Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

The genesis of the Centre dates back to 1966, with establishment of the Experimental Satellite Communication Earth Station (ESCES), by late Dr. Vikram A Sarabhai in Ahmedabad. In 1972, the different units of ISRO in Ahmedabad pursuing research in applications of space technology were merged to form Space Applications Centre (SAC). A unique experiment called the Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE) was conducted by SAC/ISRO during 1975-76. Hailed as ‘the largest techno-social experiment in the world’, SITE demonstrated the potential of satellite technology as an effective mass communication media, aimed at socio-economic development of rural India.

Space Applications Centre (SAC), is a major and unique multi–disciplinary research and development Centre of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). SAC today stands high in each of its endeavour with its strong space research & development capabilities and continues to deliver world-class technologies and applications for various national, strategic, societal and technology demonstration missions of ISRO. These applications are in diverse areas and primarily meet the communication, navigation and remote sensing needs of the country. Located at Ahmedabad, SAC is spread across three campuses having multi-disciplinary activities apart from Delhi Earth Station (DES), which is located in New Delhi.

SAC has state-of-the-art electronic and mechanical fabrication facilities, highly sophisticated payload integration, climatic & environmental test facilities, systems reliability area, image processing and analysis facilities and project management support group.

SAC is the lead centre in the development of key payload technologies for Earth Observation, Communication, Navigation and Space Exploration. Further, the Centre also develops various applications that cater to various user ministries in the field of Agriculture, Meteorology, Fisheries, Oceanography, Environment, Forest, Railways, Urban development etc.

The notable technologies that were developed by the Space Applications Centre for spacecraft payloads including S-Band SAR for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, C-Band and X-Band Microwave Radars for RISAT series, Lander/Rover Cameras, Ka Radar Altimeters, Hazard Detection and Avoidance  Sensors for Lunar Landing for Chandrayaan-3, demonstration of spectrum sensing, ADS-B, GNSS-R reflectometry, Pseudolite systems for RLV, High resolution Electro-optical payloads, Ka-band payload for high throughput satellites (50 Gbps), spread-spectrum modems for Gaganyaan crew communication system, Indian Atomic clock-Indian Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard (IRAFS) for NavIC and Travelling Wave Tube Amplifiers (TWTA) for Communication satellites. Currently, a large number of payloads are under various stages of realization at SAC including, GSAT-7R, HRSAT Series, Resourcesat-3 series, Oceansat-3A, G20- Satellite, Indian Mauritius Joint Satellite (IMJS), GSAT-N3, IDRSS-2, payloads for Quantum Communication.

Various downstream applications developed and demonstrated for users include National Drought Portal for Krishi-Decision Support System (DSS), application development for Yield Estimation System based on Technology (YES-Tech) program under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), Geospatial Energy map portal of India, Sea Ice Advisories for polar expedition routes for National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), System for national scale Crop Yield Estimation, Very short range weather forecast, Value added Agro-Met products for Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS), Hybrid weather prediction system for customized station specific weather forecast (transferred to Bihar Mausam Sewa Kendra (BMSK) for operational use), Satellite and in situ based data assimilative technique for ocean wave forecasting (transferred to Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Hyderabad), High Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) methodology for using Doppler Weather Radars (DWR) data (transferred to India Meteorological Department (IMD), New Delhi), Satellite-based ocean drift model for search and rescue (transferred this application to National Operational Data Processing and analysis Centre (NODPAC)/ Indian Navy, Kochi), Monitoring of fishing boats with keel lengths <24m which is now being rolled-out nationally, Locomotive-mounted satcom terminals for tracking of trains for safety-of-life & train information, real-time aircraft tracking for aviation safety & fleet management, authentication geo-fixes for Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) – Aadhar enrolment operatives, Indus river-level monitoring system, high-accuracy NavIC receivers for e-tolling applications for National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

SAC objectives are realized and met with a well-planned strategy for a sustained capacity building through skilled human resources, establishment of state-of-the-art facilities, industry and academia participation and international cooperation under a well-defined policy support of ISRO. SAC has been proactively enhancing and upgrading the skills and competencies of internal human resource through standard as well as tailored training and development programs. SAC has systematic capacity enhancement plans at individual level to meet the organizational objectives, which also includes non-training interventions such as conferences, seminars, workshops at national as well as international levels. Higher education in premier academic institutions is also a part of the capacity enhancement strategy.

