Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah says, Modi government is mowing down drug cartels with full might

Home Minister congratulates NCB, Assam Police and CRPF on seizure of 30.4 kg of methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 24.32 crore and arrest of 3 persons in Assam, in a massive blow to drug cartels

Modi Government’s offensives against drugs will continue with ruthless force

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 8:12PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah has said that the Modi government is mowing down drug cartels with full might.

In a post on X platform, Shri Amit Shah said that “in our vision to build a drug-free Bharat, our agencies launched massive operations strangling drug cartels and seized 30.4 kg of methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 24.32 crore while arresting three people in Assam. Our offensives against drugs will continue with ruthless force. Congratulations to the NCB, Assam Police, and the CRPF on this major breakthrough.”

The Modi govt is mowing down drug cartels with full might.

In our vision to build a drug-free Bharat, our agencies launched massive operations strangling drug cartels and seized 30.4 kg of methamphetamine tablets worth ₹24.32 crore while arresting three people in Assam. Our…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 10, 2025

Details of Operation:

NCB seizes 30.4 kg Methamphetamine Tablets (YABA) worth Rs 24.32 Crores and arrests three drug traffickers in two cases on April 6, 2025

Pursuant to the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, of a DRUG FREE INDIA and acting upon the directives of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has achieved significant success in dismantling inter-state synthetic drug network in Assam.

​In a major breakthrough, the NCB seized a total of 30.4 kg worth Rs 24.32 Crores of methamphetamine tablets popularly known as YABA, along with two vehicles, and arrested three accused during two separate operations in Silchar recently. On 06.04.2025, in an intelligence led operation developed over 3 months, NCB Guwahati, in a joint operation with the Assam police, intercepted a car and recovered 10 packets containing 9.9 kg of methamphetamine tablets. The contraband was concealed in a cavity within the vehicle’s boot. The sole occupant of the car who is a resident of Churachandpur, Manipur, was arrested on the spot. Investigations are on to identify the backward and forward linkages. 

Later that night, in another intelligence led operation NCB Guwahati, Assam Police and the CRPF, a Mahindra Thar was intercepted. Authorities recovered 20.5 kg of methamphetamine tablets packed in 21 packets hidden inside the vehicle’s spare tire. Both occupants of the vehicles who also belong to Churachandpur were taken into custody. Investigations are underway to unravel the backward and forward linkages.

​NCB had earlier seized around 110 kg of methamphetamine tablets in two operations on March 13, 2025. In the seizure of 7.5 kg at Silchar, Assam one person has been arrested so far who is resident of Moreh, Manipur. In the seizure of 102.5 kg at Lilong, near Imphal, Manipur, 03 accused have been arrested and 03 vehicles have been seized so far. Further investigations in these matters are also underway to dismantle the trans-national drug trafficking syndicate.

                 

(Images of seized Methamphetamine Tablets)

​NCB, through its newly created 4 Zonal Units at Siliguri, Itanagar, Agartala and Imphal and a Regional Headquarters in Guwahati, has been persistently working against the drug traffickers operating in the region in collaboration with other agencies. A Field Office of NCB in Aizawl, Mizoram has been operationalised with the help of Mizoram police in March 2025 and there was immediate success in seizure of 10.814 Kg Meth on 24.3.2025 in for which 06 accused have been arrested so far, out of which 02 accused are Myanmarese. 04 vehicles have also been seized in this case. Further investigations in this case are also underway to dismantle the trans-national drug trafficking syndicate.

These 5 seizures of Meth in the North East in the last one month exemplify the NCB’s commitment to successfully disrupt trans-national and interstate drug networks to achieve the vision of DRUG FREE INDIA.

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VV / RR / PR / PS

(Release ID: 2120774) Visitor Counter : 73

Source: Government of India

PRESIDENT OF INDIA ADDRESSES SLOVAKIA-INDIA BUSINESS FORUM

CONSTANTINE THE PHILOSOPHER UNIVERSITY CONFERS HONORIS CAUSA DOCTORATE DEGREE ON THE PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT INVITES SLOVAK COMPANIES TO JOIN ‘MAKE IN INDIA’ INITIATIVE

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 8:54PM by PIB Delhi

On the second day (April 10, 2025) of her visit to Slovakia, the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu addressed the Slovakia-India Business Forum in Bratislava. 

