Hong Kong Customs detects two dangerous drugs cases at airport with seizure worth about $11.9 million (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Customs detects two dangerous drugs cases at airport with seizure worth about $11.9 million  
In the first case, a local female, aged 19, arrived in Hong Kong from Paris, France, yesterday. During customs clearance, Customs officers found about 12kg of suspected ketamine inside her check-in suitcase. She was subsequently arrested.
 
The arrestee has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug and will appear at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (April 14).
 
In the second case, through risk assessment, customs officers intercepted a 57-year-old female passenger who planned to depart from Hong Kong to Brussels yesterday. Upon a search, Customs officers found about 7kg of suspected cocaine from her check-in luggage. The woman was subsequently arrested.
 
An investigation is ongoing.
 
Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
 
Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.
 
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
 
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hkIssued at HKT 19:38

NNNN

DRI thwarts major methamphetamine smuggling operation on outskirts of Mizoram with seizure of 52.67 kg methamphetamine tablets worth Rs. 52.67 crore

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 2:15PM by PIB Delhi

In a significant late-night operation on April 11, 2025, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepted a 12-wheeler truck and seized 52.67 kg methamphetamine tablets, valued at Rs. 52.67 crore in the international drug market, on the outskirts of Aizawl, Mizoram.

The operation uncovered a novel method of concealing and transporting smuggled drugs — 53 meticulously packed, brick-sized packets were found hidden within the folds of the truck’s tarpaulin cover.

 

 

The packets bore inscriptions such as “3030 Export Only” and “999”, alongside diamond symbols, and contained orange-pink tablets. Tests conducted using the NDPS Field Test Kit confirmed the tablets contained methamphetamine.

 

 

The truck, registered in Nagaland, had originated from Zokhawthar—a sensitive border town near the Indo-Myanmar frontier—and was enroute to Tripura. DRI intercepted the vehicle before it left Mizoram. Notably, the truck carried no declared goods at the time. Earlier, it had transported cement from Meghalaya to Champhai before continuing to Zokhawthar, where the contraband was loaded.

The truck’s driver and his assistant were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Preliminary investigations indicate that the drugs had been smuggled into Mizoram from Myanmar via the Zokhawthar sector.

The DRI has The DRI has seized 148.50 kg methamphetamine tablets in the North Eastern Region since January 2025 till today, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to combating drug smuggling.

 

****

NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2121422) Visitor Counter : 47

PRESIDENT OF INDIA’S GREETINGS ON THE EVE OF BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu has greeted fellow-citizens on the eve of the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

In a message, the President has said, “On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the architect of our Constitution, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens.

In his inspiring life, Babasaheb created a distinct identity of his own despite facing extreme difficulties and earned respect around the world with his extraordinary achievements.

A man of prodigious abilities and multifaceted personality, Babasaheb was an economist, educationist, jurist and a great social reformer. He was an ardent advocate of an egalitarian society and he waged a lifelong struggle for economic and social rights of women and deprived classes. He considered education as an important tool for social change and empowerment of the downtrodden. His contributions in various fields will continue to inspire future generations to work with commitment for nation-building.

On this occasion, let us pledge to adopt the ideals of Dr. Ambedkar in our lives and work to build a nation that embodies the spirit of social harmony and equality”.

Please click here to see the President’s message – 

 

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121445) Visitor Counter : 128

A Dose of Atmanirbhar Bharat

Source: Government of India

A Dose of Atmanirbhar Bharat

How Make in India is transforming India’s Global Pharmaceutical Footprint

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 2:56PM by PIB Delhi

Introduction

The Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, is responsible for matters related to the pricing and availability of affordable medicines, research and developmentand international obligations. With a vision to make India the world’s largest provider of quality medicines at reasonable prices, the department’s efforts align with the Make in India initiative. The Indian pharmaceutical industry continues to play a crucial role in manufacturing high-quality, cost-effective medicines for both domestic and global markets, marked by its dominance in branded generic medicines, competitive pricing, and a robust network of indigenous brands.[1]

 

