MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:38PM by PIB Delhi

Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh released the special issue of Hindi magazine ‘Samvad’ at South Block, New Delhi on April 01, 2025. This in-house magazine has been published by the Office of Joint Secretary and Chief Administrative Officer (Official Language Section). The objective is to provide a platform to the creative talent of the personnel and encourage them to carry out official work

Source: Government of India

Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu released a Special Postage Stamp

Celebrating 90th anniversary of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:31PM by PIB Delhi

The Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, released a special Postage Stamp to commemorate the 90th Anniversary of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai. The event was graced by Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis, and other distinguished dignitaries.

Release of Special Postage Stamp on RBI released by Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu

Speaking at the event, Hon’ble President Droupadi Murmu lauded the efforts of the RBI in strengthening and regulating the financial sector, ensuring stability, and fostering economic growth in the nation.

Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia congratulated the RBI for ensuring that the country’s economic fabric remains robust and for shaping the nation’s financial landscape. He also highlighted the role India Post has played towards financial inclusion with its vast network of 1,65,000 Post Offices across the country. The Post Office Savings Bank (POSB) has played a crucial role in offering savings schemes, while the traditional money order service has evolved into the iMoney Order, making money transfers quicker, more convenient, and more affordable.

The Reserve Bank of India was established on April 1, 1935 at its iconic building in Kolkata. As it completes nine decades of dedicated service to the nation, the RBI continues to play a pivotal role in fostering stability, trust, and growth in the financial system. Beyond its core responsibilities of monetary policy, currency management, government debt management, and financial regulation, the RBI also focuses on financial inclusion, consumer awareness, and the promotion of financial literacy.

Special Postage My Stamp on 90^th Anniversary of Reserve Bank of India.

This special stamp serves as a tribute to the institution’s significant contributions to India’s economic growth and its unwavering commitment to financial stewardship.

The special postage stamp released on this occasion depicts RBI’s iconic heritage, symbolising its journey of nine decades. The stamp prominently showcases the Reserve Bank’s original headquarters in Kolkata, where it was first established, along with its present headquarters in Mumbai, representing its evolution over the years. It also prominently displays the RBI’s specially designed 90-year logo with the inscription “Stability. Trust. Growth”, reflecting its foundational principles and continued contribution to the economic framework of the nation.

Social Media Links:

1) https://x.com/JM_Scindia/status/1906952599003410532

2) https://x.com/IndiaPostOffice/status/1906972522559705340

*****

Samrat/Allen

(Release ID: 2117352) Visitor Counter : 61

Source: Government of India

Defence exports surge to a record high of Rs 23,622 crore in Financial Year 2024-25, a growth of 12.04% over 2023-24

With 42.85% increase, DPSUs contribute with Rs 8,389 crore of exports; Private sector records the figure of Rs 15,233 crore

Under PM Modi’s leadership, India is marching towards achieving Rs 50,000 crore target by 2029: Raksha Mantri

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

Defence exports have surged to a record high of Rs 23,622 crore (approx. US$ 2.76 Billion) in the Financial Year (FY) 2024-25. A growth of Rs 2,539 crore or 12.04% has been registered in the just-concluded FY over the defence exports figures of FY 2023-24, which were Rs 21,083 crore.

The Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) have shown a significant increase of 42.85% in their exports in the FY 2024-25 reflecting the growing acceptability of Indian products in the global market and the ability of the Indian defence industry to be a part of the global supply chain. The private sector and DPSUs have contributed Rs 15,233 crore and Rs 8,389 crore respectively in defence exports of 2024-25, whereas the corresponding figures for FY 2023-24 were Rs 15,209 crore and Rs 5,874 crore respectively.

Through a post on X, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated all the stakeholders on achieving the feat. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is marching towards achieving the target of increasing defence exports to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.

India has evolved from a largely import-dependent military force to the one increasingly focused on self-reliance and indigenous production. In a major boost to defence exports, wide range of items from ammunition, arms, sub-systems/systems and parts & components have been exported to around 80 countries in the just-concluded FY.

The Department of Defence Production has a dedicated portal for application and processing of export authorisation requests, and 1,762 Export Authorisation were issued in FY 2024-25 compared to 1,507 in the preceding year, registering a growth of 16.92%. The total number of exporters also grew by 17.4% in the same period.

Many policy reforms have been brought-in by the Government in the past few years to boost the Indian defence industry such as simplification of industrial licensing procedure, removal of parts and components from license regime, extending the validity period of license etc. In addition, SOP for grant of Export Authorisation was further simplified, and more provisions were added in the last financial year to boost exports from the country.

