Special traffic and transport arrangements for concert at Kai Tak Sports Park on April 8, 9, 11 and 12

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Special traffic and transport arrangements for concert at Kai Tak Sports Park on April 8, 9, 11 and 12 

Type(3) Cross-boundary coach services and port traffic arrangements

     The KTSP Limited will arrange cross-boundary coach services during the dispersal period on the event dates to facilitate travellers’ return to the Mainland via the LMC/HG Port. Passengers should purchase tickets prior to the concert (on-site ticket sales not available during dispersal) and board their coach at the PUDOA on the G/F, Kai Tak Stadium, via the escalator outside Gate H, 2/F. They should refer to the operators’ website (Eternal East Bus: www.myeebus.com/eebusfansIssued at HKT 12:00

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Leaders of Indian Origin Tamil from Sri Lanka meet PM

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 9:53PM by PIB Delhi

The leaders of Indian Origin Tamil (IOT) from Sri Lanka met the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today in Colombo. Shri Modi announced that India will support construction  of 10,000 houses, healthcare facilities, the sacred site Seetha Eliya temple and other community development projects for IOTs in cooperation with the Government of Sri Lanka.

In separate posts on X, he said:

“The meeting with leaders of Indian Origin Tamil (IOT) was fruitful. The community constitutes a living bridge between the two countries for over 200 years. India will support construction  of 10,000 houses, healthcare facilities, the sacred site Seetha Eliya temple and other community development projects for IOTs in cooperation with the Government of Sri Lanka.”

“இந்தியாவை பூர்வீகமாக கொண்ட தமிழ் மக்களுடன் சுமூகமான சந்திப்பு இடம்பெற்றிருந்தது. இச்சமூகத்தினர் 200 ஆண்டுகளுக்கும் மேலாக இரு நாடுகளுக்குமான ஒரு வாழும் உறவுப் பாலமாக திகழ்கின்றனர். இலங்கை அரசாங்கத்துடனான ஒத்துழைப்புடன் இந்தியாவை பூர்வீகமாக கொண்ட தமிழ் மக்களுக்காக 10000 வீடுகள், சுகாதார வசதிகள், புனித சீதை அம்மன் ஆலயம் ஆகியவற்றின் நிர்மாணம் மற்றும் ஏனைய சமூக அபிவிருத்தி திட்டங்களுக்காக இந்தியா ஆதரவு வழங்கும்.”

 

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2119404) Visitor Counter : 51

GeM Showcases Startup Power at Startup Mahakumbh 2025, Unlocks New Growth Avenues for Innovation-Driven India

Source: Government of India

GeM Showcases Startup Power at Startup Mahakumbh 2025, Unlocks New Growth Avenues for Innovation-Driven India

GeM Pavilion Sees Massive Footfall, 2500+ Queries Resolved, 1000+ Registrations Completed

Posted On: 06 APR 2025 10:05AM by PIB Delhi

The Startup Mahakumbh 2025 concluded in New Delhi on Saturday, marking significant participation and highlighting the growing strength of India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Among the key participants was the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), which showcased its role in supporting startup growth and underlined the potential of public procurement as a tool for promoting innovation and inclusive development.

As a strategic presenting partner, GeM engaged with a wide range of startups, investors, policymakers, and industry leaders during the event. Its participation reflected an ongoing effort to support the growth of Indian startups by facilitating access to government markets, encouraging new opportunities, and contributing to the broader vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.

The event saw sector-focused pavilions that celebrated India’s strength in DeepTech, AgriTech, BioTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Gaming, and more. GeM’s presence underscored its mission to bridge the gap between innovators and government buyers, enabling faster scale, market validation, and meaningful contribution to India’s global innovation standing.

GeM’s impact at the Mahakumbh was further amplified through a high-energy panel discussion that drew a packed audience and featured sharp insights from GeM leaders, industry experts, and policymakers. The panel covered key themes such as:

  • Charting India’s Growth Story
  • Boosting State Procurement Through Startups
  • Emerging Technology as a Service
  • Driving Startup Growth via GeM Categories
  • Unlocking Opportunities with Central Government Buyers

The sessions reinforced GeM’s role in transforming public procurement into a launchpad for India’s next generation of entrepreneurs.