Addressing the gathering, the President said that India and Slovakia have historically shared close and friendly relations. Over the years, our countries have collaborated in various sectors. It is now time to explore the diversification of our trade basket. 

The President said that India is undergoing a remarkable transformation, emerging as a global leader in technology, innovation, and sustainable development. We have seen significant success in renewable energy, digital technology, information technology, telecom, auto and auto-components, pharma and biotechnology, space and fintech. She stated that India is expected to become a 5 trillion dollar economy in the coming years, and we hope to do it in partnership with our friends such as Slovakia. 

The President said that India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and Slovakia, with its strong industrial base and strategic location in Europe, presents great opportunities for deeper trade and investment ties. As a key member of the European Union and a hub for automotive, defence, and high-tech industries, Slovakia stands to benefit from India’s vast consumer market, skilled workforce, and thriving start-up ecosystem. She invited Slovak companies to join our ‘Make in India’ initiative. 

The President said that Slovakia-India Business Forum serves as an excellent platform to explore synergies and build mutually beneficial partnerships. She urged business leaders to seize the opportunities and convert these into concrete results. She expressed confidence that the deliberations at the Forum would lead to lasting partnerships. 

In the subsequent engagement, the President visited the Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra where she was conferred with Honoris Causa Doctorate degree in recognition of her distinguished career in public service and governance, advocacy for social justice and inclusion, and contribution towards education, women empowerment and promotion of cultural and linguistic diversity. 

In her acceptance speech, the President said that this is an honour, which is being bestowed upon a country, and civilization that has been a beacon of peace and learning since time immemorial. Receiving this degree from an institution named after the philosopher Saint Constantine Cyril, is especially meaningful. 

The President said that education is a means not only for individual empowerment but for national development as well. Recognizing this, India has placed education at the heart of its national development strategy. With half of its population below the age of 25, India is investing in its youth to drive the knowledge economy of tomorrow. 

The President said that even as India embraces modernity and technology, our progress remains deeply rooted in the wisdom of our ancient philosophical traditions. She stated that just as Saint Constantine Cyril’s work laid the foundation for Slavic linguistic and cultural identity, Indian philosophical traditions have long shaped the intellectual and spiritual fabric of our society. Indian classical philosophy offers a rich and diverse exploration of reality, emphasizing introspection and ethical conduct. It highlights multiple perspectives, and the importance of self-knowledge and inner experience. She was happy to note that the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads resonates in Slovakia too. 

In the next engagement, the President, along with President Peter Pellegrini, visited the Jaguar Land Rover Factory in Bratislava and watched the manufacturing facilities of the plant. 

Earlier in the morning, the President visited an exhibition of paintings by Slovak children. The Slovak-Indian Friendship Society, in collaboration with the Indian Embassy, has been organizing the painting competition ‘Beauty Hidden in Fairy Tales – India through the Eyes of Slovak Children, since 2015. She also witnessed a puppet show on Ramayan conducted by Ms. Lenka Mukova. Ms. Lenka is part of the Babadlo Puppet Theater in Presov, which has been educating children through puppetry for 30 years. 

Yesterday evening (April 9, 2025), the President attended a banquet hosted in her honour by President Peter Pellegrini at the historic Bratislava Castle. 

The Slovak artists presented captivating musical performances including that of National Anthem, signifying the strong cultural bond between the two countries during the banquet.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9EgakGJ_QM, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJVciPS5WDI   

In her banquet remarks, the President thanked the Government and the people of Slovakia for the warm welcome and hospitality. She said that from yoga and ayurveda to Indian cuisine, the love for Indian culture in Slovakia is a testament to our strong people-to-people connections. She reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two countries.