SAC has built a strong partnership with over 300 small, medium and large scale industries and commercial organizations specialized in various fields including RF, Digital, Optical, Microwave, Mechanical, Electrical, Antenna, Scientific software, specialized materials etc. are presently associated with SAC. SAC has a well-established academia partnership programs for research in the areas associated with space technology, space science and exploration including RESPOND, STC etc.

SAC has state-of-the-art highly sophisticated payload integration laboratories, electronic & Mechanical fabrication facilities, environmental test facility, image processing, and analysis facilities.

SAC has outlined a detailed technology roadmap, as a part of space vision 2047. It is envisioning a new paradigm of space borne observations for Earth system and Planetary studies with special emphasis on developing advanced Radars, LIDAR, Hyperspectral and Terahertz technologies with high quality analysis-ready data products and also advanced techniques for geophysical parameters retrieval and customised web-based solutions to meet various User requirements in the domain of Agriculture, Forestry, Coastal Zone Management, Meteorology, Fisheries, Urban Planning, Oceanography etc.

SAC has defined roadmap for development of Quantum technologies including Space Based Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing and Quantum computing.

SAC has evolved roadmap for competitive & advanced Satellite Navigation (SATNAV) services and achieve larger penetration of NavIC applications across strategic, civilian and scientific domains; secure and self-reliant Satellite Communication (SATCOM) systems and applications; NavCom systems and applications for various Users all of which will be enabled by indigenous technology, products & services and propelled by Indian Industries/NGEs.

SAC has defined roadmap for state-of-the art capability and self-reliance in design and development of crew centric systems for Human Space Programme and ensure crew safety through specific human-rated R&QA practices.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.   

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2118301) Visitor Counter : 75

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:12PM by PIB Delhi

Remote sensing data and space technology are widely employed for societal development activities/ programmes. The space technology is utilized in many of the government programmes targeting rural and remote areas of the country. The details of major programmes utilizing space based inputs are as given below:

• Geospatial technology for supporting MGNREGA Programme (Geo- MGNREGA): The creation of assets and activities under the MGNREGA programme, are being monitored through Satellite data, Geoportal and mobile applications. More than 6.24 crore assets/ activities have been geo-tagged on the Geo-MGNREGA geoportal. Subsequently, Yuktdhara geospatial planning portal is also developed, for decision support towards planning and implementation of new assets or activities. Phase-II of Geo-MGNREGA project monitored changes over three years due to implementation of natural resource management activities in 23 Gram Panchayats (one Gram Panchayat for each state) of MGNREGA.
• Integrated Watershed Management Programme: ISRO/ DOS has implemented Geospatial solution for monitoring of about 86,000 micro-watersheds under the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (PMKSY-WDC 1.0). Under this, more than 18 lakh watershed development interventions are geotagged. Under PMKSY-WDC 2.0, around 1150 projects are assessed through Bhuvan tools employing high resolution satellite data (Cartosat 2S & 3).
• Space based Information Support for Decentralized Planning (SIS-DP): Under two phases of this project, very large scale (1:10,000) country level thematic database on Land Use / Land Cover, Drainage, Settlements, Rail & Road and slope is generated using remote sensing data. Visualisation and analytical tools are deployed on ‘Bhuvan Panchayat’ geoportal (https://bhuvanpanchayat.nrsc.gov.in) to facilitate developmental planning at Panchayat / Village level.
• Rural Road Infrastructure Mapping: The high-resolution satellite data on Bhuvan was used for mapping rural roads under Pradhan Mantri Gram SadakYojana (PMGSY). Database of rural roads is prepared for entire country and PMGSY dashboard is deployed on Bhuvan Web Portal for monitoring the progress by MoRD and State Govt. Officials.
• Under Pradhan MantriAwasYojana – Housing for All (PMAY-HFA) and Gramin project, a geospatial platform on the Bhuvan portal is developed to streamline the implementation of the (PMAY-HFA) initiative. It helps in managing the construction of homes for 78.64 Lakhs beneficiaries, to monitor progress through five distinct stages of construction and releasing funds based on project advancement.

