Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

BharatNet

Extending Internet Access, Expanding Rural Progress

Posted On: 21 APR 2025 2:48PM by PIB Delhi

• Q: What is the BharatNet project?

A: BharatNet is an ambitious project of the Government of India aimed at providing broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats (GPs) in the country. It is one of the biggest rural telecom projects in the world.

• Q: What is the objective of the BharatNet project?

A: The primary objective is to provide unrestricted access to broadband connectivity to all the telecom service providers. This enables access providers like mobile operators, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Cable TV operators, and content providers to launch various services such as e-health, e-education, and e-governance in rural and remote India. It aims to empower rural India, foster inclusive growth, and bridge the gap between urban and rural communities.

• Q: How many Gram Panchayats (GPs) are targeted under BharatNet?

A: The project initially aimed to connect approximately 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats across the country.

• Q: What are the different phases of the BharatNet project?

 A: The Telecom Commission approved the implementation of the project in three phases on 30.04.2016:

• • Phase I: Focused on laying optical fibre cables to connect 1 lakh Gram Panchayats by utilising existing infrastructure. This phase was completed in December 2017
  • Phase II(ongoing): Expanded coverage to an additional 1.5 lakh Gram Panchayats using optical fibre, radio, and satellite technologies. This phase incorporated collaborative efforts with state governments and private entities.
  • Phase III(ongoing): Aims at future-proofing the network by integrating 5G technologies, increasing bandwidth capacity, and ensuring robust last-mile connectivity. This phase is ongoing. The Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) approved in August 2023 can be considered part of this evolution.
• Q: What is the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP)?

 A: Approved in August 2023, the ABP is a design improvement aiming for Optical Fibre (OF) connectivity to 2.64 lakh GPs in ring topology (a network design where connected devices form a circular data channel) and OF connectivity to the remaining non-GP villages on demand. It includes features like IP-MPLS (Internet Protocol Multi-Protocol Label Switching) network with routers at Blocks and GPs, operation and maintenance for 10 years, power backup, and Remote Fibre Monitoring System (RFMS). The cost allocated is Rs. 1,39,579 crores.

• Q: What other initiatives support digital empowerment in rural India?

 A: Several other initiatives complement BharatNet, including:

• • Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA): To ensure digital literacy in rural households, with over 6.39 crore individuals trained by March 31, 2024.
  • National Broadband Mission (NBM): Launched to fast-track the expansion of digital communications infrastructure. National Broadband Mission 2.0 was launched on January 17, 2025. Key initiatives under NBM include the Centralized Right of Way (RoW) Portal GatiShakti Sanchar.
• Q: How is BharatNet being funded?

A: BharatNet is primarily funded through the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), which is a fund that replaced the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). The total funding for BharatNet (Phase-I and Phase-II) approved by the Cabinet is Rs 42,068 crores (exclusive of GST, Octroi, and local taxes). As of 31.12.2023, a total of Rs. 39,825 crores have been disbursed under the BharatNet Project since its inception.

• Q: Who is executing the BharatNet project?

A: The project is being executed by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) namely Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), which was incorporated on 25.02.2012 under the Indian Companies Act 1956. Under the Amended BharatNet Program, BSNL is appointed as the single Project Management Agency (PMA) for Operation & Maintenance of the entire network.

• Q: What is the current status of BharatNet implementation?

A:

• • As of 19^th March 2025, 2,18,347GPs have been made service ready under the BharatNet project in the country.
  • As of March 25, 2025, the Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) length has increased to 42.13 lakh route km.
  • As of 13.01.2025, 6,92,676 Km of OFC (Optical Fiber Cable) has been laid.
  • 12,21,014 Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) connections are commissioned
  • 1,04,574 Wi-Fi hotspots are installed.
• Q: How is the BharatNet network utilised?

A: The network is utilised through leasing bandwidth and dark fibre, Wi-Fi to access broadband or internet services in public places, and Fibre to the Home (FTTH). Last Mile Connectivity (LMC) is provided through Wi-Fi in public places or other suitable broadband technologies, including FTTH at Government institutions such as schools, hospitals, post offices, etc.

• Q: What are the benefits and impact of the BharatNet project?

