. “The strong bonds among the communities of Northeast India are empowering the engine of national development. The region’s rich artistic and cultural heritage adds vibrant hues to India’s collective identity,” Rijiju said.

The evening featured musical performances by noted Assamese singers including Nilutpal Bora, Surekha Chetri, and Jutimala Buragohain, among others, who captivated the audience with traditional melodies and rhythms.

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GDH

(Release ID: 2122595) Visitor Counter : 46

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 9:40AM by PIB Delhi

Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh concluded a two-day visit to London from April 16–17, 2025, leading a high-level Indian delegation for the annual bilateral defence dialogue with the United Kingdom. During the visit, he co-chaired the 24^th India-UK Defence Consultative Group meeting with Mr. David Williams, Permanent Under Secretary of State for Defence.

Both sides reviewed the evolving regional and global geopolitical landscape and reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening defence ties. The discussions were held in the context of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership announced in 2021 and the Roadmap to 2030, which continues to steer cooperation between the two nations. The Defence Secretary also interacted with the UK’s National Security Adviser, Mr. Jonathan Powell, with talks focused on expanding tri-service military engagements and strengthening collaboration between the two countries’ defence industries.

Addressing participants at the India-UK Defence Industry Roundtable, organised by the UK India Business Council, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh highlighted the growing capabilities of Indian start-ups across key defence domains such as naval systems, drones, surveillance, defence space and aviation. He encouraged UK companies to explore partnerships with these agile innovators, noting their potential to deliver cost-effective and cutting-edge solutions.

The Defence Secretary also said that India is working closely with the UK Ministry of Defence to develop an Industrial Cooperation Roadmap to guide future industry engagement. He invited UK firms to invest in India’s dedicated Defence Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, where they can take advantage of state-level incentives and a rapidly evolving defence manufacturing ecosystem.

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SR/KB

(Release ID: 2122599) Visitor Counter : 62

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 9:42AM by PIB Delhi

On the solemn occasion of Good Friday, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today reflected on the profound sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He emphasized that this day serves as a reminder to embrace kindness, compassion, and generosity in our lives.

In a post on X, he said:

“On Good Friday, we remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This day inspires us to cherish kindness, compassion and always be large hearted. May the spirit of peace and togetherness always prevail.”

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2122600) Visitor Counter : 51

Source: Government of India

India takes part in Africa’s largest tech and startup show GITEX Africa 2025

Knowledge transfer and technology sharing, key pillars of collective growth, says MoS Jayant Chaudhary

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 10:35AM by PIB Delhi

Africa’s largest tech and startup show, GITEX provides platform for policy leaders, changemakers and visionaries to collectively discuss and deliberate on the opportunities to collaborate and further the imperative of inclusive and equitable growth of the global economy. The three-day event just concluded at Morocco capital Marrakesh.

Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (Independent Charge) and Minister of State for Education Shri Jayant Chaudhary represented Republic of India at the summit. He took part in high-level bilateral meetings, panel discussions and interacted with Indian startups showcasing their innovations.

In the discussions, Shri Jayant Chaudhary stated, “India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has driven transformative changes across areas, especially through developments of digital identity (Aadhaar), digital payments (UPI), e-commerce (ONDC), and healthcare. And we are increasingly integrating advanced technologies – AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and digital infrastructure – into our skilling ecosystem. Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH), a digital public infrastructure for the skilling ecosystem has onboarded more than one crore users in over one and a half years. These are areas, rich with potential, for collaboration with our African partners and we can collectively grow our economies through sustained partnerships.”

“India, where the pace of digitalization is higher relative to some other developing economies, with established open-source Digital Public Infrastructure systems, has the potential to catalyze speed of digitalization in other developing countries seeking to develop such systems through collaboration and knowledge sharing,” Shri Jayant Chaudhary added. In addition, India is a key resource talent hub for AI professionals leading the way with 33.39% YoY growth in AI talent hiring as per AI Stanford Index 2025, which is a clear indicator of the efforts of the government and the industry to nurture an environment for adoption on AI.

