Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:23PM by PIB Delhi

Your Excellency, President Boric,

Delegates from both the countries,

Friends from the media,

Namaskar! Hola!

This is President Boric’s first visit to India. His strong sense of friendship toward India and his commitment to strengthen our relations is truly amazing. For this, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to him, and warmly welcome him and his distinguished delegation.

Friends,

Chile is a valued friend and partner country for India in Latin America. In our discussions today, we identified several new initiatives to further strengthen our cooperation in the coming decade.

We welcome the expansion of mutual trade and investment and we agree that there is untapped potential for further collaboration. Today, we have instructed our teams to initiate discussions on a mutually beneficial Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

Partnerships in the field of Critical Minerals will be emphasized. Efforts will be made to establish resilient supply and value chains. In agriculture, we will collaborate to enhance food security by leveraging each other’s strengths.

India is ready to share its positive experience with Chile in the areas of Digital Public Infrastructure, Renewable Energy, Railways, Space and more.

We see Chile as the gateway to Antarctica. We welcome today’s agreement on the Letter of Intent to strengthen cooperation in this vital region.

India has been a trusted partner in supporting Chile’s health security, and we have agreed to further strengthen this collaboration. It is a matter of joy that the people of Chile have adopted Yoga as part of a healthy lifestyle. The declaration of November 4 as National Yoga Day in Chile is truly inspiring. We also explored opportunities to enhance cooperation in Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Chile.

Increasing cooperation in the field of defence is a symbol of our deep mutual trust. In this area, we will move forward to create defence industrial manufacturing and supply chains as per each other’s needs. We will increase cooperation between the agencies of both the countries to face common challenges like organized crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism.

Globally, India and Chile agree that all tensions and disputes should be resolved through dialogue. We are unanimous in saying that to face global challenges, reform of the United Nations Security Council and other institutions is necessary. Together we will continue to contribute to global peace and stability.

Friends,

Even though India and Chile are at different ends of the world map, separated by vast oceans, we still share some unique natural similarities.

The Himalayas of India and the Andes mountains of Chile have shaped the way of life in both countries for thousands of years. The waves of the Indian Ocean flow in India with the same energy with which the waves of the Pacific Ocean touch the shores of Chile. Both the countries are not only connected by nature, but our cultures have also been close to each other, embracing this diversity.

The great Chilean poet and Nobel Laureate “Gabriela Mistral” found inspiration in the ideas of Rabindranath Tagore and Aurobindo Ghosh. Similarly, Chilean literature has been appreciated in India too. The growing interest among the Chilean people towards Indian films, cuisine, and classical dances is a living example of our cultural ties.

Today, around four thousand people of Indian origin, who consider Chile their home, are the custodians of our shared heritage. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Boric and his government for their care and support.

We welcome the consensus reached today on the cultural exchange program between the two countries. We also discussed simplification of the visa process between the two countries. We will continue to work towards increasing student exchanges between India and Chile.

Excellency,

Your visit has brought new energy and enthusiasm in our relations. This energy will give new impetus and direction to our bilateral relations as well as to our cooperation in the entire Latin American region.

I wish you a pleasant journey and stay in India.

Thank you very much!

Gracias!

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:42PM by PIB Delhi

India-Chile Mining Industry Round Table today witnessed significant discussions aimed at deepening cooperation between the two nations in the mining sector. Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of Coal & Mines, India, led a high-level Indian delegation comprising Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, senior officials from the Ministry, and CMDs/CEOs from leading Indian companies such as Coal India Limited (CIL), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), Hindalco, Vedanta, Adani, JSW, and JSPL. The Chilean delegation was led by H.E. Aurora Williams, Minister of Mines, Chile.

In his address, Shri G. Kishan Reddy emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Chile in copper, lithium, and other critical minerals, highlighting the growing importance of these minerals in India’s industrial growth and sustainable energy transition.