A: BharatNet has had a transformative impact on rural India, contributing to socioeconomic development in multiple ways:

• • Digital Inclusion: Connecting remote villages to high-speed internet, enabling access to e-governance, online education, and telemedicine.
  • Economic Opportunities: Enabling participation in digital commerce, access to financial services, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
  • Education and Healthcare: Facilitating digital classrooms and telehealth services.
  • Empowering Local Governance: Enabling Gram Panchayats to implement e-governance projects.
• Q: What is the role of CSC e-Governance Services India Limited in BharatNet?

A: CSC (Common Services Centre) e-Governance Services India Limited (CSC-SPV) was assigned to provide the last mile connectivity in GPs through Wi-Fi Access Points and FTTH connections.  As of September 2024, 1,04,574 Wi-Fi Access Points and 11,41 ,825 FTTH connections have been installed in the GPs. CSC-SPV also undertook a pilot project for laying overhead optical fiber from GPs.

• Q: What is the collaboration between DBN and NABARD?

A: Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) have signed an MoU to drive rural development by providing access to digital services, digital governance, and promoting a digital economy through high-speed broadband connectivity under the BharatNet program. Key areas of collaboration include reference data sharing, digital content sharing, digital services integration, awareness and capacity building, promoting a digital economy, and inclusion of ICT infrastructure.

• Q: How does BharatNet relate to mobile connectivity in rural areas?

 A: Alongside BharatNet, the government is also focusing on expanding mobile connectivity in rural areas. As of December 2024, around 6,25,853 villages are covered with mobile connectivity, including 6,18,968 villages having 4G mobile coverage. The median mobile broadband speed has increased significantly. These efforts are complementary to BharatNet in bridging the digital divide.

REFERENCES

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2086701#:~:text=the%20government%20of,truly%20digital%20nation

https://x.com/PIB_India/status/1905232713227067857

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2115831

https://usof.gov.in/en/ongoing-schemes

https://bbnl.nic.in/

https://it.tn.gov.in/en/TACTV/BharatNet

https://www.data.gov.in/keywords/BharatNet

https://usof.gov.in/en/bharatnet-project

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2086701

https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/1714/AU2874.pdf?source=pqals

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2117923#:~:text=Government%20of%20India%20Takes%20Measures,and%20Meaningful%20Connectivity%20for%20all.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2077908&reg=3&lang=1

https://sansad.in/getFile/annex/267/AU2155_28gbez.pdf?source=pqars

KIndly find the pdf file 

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Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Chaitanya Mishra

(Release ID: 2123137) Visitor Counter : 193

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 19 APR 2025 12:55PM by PIB Delhi

 The Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma met the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in New Delhi today.

The PMO India handle on X posted:

“Chief Minister of Assam, Shri @himantabiswa, met Prime Minister @narendramodi.

@CMOfficeAssam”

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MJPS/SR/SKS

(Release ID: 2122840) Visitor Counter : 818

Source: Government of India

Media Delegate Registration for WAVES Reopens for Three Days on 21, 22 and 23 April !

Last Call to All Media Persons to Submit Applications and Register

Posted On: 20 APR 2025 2:37PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 20th April 2025

In response to the interest from the media community, the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 is reopening Media Delegate Registration for three final days — April 21^st (Monday), April 22^nd (Tuesday) and April 23rd (Wednesday). This is the last window for media professionals, photographers and digital content creators to apply and be a part of the most awaited Media & Entertainment (M&E) event, taking place from May 1–4, 2025 in Mumbai. Your coverage will play a crucial role in amplifying India’s creative economy on a global stage.

Registration Link: https://app.wavesindia.org/register/media.

If you have missed the earlier deadline, this is your last shot to hit ‘Submit’ and secure access to exclusive sessions, networking opportunities, and one-on-one sessions with industry professionals shaping the future of entertainment.

Who Can Apply?

• Journalists (Print, TV, Radio)
• Photographers / Camerapersons
• Freelance media professionals
• Digital content creators

Documents Required:

• Government-issued ID
• Passport-size Photograph
• Proof of Media Affiliation
• 10 Work Samples (links or screenshots)
• Visa (for international applicants)

Registration Window Opens: 21^st April 2025
Closes: 11:59 PM, 23^rd April 2025

Approved delegates will be notified by email and added to an official WhatsApp group for real-time updates.

Reach us at pibwaves.media[at]gmail[dot]com with the subject line: WAVES Media Accreditation Query or contact us  at our helpline number: 9643034368.

Check out the Media delegate Registration Policy here

Don’t miss your last chance to sail with the WAVES!