Under the Disaster Management Support Programme (DMSP) of ISRO/ DoS, ISRO enables the use of space-based inputs for disaster management activities by the respective nodal Ministries/ Departments. Space based inputs are being used in the hazard; vulnerability; risk (HVR) assessment, disaster monitoring, damage assessment, and development of early warning systems for major disasters such as flood, cyclones, landslide, earthquakes and forest fire. Data from Indian Earth Observation satellites such as Resourcesat-2 & 2A, Cartosat-2 Series, Cartosat-3, EOS-04 (RISAT-1A), EOS-06 (Oceansat-3) and INSAT-3DR & 3DS are being used for disaster management support, in addition to the data from various global satellite missions.

During 2024, major floods were monitored using satellite data and about 300 flood inundation maps were provided to various State and Central disaster management agencies. As part of the National Hydrology Project (NHP), ISRO developed spatial flood early warning system for Godavari and Tapi Rivers. Flood alerts were disseminated through Bhuvan-NHP and NDEM Geoportals, and also to AP State Disaster Management Authority, with 2- day lead time and 85% accuracy. Very High Resolution data from India’s RISAT satellite was used for assessing the extent of the Wayanad (Kerala) landslide in July 2024. In the year 2024, tropical cyclones Remal, Asna, Dana and Fengal were monitored with INSAT-3DR, INSAT-3DS and Oceansat-3 data. Active forest fires were detected using satellite data daily 6 to 8 times during the Indian forest fire season in 2024 and the activity is ongoing for the fire season in 2025.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.   

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2118302) Visitor Counter : 79

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

Researchers have recently shown that using optical tweezer electrophoresis can help us understand how particles stick to surfaces at tiny scales, at shorter time-scales, a phenomenon that is used in applications ranging from coating to water purification.

The adsorption phenomenon is exploited in the industry for coating a product and refers to the adhesion of one material onto the surface of a different material. This phenomenon is also used in water purification to remove pollutants and for colloidal stabilization during the synthesis of food emulsions. Usually, adsorption is detected via changes in mass or volume.

Researchers from the Raman Research Institute, an autonomous institute funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, studied adsorption by using Laponite clay nanoplatelets (adsorbate) and Latex spheres (adsorbent) to understand how individual particles are adsorbed.

They used optical tweezer electrophoresis, a technique that tracks changes in electrical charge on the adsorbent. The technique of manipulating a micron-sized object using light is known as optical tweezer and was awarded the Nobel prize in Physics in 2018.  The researchers exploited the optical force exerted by a focused laser beam to grab a micron-sized Latex particle suspended in a clay-water mixture.

The researchers then applied an electric field across a clay-water mixture and tracked the movement of the trapped Latex sphere at an extremely fast rate of 30,000 measurements/ second. The adsorption of clay particles transfers charges to the trapped microsphere.

The researchers tracked the change in the effective charges on the trapped sphere due to adsorption. The fast temporal resolution of these measurements allowed monitoring of adsorption events as they occurred, enhancing the understanding of dynamic interactions, and providing a better basis for the study of adsorption mechanisms. These measurements provided insights into the rate and extent of nanoplatelet adsorption. The results published in Soft Matter, the journal of the Royal Society of Chemistry indicated that higher Laponite concentrations accelerated the adsorption process due to increased nanoplatelet availability.

As a quantitative correlative test, the researchers used cryogenic-field emission scanning electron microscopy (cryo-FESEM) to observe the patterns of adsorption of the clay more clearly and to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of clay adsorption. Cryo-FESEM images of Latex microspheres suspended in water revealed smooth surface textures, indicating no significant adsorption in pure water. However, when the microspheres were immersed in water- clay mixtures, the clay particles adhered onto the microsphere, displaying patches corresponding to clay nanoplatelets.

The size distribution histograms of these patches showed ranges close to 50 and 25 nm, corresponding to small clay aggregates and individual nanoplatelets. The researchers controlled the adsorption process by tuning the interparticle interactions between clay nanoplatelets and Latex sphere using additives, such as common salt and a peptizing agent. They were able to separate the roles of two attractive forces, dispersion and electrostatic, in the adsorption process and noted that optical tweezer based single colloid electrophoresis and cryogenic field emission scanning electron microscopy are reliable, complementary measurements to study adsorption processes.

“The use of optical tweezer-based single-colloid electrophoresis enables real-time tracking of nanoplatelet adsorption on a single particle and enables us to gain insights that were previously inaccessible through other techniques. While electron microscopy provides detailed visualization of the adsorbed particles, it cannot capture the adsorption kinetics. We used electron microscopy to validate our findings,” the first author Vaibhav Raj Singh Parmar, a PhD student at the Raman Research Institute, explained.