***

VK/SR/Savvy

(Release ID: 2117348) Visitor Counter : 138

Source: Government of India

EPFO Expands Banking Network, 15 Additional Banks Empanelled for Collection of EPFO Contributions Taking Total Number to 32 Banks

EPFO 3.0 will make EPFO as Accessible and Efficient as Banks: Dr. Mandaviya

With nearly 8 crore active members and more than 78 lakh pensioners, EPFO provides benefits that ensure social security for millions – Union Minister

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

EPFO entered into agreements with 15 additional Public/Private Sector Banks in the presence of Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour & Employment, Youth Affairs & Sports and Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, in New Delhi today. The newly empanelled 15 banks will enable direct payment of nearly Rs. 12,000 Crore in annual collections and enable direct access to employers who maintain their accounts with these banks. For enabling employers covered under the Act to pay their monthly contributions, EPFO has already empanelled 17 banks, taking the total to 32.

Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in his address, stated that the country’s progress towards a “Naya Bharat” is being significantly supported by institutions like the EPFO, which plays a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future. With nearly 8 crore active members and more than 78 lakh pensioners, EPFO provides benefits that ensure social security for millions, he added.

He emphasized how EPFO continues to evolve and adapt, with the recent implementation of EPFO 2.01, a robust IT system that has significantly improved claim settlements. He said in the Financial Year 2024-25, EPFO settled record over 6 crore claims, a 35% increase compared to the 4.45 crore claims settled in the previous year (2023-24).

Dr. Mandaviya pointed out that customer satisfaction has risen significantly, and EPFO is actively working on evolving towards EPFO 3.0 to make it as accessible and efficient as banks. He said that a significant milestone was also marked with the introduction of the Centralized Pension Payment System. “This system will benefit over 78 lakh pensioners, enabling them to receive their pensions in any bank account across the country. Previously, pensioners were required to have an account in a specific zonal bank, this compulsion has now been removed,” Union Minister explained.

Dr. Mandaviya also touched upon the significant reforms EPFO has introduced recently. “Auto claim settlement process is a major reform which has improved claim processing speed. With auto-processing, claims are now being settled in just three days. In FY 2024-25, we settled 2.34 crore claims under this system, a 160% increase from the 89.52 lakh claims in 2023-24″, Union Minister said.

Union Minister expressed happiness that EPFO is offering 8.25 % interest rate to its beneficiaries. The participation of banks in service delivery would further enhance efficiency of EFFO and improve good governance.

Looking ahead, Dr. Mandaviya reiterated EPFO’s commitment to continuous improvement. “We are focused on providing Ease of Living for members and Ease of Doing Business for employers. With the continued support of our banking partners, employers, and members, we are determined to take strong strides toward realizing the vision of a Viksit Bharat, while further strengthening our social security framework.”

EPFO, one of the largest social security Organisations in the world has been taking a series of efforts to simplify processes for members and enhance employers’ experience in transacting with it. In FY 24-25, EPFO has collected over Rs. 3.41 Lakh Crore in contributions remitted by employers through 1.25 Crore electronic challan cum returns (ECRs) till 20^th March 2025.

Earlier, the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), EPFO in its 236th Meeting held on 30.11.2024 had approved the empanelment of all Agency Banks listed with RBI and Scheduled Commercial banks with collection share more than or equal to 0.20% of total EPFO collection as additional banks authorised to collect EPFO contributions. From 1st April 2025, the total number of empanelled banks has gone up to 32, providing employers with a wider array of choices for remittance to EPFO.

The empanelment of new banks will bring seamless integration of EPFO collections/dues payments by employers, further reducing the need of aggregator payment mechanism for employers, which will help both EPFO & employers to reduce transactional delays and thereby strengthening operational efficiency. This will yield financial benefits for EPFO, as dues remitted through empanelled banks will be available for investment on T+1 day, compared to T+2 day through aggregator. This will also significantly reduce costs to EPFO payable for name validation of members’ accounts held in non-empanelled banks. EPF members will also be benefitted by this empanelment in a big way. Now when members will seed their bank accounts maintained in these banks, these will be verified in a speedier manner by these banks instead of routing these through any other channel.

This initiative will enhance both the Ease of Doing Business and the Ease of Providing Service for employers and it will also translate these benefits for the members, reducing lags in payments of their contributions. Further, it will also help employers to interact with these banks directly for grievances related to payment of dues.

Shri Ramesh Krishnamurthi, Central PF Commissioner, MD/CEO and senior officers of banks, Ministry of Labour & Employment and EPFO were also present on the occasion.