Speaking on the theme of government-startup collaboration, CEO, Government e-Marketplace (GeM), Shri Ajay Bhadoo said, “Let’s work together and unlock the true potential of public procurement in driving startup growth, inclusive development, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

His keynote address underlined the transformative potential of platforms like GeM in scaling innovative homegrown solutions and supporting startups with policy-driven opportunities.

During the three-day event, GeM responded to over 2500 startup queries, facilitated 1000+ startup registrations and cataloguing, and hosted more than 1500 interactive sessions—including one-on-one mentoring and group engagements—focused on onboarding and skilling through GeM’s Learning Management System (LMS).

GeM’s Pavilion hosted over 70 innovative startups, including 30 startup pods awarded free of cost to winners of GeM’s Start-o-nauts Challenge. So far, GeM has enabled over ₹38,500 Crore in transactions for 30,000+ startups, reinforcing its position as a true catalyst in India’s innovation ecosystem.

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Abhishek Dayal / Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

(Release ID: 2119462) Visitor Counter : 55

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs a security review meeting in Raipur, Chhattisgarh

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs a security review meeting in Raipur, Chhattisgarh

Double engine government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is leaving no stone unturned in completely elaminating Naxalism

Before 31 March, Naxalism will become history in the entire country including Chhattisgarh

Naxalism ruined many generations, now it should not take more time to eliminate this problem

Chhattisgarh government has made satisfactory progress on both development and security fronts

The ongoing fight against Naxalites must not scattered

Coverage area of the ‘NiyadNellanar’ scheme should be expanded from a 5-km to 10 km radius around security camps

It must be ensured that people in Naxal-affected areas receive equal opportunities for development

Coordination among states police and central agencies should improve to nab those Naxals fleeing from one state to another

Posted On: 05 APR 2025 11:25PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chaired a security review meeting in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.The meeting was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Special Secretary (Internal Security) in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Directors General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Border Security Force (BSF), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) as well as the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Chhattisgarh.

Addressing the meeting, the Union Home Minister said that the double engine government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is leaving no stone unturned in completely elaminatingNaxalism. He said that before 31 March, Naxalism will become history in the entire country including Chhattisgarh.

Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said Naxalism ruined many generations, now it should not take more time to eliminate this problem. He said, the ongoing fight against Naxalites must not scattered.

Shri Amit Shah said, Coordination among states police and central agencies should improve to nab those Naxals fleeing from one state to another. 

Shri Amit Shah said, Chhattisgarh government has made satisfactory progress on both development and security fronts. He said, coverage area of the ‘NiyadNellanar’ scheme should be expanded from a 5-km to 10 km radius around security camps. Shri Shah said, it must be ensured that people in Naxal-affected areas receive equal opportunities for development. The Union Home Minister said that the momentum of the anti-Naxal operation should not diminish under any circumstances.

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RK/VV/PR/PS

(Release ID: 2119424) Visitor Counter : 20

Prime Minister visits Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 06 APR 2025 11:24AM by PIB Delhi

​Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, along with the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Disanayaka, visited the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple in Anuradhapura and offered prayers at the revered Mahabodhi tree.

​The tree is believed to have grown from the Bo sapling that was brought to Sri Lanka by Sangamitta Maha Theri from India in the 3rd Century BCE. The temple stands as a testament to the strong civilizational linkages that form the foundation of the close India-Sri Lanka partnership.