India has been UNICEF’s largest vaccine supplier for the past six to seven years, contributing 55% to 60% of total volume procured contributing 99%, 52% and 45% of the WHO demand for DPT, BCG and the measles vaccines, respectively.[2]

 

Overview of the Indian Pharmaceutical Industry

[3][4]

Medical Devices

The medical devices sector in India is an essential and integral constituent of the Indian healthcare sector, particularly for prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of all medical conditions and disabilities. The medical devices sector is a multi-disciplinary sector. Its constituent device categories are-

 

  1. electro-medical equipment
  2. implants
  3. consumables and disposables
  4. surgical instruments
  5. in vitro diagnostic reagents

Several segments of the medical device industry are highly capital-intensive, with a long gestation period, and require continuous induction of new technologies and the ongoing training of healthcare professionals to adapt to new technologies in the sector.

[5]

Export & Import of Medical Devices

Foreign Direct Investment

The Department of Pharmaceuticals considers FDI proposals falling under the Government approval route in pharmaceutical and meditech activities for approval or rejection as per FDI Policy.

In the financial year of 2024-25, from April 2024 to December 2024, FDI inflows (in both pharmaceuticals and medical devices) has been ₹11,888 Crore.

Further, the Department of Pharmaceuticals has approved 13 FDI proposals worth ₹7,246.40 Crore for brownfield projects during FY 2024-25.

 

[6]

Production Linked Incentive Scheme

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, launched in 2020 by the Government of India, is a transformative initiative aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing, attracting investments, reducing reliance on imports and increasing exports. Aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and the larger Make in India initiative, the scheme offers financial incentives based on production performance, encouraging companies to scale up operations, adopt advanced technologies, and improve global competitiveness.

For pharmaceuticals, the initiative aims to reduce import dependence on Key Starting Materials (KSMs), Drug Intermediates (DIs), and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), strengthening India’s manufacturing base. By promoting production and innovation, it boosts domestic capabilities and global competitiveness.

Overview of the PLI Schemes

The Department of Pharmaceuticals administers three PLI schemes as part of the Government of India’s larger initiative to enhance manufacturing capabilities. These include:

  1. PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals
  2. PLI Scheme for promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical KSMs/DIs/APIs
  3. PLI Scheme for promoting domestic manufacturing of Medical Devices[7]

 

PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals[8]

The PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals was approved by the Union Cabinet on 24 February 2021[9], with a financial outlay of ₹15,000 croreand the production tenure from FY 2022- 2023 to FY 2027-28, provides financial incentive to 55 selected applicants for manufacturing of identified products under three categories for a period of six years. Under this scheme, high value pharmaceutical products such as patented/off-patented drugs, biopharmaceuticals, complex generics, anti-cancer drugs, autoimmune drugs, among others, are manufactured.[10]

Key Features of the Scheme:

The scheme supports the manufacturing of pharmaceutical goods under three categories:

  1. Category 1: Biopharmaceuticals, complex generic drugs, patented drugs or those nearing patent expiry, gene therapy drugs, orphan drugs, and complex excipients.
  2. Category 2: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), Key Starting Materials (KSMs), and Drug Intermediates (DIs).
  3. Category 3: Repurposed drugs, autoimmune drugs, anti-cancer drugs, anti-diabetic drugs, cardiovascular drugs, and in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) devices [11]

 

PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs[12]

The PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs was launched on 20 March 2020, with a financial outlay of ₹6,940 crore for the period FY 2020-21 to FY 2029-30. The main objective of Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical Key Starting Materials (KSMs)/ Drug Intermediates and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in India is to promote domestic manufacturing of 41 identified bulk drugs to address their high import dependence.

Achievements under the PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs

One of the significant achievements under the PLI scheme has been the surpassing of targeted investments. While the initial commitment was ₹3,938.57 crore, the actual realized investment has already reached ₹4,253.92 crore (as of December 2024).

Under the PLI scheme for Bulk Drugs, a total of 48 projects have been selected under the scheme, of which 34 projects have been commissioned for 25 bulk drugs as of December 2024.