*****

Himanshu Pathak

(Release ID: 2117341) Visitor Counter : 138

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

As per Article 246(3) of the Constitution of India, the preservation, protection, and improvement of livestock, as well as the prevention of animal diseases, veterinary training, and practice, fall under the jurisdiction of State Governments. As per Articles 243(W) and 246, local bodies are mandated to control the stray dog population. Accordingly, local bodies are implementing the Animal Birth Control Programme to regulate the population of stray dogs.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) is responsible for the human health component related to dog bites and human rabies. Under the National Rabies Control Program, data on animal bites, including high-risk groups such as children, is being collected, and necessary provisions for post-exposure prophylaxis are being made for all animal bite victims across the country through healthcare facilities. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, state-wise data on dog bite cases and suspected human rabies deaths reported by states and Union Territories from 2022 to 2025 (till January), as per the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme–Integrated Health Information Platform portal, are provided in Annexure-I and Annexure-II, respectively.

The Central Government has notified the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 in supersession of the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 to strengthen the implementation of the animal birth control programme. Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 provides for sterilization and vaccination of stray dogs to control the stray dog population, to prevent rabies and to reduce man-dog conflict.

The intensive implementation of the Animal Birth Control program by local bodies is the only rational and scientific solution to the overpopulation of the street dogs and controlling incidence of Rabies. Dogs are sterilized and released back to their original habitats, and since dogs are territorial, they stay in their locality and do not allow dogs from other neighboring areas to come in. These dogs are also vaccinated annually so they are protected from rabies and even if they bite accidentally, they may not transmit Rabies.

The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has published the revised Animal Birth Control (ABC) module for Street Dogs Population management, rabies eradication and reducing man-dog conflict.

Further, Animal Welfare Board of India provides the Animal Birth Control Project Recognition to the recognized Animal Welfare Organizations to carry out the Sterilization and immunization programme of stray dogs across the country. In addition, the Animal Welfare Board of India has issued following advisories / guidelines for proper welfare of the stray dogs as below:

• Pet Dogs and Street Dogs Circular dated 26.02.2015
• Standard protocol for the adoption of community animals dated 17.05.2022
• Request to Chief Secretary of all State/UTs to implement the provision of Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 dated 27.03.2023
• Request to Principal Secretary, Urban Development and Animal Husbandry as well as to the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of all Districts of all State/UTs to implement the provision of Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 dated 31.03.2023
• Request to al District Magistrate of all Districts of all State/UTs to implement the provision of Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 dated 30.05.2023

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare is implementing all necessary activities for rabies elimination in India by 2030 through the National Rabies Control Program (NRCP) in coordination with key stakeholder ministries and departments. Each stakeholder ministry/department has a defined role and set of responsibilities for rabies elimination under the National Action Plan for Dog-Mediated Rabies Elimination by 2030 (NAPRE), as part of the National Rabies Control Program.

The activities undertaken by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) for rabies elimination across the country are mentioned below at Annexure-III

The Government has not conducted a formal assessment of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Program’s effectiveness in controlling the stray dog population; however, it remains the primary mechanism for managing the issue. The program’s effectiveness is supported by several mandatory provisions, including Animal Birth Control Project Recognition for each project, the constitution of Monitoring and Implementation Committees at the Central, State, and Local levels, and other regulatory measures. However, its effectiveness varies across different regions due to implementation challenges.

Further, as per the information received, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has assessed the effectiveness of the Animal Birth Control Program in controlling the stray dog population. A study conducted in 2019 and 2023 revealed a 10% reduction in the street dog population in 2023 compared to the previous survey. At the same time, the neutering percentage increased by 20%.

ANNEXURE-I

Dog Bite cases reported by states/UTs at IDSP (from 2022-25)

State/UT	2022 (Jan-Dec)	2023 (Jan-Dec)	2024 (Jan-Dec)	2025 (January)
Andaman & Nicobar Islands	345	528	455	52
Andhra Pradesh	192360	212146	245174	23180
Arunachal Pradesh	2501	4409	6388	714
Assam	39919	94945	166232	20900
Bihar	141926	241827	263930	34442
Chandigarh	5365	11782	8644	754
Chhattisgarh	21365	29221	38268	5159
Delhi	6691	17874	25210	3196
Dadra Nagar Haveli And Daman Diu	4169	5921	7926	620
Goa	8057	11904	17236	1789
Gujarat	169363	278537	392837	53942
Haryana	35837	42690	60417	7787
Himachal Pradesh	15935	21096	22909	2135
Jammu And Kashmir	22110	34664	51027	4824
Jharkhand	9539	31251	43874	5344
Karnataka	163356	232715	361494	39437
Kerala	4000	71606	115046	11649
Ladakh	2165	2569	4078	373
Lakshadweep	0	0	0	0
Madhya Pradesh	66018	113499	142948	16710
Maharashtra	393020	472790	485345	56538
Manipur	4450	2964	9257	798
Meghalaya	5302	9611	17784	2466
Mizoram	891	1141	1873	179
Nagaland	452	600	714	85
Odisha	65396	92848	166792	24478
Puducherry	11937	13006	12148	894
Punjab	15519	18680	22912	2164
Rajasthan	88029	103533	140543	15062
Sikkim	3845	6636	8601	840
Tamil Nadu	364435	441796	480427	48931
Telangana	92924	119014	121997	10424
Tripura	3051	6510	9641	1266
Uttarakhand	15649	25623	23091	1790
Uttar Pradesh	191361	229921	164009	20478
West Bengal	22627	48664	76486	10264
Total	21,89,909	30,52,521	37,15,713	4,29,664