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MJPS/SR/SKS

(Release ID: 2119476) Visitor Counter : 67

Speech by FS at Hong Kong Web3 Festival (English only) (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Hong Kong Web3 Festival today (April 7):

(Deputy to the National People’s Congress, Vice Chairman of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Wanxiang Group, Mr Lu Weiding), (the Chairman of Wanxiang Blockchain and the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of HashKey Group, Dr Xiao Feng), Duncan (Member of the Legislative Council Mr Duncan Chiu), distinguished guests, innovators, and pioneers of the digital frontier,

Good morning. It is an immense pleasure to join you all today at the Web3 Festival of Hong Kong, a gathering of brilliant leaders and innovators to share thoughts and experiences about the future of blockchain, cryptocurrencies, decentralised finance and beyond.

For those who have come from afar, a warm welcome to Hong Kong. As a city where East meets West and tradition intertwines with innovation, we are proud to host you to collectively chart the course of Web3.

As a technology, blockchain is displaying its vast potential, significantly increasing transaction efficiency, lowering costs and enhancing market transparency. Today, we are witnessing a marked increase in the institutional adoption of Web3, with traditional banks, asset managers and brokers increasingly integrating digital assets into their offerings.

As more jurisdictions embrace cryptocurrencies, the market has been energised with optimism, marked by a bullish trend over the past year or so.

But beyond finance and the enthusiasm on cryptocurrency, we all agree that blockchain can bring real benefits to the people. For example, ReFi (regenerative finance) is gaining traction. Tokenised carbon credits enable the transparent tracking of emissions reductions, reinforcing trust in voluntary carbon markets.

Meanwhile, the convergence of Web3 and AI is unlocking new frontiers. In finance, decentralised AI algorithms enhance credit assessments, audit smart contracts with greater precision, and deliver hyper-personalised investment strategies. Beyond finance, this synergy streamlines supply chains, revolutionises healthcare data management, and creates new immersive gaming experiences. Web3 and AI are transforming businesses and public services, driving innovation and efficiency at every turn.

Hong Kong: driving Web3 innovation

Allow me to take a few minutes to talk about Web3 in Hong Kong, our attitude and approach towards Web3 and our role in this global transformation.

Hong Kong is pro-Web3. Over two years ago, we published a high-level policy statement on the development of virtual assets, affirming our commitment to a dynamic Web3 ecosystem. Central to this is the principle of the “same activity, same risk, same regulation” approach. Through a balanced and pro-innovation regulatory approach, we seek to maintain a level playing field for market participants and encourage innovative activities in this space.

We have been walking the talk, and have delivered a number of initiatives. We were among the first in the world to have established clear licensing frameworks for virtual asset trading platforms, or VATPs. Indeed, the Securities and Futures Commission has already issued 10 VATP licences. We have also authorised VA spot ETFs (exchange-traded funds) last year, and Hong Kong now hosts the largest VA ETF market in the Asia Pacific, bridging traditional finance with crypto innovation.

Meanwhile, legislation for stablecoin regulation is set for imminent passage. My colleagues at the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) are working hard to get the relevant licensing regime to go live within this year.

The Government will also conduct consultations on the licensing regimes of over-the-counter trading services and custodian services for VA (virtual assets). This will solidify Hong Kong’s comprehensive regulatory architecture.

Let me make clear that Hong Kong’s approach to Web3 is not simply about regulation. We aim to strike a balance, ensuring market integrity without stifling innovation. After all, innovation entails risks. The lesson we have learnt is that we need to put it under a balanced regulatory framework so as to enable the sector to grow in a responsible and sustainable manner.

One essential element in our regulatory regime is sandboxes, such as the HKMA’s Project Ensemble. Project Ensemble allows innovators to test various use cases, such as tokenised real-world assets, with early regulatory feedback. This signifies our pro-innovation approach, as we put regulators and innovators in a co-creation process.

Later this year, we will unveil a second policy statement on the development of virtual assets. It will cover how to make use of Web3 to fast-track the development of traditional financial services, empower the real economy and strengthen the application of digital asset technologies.

A few thoughts on Web3

Now, looking ahead, allow me to share a few thoughts we consider important for the future development and success of Web3.