About WAVES

The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

Have questions? Find answers here  

Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now

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PIB PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 |Sayyid/ Nikita/ Dhanlakshmi/Parshuram | 99

Follow us on social media:  @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2123023) Visitor Counter : 162

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 20 APR 2025 4:23PM by PIB Delhi

A contingent of the Indian Air Force reached Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates to participate in Exercise Desert Flag-10, a premier multinational air combat exercise. The IAF is fielding MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft in the exercise.

Exercise Desert Flag is a multinational exercise being hosted by the UAE Air Force, with participating contingents from the Air Forces of Australia, Bahrain, France, Germany, Qatar Saudi Arabia, Republic of Korea, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, and the United States in addition to the Indian Air Force. The exercise is scheduled to take place between 21 April to 08 May 2025.

The aim of the exercise is to undertake complex and diverse fighter engagements, with exchange of operational knowledge and best practices with some of the most capable Air Forces in the world. Participation in such exercises enhances mutual understanding interoperability, and strengthens military cooperation among the participating nations.

The IAF’s participation underscores India’s commitment to strengthening defence ties and interoperability with friendly nations in the region and beyond.

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VK/JS/SM

(Release ID: 2123037) Visitor Counter : 97

Source: Government of India

Historic Women Representation in Civil Services: Dr. Jitendra Singh Hails Largest-Ever Representation of 74 Women IAS Officers in a Batch of 180, Nearly 41 Percent

Union Minister Interacts with IAS Officer Trainees of 2023 batch; Highlights India’s Administrative Transformation and Vision for Viksit Bharat @ 2047

Interaction was part of the ongoing Assistant Secretary programme, wherein the IAS Officer Trainees are attached to 46 Central Ministries for a period of 8 weeks

This batch of IAS officers is not only the youngest and most diverse—but also the most representative of New India’s aspirations: Dr. Singh

Posted On: 20 APR 2025 4:47PM by PIB Delhi

In a thought-provoking and motivating interaction with the Officer Trainees (OTs) of the 2023 IAS batch, Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space hailed the largest women representation in the history of Indian Administrative Services, with 74 women officers, making up 41 percent of the current batch of 180 officers.

The interaction was part of the ongoing Assistant Secretary programme, wherein the IAS Officer Trainees are attached to 46 Central Ministries for a period of 8 weeks from April 1 to May 30, 2025, giving them early exposure to policy formulation and the workings of the Central Government.

Dr. Jitendra Singh attributed this landmark development to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, under whose tenure women-led initiatives have gained unprecedented momentum. “The Prime Minister has always been a champion of women empowerment. This record representation is a testament to his unwavering support for inclusive and progressive governance,” the Minister said.

The Minister reflected on the inception of the Assistant Secretary Programme in 2015, calling it Prime Minister Modi’s brainchild to give young officers real-time governance exposure at the beginning of their careers. “The programme has brought a resurgence of confidence among officers. During the pandemic, many of these officers performed remarkably when called upon for district-level crisis management,” Dr. Jitendra Singh added.

As the initiative marks its 10th anniversary, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted its outstanding impact on nurturing capable and confident civil servants. He also celebrated the democratisation of Civil Services, with increasing representation from states like Punjab, Haryana, and the North-East, regions that earlier saw fewer selections.

The Minister took pride in the academic and professional diversity of the batch, mentioning that 99 officers hail from engineering backgrounds, along with many from medicine and other technical fields. “For years, I wondered why technocrats joined the civil services. But now, I realize the technical nature of flagship Government programmes—from Digital India to Smart Cities—makes their presence a national asset,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the young average age (22–26 years) of the batch, which provides a long-span career trajectory to contribute to the nation. He urged the officers to stay technologically ahead and make full use of the iGOT Karmayogi platform, a digital learning ecosystem offering continuously updated capacity-building modules.

“You are fortunate to be in the best of times, when India is rapidly moving towards becoming Viksit Bharat @2047,” he emphasized.

In an open-floor dialogue with the young officers, Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed support for a more dynamic and flexible civil service ecosystem, where officers may be allowed to gain exposure outside government for a few years and return as domain specialists—a model that he termed “a win-win for both the officer and the government.”

On the issue of bridging the digital divide, the Minister called technology a great leveller, citing examples like the Swamitva Mission, which eliminates the need for revenue officials by leveraging drone-based property mapping. “This has democratised access to land records and decentralised service delivery at the grassroots,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also stressed the importance of grievance redressal mechanisms, urging the trainees to study the CPGRAMS platform, which he described as a global benchmark. “Nearly 26 lakh grievances have been disposed of with a 98% resolution rate, most within 13 days,” he shared.