* Data source IDSP/IHIP as on 27-2-2025

ANNEXURE-II

Human Rabies cases (Death) reported by states/UTs (from 2022-25)

State/UT	2022 (Jan-Dec)	2023 (Jan-Dec)	2024 (Jan-Dec)	2025 (January)
Andaman & Nicobar Islands	0	0	0	0
Andhra Pradesh	3	0	1	0
Arunachal Pradesh	0	0	1	0
Assam	0	3	1	1
Bihar	1	3	2	0
Chandigarh	1	0	0	0
Chhattisgarh	0	1	0	0
Delhi	0	0	0	0
Dadra Nagar Haveli And Daman Diu	0	0	0	0
Goa	0	0	0	0
Gujarat	0	3	1	0
Haryana	0	0	0	0
Himachal Pradesh	1	1	3	0
Jammu And Kashmir	0	0	0	0
Jharkhand	0	1	1	0
Karnataka	3	4	5	0
Kerala	0	1	3	0
Ladakh	0	0	0	0
Lakshadweep	0	0	0	0
Madhya Pradesh	1	2	6	0
Maharashtra	7	14	14	0
Manipur	1	3	2	0
Meghalaya	0	1	4	0
Mizoram	0	0	0	0
Nagaland	0	0	0	0
Odisha	0	1	0	0
Puducherry	0	0	0	0
Punjab	1	0	0	0
Rajasthan	0	3	0	0
Sikkim	0	0	0	0
Tamil Nadu	2	5	2	0
Telangana	0	0	0	0
Tripura	0	1	1	0
Uttarakhand	0	0	0	0
Uttar Pradesh	0	3	6	0
West Bengal	0	0	1	0
Total	21	50	54	1

* Data source IDSP/IHIP as on 27-2-2025

ANNEXURE-III

The activities undertaken by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) for rabies elimination across the country are as follows:

1. Launch of NAPRE: – Under the ‘National Rabies Control Program’, the “National Action Plan for Dog-Mediated Rabies Elimination by 2030” (NAPRE) was conceptualized and jointly launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying (MoFAHD) on September 28, 2021. The NAPRE guidelines consist of two components: Human Health and Animal Health. The implementation of the Human Health component is undertaken by the ‘National Centre for Disease Control’ (NCDC) under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with dedicated budgetary support, while the implementation of the Animal Health component is to be undertaken by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) under MoFAHD.  As per Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 Mass dog vaccination and dog population management are being done by the animal husbandry department in collaboration with local body authorities.

 

2. Budgetary support to the states under National Rabies Control Program: Under the “National Health Mission”, the states are being supported by providing budget for implementing the ‘National Rabies Control Program’ (NRCP) through budget for Capacity building of the healthcare staff, procurement of rabies vaccines, printing of IEC for rabies & dogbite prevention, for data entry support, review meetings, Monitoring and Surveillance, establishment of Model Anti Rabies Clinics & Wound Washing facilities.

 

3. Availability of ARV and ARS in Health facilities: – The lifesaving drugs like Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) and Anti-Rabies Serum (ARS)/Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) are being provided at government hospitals and health facilities under the National Free Drug Initiative of the National Health Mission (NHM). These drugs are also included in the essential drug list of the states.

 

4. Workshops conducted under NRCP for SAPRE: – To develop the ‘State Action Plan for Rabies Elimination’(SAPRE), regional level workshops have been conducted for southern states, northeastern states, North region states and Delhi in the last two years. Rajasthan, Puducherry, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tamilnadu have already launched their SAPREs, while Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Delhi are yet to launch their SAPREs. Rest other states are drafting their SAPRE

 

5. Establishment of Model Anti Rabies Clinics across the states: Support is being provided to the states’ Health Departments for establishing “Model Anti-Rabies Clinics” in the districts to provide care to dog bite victims. As of now, 279 Model Anti-Rabies Clinics have become operational in the last three years.

 

6. Strengthening the Diagnostic Labs for Rabies Diagnosis: – Across country 14 diagnostic laboratories of government health institutions have been strengthened under the National Rabies Control Program for rabies diagnosis in the selected states/UTs.