First, it is the very vision of Web3 to enable more equitable use of the Internet, and make transactions more efficient and less costly. Innovation is core to this goal, and regulators should adopt a technology-neutral approach. It would only be counterproductive if jurisdictions or regulatory authorities favour particular types of cryptocurrencies, or rule out technologies or applications at the outset. Markets, not mandates, should decide which innovations prevail.

Second, we all know Web3’s true potential lies well beyond digital assets or cryptocurrencies. Combined with AI, it can be a valuable tool to optimise impact investments, promote inclusive finance, support decarbonisation initiatives, advance sustainable development goals, and more. The global Web3 community should and can strengthen collaboration to support these worthy causes.

Finally, it is essential that new technologies be developed and applied responsibly. AI, for instance, is evolving at speeds that are unexpectedly faster. Decentralised networks bring enormous benefits, but when coupled with AI, challenges such as algorithmic bias, deepfakes and cybersecurity require attention and co-operation at the regional and global levels. Here in Hong Kong, we advocate for suitable guardrails – frameworks that protect investors, consumers and users while encouraging innovation activities. We support a multi-stakeholder approach where governments, regulators and market players across different territories and regions come together to drive forward the sustainable development of Web3.

Concluding remarks

Ladies and gentlemen, to secure a promising and successful future for Web3, we need not just technological innovation, but also a common will to harness creativity and innovation for the benefit of the people. Let me assure you that Hong Kong is committed to this goal. We are here to collaborate with innovators and entrepreneurs from around the world, pushing the boundaries of what is possible, and leveraging the transformative power of Web3 for the greater good. Thank you very much.

New York ETO showcases Hong Kong cinematic talents in Chicago (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

New York ETO showcases Hong Kong cinematic talents in Chicago  
     The Office also strengthened the cultural, business and educational ties between Hong Kong and Chicago, Illinois, during a duty visit to the city from April 3 to 5.
 
     At the United States premiere of “The Last Dance” on April 4, Hong Kong actress Michelle Wai was honoured with the Extraordinary Actors Award for her outstanding performance. Director Anselm Chan joined her at the post-screening sharing session.
 
     This year’s APUC also welcomed four Hong Kong filmmakers, who presented their works and engaged with the audience. They included directors Ho Miu-ki (“Love Lies”) and Albert Mak (“Hit N Fun”), as well as producers Chan Hing-ka (“Love Lies”) and Paul Chan (“To Be Continued”).
 
     Addressing the award ceremony, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, praised the filmmakers, noting that they represent the diverse and exceptional talents within Hong Kong’s creative industry.
 
      “Through our Film Development Fund, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government continues to support and nurture the growth of Hong Kong’s creative industry, ensuring its presence on the global stage. By fostering talent, enhancing local production, and expanding audiences, we remain committed to bringing the best of Hong Kong cinema to the world,” she said.

     On April 3, the New York ETO cohosted a spring reception with the Hong Kong Business Association of the Midwest and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council . The annual event, attended by over 100 guests from Chicago’s business, legal, academic, and cultural sectors, highlighted the strong ties between Hong Kong and Chicago. 
     Ms Ho also had a meeting with Vice President for International Relations at Northwestern University Devora Grynspan to discuss areas of mutual interest and introduce Hong Kong’s talent admission schemes available to university graduates. Northwestern University is among the list of eligible institutions under the Top Talent Pass Scheme.
Issued at HKT 16:00

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INS TRIKAND RENDERS CRITICAL MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IN THE CENTRAL ARABIAN SEA

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 06 APR 2025 1:23PM by PIB Delhi

Indian Navy’s Mission Deployed stealth frigate INS Trikand, operating in the Central Arabian Sea, provided urgent critical medical assistance to a Pakistani crew of a Fishing Vessel operating approximately 350 nautical miles east of the Oman coast. The crew had suffered severe injuries involving multiple fractures and blood loss.

INS Trikand on morning of 04 Apr 25, intercepted a distress call from an Iranian dhow Al Omeedi. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that a crew member of the dhow had sustained severe injuries to his fingers while working on the engine and was in critical condition and that he had been transferred to another dhow named FV Abdul Rehman Hanzia, which was en route to Iran.