Notable Projects Under the PLI Scheme for Bulk Drugs

  • Penicillin G Project (Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh): ₹1,910 crore investment; expected import substitution of ₹2,700 crore per annum.
  • Clavulanic Acid Project (Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh): ₹450 crore investment; expected import substitution of ₹600 crore per annum.[13]

PLI Scheme for Medical Devices[14]

The PLI Scheme for Medical Devices was launched to support domestic manufacturing of high-end medical equipment and reduce reliance on imports. The scheme provides financial incentives to manufacturers in key segments such as radiology, imaging, cancer care, and implants.The period of the scheme is from financial year 2020-21 to financial year 2027-28 with total financial outlay of Rs. 3,420 crore. Under the scheme, financial incentive is given to selected companies, at the rate of 5% of incremental sales of medical devices manufactured in India and covered under the target segments of the scheme, for a period of five years.

Category of applicant

Incentive Period

Incentive rate

Category A

FY 2022-23 to FY 2026-27

5% limited to Rs.121 crore per applicant

Category B

FY 2022-23 to FY 2026-27

5% limited to Rs.40 crore per applicant

The details of incentive under the scheme are as follows:

https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2025/jan/doc202516481901.pdf

[15]

Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks

Approved in March 2020, the Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks scheme (FY 2020–21 to FY 2025–26) aims to establish parks with world-class common infrastructure to reduce manufacturing costs and enhance self-reliance in bulk drugs. Proposals from Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh were approved under the scheme. Financial assistance is capped at ₹1,000 crore per park or 70% of the project cost (90% for Northeastern and Hilly States), with a total outlay of ₹3,000 crore.[16]

 

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana

With an objective of making quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana (PMBJP) aims to ensure access to affordable, quality generic medicines across India.

Some of the activities under this initiative include:

  • Raising Awareness: Educating the public on the benefits of generic medicines, highlighting that affordability doesn’t compromise quality and countering the belief that higher prices mean better efficacy.
  • Encouraging Prescriptions of Generic Drugs: Promoting the use of generics by motivating healthcare professionals, especially in government hospitals, to prescribe cost-effective alternatives.
  • Enhancing Accessibility: Ensuring the availability of essential generic medicines across therapeutic categories, with a focus on reaching underserved communities.[17]

As of April 8, 2025, there are a total of 15,479 Jan AushadiKendras across the country.

 

Strengthening of Pharmaceuticals Industry Scheme (SPI Scheme)

The SPI scheme is a Central Sector Scheme (CSS) with an outlay of Rs.500 Cr with thescheme period from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26. [18]

 

Conclusion:

India’s pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors stand as a testament to the country’s growing capabilities in science, innovation, and manufacturing. Through visionary initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana (PMBJP), the Department of Pharmaceuticals has not only bolstered domestic production but also ensured equitable access to affordable healthcare solutions. With its continued commitment to self-reliance under the Make in India vision, India is poised to solidify its position as a global hub for high-quality, cost-effective medicines and medical technologies, empowering both its citizens and contributing significantly to global health outcomes.

References:

A Dose of Atmanirbhar Bharat

****

Make in India (Pharmaceuticals) | Explainer | 08

Santosh Kumar/ Sheetal Angral/ Kritika Rane

(Release ID: 2121425) Visitor Counter : 94

GFS open day promotes National Security Education Day

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

​To promote the National Security Education Day, the Government Flying Service (GFS) held an open day today (April 13) at the GFS Kai Tak Division, taking the opportunity to raise public awareness of national security and deepen their understanding of the GFS’s services, as well as its work and achievements in safeguarding national security.
 
The open day featured interactive exhibition boards, national security-themed game booths, as well as virtual-reality and augmented-reality games to give members of the public a better understanding of GFS operations. The Hong Kong Air Cadet Corps performed a Chinese-style foot drill and gave a pipe band performance during the open day. As a concluding performance, a search-and-rescue flight demonstration was performed by a helicopter simulating a marine rescue operation, illustrating emergency response efforts by the GFS during life-saving missions.
 