 

7. Issues advisories and Communication letters to the states: – Issued advisory to all states by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India (GoI), urging them to classify Human Rabies as a Notifiable Disease under relevant acts. Presently, Human Rabies is notifiable in 23 States/UTs. Additionally, various communications have been sent to the states for implementation of National Rabies Control Program (NRCP) through surveillance, availability of ARV/ARS, training to stakeholders on dogbite and rabies cases management, establishment of Model Anti Rabies Clinics, ensuring Wound washing facility in public hospitals and centres.

 

8. Rabies Free City Imitative: – The Rabies-Free Cities initiative has commenced in a phased manner, targeting Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities for rabies prevention & control. The initiative is being implemented in 15 cities of 6 states and planned for expansion to 114 cities across country.

 

9. Formulation of Committees at National & state Level under National Rabies Control Program: – The National Joint steering committee for Rabies Elimination (NJSC-RE) has been constituted under the chairpersonship of Secretary (HFW)-MoHFW and Co-chairpersonship of Secretary Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying for overall steering the program in the country and to formulate policy, legislations and framework for regulatory mechanism. Similarly, to advise the program division on various technical aspects the National Technical Advisory committee (NTAC) was constituted under the chairpersonship of DGHS. In line with NJSC; state and district-level Joint Steering Committees for Rabies Elimination have been established across states and districts to regular review program progress under NRCP.

 

10. Develop Guidelines and resource documents under National Rabies Control Program: – Various guidelines on rabies prophylaxis and training modules have been developed for medical officers and health workers and disseminated with the states/UTs.

 

11. Training Programs under National Rabies Control Program: – Numerous training sessions for healthcare professionals on proper animal bite management and rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) have been conducted across all States/UTs. Around 1,66,470 medical officers, paramedical staff, and nurses have been trained in dog bite management from 2019 to 2025 (till Feb’25).

 

12. Community Awareness on Dogbite and Rabies: – Community awareness about rabies prevention is being raised through advocacy, communication, and social mobilization campaigns. To create the awareness to the public and healthcare professionals Dog bite protocols, IEC materials, and training videos on the management of animal bite/dog bite cases for medical officers have been created and disseminated across the country. Reference: https://rabiesfreeindia.mohfw.gov.in/iec

 

13. Observance of “World Rabies Day”: – To further promote awareness about rabies, “World Rabies Day” is observed annually on 28^th September at both the national and state levels. During this event, awareness activities on the Do’s and Don’ts of handling dogs, dog bite cases, and the importance of rabies vaccination are conducted, particularly in schools for children.

 

14. Created dedicated website for National Rabies Control Program: – A dedicated National Rabies Control Program website has been launched on 12^th March 2024 to enhance surveillance and reporting of animal bites, suspected/probable/confirmed rabies cases/deaths, and vaccination schedules, with a web-based portal currently under development. Reference: https://rabiesfreeindia.mohfw.gov.in/

 

15. Rabies Helpline: – A dedicated Rabies helpline (15400)

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:12PM by PIB Delhi

The National Livestock Mission (NLM), launched in 2014-15, underwent revision and realignment in the 2021-22 financial year. The revamped scheme focuses on employment generation, entrepreneurship development, and enhancing per-animal productivity, thereby aiming to increase the production of meat, goat milk, eggs, and wool under the development programme umbrella. Further modifications were introduced on 21st February 2024, incorporating breed upgradation of camels, horses, and donkeys, along with initiatives for fodder production utilizing wastelands, rangelands, and degraded forest land. The Department has published revised Comprehensive NLM Guidelines in January 2025 and has also finalized the Model DPRs. Both the guidelines and Model DPRs are available on the NLM portal: https://nlm.udyamimitra.in/. It is still too early to assess the impact of components including camels, horses, donkeys, and mules under the scheme on their population.

To promote activities under the realigned NLM, the Department has organized several key events during the current financial year, including the One-Day Event on Camelids in Rajasthan, the First National Goat Conclave: Bakri Maha Kumbh and National Symposium on Policy and Strategies for the Indian Goat Sector in Amrit Kaal in Uttar Pradesh, the Entrepreneurship Development Conclave 2025 in Maharashtra, and the Conclave on the Theme “Dialogue for Holistic Development of the Livestock Sector” in Meghalaya .Additionally, during Regional Review Meetings, states were advised to submit proposals and enhance awareness regarding these initiatives.

Under the National Livestock Mission – Entrepreneurship Development Programme (NLM-EDP), 116 projects with a total project cost of ₹108.26 crore and a subsidy of ₹47.42 crore were approved for 106 individuals, one joint applicant, three FPOs, two cooperatives, one Joint Liability Group, and three Section 8 companies for feed and fodder processing activities, including silage, TMR, hay, and fodder blocks. These projects are at different stages of implementation. The total project cost approved for the Section 8 companies amounts to ₹3.09 crore, with a capital subsidy of ₹1.46 crore.