H.E. Aurora Williams, Minister of Mines, Chile, spoke about Chile’s leadership in the global mining sector, particularly in copper and lithium, and expressed enthusiasm for expanding collaboration with India to meet both nations’ mineral needs and support the transition to greener technologies.

The round table organised by the International Copper Association, India focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in various key areas of the mining sector, including mineral exploration, sustainable mining practices, and value-added mineral processing. Discussions also revolved around renewing the existing India-Chile MoU on Geology and Mineral Resources, ensuring a more robust and future-ready framework for collaboration in the critical minerals domain.

As India’s demand for critical minerals such as copper, lithium, and rare earth elements continues to grow, the round table highlighted the strategic importance of these minerals for sectors like electric mobility, renewable energy, and electronics manufacturing. With this collaboration, both nations are aiming to unlock new opportunities for joint ventures, long-term supply agreements, and cross-border investments.

Chile, being a global leader in copper and lithium production, offers significant opportunities for Indian companies looking to secure access to these minerals through Greenfield and Brownfield mining projects. The discussions also emphasized the potential for technology transfer, best practices in sustainable mining, and strengthening the global mineral supply chain.

This renewed cooperation not only promises to enhance economic ties between India and Chile but also aims to build a resilient and sustainable mining supply chain that supports both nations’ long-term energy and economic goals. The India-Chile Mining Industry Round Table is a crucial step in fostering mutual growth, technological exchange, and a more sustainable mining future.

****

Sunil Kumar Tiwari

(Release ID: 2117527) Visitor Counter : 41

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, chaired the first meeting of the new term of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Task Force today (April 1). He emphasised that “innovation” is particularly important in promoting the interfaces of mechanisms, regulatory frameworks and talent training among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao. He noted that it will further facilitate Hong Kong’s integration into the overall development of the country and enhance the innovation capabilities and radiating effect of the GBA.

During the meeting, the Task Force had an in-depth discussion on the latest development of the various policy measures set out in the Department of Justice (DoJ)’s Action Plan on the Construction of Rule of Law in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and future key initiatives, including the establishment of a panel of GBA arbitrators to further facilitate arbitrators from the three places in providing legal and dispute resolution services in the GBA, as well as the setup of a GBA legal information platform to provide enterprises and people with practical legal information on cross-boundary businesses and living.

Meanwhile, Dr Cheung welcomed the new members, namely Mr Neville Cheng, Mr Michael Lok, Mr Tse Shing-yick, Mr Joaquim Vong and Mr Zeng Xuezhi, to the Task Force. Dr Cheung said that the DoJ has long been upholding principles and at the same time, embracing innovation in its co-operation with various stakeholders to draw collective wisdom and actively implement the Action Plan, with a view to leveraging the unique strengths under “one country, two systems and three jurisdictions” of the GBA.

Dr Cheung pointed out that the inclusion of lawyers from the Mainland and Macao for the first time facilitates the DoJ to learn about issues from the perspectives of different jurisdictions, and signifies a strong collaboration among the legal sectors of the three regions to jointly harness the unique edges of “three jurisdictions”.

He also noted that Mr Tse, an online key opinion leader (KOL) who has been residing in the Mainland, holds a considerable understanding of the circumstances of Hong Kong people working and residing in the GBA. Mr Tse’s joining will not only help the DoJ better grasp public opinions on various policy measures in relation to the GBA, but will also assist the DoJ in effectively communicating with the community.

Dr Cheung said that he firmly believes that the new-term Task Force will continue to work closely together to deepen the legal co-operation in the GBA with diverse and innovative thinking, contributing wisdom and strengths to the GBA’s high-quality development.

Source: Government of India

FM launches “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” Portal

Portal developed by NITI in collaboration with NCAER

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:14PM by PIB Delhi

Finance Minister Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman launched the “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” portal today in New Delhi. The portal has been developed by NITI Aayog, in collaboration with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), which is a comprehensive repository of data on social, economic and fiscal parameters, research reports, papers, and expert commentary on State Finances for a period of about 30 years (i.e 1990-91 to 2022-23). 