Banquet speech -Slovakia

Honorary Doctorate from Constantine The Philosopher University

Business Forum India-Slovakia

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2120791) Visitor Counter : 90

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 6:23PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Coal convened a comprehensive review meeting in New Delhi to assess the status of 79 captive and commercial coal mines classified as “Operational / Likely to be Operational.” The meeting was held on April 9, 2025 and chaired by Smt. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary, Nominated Authority, Ministry of Coal. Director/ Nominated Authority Shri Marapally and Director Shri Ajitesh Kumar from the Ministry of Coal also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, Smt. Brar lauded the proactive efforts of mine allottees in contributing to India’s growing coal production and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders to further enhance reforms in the sector. She underlined the transformative developments in coal mining over the past decade, attributing this progress to strong collaboration between project proponents and the government. Notably, captive and commercial coal mines now account for approximately 20% of the country’s total coal output.

She further emphasized the importance of putting in their best efforts to obtain the required clearances within the desired timelines. She assured the allottees that the Ministry is committed to providing all necessary support and encouraged them to approach the Nominated Authority for any assistance or to address any issues they may face. She encouraged the importance of mine allottees meeting their committed production targets for the financial year 2025–26.

Looking ahead, she expressed confidence in the ongoing partnership between the Ministry and mine developers and appreciated the consistent performance of the Nominated Authority’s office, calling it a symbol of national pride. She also announced an upcoming interactive workshop to accelerate implementation and deepen sectoral collaboration.

The Ministry’s efforts have yielded significant results, with remarkable year-over-year (Y-o-Y) growth in both coal production and dispatch from captive and commercial mines. Coal production increased by 29.79% rising from 147.12 million tonnes (MT) during FY 2023-24, to 190.95 MT during FY 2024-25. Similarly, coal dispatch from these mines also showed significant growth of 33.36%, increasing from 142.79 MT during FY 2023-24 to 190.42 MT during FY 2024-25.

Approximately 70 allottees, including major companies such as NTPC Ltd., Adani Power, Hindalco Industries Ltd., Jindal Steel and Power Ltd., and WBPDCL, attended the meeting. A total of 79 coal mines were reviewed during the session. Of these, 61 mines are currently producing coal, 8 are operational but not yet producing, and 10 remain non-operational. Out of the 61 operational captive and commercial coal mines, 38 have been allocated to the power sector, 11 to the non-regulated sector, and 12 are designated for the sale of coal.

The allottees were encouraged to share detailed insights on the measures they are undertaking to enhance coal production and expedite the operationalization of their mines. The Ministry sought constructive suggestions on how production levels could be further increased, with a focus on identifying best practices, addressing bottlenecks, and leveraging available resources efficiently. Emphasis was placed on proactive planning, adoption of advanced technologies, and timely completion of statutory clearances to ensure early commencement of mining operations and sustained growth in output.

These achievements underscore the Ministry’s commitment to reinforcing India’s energy security, reducing dependency on imports, and contributing to the nation’s economic growth. The meeting culminated in a dynamic interactive session, where mine allottees actively contributed constructive suggestions aimed at expediting coal production and accelerating project execution.

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Shuhaib T

(Release ID: 2120734) Visitor Counter : 59

Source: Government of India

Ministry of Ayush Brings Together Global Homoeopathy Fraternity on World Homoeopathy Day 2025 in a mega convention at Gandhinagar

On this World Homoeopathy Day, we reaffirm our commitment to expanding its scope through research, education and public outreach: Ayush Minister, Shri Prataprao Jadhav

Convention Souvenir, 8 Books, E-Portals of CCRH Library & Homoeopathy Archives, and a Documentary Film on Drug Proving Released

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 6:49PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, celebrated World Homoeopathy Day 2025 with great fervour at the Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The two-day event was organised by the Ministry through its apex research and academic institutions—Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH), National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH), and National Institute of Homoeopathy (NIH)—bringing together leading global voices in Homoeopathy to commemorate the 270th birth anniversary of Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of Homoeopathy.