On the sidelines of the summit, the Minister held productive bilateral meetings with Ms Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform; Prof Azzedine EL Midaoui, Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation; Mr Younes Sekkouri, Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment and Skills; and Mr Mohammed Saad Berrada, Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports. In his discussions, Shri Jayant Chaudhary touched upon broadly on exploring synergies in AI, research and capacity; discussed insights on how Digital Public Infrastructure can be a catalyst for inclusion, innovation and equitable growth; and shared India’s experience in building scalable, inclusive technology for public good.

India’s participation at GITEX Africa 2025 reaffirmed its role as a global leader in skilling and digital innovation. Through pathbreaking initiatives like Skill India, Digital India, and the creation of scalable Digital Public Infrastructure such as Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker, Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) and DIKSHA, India has demonstrated how inclusive, technology-driven models can empower citizens at scale. These initiatives are increasingly being recognized as global best practices, offering adaptable frameworks for developing nations seeking to build resilient, future-ready societies.

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Beena Yadav/Divyanshu Kumar

(Release ID: 2122606) Visitor Counter : 83

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 10:43AM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today hailed the inclusion of the Gita and Natyashastra in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register as a global recognition of our timeless wisdom and rich culture.

Responding to a post by Union Minister, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on X, Shri Modi said:

“A proud moment for every Indian across the world! 

The inclusion of the Gita and Natyashastra in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register is a global recognition of our timeless wisdom and rich culture. 

The Gita and Natyashastra have nurtured civilisation, and consciousness for centuries. Their insights continue to inspire the world. 

@UNESCO”

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2122608) Visitor Counter : 77

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 1:02PM by PIB Delhi

Some sections of the media have reported that a Satellite-based Tolling System will be launched from 1^st May 2025 and will replace the existing FASTag-based toll collection system. This is to clarify that no such decision has been taken by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways or National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) regarding the nationwide implementation of satellite-based tolling from 1st May 2025.

In order to enable seamless, barrier-free movement of vehicles through toll plazas and reduce travel time ‘ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System’ will be implemented at selected toll plazas.

The advanced tolling system will combine ‘Automatic Number Plate Recognition’ (ANPR) technology, that will identify vehicles by reading their number plates, and the existing ‘FASTag system’ that uses Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) for toll deduction. Under this, vehicles will be charged based on their identification through high performance ANPR cameras and FASTag Readers, without needing to stop at the toll plazas. In case of non-compliance, E-Notices will be served to the violators, non-payment of which may result in suspension of FASTag and other VAHAN related penalties.  

NHAI has invited bids for the implementation of ‘ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System’ that will be installed at selected toll plazas. Based on the performance, efficiency, and user response to this system, a decision will be made regarding its implementation across the country.

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GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2122632) Visitor Counter : 112

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 1:07PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi engaged in a constructive conversation today with Mr. Elon Musk, delving into a range of issues of mutual interest. The discussion revisited topics covered during their meeting in Washington DC earlier this year, underscoring the shared vision for technological advancement.

The Prime Minister highlighted the immense potential for collaboration between India and the United States in the domains of technology and innovation. He reaffirmed India’s steadfast commitment to advancing partnerships in these areas.

He wrote in a post on X:

“Spoke to @elonmusk and talked about various issues, including the topics we covered during our meeting in Washington DC earlier this year. We discussed the immense potential for collaboration in the areas of technology and innovation. India remains committed to advancing our partnerships with the US in these domains.”

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2122634) Visitor Counter : 75

Source: Government of India

SECL to Become First Coal PSU to Use Paste Fill Technology for Mining

₹7040 Crore Agreement Signed Between SECL and TMC Mineral Resources

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 3:01PM by PIB Delhi

South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) is set to become the first coal PSU in India to adopt paste fill technology for coal mining—marking a major step toward sustainable and environmentally friendly mining practices.