Fig 1. Schematic representation of the mechanisms governing the adsorption process of clay nanoplatelets on a Latex microsphere.

 

The researchers identified non-electrostatic dispersion interactions as the dominant mechanism driving initial nanoplatelet adsorption. At higher clay and ionic concentrations, electrostatic screening accelerated the adsorption of nanoplatelets, aggregates, and gel network strands. These findings provide valuable insights into the adsorption behaviour of clay nanoplatelets and their interactions with colloidal surfaces in different ionic environments.

Prof. Ranjini Bandyopadhyay, lead of RRI’s RheoDLS lab, pointed out, “Our next goal is to enhance the precision of our measurements by integrating optical tweezer electrophoresis with advanced microfluidic techniques. We are currently developing a holographic optical tweezer capable of trapping multiple beads simultaneously, which will enable us to investigate medium-mediated charge transfer between beads made of the same or different materials”.

Such an understanding of adsorption dynamics at small spatial and temporal scales can help industries to gain precise control over the adsorption process, especially in charged materials.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2118305) Visitor Counter : 82

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

A Third Launch Pad (TLP) will be established at Sriharikota. The project has been approved by the Union Cabinet and financial sanction has been obtained for a total budget outlay of ₹3984.86 Crore. Establishment of the pad is envisaged to be completed within 4 years timeframe.

ISRO’s Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), which is under development is about 90 m tall with a maximum lift-off mass of approximately 1000 tonne. Existing launch pads at Sriharikota cannot launch this class of vehicles. The propellant servicing facilities and the Umbilical Tower of the existing launch pads are not designed to meet the requirements of the new propulsion system based on Liquid Methane.

In view of very large height & size, the next generation of launch vehicles are planned with horizontal integration and transport, which are then tilted onto the launch pad along with a Tiltable Umbilical Tower (TUT). Also, TLP incorporates necessary features in terms of foundation support & servicing requirements for future augmentation towards supporting the launches of India’s Crewed Lunar mission.

The first stage of NGLV is configured with a cluster of 9 engines. The hot testing of this stage is planned at the Launch Pad, thereby eliminating the need for establishing a huge separate facility for stage testing.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.   

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2118304) Visitor Counter : 82

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:15PM by PIB Delhi

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has today released a Pre-Consultation Paper on “Review of existing TRAI Regulations on Interconnection matters” seeking inputs from stakeholders. 

To facilitate this review, the Authority invites all stakeholders to participate in the pre-consultation process by submitting the issues, concerns and suggestions pertaining to the existing interconnection regulations to develop a futuristic and robust regulatory framework for interconnection.

Written comments on the Pre-Consultation Paper are invited from stakeholders by 16^th April 2025. Inputs/ Comments received from stakeholders would be analysed and examined to prepare a consultation paper on the subject

The comments may be sent, preferably in electronic form at adv-nsl1@trai.gov.in. For any clarification / information Shri Sameer Gupta, Advisor (Networks, Spectrum & Licensing-I), TRAI may be contacted at Telephone Number +91-11-20907752.

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Samrat/Allen

(Release ID: 2118307) Visitor Counter : 112

Source: Government of India

Union Government Disburses Over Rs. 1,440 Crores in XV-Finance Commission Grants to Boost Rural Development Across Five States

Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland Receive Substantial Untied Grants for Local Needs

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:54PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Government has disbursed the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV-FC) grants to Rural Local Bodies (RLBs)/ Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in five States viz. Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland and Punjab during the financial year 2024–25. These grants, allocated in two installments per financial year, are released by the Ministry of Finance based on recommendations from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Jal Shakti (Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation).

State-Wise Allocation:

1. Madhya Pradesh – Rs.651.7794 crore (1st Installment, Untied Grants, FY 2024–25)

• Funds allocated for 52 eligible District Panchayats, 309 eligible Block Panchayats, and 22,995 eligible Gram Panchayats.

2. Gujarat – Rs.508.6011 crore (1st Installment, Untied Grants, FY 2024–25)

• Funds allocated for 27 eligible District Panchayats, 242 eligible Block Panchayats, and 14,469 eligible Gram Panchayats.