 Trikand immediately altered her course to provide medical assistance to the injured crew member. The crew of FV Abdul Rehman Hanzia consisted 11 Pakistani (09 Baloch and 02 Sindhi) and 05 Iranian personnel. The injured individual, a Pakistani (Baloch) national, had suffered multiple fractures and severe hand injuries, resulting in heavy blood loss.

The Medical Officer of INS Trikand, along with a team comprising MARCOS (Marine Commandos) and the Ship’s Boarding Team, boarded the FV to administer aid. After providing local anesthesia, the Ship’s Medical Team performed suturing and splinting on the injured fingers. The surgical procedure which lasted for over three hours, was successfully completed, and bleeding was controlled in time, thereby preventing potential permanent loss of the injured fingers due to gangrene.

Additionally, medical supplies, including antibiotics, were provided to the FV to ensure the crew’s well-being until they reached Iran. The entire crew expressed their deep gratitude to the Indian Navy for the timely assistance in saving their crewmate’s life.

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VM/SPS                                                                                                             79/25

 

 

(Release ID: 2119512) Visitor Counter : 112

Hyderabad based CSIR institutes playing pivotal role in drug discovery, genetic diagnostics, says Dr. Jitendra Singh

Source: Government of India

Hyderabad based CSIR institutes playing pivotal role in drug discovery, genetic diagnostics, says Dr. Jitendra Singh

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews Scientific Contributions of Hyderabad-based CSIR Labs

Hyderabad-based CSIR Labs to Organize Startup Conclave 2025

Posted On: 06 APR 2025 3:43PM by PIB Delhi

Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, has lauded Hyderabad based CSIR institutes’ pivotal role in drug discovery, genetic diagnostics and developing cost-effective Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (AIP). The meeting was convened by the Minister to review the recent work outcomes of Hyderabad based CSIR labs, particularly after the personal impetus and patronage provided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the last one decade.

Directors of three premier CSIR laboratories based in Hyderabad: CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (CSIR-NGRI), and CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB) attended the meeting. The meeting served as a platform for the Directors to present recent achievements and strategic scientific contributions of their respective institutes.

The Minister was briefed by Dr. D. Srinivasa Reddy (Director, CSIR-IICT), Dr. Prakash Kumar (Director, CSIR-NGRI) and Dr. Vinay Nandicoori (Director, CSIR-CCMB). D. Srinivasa Reddy, Director of CSIR-IICT, briefed the Minister on the institute’s pioneering contributions in advancing India’s chemical and pharmaceutical sectors.

The institute has also developed safer and more effective agrochemicals, and its work in catalysis has led to novel catalysts for hydrogenation, oxidation, and polymerization processes used widely in industrial applications.

Dr. Reddy highlighted CSIR-IICTs key achievements including the development of compostable plastics in association with GreenWorksBio. He also highlighted the development of Hydrazine Hydrate in collaboration with Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL). In the domain of sustainable technologies, the institute’s Anaerobic Gas Lift Reactor (AGR) technology enables efficient conversion of biodegradable waste into biogas and bio-manure.

Dr. Vinay Nandicoori, Director of CSIR-CCMB, elaborated on the institute’s accomplishments in molecular biology, genetic diagnostics, and biotechnological innovation. He highlighted that CCMB was the first Indian institution to develop DNA fingerprinting technology, which has had a lasting impact on forensic investigations and legal proceedings in the country. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the institute responded swiftly by developing indigenous diagnostic kits, surveillance systems, and even advancing mRNA vaccine technologies. One of CCMB’s most impactful initiatives has been its work on sickle cell anemia, under which it developed a highly sensitive, low-cost diagnostic kit as part of the National Sickle Cell Elimination Mission.