More than 1 600 visitors joined the GFS Open Day. The Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, and the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, toured the open day and recognised the efforts and contributions by the GFS in safeguarding national security.

National Security Education Day cum Police Museum Open Day held today (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

To echo the National Security Education Day on April 15, the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) held the “National Security Education Day cum Police Museum Open Day” today (April 13) to enhance public awareness of national security, foster their sense of national identity and offer an opportunity for the community to learn more about the history and work of the HKPF.

Addressing at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, said that safeguarding national security is everyone’s responsibility. The HKSAR Government has always been committed to promoting national security education to enhance public awareness and foster a sense of responsibility in protecting national security. He praised the HKPF for their crucial role in safeguarding national security. He said that Hong Kong has long been regarded as one of the safest cities in the world. This reassures investors and tourists to visit and should never be taken for granted; rather, it is the result of concerted efforts, with significant contributions from the HKPF.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Chow Yat-ming, in his opening remarks, said that national security is the cornerstone of prosperity and stability for a society. He added that the HKPF will continue its unwavering efforts to prevent, suppress, and impose punishment for acts endangering national security. Stressing that community support and participation are essential elements for safeguarding national security, he hoped the public would remain vigilant at all times and work together to safeguard national security.

At the opening ceremony, the officiating guests were accompanied by children in mini police uniforms to display the 20 key areas of national security, symbolising the Police and the public’s concerted efforts to convey the message of “national security, a mission we share”.

To commemorate the 5th anniversary of the implementation of the National Security Law, the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the National Security Department of the HKPF, the 1st anniversary of the implementation of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, and the 10th anniversary of the National Security Education Day, the open day featured the “National Security Express – Police Museum Station”, which showcased the Force’s efforts in safeguarding national security. The advanced equipment of various units, including the Police Dog Unit, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau and the Counter Terrorism Response Unit, were also on display, providing the public with an opportunity to learn about the work of the Force.

In addition, officers dressed in police uniforms from different generations were present to take photos with the public, showcasing the evolution of police uniforms. In addition to the interactive technology elements in the Police Museum’s exhibitions, retired police officers and civilian staff also provided guided tours to the visitors, enabling them to have a better understanding of the history of the Force. The open day also featured a “drone football” experience game, an anti-drug publicity vehicle and a number of check-in spots where the public could take photos and have fun.

                    

Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in a factory mishap in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in a factory mishap in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh

PM announces ex-gratia from PMNRF

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 6:54PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives in a factory mishap in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.

The Prime Minister’s Office handle in post on X said:

“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in a factory mishap in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.

An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi”

 

 

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121460) Visitor Counter : 107

Read this release in: Tamil

Lighting Up Kashi

Source: Government of India

Lighting Up Kashi

Sacred City, Smart Future

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 6:58PM by PIB Delhi

“India today is carrying forward both development and heritage together, Our Kashi is becoming the best model for this.”

 

~Prime Minister Narendra Modi

 

Kashi isn’t just a city—it’s a living soul. It breathes through the ripples of the Ganga and the quiet strength of its people. Here, ancient stones whisper stories of the past while glass-fronted buildings reflect the promise of tomorrow. The city where life and death meet at Manikarnika Ghat, now welcomes wide roads, smart lighting and modern corridors. This is Kashi’s journey—where the sacred and the smart co-exist, not in conflict, but in harmony. A place where every street holds a story and every step leads to a blend of soul and structure.

On April 11, the ancient city of Kashi witnessed a moment of progress. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth over ₹3,880 crore in Varanasi.It was a celebration of growth—what PM Modi called a true “festival of development.”

Ten years ago, a trip through Varanasi meant endless traffic and dusty detours. Today, the city is rewriting that story. Projects like the Phulwariya flyoverand theRing Road are easing traffic woes, saving precious time for daily commuters and lakhs of pilgrims. Travel between districts like Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Balliaand Mau has become faster and more connected than ever before.

PM Modi also laid foundation stone for—a road bridge connecting Varanasi Ring Road and Sarnath, long-awaited flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih, and a highway underpass road tunnel on NH-31 at the Varanasi International Airport worth over Rs 980 crore. These projects aren’t just concrete and steel; they’re the backbone of a growing city opening up to the world.