3. Punjab – Rs.225.975 crore (2nd Installment, Untied Grants, FY 2024–25)

• Funds allocated for 22 eligible Zila Parishads, 149 eligible Block Panchayats, and 13,152 eligible Gram Panchayats.

4. Arunachal Pradesh – Rs.35.40 crore (1st Installment, Untied Grants, FY 2022–23)

• Funds designated for all eligible RLBs in the State.

5. Nagaland – Rs.19.20 crore (1st Installment, Untied Grants, FY 2022–23)

• Funds designated for all eligible RLBs in the State.

Utilization of Grants:

Untied Grants: These grants empower RLBs/PRIs to address location-specific needs under the 29 Subjects listed in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution, excluding salaries and establishment costs.

Tied Grants: These funds must be utilized for:

(a) Sanitation and maintenance of ODF (Open Defecation Free) status, including household waste management, human excreta, and fecal sludge treatment.

(b) Drinking water supply, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling. 

The timely release of XV-FC grants reaffirms the Union Government’s commitment to strengthening local governance and ensuring effective service delivery in rural areas.

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Aditi Agrawal

(Release ID: 2118289) Visitor Counter : 54

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:31PM by PIB Delhi

Summary

Introduction

India, blessed with a 7,500 km-long coastline, stands at the edge of the ocean’s vast potential. The seashores hold untapped treasures beneath the waves, offering rich resources beyond traditional fisheries. Among these, seaweed farming is emerging as a booming livelihood option, unlocking new opportunities for coastal communities.

Seaweed is a type of marine plant that grows in oceans and seas. It is used in many products like food, cosmetics, fertilizers and even in medicine. It grows in shallow waters and doesn’t require land or freshwater, making it an eco-friendly crop. It’s becoming popular worldwide as a healthy food because it’s easy to grow and needs little care. Seaweed is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It helps fight diseases like cancer, diabetes, arthritis, heart problems and high blood pressure. It also boosts immunity and keeps the body healthy.

Unlocking the Potential of Seaweed

Seaweed isn’t just for eating—it’s also used in industries for making thickening and gelling agents:

• Alginate (US$ 213 million): Extracted from brown seaweeds (harvested from the wild). It’s used as a thickener in foods, cosmetics, and even medical products.
• Agar (US$ 132 million): Comes from red seaweeds. It’s been cultivated since the 1960s and is used in desserts, jams, and laboratory cultures.

Carrageenan (US$ 240 million): Extracted from certain red seaweeds like Irish Moss. It’s used in dairy products, ice creams, and toothpaste.

Promoting Seaweed Farming in India

Seaweed has the potential to address the challenge of nutritional deficiency in India. Out of around 844 seaweed species, about 60 are commercially valuable. The government, along with the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), is working to boost this sector through policies, infrastructure support, and collaborations with states and research institutes.

In June 2020, the Government of India launched the PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana) with an investment of ₹20,050 crore to boost the fisheries sector. Seaweed farming is a key focus under this scheme. The government has allocated a total budget of Rs. 640 crore for seaweed cultivation in India from 2020 to 2025. This significant investment is aimed at boosting the seaweed industry and promoting sustainability. Out of this total, Rs. 194.09 crore is being used for key projects, including the establishment of a Multipurpose Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu and the development of a Seaweed Brood Bank in Daman and Diu. So far, 46,095 rafts and 65,330 monocline tubenets have been approved for seaweed farming. Under the PMMSY scheme, India aims to boost seaweed farming, increasing production to 1.12 million tonnes in the next 5 years.

Key Benefits of Seaweed Production

Seaweed production offers a range of environmental and economic benefits. It supports sustainable livelihoods and helps boost the economy.

1. Biostimulants in Farming: Seaweed is one of the eight types of biostimulants, which help increase crop yields, improve soil health and make plants stronger. The Government of India regulates the quality of seaweed used as biostimulants under the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985.

2. Support for Organic Farming: Since 2015-16, the government has encouraged organic farming through schemes like Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for the Northeast (MOVCDNER), promoting seaweed-based organic fertilizers for farmers.
3. Ecological Importance: Seaweed farming is eco-friendly as it helps fight climate change by absorbing CO₂ from the air. Seaweed also improves ocean health by cleaning the water and providing homes for marine life.
4. Economic Benefits: Seaweed farming offers a new way to earn money besides fishing. For example, farming Kappaphycus alvarezii can earn farmers up to ₹13,28,000 per hectare per year. Seaweed products like biofuels and fertilizers are in high demand globally, helping India earn foreign currency.