The institute is also engaged in research on diseases like tuberculosis and encephalitis and has launched India’s first rare disease registry to better understand the genetic basis of uncommon disorders. Through its Atal Incubation Centre (AIC-CCMB), the institute has nurtured more than 160 startups working on biotech innovations in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. In the realm of conservation, CCMB continues to lead studies on the genetic diversity of endangered species, such as tigers and olive ridley turtles, and supports wildlife forensics to curb illegal poaching and trade. Dr. Nandicoori emphasized the institute’s dual commitment to fundamental research and societal application, bridging deep science with real-world outcomes.

Dr. Prakash Kumar, Director of CSIR-NGRI, presented the institute’s significant achievements in earth sciences, particularly in the areas of seismic hazard mapping, resource exploration, and infrastructure support. He noted that NGRI has developed India’s first strain map to assess earthquake vulnerability in the Himalayan and Indo-Gangetic regions, a critical step toward national disaster preparedness. The institute is also conducting deep seismic profiling under a national program aimed at decoding the crustal structure of central India, which holds implications for both tectonic studies and mineral exploration. NGRI’s work on geothermal energy, particularly in Ladakh and Chhattisgarh, has opened new frontiers for clean and renewable energy.

Dr. Jitendra Singh appreciated the vital role played by the CSIR laboratories in driving scientific innovation, supporting national missions, and contributing to India’s goal of becoming a self-reliant knowledge economy. He emphasized the importance of science-based solutions for national development, especially in addressing societal challenges and promoting sustainability.

The Minister said that Hyderabad has emerged as a thriving ecosystem for scientific research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

In light of the contributions of these three institutes during the meeting it was decided to organize a CSIR Startup Conclave in Hyderabad. The event, scheduled for April 22–23, 2025, aims to facilitate collaboration between research institutions and startups, and promote entrepreneurship in India. The conclave will be organized jointly by CSIR-IICT, CSIR-NGRI, and CSIR-CCMB.

Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated the Modi government’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, commercialization, and self-reliance in science and technology.
 

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NKR/PSM

 

(Release ID: 2119539) Visitor Counter : 26

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attends the Golden Jubilee celebration of IFFCO’s Kalol branch in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and lays the foundation stone of the Beej Anusandhan Kendra

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attends the Golden Jubilee celebration of IFFCO’s Kalol branch in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and lays the foundation stone of the Beej Anusandhan Kendra

The 50-year glorious journey of IFFCO shows how incredible results are achieved when cooperative and corporate values work together

Today, India is self-reliant in the field of food grains, and IFFCO has played an important role

IFFCO has made India’s cooperative sector renowned globally in the fields of Nano Urea and Nano DAP

Honouring contributions of Shri Tribhuvan Das Patel ji, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi established the country’s first Sahkari University in his name

The Sahkari University will work to bring modern cooperative education and transparency to every area of cooperation, from PACS to Apex

Tribhuvan Sahkari University will connect the cooperative sector with modern technologies like AI

Today, IFFCO has increased its production capacity to such an extent that its products are now reaching all over the world

The Beej Anusandhan Kendra, whose foundation has been laid today, will prove to be instrumental in enhancing farmers’ prosperity in the future

Posted On: 06 APR 2025 4:26PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today attended the Golden Jubilee celebration of Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited(IFFCO’s) Kalol branch in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and laid the foundation stone for the Beej Anusandhan Kendra. On this occasion, several dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, were present.

In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah stated that today marks the Golden Jubilee of IFFCO’s Kalol Plant, and the groundbreaking ceremony for the Beej Anusandhan Kendra. He said that the 50 years of IFFCO’s glorious journey demonstrate how incredible results are achieved when cooperative and corporate values work together. He mentioned that IFFCO has efficiently handled all aspects related to research and development, marketing, branding, and reaching every household.

Shri Shah emphasized that India is now self-reliant in the field of food grains, and IFFCO has played a significant role in this achievement. He said that IFFCO has connected farmers with fertilizers and has further worked to connect fertilizers with cooperatives. He added that IFFCO now stands proudly after completing fifty years of its glorious journey. Union Minister of Cooperation expressed confidence that when IFFCO celebrates its centenary, the reputation of IFFCO will have grown significantly among cooperative organizations worldwide.