To brighten up lives and lighten up the city, Prime Minister Modi gave a major push to Kashi’s power network. He inaugurated two400 KV and one 220 KV substations—projects worth over ₹1,045 crore. Add to that a ₹775 crore boost with new substations in Chaukaghat and Ghazipur.

But real power lies not just in wires, but in wisdom. Staying true to his vision of “education for all,” the Prime Minister opened new doors of learning. Rural education got a lift with 356 libraries and 100 Anganwadi centres. He also laid the foundation for revamping 77 primary schools under the Smart City Mission.

One of the most heartwarming transformations in Purvanchal has come through Banas Dairy. It has helped turn thousands of small dairy farmers into confident entrepreneurs. Over ₹105 crore in bonuses were distributed to livestock-rearing families—most of them women.These women, now proudly known as “Lakhpati Didis”, are a shining symbol of real empowerment.

PM Modi also highlighted how schemes like the Kisan Credit Card, free vaccinations for livestock, and the Rashtriya Gokul Mission are helping farmers. They’re raising healthier animals and finding better markets for their produce.

Once, people from Purvanchal had to travel far for good medical care. Through the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, lakhs of families in Uttar Pradesh have received free treatment and saving lives.PM Modi personally handed out Ayushman Vay Vandana cards to elderly citizens—ensuring free medical care for all above 70, regardless of income.

Development in Kashi is not just about roads and hospitals—it’s about dreams too. With new stadiums and a world-class sports complex, young athletes from Varanasi are now getting the platform they need to shine. PM Modi reminded everyone that if India wants to host the 2036 Olympics, our youth need to begin their journey now—and Kashi is making sure they’re ready.

From the rhythmic beats of the tabla to the intricate designs of zardozi, Varanasi’s rich culture is gaining international fame. Over 30 local products from Varanasi and surrounding districts now carry the prestigious GI (Geographical Indication) tag, including the famous thandai, red stuffed chilli, tiranga barfi and even Jaunpur’s imarti and Pilibhit’s flute.

PM Modi also announced the creation of an Ekta Mall, a space where the diverse crafts and products from across India will be showcased under one roof—right here in Kashi.

As Varanasi stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, the city proves one simple truth: development is most meaningful when it touches lives and preserves the soul of a place.With folded hands and firm resolve, Kashi moves forward—proud of its past, and prepared for its future.

 

References

Lighting Up Kashi

****

Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria

(Release ID: 2121462) Visitor Counter : 103

Digital Policy Office strengthens co-operation on digital economy with Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Digital Policy Office and the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data signed the Memorandum of Understanding between Shanghai and Hong Kong on Digital Economy Co-operation (the MoU) in Hong Kong today (April 13) to jointly promote and deepen co-operation in areas such as digital economy, digital transformation and data element development between the two places.

     At the Kick-off Ceremony of the Hong Kong/Shanghai Co-operation Open Data Challenge 2025 and the Signing Ceremony of the MoU held during the period of InnoEX, the Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, and the Director of the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data, Dr Shao Jun, signed the MoU. Both sides will strengthen collaboration on various fronts, including the promotion of the synergistic development of Hong Kong and Shanghai in digital economy, data element market collaboration and digital identity authentication; jointly taking forward the cross-boundary public services for the convenience and benefit of the public and businesses, co-operation in digital infrastructure, industrial spaces and communication platform; and deepen exchanges and talent cultivation in innovation and technology between the two places.

     “The signing of the MoU will further deepen co-operation in innovation and technology between Hong Kong and Shanghai, explore more collaboration opportunities and promote joint development of the digital economy in both places, thereby opening up broader prospects for the development of innovation and technology industries between the two places,” said Mr Wong.