Under the component “Assistance for Quality Fodder Seed Production” of the NLM scheme, 1.03 lakh tonnes of quality fodder seeds have been produced since 2021-22, with funds amounting to ₹636.83 crore. This is expected to cover approximately 20.63 lakh hectares, leading to an estimated production of 1134.65 lakh metric tonnes of high-quality, nutritious green fodder across the country.

To promote livestock insurance, the beneficiary share of the premium for all categories and areas has been reduced to 15 percent, down from the earlier premium of 20 to 50 percent. The remaining premium is borne by the central and state governments in a 90:10 ratio for hilly and north-eastern states, 60:40 for other states, and 100 percent for union territories. The Department is actively conducting awareness programs, including seminars, camps, publicity campaigns, and video conferences, to promote livestock insurance. For this purpose, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is providing financial assistance to state governments. Under the National Livestock Mission scheme, full central assistance is provided to states for awareness and publicity efforts. Additionally, during Regional Review Meetings, states are advised to enhance insurance coverage. In the current financial year, Rs. 37.92 crore has been released under the livestock insurance activity of the National Livestock Mission, and 21lakh animals have been insured.

This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 1^st April, 2025.

*****

AA

(Release ID: 2117336) Visitor Counter : 112

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

To complement and supplement efforts made by the States and Union territories to improve milk production, the livelihoods of dairy farmers and ensuring self-sufficiency in the dairy sector, Government of India is implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission and other schemes across the country including Odisha.

The implementation of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and other initiatives by the Government of India has resulted in a significant 63.5% increase in milk production in the country over the past decade, rising from 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 2s39.3 million tonnes in 2023-24. Similarly, the milk production in Odisha has increased by 39% from 18.98 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 26.30 lakh tonnes in 2023-24.

1.  Rashtriya Gokul Misson: This scheme aims at the development and conservation of indigenous breeds, genetic upgradation of bovine population, enhancement of milk production and productivity of bovines thereby making dairying more remunerative to farmers.  The following steps have been undertaken under the scheme:

1. Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme: The programme aims to enhance AI coverage and deliver quality Artificial Insemination (AI) services free of cost at farmers doorsteps using semen from high-genetic-merit bulls. In Odisha, till date 46.53 lakh animals have been covered, 61.10 lakh Artificial insemination performed, and 29.48 lakh farmers have benefitted under this programme.

Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using Sex-Sorted Semen:   This program aims to produce female calves with up to 90% accuracy, thereby enhancing breed improvement and increasing farmers’ income. Incentive upto 50% of the cost of sex sorted semen is available to farmers including small and marginal farmers engaged in dairying. Recently indigenously developed sex sorted semen production technology has been launched and with this technology cost of sex sorted semen will be reduced from Rs 800 to Rs 250/ dose. In Odisha, under this project so far 1,24,690 doses have been procured, and 38,398 farmers have been benefitted as per Bharat Pashudhan.

Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRI): MAITRIs are trained and equipped to deliver quality artificial insemination services at farmers’ doorsteps and so far, 1500 MAITRIs trained and equipped in Odisha State.

2. Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using IVF Technology: For the first time in India, bovine IVF technology has been promoted for the development and conservation of indigenous breeds. An incentive of ₹5,000 per assured pregnancy out of the total cost of ₹ 21,000 per assured pregnancy is provided to farmers under this program to encourage the development of indigenous breeds.

Launch of Indigenous Culture Media: An indigenous media for in-vitro fertilization (IVF) has been launched to further promote IVF technology in the country. This indigenous culture media is available at cheaper rates than the expensive imported media, making IVF technology available at reasonable rates.

3. Strengthening of semen stations: In order to attain quantitative and qualitative improvement in semen production funds have been released to Odisha state for strengthening and modernization of one semen station located at Cuttack.

• iv. Awareness Programme and farmer training programme: Funds have been released to Odisha for organization of fertility camps, milk yield competition, calf rallies and farmers training programme. So far, State has organised 1500 camps and trained 75,000 farmers for improving animal management, milk quality and productivity.

2. National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD): The scheme focuses on creating/strengthening of infrastructure for quality milk testing equipment as well as primary chilling facilities for State Cooperative Dairy Federations/ District Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union/ Self Help Groups (SHGs)/ Milk Producer Companies/ Farmer Producer Organizations. During last three years an amount of Rs. 1591.08 Lakh has been released to Odisha.

3.  Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme: The scheme is implemented for providing assistance for control of animal diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease, Brucellosis and also to provide assistance to State Governments for Control of other infectious diseases of livestock including dairy animals. Mobile Veterinary Units are also established under the scheme to deliver quality livestock health services at the farmers’ doorsteps. The scheme is an initiative of the Department towards creating disease-free zones in the country including Odisha thereby creating market opportunities of livestock products.