In her keynote address, Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman stated that NITI NCAER States Economic Forum will be beneficial in the availability of authentic data. She observed that the portal will help States to make more meaningful interventions, raising revenues, managing debts and learning from peer experiences. She emphasised the importance of balance in public finances between revenue generation without burdening the people. She said that this forum is a much-needed step in present times which will help in greater engagement with States. 

Director General of National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), Dr. Poonam Gupta while making a presentation on the portal highlighted the diverse nature of fiscal path of the States. She underlined the need for a portal which has comprehensive data of all States, thereby, providing an opportunity to appreciate the position of other States while making informed policy decisions. 

CEO, NITI Aayog, Shri BVR Subrahamanyam, in his remarks, emphasised that this forum will not only provide information for public knowledge but will also create awareness and fiscal learning across States. He further opined that this forum will play a pivotal role in human service and a permanent asset for the nation as a whole.

NITI Aayog, Vice Chairman, Suman K Bery, observed that the NITI NCAER State Economic Forum is a key step in data-driven research, especially on public finances.

 

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2117547) Visitor Counter : 164

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat

PM announces ex-gratia from PMNRF

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:32PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat. 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 the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Condolences to those who 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: 2117456) Visitor Counter : 251

Source: Government of India

Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) Sets New Benchmarks in FY 2024-25

A Year of Historic Achievements and Transformation

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:16PM by PIB Delhi

Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a key subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), has delivered an extraordinary performance in FY 2024-25, achieving unprecedented milestones in coal production, financial success, sustainability, and social responsibility. With record-breaking operational feats, cutting-edge digital innovations, and a bold commitment to clean energy and community welfare, BCCL reaffirms its key position in India’s coal sector.

                                   

Unmatched Production and Operational Excellence 

BCCL has rewritten its history with highest-ever coal production in the 4th quarter (11.44 million tonnes) and March 2025 (4.33 million tonnes) since inception. The company also recorded its highest-ever overburden removal (181.30 million cubic meters) and second-highest annual coal production (40.50 million tonnes), despite facing the heaviest rainfall in 50 years (1747 mm). Offtake reached a second-highest-ever 38.25 million tonnes, bolstered by a 6% growth in rail dispatch, even with high coal stocks at powerhouses. Underground coal production surged by an impressive 49% over last year, while 16 new hired patches were identified this year with a capacity of 13.30 million tonnes annually, out of which 7.0 million tonnes were awarded. For the first time, coal production under the Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) mode commenced at NTST-Kujama, Lodna Area, in April 2024. Additionally, grade confirmation through third-party sampling stood at 94%, exceeding the Ministry of Coal’s 90% guideline.

Financial Achievements

BCCL paid its maiden dividend of ₹ 44.43 crore to CIL on August 5, 2024. This milestone follows BCCL’s achievement of clearing its accumulated losses. The company achieved its highest-ever scrap sale of ₹ 18.01 crore. BCCL secured an income tax refund of ₹ 104 crores (₹ 63.87 crore principal, and ₹ 40.12 crore interest), and the company also paid the highest income tax of ₹406.00 crores in the last 10 years. BCCL also exceeded its CAPEX target for the fourth consecutive year, achieving ₹ 1,100 crore against ₹ 1,000 crore. At the same time, GeM procurement soared to ₹ 4,155.83 crore (136% of the ₹ 3,060 crore target), including ₹ 68.06 crore for heavy machinery and ₹ 120.47 crore for IT initiatives.