Key Seaweed Developments in India

Success Stories

Empowering Women Through Seaweed Farming

Boosting Seaweed Production with Tissue Culture

Conclusion

Seaweed farming can improve the lives of India’s coastal communities by creating jobs and increasing incomes. It’s a sustainable alternative to traditional fishing, especially for women and youth. While challenges like climate risks and market access exist, government schemes like PMMSY and the Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu are helping the industry grow. With more support and innovation, seaweed farming can boost India’s economy and build a greener future for coastal areas.

References

Kindly find the pdf file 

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Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kamna Lakaria

(Release ID: 2118317) Visitor Counter : 33

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:37PM by PIB Delhi

Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) has developed a support system towards export promotion by setting up 65 Export Facilitation Centres (EFCs) in its field offices namely, MSME Development and Facilitation Offices, MSME Technology Centres and MSME Testing Centres. These EFCs handhold the MSMEs by providing MSMEs with support in documentation, market access, financing, technology adoption and training. Ministry of MSME also implements the International Cooperation (IC) Scheme which provides assistance for Capacity Building of First Time Exporters (CBFTE). Under the CBFTE, reimbursement is provided to new Micro &Small Enterprises (MSE) exporters for costs incurred on Registration-cum-Membership Certification (RCMC) with EPCs, Export Insurance Premium and testing & quality certification for exports. (ii) The Market Development Assistance (MDA) component of IC Scheme provides assistance on reimbursement basis to the eligible Central / State Government organizations and Industry Associations to facilitate participation of MSMEs in international exhibitions and fairs held abroad; and for organizing international conference in India with the aim of technology upgradation, modernization, joint venture etc.

MSME Champions Scheme with three sub schemes, MSME-Sustainable (ZED) Certification Scheme, MSME-Competitive (LEAN) Scheme and MSME-Innovative Scheme (Incubation, Design& IPR) is a holistic approach to unify, synergize and converge with various Schemes and interventions to enable MSMEs to become globally competitive.

Other initiatives for helping MSMEs to grow their business globally include Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES) and Market Access Initiative (MAI) which facilitates participation of Indian Exporters in exhibitions, buyer seller meets, fairs etc. Initiatives like Districts as Export hubs identify export potential, address bottlenecks and supports local exporters / manufacturers. The Trade Connect e Platform is an information and intermediation platform on international trade, which provides comprehensive services for both new and existing exporters.

To support MSMEs in accessing global market, the Government has taken following measures:

(i)    Ministry of MSME has set up a dedicated support system for export promotion by setting up 65 Export Facilitation Centres (EFCs). These EFCs support MSMEs by disseminating information on various Schemes and supports available for the MSMEs for enhancing their  exports,  in linking them with financial institutions such as NBFCs, new fintech start-ups etc, to avail credit at competitive rates etc. 

(ii)   Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme aims to provide support to Micro, Small and Medium enterprises through increased access to technological upgradation, market and credit by strengthening of Central and State agencies.

(iii)  The Trade Connect e-Platform is an information and intermediation platform on international trade, which provides comprehensive services for both new and existing exporters.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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SK

(Release ID: 2118323) Visitor Counter : 90

Source: Government of India

NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the reported detention of a journalist covering a protest over alleged financial irregularities in a bank in Guwahati, Assam

Issues notice to the Director General of Police, Assam, calling for a detailed report within four weeks

Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:51PM by PIB Delhi

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that on 25th March, 2025 in Guwahati, a journalist of a digital news portal was called at Panbazar police and detained after a dharna in front of the Assam Cooperative Apex Bank Ltd, which he had gone to cover. Reportedly, the journalist had questioned the Managing Director of the bank on the alleged financial irregularities, though no reason was cited for his detention.

The Commission has observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise the issue of violation of the journalist’s human rights. Therefore, it has issued a notice to the Director General of Police, Government of Assam, calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks.

According to the media report, carried on 25th March, 2025, the protestors were demanding a high-level inquiry into the alleged financial irregularities in the management of the bank and strict action against those responsible.

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NSK

(Release ID: 2118342) Visitor Counter : 76