4.   National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM): The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) along with NDDB has developed database named as “Bharat Pashudhan” under NDLM of Rashtriya Gokul Mission. This database has been developed utilizing a unique 12-digit Tag ID allocated to each livestock animal. In Odisha a total of 1.65 crore animals have been registered on the database.  All the stakeholders are connected to the same database through an open-source API based architecture. NDLM is an initiative towards maintaining traceability of livestock thereby making value-added dairy products more competitive in both national and international markets.

5.   Export promotion and certification of livestock products including value added dairy products is mandated to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Export Inspection Council (EIC) under Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Department has also taken up the issues related to export and market access of Indian Dairy products with various countries bilaterally through various platform such as Joint Working Group (JWG), Technical Working Group etc.

This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 1^st April, 2025.

*****

AA

(Release ID: 2117333) Visitor Counter : 105

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

(a) To complement and supplement efforts made by the States and Union Territories to enhance infrastructure for indigenous cattle breeding, Government of India has taken following steps under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission to enhance infrastructure for Indigenous cattle breeding:

(i) Strengthening of semen stations: In order to attain quantitative and qualitative improvement in semen production funds has been released to the States for strengthening and modernization of semen stations. So far, funds have been sanctioned for strengthening 47 semen station in the country.

(ii) Sex-Sorted Semen production facility: Sex sorted semen production has been created in the country for production of only female calves upto 90% accuracy. Five semen stations in Government sector (Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh) are operational. So far 58.67 lakh doses of sex sorted semen has been produced at Government semen stations assisted under Rashtriya Gokul Mission

(iii) Establishment of IVF labs: For the first time in India, bovine IVF technology has been promoted for the development and conservation of indigenous breeds. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has established 22 IVF laboratories to support the promotion of indigenous breeds across the country. So far, 25895 embryos produced, 14145 embryos transferred and 2105 calves produced.

(iv) Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRI): MAITRIs are trained and equipped to deliver quality artificial insemination services at farmers’ doorsteps and so far 38,736 MAITRIs trained and equipped in the country.

(v) Gokul Grams: The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, under Rashtriya Gokul Mission has released funds for setting up of 16 “Gokul Grams” with the aim of conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds in a scientific and holistic manner. The activity has been discontinued under revised realigned Rashtriya Gokul Mission from 2021-22 to 2025-26

(vi) National Kamdhenu Breeding Centers : The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has established two National Kamdhenu Breeding Centers as repository of germplasm of Indigenous Bovine Breeds and to take up development and conservation of indigenous breeds in scientific and holistic manner  under Rashtriya Gokul Mission. The Northern Region National Kamdhenu Breeding Center has been established at Kiratpur, Itarsi, in Madhya Pradesh and the Southern Region National Kamdhenu Breeding Center has been established at Chintaladevi, Nellore, in Andhra Pradesh.

The State-wise details of the infrastructure projects funded under Rashtriya Gokul Mission is at Annexure-I

(b) The specific measures introduced to support small and marginal farmers including members of dairy cooperatives under the scheme are as follows:

(i) Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme: The programme aims to enhance AI coverage and deliver quality Artificial Insemination (AI) services free of cost at farmers doorsteps using semen from high-genetic-merit bulls, including indigenous bovine breeds.

(ii) Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme (ABIP)

(a)  Sex-Sorted Semen:   This program aims to produce female calves with up to 90% accuracy, thereby enhancing breed improvement and increasing farmers’ income. Incentive upto 50% of the cost of sex sorted semen is available to farmers including small and marginal farmers engaged in dairying. Recently indigenously developed sex sorted semen production technology has been launched  and with this technology cost of sex sorted semen will be reduced from Rs 800 to Rs 250/ dose.

(b) IVF Technology: For the first time in India, bovine IVF technology has been promoted for the development and conservation of indigenous breeds. An incentive of ₹5,000 per assured pregnancy out of the total cost of ₹ 21,000 per assured pregnancy is provided to farmers under this program to encourage the development of indigenous breeds.

(iii) Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRI): MAITRIs are trained and equipped to deliver quality artificial insemination services at farmers’ doorsteps

(iv) Launch of Indigenously Developed Genomic Chip: For the first time, a genomic chip has been developed and launched under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission for indigenous breeds. This common genomic chip is significantly contributing to the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds through identification of High genetic Merit bulls.