Yet, he reminded the officers that human intelligence and empathy must complement technology. “Despite resolving grievances technically, many citizens still feel emotionally dissatisfied. That’s why we have created a ‘human desk’ to provide emotional closure, proving that governance is not just administrative but deeply human,” he remarked.

In a moving exchange, one of the Officer Trainees quoted Dr. Singh’s past speech “One retires from service, not from citizenship.” Responding to this, Dr. Singh spoke about initiatives to involve retired civil servants through a Digital Repository of Expertise, allowing India to harness their knowledge. He also highlighted the Anubhav Awards, which encourage retiring officers to document their experiences for the benefit of future generations.

As the interaction concluded, Dr. Jitendra Singh urged the young civil servants to uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and service, aligning their efforts with the spirit of Antyodaya—working for the last man standing.

“This batch of IAS officers is not only the youngest and most diverse—but also the most representative of New India’s aspirations. Let your work reflect the hopes of a billion people.” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2123043) Visitor Counter : 146

Source: Government of India

Yuva Shakti with the Power of Knowledge key to Viksit Bharat”: Sarbananda Sonowal

“Knowledge is power, and students must acquire it”: Sarbananda Sonowal

“New ideas and innovative thinking of Students must be harnessed”: Sarbananda Sonowal

Posted On: 20 APR 2025 6:14PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal called on harnessing new Ideas and innovative thinking of students. Sonowal identified how Yuva Shakti with the Power of Knowledge are key to realising the vision of Viksit Bharat. Shri Sonowal was addressing and interacting the students of Sreeram Academy Pathsala today on the occasion of its 20th Foundation Day celebration. 

Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The vibrant gathering included students, teachers, parents, alumni, and distinguished local dignitaries, making the occasion a memorable milestone in the institution’s illustrious journey.

On the occasion, Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Students must not confine themselves to textbooks alone; they should strive to introduce new ideas and innovative thinking.” He highlighted the transformative initiatives of the Government of India, noting, “Programmes like Digital India, Make in India, and Skill India have been launched to empower the new generation, equipping them with the tools to lead and innovate.” 

“Knowledge is power, and students must acquire it and apply it effectively for the greater good.” Shri Sonowal also underscored the significance of value-based education, stating, “Education rooted in moral values must be prioritised. I urge parents to raise their children as responsible citizens and also to emphasised the importance of integrating Yoga and holistic health practices into daily life. “Yoga is not just physical exercise; it is a way of life that brings mental clarity and physical strength. It helps one stay focused, balanced, and healthy,” added Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.

The celebration featured captivating cultural performances by students, including dance, music, and drama, which showcased their talents and enthralled the audience.

The event was also attended by Phanidhar Talukdar, MLA of Bhawanipur Constituency, Shri Dhanpati Deka, Honorable Vice-Chancellor of Bhattadev University, Dr. Kakali Das, Principal Shree Ram Academy along with other notable dignitaries. 

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GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2123051) Visitor Counter : 84

Source: Government of India

Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan’s Brazil visit becomes important on many counts

Participates in the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting; also initiates important steps towards strengthening agricultural trade, technology and innovation between India and Brazil

Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasizes on promoting production and export of soya in India

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan intends to upgrade Indian farmers by enabling them the benefits of global technologies

Joint efforts will strengthen global food security: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Shri Shivraj Singh expresses concerns for small farmers in the BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting

Posted On: 20 APR 2025 6:36PM by PIB Delhi

Union Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan is schedule to return from his Brazil visit on Monday morning, 21 April. His Brazil visit is important on many counts. Besides leading the Indian delegation at the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting, the Union Minister’s visit is an important step towards strengthening agricultural trade, technology and innovation between India and Brazil. During Brazil visit, the Union Minister stressed on promoting production and export of soya in India. He intends to upgrade Indian farmers by enabling them the benefits of global technologies. He said that joint efforts of various countries will strengthen global food security.