The grand celebration underscored the theme ‘Education, Practice and Research in Homoeopathy’, and witnessed participation of over 8,000 delegates from across India and abroad, including academicians, clinicians, researchers, students, and industry professionals. The event featured panel discussions, exhibitions, scientific paper presentations, and deliberations on advancing Homoeopathy as an integral component of global and national healthcare systems.

The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, inaugurated the event in the presence of Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav. The event was also graced by Shri Rushikesh Patel, Health Minister, Government of Gujarat; Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush; and other senior officials.

Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Ayush, highlighted India’s leadership in global traditional medicine systems. He said, “Homoeopathy is not merely an alternative—it is a science rooted in compassion and evidence. On this World Homoeopathy Day, we reaffirm our commitment to expanding its scope through research, education and public outreach.” He also emphasized CCRH’s vital role in standardizing homoeopathic medicines and preserving botanical knowledge, noting the Council’s work in pharmacognosy, physicochemical studies, and the digitization of 17,000 herbarium sheets.

In his inaugural address, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel applauded the Ministry of Ayush for selecting Gujarat as the host state for this historic event. He emphasized Homoeopathy’s growing relevance in modern healthcare and lauded the Ministry’s efforts to integrate Homoeopathy into public health services and national health programmes. He remarked that “This scientific and evidence-based therapy has the potential to transform public health outcomes. Gujarat is proud to contribute to this movement, especially as it is home to WHO’s Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar.”

Delivering the keynote address, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, stated that “This occasion is a tribute to Dr. Hahnemann’s visionary system of healing. With the global demand for evidence-based, integrative, and patient-centric healthcare on the rise, Homoeopathy stands well-positioned to serve future generations. The Ministry of Ayush remains committed to furthering its impact through robust research, education, and policy.”

During the inaugural ceremony, the dignitaries released a Convention Souvenir, eight new publications, e-portals of the CCRH Library and Homoeopathy Archives, and a documentary film on drug proving, showcasing the remarkable research and documentation work undertaken in the field.

The symposium also featured the largest-ever exhibition of the Homoeopathy industry, bridging academia and enterprise, and hosted a first-of-its-kind national-level competition to foster innovation among students and practitioners.

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MV/AKS

(Release ID: 2120741) Visitor Counter : 74

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the inaugural session of the Annual Trade Expo 2025 of Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry via video conferencing

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has progressed in every sector through various systems, development initiatives, and efforts to become a global leader

Gujarat, acting as the gateway to the global economy, has made a significant contribution to the country’s development

Today, Gujarat has emerged as a pioneer in many sectors that will shape the global economy over the next 25 years

The Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has played a crucial role in Gujarat’s development

GCCI has inspired youth with entrepreneurship, courage, and the zeal to do business in any corner of the world

GCCI should integrate the tradition of small-scale industries with startups and modernise it for the benefit of the youth

In Gujarat, industries are provided with a conducive, industry-friendly environment, free from political interference and strikes

GCCI has worked hard to realize the vision of ‘Grow Business and Transform Gujarat’ and has established excellent dialogue with the government

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 4:27PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the inaugural session of theAnnual Trade Expo 2025 of Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry via video conferencing. On this occasion, several dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, were present.

In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry has played a very important role in the development of Gujarat. He mentioned that the foundation of the Chamber was laid under the leadership of Kasturbhai Sheth. Shri Shah said that the Chamber has inspired the youth with entrepreneurship, courage, and the enthusiasm to do business anywhere in the world. He further stated that for 75 consecutive years, the Chamber has upheld that tradition, maintained dialogue with the government, cared for public interest, and stood shoulder to shoulder with the people during natural calamities.

Shri Amit Shah said that the Chamber, having completed its 75-year journey, is now moving toward the milestone of 100 years. He emphasized that the leadership of the Chamber should professionally prepare a roadmap for this journey from 75 to 100 years and align it with Gujarat’s development to take it forward. He stated that to ensure the spirit of industrial entrepreneurship remains alive and is further encouragedamong Gujarat’s youth, the Chamber should formulate a plan.