To implement this innovative underground mining technology, SECL has signed a ₹7040 crore agreement with TMC Mineral Resources Private Limited.

Under this agreement, large-scale coal production will be undertaken using paste fill technology in the Singhali underground coal mine located in SECL’s Korba area. Over a period of 25 years, the project is expected to produce approximately 8.4 million tonnes (84.5 lakh tonnes) of coal.

What is Paste Fill Technology?

Paste filling is a modern underground mining method that eliminates the need to acquire surface land. After coal extraction, the mined-out voids are filled with a specially prepared paste made from fly ash, crushed overburden from opencast mines, cement, water, and binding chemicals. This process prevents land subsidence and ensures the structural stability of the mine.

Importantly, the paste utilizes industrial waste materials, making the process environmentally sustainable and promoting waste recycling.

Background of Singhali Mine

The Singhali underground mine was approved in 1989 for a production capacity of 0.24 million tonnes per year and commenced operations in 1993. Presently, the mine has 8.45 million tonnes of extractable reserves of G-7 grade non-coking coal. It was developed using the Bord and Pillar method, employing Load Haul Dumpers (LHDs) and Universal Drilling Machines (UDMs) for underground operations.

However, the surface area above the mine is densely occupied—with villages, high-tension electricity lines, and a Public Works Department (PWD) road—rendering traditional caving methods unfeasible due to safety and environmental concerns.

New Opportunity for Singhali Mine

With the introduction of paste fill technology, mining activities in this area can now proceed without disturbing the surface infrastructure.

The successful implementation of this technology in Singhali is expected to pave the way for resuming operations in other underground mines where similar land constraints exist.

A Step Towards Green Mining

With a total investment of ₹7040 crore, the project is a major initiative to promote green mining technologies in India. It aims to enhance coal production while significantly reducing environmental impact.

Speaking on the occasion, SECL CMD Shri Harish Duhan said “I firmly believe that paste fill technology will not only secure the future of underground mining but also offer an innovative, eco-friendly solution. This project is a landmark step toward green mining and will shape the future of the coal industry in the years to come.”

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Shuhaib T

(Release ID: 2122660) Visitor Counter : 17

Source: Government of India

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Reviews Functioning of Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) in Dhanbad, Jharkhand

Union Minister Stresses Good Governance and  Coordination with States to Boost Occupational Safety and Health Services in Mining Sector

Posted On: 18 APR 2025 4:24PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, visited the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) headquarters in Dhanbad, Jharkhand today to review its functioning and to ensure the continuation of effective safety practices in the mining sector. The visit aimed to assess and strengthen India’s mine safety framewodrk, ensuring that key initiatives are in place to safeguard the welfare of miners across the country.

Ms. Deepika Kachhal, Joint Secretary, along with other officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment accompanied the HLEM. A comprehensive review meeting was held at the DGMS Headquarters which was attended by senior officers from DGMS.

Shri Ujjwal Tah, Director General of DGMS, extended a formal welcome, followed by a presentation highlighting the structure, objectives, capacity building, and operational framework of DGMS.

Union Minister emphasized the importance of good governance and coordination with state governments to improve Occupational safety and health services in mining sector. He suggested  to  acquaint with world-class mining technologies to enhance the technological upgradation of DGMS officers, thereby benefiting the industry and those employed in the mines.

The DGMS organized a mock demonstration of rescue operations, which captured the Union Minister’s attention, showcasing preparedness and commitment to ensuring miner safety in case of emergencies.

Following the meeting a plantation activity was also undertaken by Dr. Mandaviya at DGMS office.

This visit highlights the Government’s, commitment to enhancing safety standards and operational efficiency in the mining industry, ensuring a safer working environment for all miners.

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Himanshu Pathak

(Release ID: 2122685) Visitor Counter : 68