During his Brazil visit, Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh mainly expressed his concerns related to small farmers of India. He said that unless the small farmers are protected and empowered, the goal of global food security will remain incomplete. The Union Minister said that India is fully committed to inclusive, equitable and sustainable agriculture. Echoing the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, he said that India always follow the message of trust and cooperation with all countries. He called for enhanced cooperation in agricultural technology, innovation, capacity building and trade facilitation so that farmers and agricultural enterprises of various countries can benefit. On the BRICS platform, India called for further strengthening cooperation in agricultural technology transfer, research, food processing and trade.  Shri Chauhan’s address, on behalf of India, focused on global food security, empowerment of small farmers, agricultural innovation and technological cooperation and advancing partnership with BRICS countries.

Altogether, Shri Chouhan’s visit to Brazil is not just a diplomatic but also a concrete initiative towards technological innovation, production increase and global partnership for Indian agriculture, which can yield direct benefits to the farmers.

The 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting, held in Brasilia, was attended by Agriculture Ministers/Senior Officials from India, host Brazil and BRICS member countries including Russia, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia and Iran. The main theme of the meeting was “Promoting inclusive and sustainable agriculture through cooperation, innovation and equitable trade among BRICS countries”.

Besides participating in the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ meeting, Shri Chouhan’s visit is expected to give a new direction to agricultural cooperation between India and Brazil. This will boost agricultural trade between the two countries. The Union Minister expressed his desire to share knowledge with Brazil on climate-friendly soyabean varieties, mechanization, precision farming and sustainable agricultural practices. He also expressed his desire to learn from Brazil’s agricultural model, mechanization, irrigation and research and implement it in Indian agriculture so that maximum benefits can be transferred to the farmers.

Cooperation in the areas of biofuel, bioenergy, supply chain integration and agricultural machinery was discussed during the meetings which would enable Indian farmers to have access to global technology. Joint efforts of the two countries will also strengthen global food security as Brazil has achieved tremendous growth in agricultural exports in the last 50 years, an inspiration for India as well.

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan also held bilateral meetings with Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Carlos Henrique Baquetta Favero and Minister of Agricultural Development and Family Agriculture, Luiz Paulo Teixeira. During these meetings, the issues of enhancing cooperation in the areas of agriculture, agro-technology, rural development and food security were discussed. The Union Minister also met 27 members of Brazil’s agribusiness community at Sao Paulo. During this meeting, possibilities of cooperation on agricultural trade, production technology, food processing, biofuel, technological innovation and supply chain integration were discussed.

Union Minister Shri Chouhan visited soyabean production plant, tomato farm and other institutes in Brazil and closely observed the latest technologies related to mechanization, irrigation and food processing. Currently India imports soyabean oil, but now both the countries are jointly exploring the possibilities of investing and setting up technology and plants for soyabean production and processing. This can boost soyabean production and export in India. Shri Chouhan said that there is a plan to work together with Brazil to increase soybean production and processing in India. Besides, possibilities of cooperation between the two countries in mechanization and seed research will also be explored.

Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s routine of planting a sapling every day continued in Brazil as well. He participated in the tree plantation drive at the Indian Embassy in Brasilia under the initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, promoting environmental protection and respect for motherhood. Shri Shivraj Singh also met the Indian diaspora at Sao Paulo in Brazil and appreciated their role in bilateral relations. He said that this is the Amrit Kaal of our independence under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. In 2047, we will complete 100 years of independence and our goal is to make India a developed nation by then.

Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh said, “During my stay in Brazil, I got the  opportunities to enrich myself with various experiences and techniques. We will utilize these technologies to increase production in India. I am confident that the mutual cooperation between India and Brazil will empower our farmers and give a new direction to global food security.”

This visit is an important step towards India-Brazil agricultural cooperation, partnership with BRICS countries and accelerating innovation and sustainable growth in Indian agriculture, Shri Singh added.

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PSF/KSR/AR

(Release ID: 2123055) Visitor Counter : 63

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO) supported the Chinese Cinema Project in presenting the Hong Kong New Wave: 1979 – 1989 Film Festival from April 1 to May 16 (London time) in London.

The film festival presents nine iconic Hong Kong films, with selected sessions accompanied by introductions and panel discussions led by notable film experts, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the historical and artistic significance of Hong Kong films. A highlight of the festival was the special masterclass titled “In Conversation with Ann Hui”, held on April 17 in partnership with director Ann Hui’s alma mater, the London Film School, as well as King’s College London, where director Hui engaged in a dynamic exchange with film critics, students and the audience, sharing her personal journey, creative insights, and reflections on the evolution of the Hong Kong film industry. She also joined two Q&A sessions on April 18 and 19, as well as a reception on April 18 at The Garden Cinema, further enriching the festival experience.