He pointed out that MSMEs are our greatest asset, and if we look back, every major industry has once begun as a small-scale enterprise. Shri Shah said that Gujarat’s small industries have made a significant contribution to the nation’s industrial growth. He added that the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry should integrate the tradition of small industries with startups and modernize it to create a comprehensive ecosystem for the youth. He said, the Chambershould act as a bridge between the government, small industries, and aspiring young entrepreneurs.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that if the Chamber wants to remain relevant in the times to come, it must go beyond just organizing events and instead establish a permanent mechanism within the Chamber to support industries, industrial entrepreneurs, and industrialists. He stated that if the Chamber’s office bearers create such a system in collaboration with professionals, the relevance of the Chamber can be sustained for the next 25 years. He further added that the Chamber can easily serve as a bridge between the government and new industrialists, the government and the youth, and the government and the industrialists who are eager to contribute to development.

Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah stated that Gujarat today showcases a vibrant and diverse industrial ecosystem—ranging from traditional industries to cutting-edge technology, IT, infrastructure, MSMEs, startups, and pioneering sectors. He emphasized that entrepreneurs looking to establish industries in Gujarat are assured of a business-friendly environment, free from political interference, supported by efficient systems and a strike-free atmosphere. Shri Shah recalled that during Shri Narendra Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister, the Gujarat government prioritized inclusive decision-making by engaging in meaningful dialogue with traders, industrialists, and small business owners through the Chamber of Commerce. He noted that Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has further strengthened this pro-industry environment. He also highlighted Shri Modi’s visionary policy that robust infrastructure is the foundation of a strong economy, and a strong economy, in turn, enhances the quality of life for every citizen. As a result, Gujarat today plays a vital role in India’s growth story and is emerging as a gateway to the global economy.

Union Home Minister said that the Chamber is advancing with the motto of ‘Gujarat’s Vision – Global Ambition’. He highlighted that over 300 individuals from diverse sectors and fields of innovation have been invited to participate in the expo that commenced today. He said that since its inception in 1949, the Chamber has made an exceptional contribution to Gujarat’s development. With more than 75 institutions and over 2.5 lakh small industrial organizations associated with it, the Chamber has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s industrial landscape. The Home Minister emphasized the Chamber’s dedicated efforts toward realizing the motto ‘Grow Business and Transform Gujarat’, and its consistent, effective dialogue with the government. He also acknowledged the Chamber’s significant contribution to the global recognition and success of the Vibrant Gujarat initiative. Shri Shah remarked that the Chamber has been instrumental in Gujarat’s remarkable journey—from the devastating earthquake of 2001 to its emergence in 2025 as a hub for pioneering industries.

Shri Amit Shah highlighted that Gujarat has been a pioneer in launching several transformative initiatives across the country. He stated that the concept of smart infrastructure was first envisioned in Gujarat, and the state led the way by ensuring 24-hour electricity supply in villages. Gujarat also took the early initiative to position itself as a global financial hub. He added that in 2009, Gujarat launched the e-Gram project, bringing inter-connectivity and digital services to rural areas. The state also made significant strides in reducing maternal mortality rates. Shri Shah emphasized that all these achievements were made possible under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has made remarkable progress over the past 11 years, advancing in various sectors and emerging as a global leader across multiple domains. He emphasized that these achievements have been possible due to the holistic, multidimensional, and whole-of-government approach adopted under Shri Modi’s leadership. He also acknowledged that Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has played a key role in firmly upholding and continuing this tradition of development and good governance in Gujarat.

Shri Amit Shah stated that Gujarat has emerged as a pioneer in all the key sectors that will shape the global economy over the next 25 years. He highlighted that the world’s largest renewable energy park has been established in Kutch, while the largest greenfield project—Dholera Smart City—is taking shape in the state. He also mentioned that the Surat-Chennai Expressway, India’s second-longest expressway, originates in Gujarat. Moreover, India’s first international financial hub, GIFT City, has been developed in Gujarat, along with the country’s first bullet train project and the first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail. Shri Shah further emphasized that Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has provided Gujarat with a robust industrial development infrastructure, progressive policies, and an industry-friendly governance model.