Shri Amit Shah said that IFFCO has also carried out various types of research and development work. He mentioned that when the groundbreaking ceremony of IFFCO’s Kalol factory took place, it was considered a major revolution at that time. As time progressed, IFFCO conducted research and experiments in areas like Nano Urea, Nano DAP, Nano Liquid, Urea, Liquid DAP, etc., and increased production.

He highlighted that IFFCO has made India’s cooperative sector prominent globally in the field of Nano Urea and Nano DAP. He added that IFFCO’s Nano Urea and Nano DAP are now reaching all over the world. Shri Shah further said that IFFCO has increased its capacity, expanded its reach to farmers’ fields, and worked to bring the results of laboratory experiments through research and development directly to the fields.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that today marks the establishment of the Beej Anusandhan Kendra in Gandhinagar. He mentioned that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has initiated several new ventures in every sector of the country. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Cooperation has undertaken nearly 62 unprecedented initiatives in the country’s cooperative sector. He further noted that recently, Parliament passed a bill for the establishment of the Tribhuvan Sahkari University.

Shri Shah said that in honor of Tribhuvan Das Patel’s contribution to the cooperative sector, Prime Minister Modi has named this Sahkari university after him. He explained that this university will work to bring modern cooperative education and transparency to every sector of cooperation, from PACS to apex bodies. He added that this university will work to steer the entire cooperative movement in the country, using modern technologies like AI, and will conduct various analyses to determine the direction for the next 50 years based on these findings.

Shri Amit Shah said that today, IFFCO has launched the Beej Anusandhan Kendra, and IFFCO has a track record of successfully completing every task it has undertaken. He stated that this Beej Anusandhan Kendra will increase productivity on our land, make the produce more nutritious, reduce the use of water and fertilizers, and improve the quality of seeds. The center will also work on the preservation of our ancient seeds, some of which are thousands of years old.

Shri Shah further mentioned that when IFFCO was established 50 years ago, no one could have imagined that it would reach this level. Similarly, today, as the foundation for the Beej Anusandhan Kendra has been laid, this center will also prove to be a vital factor in enhancing the prosperity of our farmers.

Union Minister of Cooperation said that to strengthen our cooperative institutions, we need to focus on strengthening primary cooperative societies and cooperative dairies. He mentioned that for this, the government has worked on computerization, linking primary agricultural credit societies (PACS) with new activities, and including the entire economic cycle of dairies into the cooperative system under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

He stated that today, IFFCO has production units in five locations across three states — Kandla, Kalol, Phulpur, Amla, and Paradip — and we have become self-reliant in the fertilizer sector. Shri Shah further mentioned that the current fertilizer production capacity is 9 million metric tons, with sales reaching 11 million metric tons, a turnover of ₹40,000 crore, and a profit of ₹3,200 crore.

Shri Amit Shah said that in the past fifty years, the journey from chemical fertilizers to nano fertilizers and bio fertilizers has taken place under the leadership of IFFCO. He mentioned that when IFFCO was established, our focus in fertilizers was on bulk application, but today our focus is on targeted and controlled release, which ensures that nutrients are delivered without degrading our soil. He added that earlier, fertilizers had high costs and low efficiency, but now, IFFCO has made fertilizers low-cost and high-efficiency.

Union Minister of Cooperation noted that with Nano Urea and Nano DAP Liquid, there is no need to apply additional fertilizers. He highlighted that today IFFCO has increased its production capacity to such an extent that its products are now being exported all over the world. He said that IFFCO’s 50 years have been dedicated to agriculture, grain production, the rural economy, and the prosperity of farmers. Similarly, he mentioned that IFFCO’s next 50 years, moving towards a century, will be focused on modernizing farming, making it the most productive, preserving our agricultural land, and protecting the environment.

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RK/VV/PR/PS

(Release ID: 2119547) Visitor Counter : 62

Read this release in: Hindi