The Director-General of the London ETO, Miss Fiona Chau, addressed the audience at the masterclass, emphasising the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s unwavering commitment to fostering the development of Hong Kong’s creative industries. She highlighted Hong Kong’s role as a vibrant East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange as underpinned by the National 14th Five-Year Plan. “Director Hui is a pioneer of Hong Kong cinema. Her remarkable work has brought Hong Kong’s cinematic excellence to global audiences. To better understand the stories and spirit behind her films, please visit Hong Kong to experience our rich blend of heritage, innovation, and cinematic energy,” she said.

The Chinese Cinema Project is dedicated to promoting the work of Chinese filmmakers in the United Kingdom via regular screenings and cultural promotion. The Hong Kong New Wave: 1979 – 1989 Film Festival is expected to welcome over 1 800 guests across 19 screenings, one panel discussion and one masterclass from April to May 2025.

Source: Government of India

Union Health Minister Shri J P Nadda leads the “Liver Health Pledge Ceremony” at the Health Camp organized by the Ministry, in presence of Union MoS Smt. Anupriya Patel

Shri Nadda reiterates Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s appeal to the nation to reduce oil usage in cooking by at least 10% and spreading awareness about fighting obesity

Fatty liver is preventable and, to a great extent, reversible through the adoption of a healthy lifestyle: Shri Nadda

Liver Health Camp organized in collaboration with the FSSAI and Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences

Posted On: 21 APR 2025 12:05PM by PIB Delhi

In observance of World Liver Day 2025, the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda led the “Liver Health Pledge Ceremony” at the health camp organized by the Ministry, at Nirman Bhawan, today. Smt. Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary, Prof. (Dr.) Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, Prof. (Dr.) S.K. Sarin, Director of Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Shri G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) were also present at the occasion.

This year’s World Liver Day theme “Food is Medicine”—emphasizes the critical connection between nutrition and liver health.

Addressing the gathering, Union Health Minister stated that “As we all know, the liver is one of the most vital organs of our body that performs essential functions like digestion, detoxification, and energy storage. If the liver is not healthy, the entire body suffers.”

Underlining the importance of Liver health, Shri Nadda stated that “Fatty liver not only impacts liver function but also significantly increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and even cancer.” He also added that “The good news is that fatty liver is preventable and, to a great extent, reversible through the adoption of a healthy lifestyle and healthy food-habits.”

He emphasized that “Recently, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, during his address in “Mann Ki Baat,” appealed to the nation to reduce oil usage in cooking by at least 10%. This small yet powerful step can go a long way in ensuring better liver health and in reducing the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in the country.” Shri Nadda called upon everyone to take the pledge for “taking care of liver health, get it checked regularly, and adopt a healthy lifestyle.”

At the camp, all participants pledged to make informed food choices, lead healthier lifestyle, reduce edible oil intake by at least 10% and spread awareness about fighting obesity in response to the call given by PM Narendra Modi.

The Ministry, in collaboration with FSSAI and the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) and hosted a comprehensive Liver Health Camp for officials and staff of the Ministry. In the Camp, the multidisciplinary team from ILBS—comprising expert doctors, nurses, and technicians offered the following services: clinical examination (including BMI, waist-hip ratio, and blood pressure); laboratory tests (fasting blood glucose, liver function tests, lipid profile, complete blood count, Hepatitis B & C screening); fibroScan for liver fat and fibrosis assessment; body composition analysis and personalized nutritional counselling focusing on reducing oil and processed food intake.

As part of the event, FSSAI set up an informative exhibition showcasing millets and liver-friendly diets, aligning with this year’s theme: “Food is Medicine.”

Highlighting the nutritional value of millets, the stall demonstrated their benefits in maintaining liver health. Rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants and essential micronutrients, millets aid in promoting bile secretion, reducing inflammation, improving lipid profiles and digestion—factors closely linked to liver health. Their inclusion in the daily diet helps prevent liver disorders, including Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).

Additionally, the display promoted cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cauliflower), leafy greens, fatty fish (rich in omega-3), nuts and seeds, citrus fruits and healthy fats (such as olive oil), known to reduce oxidative stress, support detoxification processes, and maintain overall liver function.

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MV

HFW/HFM leads World Liver Day pledge ceremony/21April 2025/1

(Release ID: 2123092) Visitor Counter : 132

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region