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VV/PR/PS

(Release ID: 2120709) Visitor Counter : 62

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Review PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Schemes, Emphasize on Effective Implementation,Uttar Pradesh Reaffirms Commitment to Achieve 22 GW Solar Energy Capacity Target

Union Minister Inspects Wheat Procurement Centre at Mohanlalganj Mandi, Engages with Farmers to Assess Benefits of Welfare Schemes

“The Prime Minister’s vision is to make farmers energy self-reliant and promote low-cost farming,” : Shri Pralhad Joshi

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 7:22PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi today held a review meeting in Lucknow with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to assess the progress of wheat procurement, PM-KUSUM, and PM Surya Ghar schemes. The meeting was also attended by Uttar Pradesh Energy Minister Shri A.K. Sharma and Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, Smt. Nidhi Khare.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his gratitude and said, “I thank Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi for taking time out of his busy schedule to ensure the effective ground-level implementation of these ambitious schemes that benefit farmers and citizens from low- and middle-income groups.”

Visited Village Duggaur, Lucknow and saw how farmers are benefiting from PM-KUSUM. The scheme empowers them with solar-powered irrigation, enhances rural livelihoods and promotes clean, #sustainableenergy in agriculture—a strong step towards a green Bharat.#RenewableEnergy pic.twitter.com/GDJqhY5C4w

— Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) April 10, 2025

During the meeting, Uttar Pradesh reaffirmed its commitment to achieving the ambitious target of 22 GW solar energy capacity of the state. Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi acknowledged the state’s leading role in the effective implementation of flagship central schemes like PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar. He stated that “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi envisions maximum benefit to farmers through these initiatives. Under PM-KUSUM, farmers are no longer solely dependent on conventional electricity and are instead using clean and affordable solar energy for agriculture.” He added that the Central Government provides up to 90% subsidy under this scheme, enabling farmers to adopt solar systems at significantly lower costs.

Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi also visited Duggaur village in Bakshi Ka Talab tehsil of Lucknow to inspect a solar pump project established under PM-KUSUM C-1 scheme. Local resident Mohammad Ahsan Ali Khan has installed an 11.2 kW on-grid solar power plant for his private 7.5 HP irrigation pump. The total cost of the project is ₹6,23,909, of which ₹1,87,173 was provided as central subsidy, ₹3,74,345 as state subsidy, and only ₹62,391 was contributed by the beneficiary.

On the #RenewableEnergy front, the meeting with CM Shri @myogiadityanath ji focused on how Uttar Pradesh is leading the way in renewable energy with an ambitious target of 22 GW solar capacity. The Flagship schemes of @mnreindia, PM Kusum, @PMSuryaGhar were reviewed and… pic.twitter.com/GMRGpA6oCp

— Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) April 10, 2025

Since installation, the solar plant has generated a total of 8,945 kWh of electricity, out of which 7,100 kWh has been exported to the grid, while 1,845 kWh has been used for irrigation. This has not only given Ahsan energy independence but also enabled him to earn additional income by selling surplus power to the grid. This project stands as an inspiring model for other farmers to adopt sustainable and income-generating agricultural practices through solar energy.

Energy Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri A. K Sharma thanked Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Shri Pralhad Joshi for handholding Uttar Pradesh and providing an allocation of 3.7 lakh pump allocation under the PM-KUSUM Scheme (Component C – Feeder Level Solarization).

Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi visited the wheat procurement center at Mohanlalganj Mandi in Lucknow, where he observed the process of wheat procurement, cleaning, and weighing being carried out through the e-POP (Electronic Point of Procurement) machine. During his interaction with farmers, he learned how the use of this technology by the central and state governments has made the process of selling their produce more transparent, efficient, and convenient. The farmers shared that with the introduction of e-POP, weighing has become accurate, and payments are being processed quickly, enhancing their confidence in the government’s procurement system.