Washery Innovation and Monetization 

BCCL’s washeries set new records. Raw coal feed reached 56 lakh tonnes (highest in 25 years, up 15%), and washed coal supply to the steel sector peaked at 17.02 lakh tonnes (highest in 20 years, up 16%). By-product disposal excelled with washery rejects at 8.67 lakh tonnes (up 77%) and washed power coal at 28.95 lakh tonnes (up 5%). Pioneering India’s first ever coal washery monetization, BCCL leased old & idle Dugdha Washery (2.0 MTPA) for ₹ 762 crore over 25 years. Also, RFP issued for monetization of Sudamdih Washery (1.6 MTPA) on March 28, 2025.

Digital Transformation and Operational Efficiency 

One of the leading CIL subsidiaries, BCCL, implemented the SAP BG module, saving ₹ 86 lakh in upkeep allowances. Its in-house team developed ground-breaking ERP solutions, including the BPCL DDUs interface, alerts for sensitive posts and long absences, quarter management, integrated HEMM maintenance reports, and equipment transfer tracking. The Integrated Command Control Centre (ICCC) enhances e-security and surveillance, while automated road weighbridges with RFID-based boom barriers streamline operations. Digital pension claims processing achieved 99% PF claim settlements, boosting transparency.

Sustainability and Net Zero Commitment 

BCCL advanced its Net Zero goals with 4.088 MWp of rooftop solar power commissioned, work orders for 25 MW at Bhojudih and 20 MW at Dugdha washeries, and a tender for 2 MW more in Central Township. Energy efficiency measures include 100% LED lighting, energy-efficient ACs, 762 super fans, 45 efficient motors, and autotimer switches across its areas. The company strategically moved towards electric vehicles in its official transportation fleet, supported by an EV charging station at Koyla Bhawan, resulting in fuel saving of approximately 2.50 lacs per month as the running cost is less than ₹ 1/Km. In Coal Bed Methane (CBM), Jharia Block-I is under exploration with 5 core holes drilled, while Jharia Block-II’s feasibility report was approved.

Environmental and Infrastructure Initiatives 

BCCL planted 22 hectares over the degraded land and established two new eco-parks at Akashkinari (4.5 Ha) and Moonidih (0.9 Ha), adding 4 mechanical sweepers and 16 fog cannons to its fleet during the year. Infrastructure highlights include 21.69 MGD water supply via filter plants, and 8 km of PQC roads completed with 14 km under construction. Two bridges over Katri and Khudia rivers, upgrades to Nehru Complex, Jubilee Hall, and community halls, and hospital enhancements (including a new OPD at Central Hospital Dhanbad) underscore BCCL’s civil achievements.

Land and Mine Re-Operationalization 

BCCL paid ₹ 24.80 crore for government land transfers, acquired 14.23 acres of tenancy land for ₹ 25.86 crore, and provided employment to 6 individuals. It shifted 170 encroachers, vacated 2.245 acres, and uploaded 16,381.09 Ha of land data to the PM GatiShakti portal. For discontinued mines, BCCL signed an agreement for Amalabad Colliery to reopen with 6.2 MT production target over 25 years, with a lucrative 4.1% revenue sharing. Mining plans for 3 discontinued mines (ASGKCC, Madhuband & PB project) also approved, driving growth and development.

Empowering People and Communities 

BCCL’s CSR expenditure reached ₹ 21.89 crore (117% of the ₹ 18.76 crore target), training of 200 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) in petrochemical engineering (100% placement offered), 75 rural youth at MSME Tool Room, CTTC Kolkata with 100% placement offered, 150 in medical equipment, and 60 in fashion design (42 placed). BCCL installed smart classes & ICT labs in 79 schools in Dhanbad district (₹ 10.69 crore) and piloted STEM education in 5 schools. Welfare efforts included ₹ 66.98 lakh in fee reimbursements, ₹ 9.34 lakh in scholarships for 91 wards, and a harassment-free workplace for women. Medical upgrades featured a new DNB course, ICU expansion (8 to 16 beds), and a modular kitchen. BCCL recruited 77 Jr. Overmen and provided compassionate employment to 564 dependents during the year.