The implementation of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and other initiatives by the Government of India have resulted in a significant 63.5% increase in milk production over the past decade, rising from 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 239.3 million tonnes in 2023-24. During this period, productivity across all animal categories, including descript, non-descript cattle, buffaloes, and crossbred cattle, improved by 26.35%, while indigenous and non-descript cattle saw a 39.37% increase, with productivity rising from 927 kg per animal per year in 2014-15 to 1292 kg in 2023-24. During the same period, Milk production from indigenous cattle surged by 69.27%, growing from 29.48 million tonnes to 49.90 million tonnes, and buffalo milk production increased by 39.73%, from 74.70 million tonnes to 104.38 million tonnes. Additionally, the number of milking animals rose by 30.46%, from 85.66 million in 2014-15 to 111.76 million in 2023-24.

(c) The initiatives being taken by the Department to promote the export of value-added dairy products derived from indigenous breeds are as follows:

(i) National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM): The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) along with NDDB has developed database named as “Bharat Pashudhan” under NDLM of Rashtriya Gokul Mission. This database has been developed utilizing a unique 12-digit Tag ID allocated to each livestock animal, 34.20 crore animals have been registered on the database.  All the stakeholders are connected to the same database through an open source API based architecture. NDLM is an initiative towards maintaining traceability of livestock thereby promoting export possibilities of value-added dairy products derived from indigenous breeds.

(ii) Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme: The scheme is implemented for providing assistance for control of animal diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease, Brucellosis and also to provide assistance to State Governments for Control of other infectious diseases of livestock including dairy animals. Mobile Veterinary Units are established under the scheme to deliver quality livestock health services at farmers doorstep. The scheme is an initiative of the Department towards creating disease-free zones in the country thereby creating market opportunity for export of livestock products.

(iii) Export promotion and certification of livestock products including value added dairy products is mandated to the APEDA and EIC under Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Department has also taken up the issues related to export and market access of Indian Dairy products with various countries bilaterally through various platform such as Joint Working Group (JWG), Technical Working Group etc

This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 1^st April, 2025.

*****

AA

(Release ID: 2117330) Visitor Counter : 117

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

Border Road Organization (BRO) has opened Zojila Pass in record time after a mere closure for 32 days, today on 01 April, 2025 with Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan DG, BRO flagging off the first convoy towards Ladakh.  Zojila Pass is one of the most critical and challenging high-altitude passes in the world connecting Kashmir Valley to Ladakh.

This year, the pass faced an unusually short but intense closure period due to relentless snowfall caused by a Western Disturbance for 17 days, from 27 February to 16 March 2025. The sheer volume of accumulated snow posed a formidable challenge.  The BRO personnel, working under extreme conditions, battling sub-zero temperatures, high velocity winds, and avalanche-prone terrain, cleared the snow in a record 15 days, between 17 March and 31 March.

Every year, the formidable Pass experiences heavy snowfall, forcing its closure during the harsh winter months. This temporary closure impacts not only the movement of troops and essential supplies but also disrupts the daily lives of local population in Ladakh, which depends on this route for trade, medical support, and economic activities. Due to technological advancements, improved snow-clearance techniques, and the relentless efforts of BRO, this closure period has been drastically reduced from about six months a few decades ago to a few weeks now.

The reopening of Zojila Pass is a testament to the dedication of BRO, which has Project Beacon in Kashmir and Project Vijayak in Ladakh to ensure timely restoration of connectivity on this strategic pass.

****

VK/SR/GC

(Release ID: 2117332) Visitor Counter : 178

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:31PM by PIB Delhi

Whenever BIS Standard for a steel product is formulated and incorporated in the Steel Quality Control Order (QCO), it is mandatory that such steel product will be manufactured with a BIS license, both by domestic producers or foreign producers intending to export to India. So far 151 Indian Standards have been notified under the Quality Control Order covering carbon steel, alloy steel and stainless steel.

Regarding the measures taken to upgrade the existing online portal for NOC applications, the functionality was integrated with the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) portal, for the applicants seeking NOC, for such products which are not covered under the QCO. This initiative promoted ease of doing business as importers need only to register and provide the desired inputs on a single portal only.

Steel is a deregulated sector and the domestic steel prices & steel production are determined by factors such as steelmaking capacity, demand supply dynamics of market forces, consumption etc.

The National Steel Policy (NSP) 2017, envisages creation of a technologically advanced and globally competitive steel industry, including the small & medium steel producers, that promotes economic growth.

The following are the initiatives of Ministry of Steel, to encourage investments in sustainable and high-quality steel production aligned with the National Steel Policy:-

• Government has launched the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for ‘Specialty Steel’ to promote the manufacturing of certain high grade varieties of steel within the country by attracting capital investment and promote technology up-gradation in the steel sector.

• Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Ministry of Steel has awarded two pilot projects to produce DRI using 100% Hydrogen in vertical shaft and one pilot project to use hydrogen in existing Blast Furnace to reduce coal/coke consumption under this Mission.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

*****

TPJ/NJ

(Release ID: 2117304) Visitor Counter : 169