In Village Duggaur, Lucknow visited @PMSuryaGhar beneficiary homes and interacted with the new age power producers. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji, this scheme is bringing clean energy to rural homes, ensuring savings, sustainability and… pic.twitter.com/dFfzdoWKEZ

— Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) April 10, 2025

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PIB Lucknow| DS/SC

(Release ID: 2120759) Visitor Counter : 119

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (April 10) that vegetables from regulated Japanese prefectures were suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The products concerned have been marked and sealed by the CFS and have not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the cases.

A spokesman for the CFS said, “During inspections of the concerned consignments of food imported from Japan, the CFS found five packs of chilled mung bean sprouts from Tochigi Prefecture and four packs of mitsuba from Chiba Prefecture, which were not accompanied with radiation certificates and exporter certificates. The importers concerned are thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order.”

According to the Order, all vegetables, fruits, milk, milk beverages and dried milk originating from Fukushima are banned from being imported into Hong Kong, while such foods originating from Ibaraki, Tochigi, Chiba and Gunma prefectures are allowed to be imported on the condition that they are accompanied with a radiation certificate and an exporter certificate issued by the Japanese authority certifying that the radiation levels do not exceed the guideline levels and are fit for human consumption.

The CFS will continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incidents. Prosecution will be instituted against the importers concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

In view of the reckless tariff imposition by the US, including the further increase in the so-called reciprocal tariffs, the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation (ECIC) today introduced measures to support the export trade in Hong Kong and help enterprises expedite their expansion into new markets.

From now until June 30 next year, the ECIC will extend the free pre-shipment cover for holders of the Small Business Policy (SBP), while offering a 50% discount on pre-shipment risks to cover premiums for non-SBP holders.

In addition, to reduce costs and assist exporters in tapping into Association of Southeast Asian Nations markets, the ECIC will reduce the premium rates for new markets, brining the rates in line with those for traditional major markets.

Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau said: “The US has been repeatedly changing its policies, increasing tariffs within days and imposing the so-called reciprocal tariffs against Hong Kong notwithstanding that we have never implemented any tariffs. It is totally illogical and ungrounded, once again showing the US’ bullying act for suppressing its competitors.

“I call upon the business community to unite and face the challenges together, with a view to jointly counteracting the unreasonable coercion of the US.”

Further to the Policy Address initiative on increasing the maximum indemnity percentage of the ECIC to 95%, the measures rolled out by the ECIC today can help accelerate Hong Kong companies’ expansion into new and diversified markets, he remarked.

Since the US’ announcement of the so-called reciprocal tariffs last week, Mr Yau has met representatives of major local chambers of commerce, small and medium enterprise associations, as well as representatives of industries that are more affected by the tariffs, including the jewellery, textiles and garment, food, and aluminium industries, to listen to their views and discuss measures in response to the incident.

The bureau stressed that it will maintain close liaison with the business community to jointly respond to the US’ unreasonable coercion. It will also provide support to the small and medium enterprises through various funding schemes and support measures in managing cash flow, enhancing competitiveness and expanding into more diversified markets.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Home Affairs Department today held a sharing session for District Services & Community Care Teams members to share their experiences in serving the public.

Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing and Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak officiated at the sharing session.

Speaking at the event, Mr Chan pointed out that as announced in the 2024 Policy Address, the Government will regularise the establishment of care teams and increase their funding by 50% in the next term of service to strengthen support for them.

He said the Government hopes that care teams will continue to consolidate community resources to provide more in-depth and extensive caring services and enhance people’s sense of achievement and satisfaction.

Speaking at the ceremony, Miss Mak noted that with the next funding agreement, care teams will be able to further promote their services and continue to work closely with partnering organisations to pool more community resources.

During the sharing session, care teams members shared some of their stories, reflecting the people-oriented service spirit, including the fire incident at New Lucky House, where care teams quickly assisted in evacuating residents and continued to visit each household for several days to provide emotional support and emergency supplies.

When the water supply in Tung Chung and the electricity supply in Wong Tai Sin were affected in extensive areas, care teams provided support to residents overnight.

As of end-January 2025, care teams have visited a total of about 390,000 elderly households and other households in need and provided about 43,000 times of basic home or other support services, as well as organising about 23,000 district activities.