A Vision for the Future 

FY 2024-25 marks a transformative year for BCCL, blending record production, financial strength, and sustainable innovation. BCCL is committed to performing as a key player in effectively meeting India’s energy demands while building a brighter, greener future. With the installation of two heavy crushers (750 TPH each) in its Lodna Area, BCCL further strengthens the modern coal processing while corroborating its emphasis on better customer satisfaction and services. 

BCCL’s stellar performance positions it as a vital player in the coal sector with a commitment to solidifying India’s energy and industry needs with sustainable growth.

 

****

 

Sunil Kumar Tiwari

(Release ID: 2117548) Visitor Counter : 112

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:35PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today hailed India’s journey towards self-reliance and global leadership in defence manufacturing

Responding to a post by Union Minister Shri Rajnath Singh on X, he stated:

“This is indeed a proud milestone in our journey towards self-reliance and global leadership in defence manufacturing!”

 

 

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2117459) Visitor Counter : 228

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister hosts the President of Chile H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font in Delhi

Both leaders agreed to begin discussions on Comprehensive Partnership Agreement

India and Chile to strengthen ties in sectors such as minerals, energy, Space, Defence, Agriculture

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:33PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi warmly welcomed the President of Chile H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font in Delhi today, marking a significant milestone in the India-Chile partnership. Shri Modi expressed delight in hosting President Boric, emphasizing Chile’s importance as a key ally in Latin America.

During their discussions, both leaders agreed to initiate talks for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, aiming to expand economic linkages between the two nations. They identified and discussed critical sectors such as minerals, energy, defence, space, and agriculture as areas with immense potential for collaboration.

Healthcare emerged as a promising avenue for closer ties, with the rising popularity of Yoga and Ayurveda in Chile serving as a testament to the cultural exchange between the two countries. The leaders also underscored the importance of deepening cultural and educational connections through student exchange programs and other initiatives.

In a thread post on X, he wrote:

“India welcomes a special friend!

It is a delight to host President Gabriel Boric Font in Delhi. Chile is an important friend of ours in Latin America. Our talks today will add significant impetus to the India-Chile bilateral friendship.

@GabrielBoric”

“We are keen to expand economic linkages with Chile. In this regard, President Gabriel Boric Font and I agreed that discussions should begin for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. We also discussed sectors like critical minerals, energy, defence, space and agriculture, where closer ties are achievable.”

“Healthcare in particular has great potential to bring India and Chile even closer. The rising popularity of Yoga and Ayurveda in Chile is gladdening. Equally crucial is the deepening of cultural linkages between our nations through cultural and student exchange programmes.”

 

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2117553) Visitor Counter : 82

Source: Government of India

PRESIDENT OF INDIA HOSTS PRESIDENT OF CHILE

CHILE IS AN IMPORTANT PARTNER OF INDIA IN THE LATIN AMERICA REGION: PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:39PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu received H.E. Mr Gabriel Boric Font, President of the Republic of Chile at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (April 1, 2025). She also hosted a banquet in his honour.

Welcoming President Boric on his first visit to India, the President said that his political journey, from student politics to the post of President, is an inspiration for young leaders across the world.

The President said that this visit is an important milestone in India-Chile relations, as it is taking place at a time when we are completing 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations.

The President said that Chile is an important partner of India in the Latin America region.  The political and economic priorities of India and Chile complement each other. She stated that there are many opportunities to increase cooperation between the two countries in trade and investment, technology and cultural exchange.

The President was happy to note that trade between India and Chile has increased in recent years, and many Indian companies have invested in Chile in various sectors. She said that there is potential for enhancing cooperation in these areas.

The President appreciated the important contribution of the Indian community in Chile, who are helping to popularize Indian cuisine, Yoga and Ayurveda in Chile, and strengthening our people to people linkages.

The two leaders agreed that there is a huge opportunity to further the strong relations between the two countries, and this visit will add a new chapter in the India-Chile relationship.   

Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

 

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2117556) Visitor Counter : 61