     

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the State Level Cooperative Conference in Bhopal as the Chief Guest

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the State Level Cooperative Conference in Bhopal as the Chief Guest

Since the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation, there has been a significant change in the cooperative sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and now this sector is moving forward rapidly

MoU signed between NDDB and MPCDF to increase the contribution of cooperative dairy societies in milk production in Madhya Pradesh

MOU will expand cooperative dairy to every village of Madhya Pradesh

Setting up of cooperative milk producing societies in villages will increase milk processing capacity manifold, this will also make farmers prosperous

The Modi government, in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh government, is committed to take every possible step for the welfare of the farmers of the state

During the time of opposition government, the cooperative sector in MP had collapsed, now it is a golden opportunity to revive the cooperative sector

Three multi-state cooperatives created by the Modi government are providing farmers a fair price for their produce, a platform for export and profits are reaching directly to their bank accounts

PACS, which earlier used to provide only short-term agricultural loans, are now providing more than 20 types of services, which has increased their income

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 7:12PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the State Level Cooperative Conference organized in Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, as the Chief Guest. Many dignitaries including Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, State Cooperation Minister Shri Vishwas Sarang and Secretary of the Union Ministry of Cooperation Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani were present on the occasion.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that there are a lot of possibilities in the three sectors of agriculture, animal husbandry and cooperatives in Madhya Pradesh and a lot of work is required to exploit them to the fullest. He said that for years the cooperative movement in the country was becoming moribund and was divided at different levels in the country. The reason for this was that the cooperative laws did not change as per the times.

Shri Amit Shah said that in our Constitution, except for multi-state cooperatives, all cooperatives are a state subject. He said that no initiative was ever taken to make laws according to the rapidly changing conditions in the country. Keeping in mind the geographical conditions, rainfall conditions, rural development, agricultural development and animal husbandry dimensions of each state, no thought was ever given at the national level. Shri Shah said that no thought was ever given, because there was no Cooperation ministry at the national level.
Shri Shah said 75 years after independence, the Prime Minister of the country, Shri Narendra Modi, established the Cooperation Ministry and he got the privilege of becoming the first Cooperation minister.

Union Minister of Cooperation said that Since the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation, there has been a significant change in the cooperative sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and now this sector is moving forward rapidly. He said that the limits that were in our Constitution are still there. Even today, cooperation is a state subject. Shri Shah said that the Government of India cannot make any legal changes in the field of cooperation. However, efforts have been made to revive the Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), promote the dairy sector, cooperation in the field of production, smooth management of urban cooperative banks, district cooperative banks and rural banks. He said that the Ministry of Cooperation first worked on creating model by-laws for PACS and sent it to the state governments for approval. Today the whole of India has accepted these model by-laws. Expressing gratitude to the states for accepting the model by-laws, Shri Shah said that this step has brought new life to the cooperative sector. He said that unless PACS is strengthened, the three-tier cooperative structure cannot be strengthened. He said that earlier PACS used to provide only short-term agricultural loans, in which they used to earn about half a percent income. But today PACS are providing more than 20 types of services and the new reforms will also increase the income of PACS.

Shri Amit Shah said that today PACS have been allowed to provide services like Jan Aushadhi Kendra, water distribution, common service centers. He said that today more than 300 schemes are available to the people on PACS computers. One does not need to go out of the village to get railway tickets, electricity bills, water bills, birth and death certificates, all these facilities are now available in PACS. Shri Shah said that many PACS have earned income from these services. PACS can now also become fertilizer dealers, start petrol pumps, distribute cooking gas and also manage the ‘Har Ghar Nal’ scheme.

Union Minister of Cooperation said that under the new bylaws, work was done to create Multi Purpose PACS (MPACS) by merging PACS, dairy cooperative societies and fishery cooperative societies. He said that the Government of India has computerized all the PACS in the country at a cost of Rs 2500 crore. Madhya Pradesh ranks first in the country in computerization of PACS. Now the District Cooperative Bank and State Cooperative Bank are connected to NABARD due to computer network. Along with this, transparency has also come in the field of cooperation due to the arrangement of online audit.

Shri Amit Shah said that the computerized PACS are working in 13 languages ​​of India. The Government of India has developed such software for PACS that will work for farmer in his language to open a bank account, i.e. it will work