Hong Kong Customs detects case involving possession of suspected “space oil drug” by passenger (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

​Hong Kong Customs yesterday (March 26) detected a case involving possession of etomidate, the main ingredient of the “space oil drug”, which is under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance, by an incoming passenger at the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point. Nine suspected “space oil drug” capsules and one vape stick were seized.
 
A 25-year-old male passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Shenzhen yesterday. During Customs clearance, nine suspected “space oil drug” capsules and one vape stick were found on him and his baggage. The man was subsequently arrested. The arrested person, who claimed to be a student, has been released on bail pending further investigation.
 
Customs will continue to step up enforcement and stringently combat against trafficking of the “space oil drug”.
 
Under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
 
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour report hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

     

LandsD’s 3D Digital Maps achieves territory-wide coverage

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Lands Department (LandsD) today (March 27) launched a 3D Visualisation Map of Hong Kong Island, New Territories Southwest and New Territories East, along with a 3D Indoor Map with coverage extended to the whole territory of Hong Kong and selected MTR stations, providing more comprehensive spatial data to the public. Released in phases since 2022, the 3D Digital Maps has now achieved full coverage of the territory.
 
The 3D Visualisation Map of Hong Kong Island, New Territories Southwest and New Territories East covers around 122 000 buildings and about 3 300 infrastructure facilities including flyovers, footbridges and subways. Additionally, around 30 selected MTR stations are covered in the 3D Indoor Map, offering information on points of interest and a supporting indoor point-to-point pedestrian routing service within the stations. In combination with some 200 buildings included in the 3D Indoor Map of Kowloon East, Kowloon Central and Kowloon West released last year, the territory-wide 3D Indoor Map now covers around 600 buildings, including government and private buildings, community facilities and hospitals, providing information on their interior spaces and points of interest. The data facilitates the development of innovative indoor data applications, such as location-based services, tourism and indoor navigation.
 
     The “Streetscape 360” feature of the 3D Visualisation Map offers 360-degree street-level panoramic images and a measurement function, with coverage now extended from Kowloon, Lantau and New Territories Northwest to include Hong Kong Island and the entire New Territories.
 
The datasets of the abovementioned 3D Digital Maps, relevant application programming interface and sample codes are available on the Common Spatial Data Infrastructure Portal (portal.csdi.gov.hk) and the online application platform “Open3Dhk” (3d.map.gov.hk) for free download by the public, as well as to facilitate the development of web services and smart applications by the innovation and technology sector and academia.
 
     The LandsD will continuously update the 3D Digital Maps to provide up-to-date information with a view to promoting smart city development.

Jadewell Family Office uses Hong Kong as headquarters to offer wealth management services (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

​Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced today (March 27) that an independent wealth management advisor, Jadewell Family Office, has officially opened its headquarters in Hong Kong, leveraging the city’s robust financial ecosystem and dynamic growth of the family office sector to offer one-stop-shop financial advice to its clients.
 
Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK Mr Arnold Lau said, “Hong Kong, currently the largest cross-border wealth management hub in Asia and the second-largest worldwide after Switzerland, is anticipated to surpass Switzerland by 2027, becoming the premier global centre for cross-boundary wealth management. Jadewell Family Office uses Hong Kong as its base, underscoring the city’s appeal as a prime destination for investment management.”
 
Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Jadewell Family Office, Ms Ann Yu, said, “We understand that many clients in Hong Kong are seeking to transition portfolio management responsibilities to the next generation. The city offers a strong client base, a sophisticated financial ecosystem and boundless opportunities that are vital for our operations. We are committed to expanding our services beyond traditional private banking clientele to reach a wider audience in Hong Kong.”
 
She added, “We recognise the strong demand for portfolio consolidation, analysis and monitoring among sophisticated clientele in Hong Kong who hold investment positions across multiple custodians. Our expertise is well suited to meet this demand. We also offer coaching to younger family members on investment fundamentals, interactions with private bankers and product selection, while enhancing cost structure transparency and mitigating conflicts of interest.”
 
Founded in 2024, Jadewell Family Office aims to address the significant needs of affluent clients seeking comprehensive and conflict-free investment advisory services. It is a licensed corporation under the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission, holding Type 4 (Advising on Securities) and Type 9 (Asset Management) licenses, dedicated to serving professional investors.
 
For more information about Jadewell Family Office, please visit www.jadewellfo.com.

For a copy of the photo, please visit www.flickr.com/photos/investhk/albums/72177720324641522.

  

PARLIAMENT QUESTION: STARTUP ENCOURAGEMENT PROGRAMME

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 6:58PM by PIB Delhi

IN-SPACe has following space start-ups encouragement programs/schemes:

 

  1. IN-SPACe Seed fund scheme provide initial finance assistance to the Indian space start-ups with novel concept. This scheme enables these start-ups to demonstrate the novel idea and graduate to next level. A maximum grant of Rs. 1 Crore would be provided to selected start-up on milestone basis in three or more instalments.
  2. Under IN-SPACe differential pricing policy discounted price support is provided to space start-ups for availing/utilizing various facilities of DOS/ISRO, Technology Transfer and launch services.
  3. IN-SPACe aims to foster the commercialization in space system by promoting NGEi to develop space products which in turn shall lead to scaling up the productionisation to meet the Global and Domestic Space Sector demands. As part of this endeavor, the Technology Adoption Fund (TAF), a funding scheme designed to promote innovation and drive the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies in the space sector has been instituted.
  4. Apart from the above, mentorship support to space start-ups is also provided along with skill development programs in relevant space area.

 

The IN-SPACe Seed Fund scheme is designed to support space start-ups and micro & small industries (MSEs), those aims to develop innovative space products and services. Eligible applicants include early-stage start-ups and micro & small industries (MSEs) with innovative ideas and projects that use space technology to address up-stream/ mid-stream and down-stream challenges in the Space Sector. The seed fund will provide financial support to selected applicants to help them bring their ideas to life and get their projects off the ground. This support will include access to funding, mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.

IN-SPACe has provided grants to the six Indian space start-ups to develop products and services in the sectors i.e., Agriculture, Disaster management and Urban Development using space technology under IN-SPACe Seed Fund Scheme.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO and Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

 

***

NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2115883) Visitor Counter : 288

Read this release in: Tamil

Issuance Calendar for Marketable Dated Securities for April 2025 ­- September 2025

Source: Government of India

Ministry of Finance

Issuance Calendar for Marketable Dated Securities for April 2025 ­- September 2025

Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 6:55PM by PIB Delhi

In order to enable institutional and retail investors to plan their investments efficiently and to provide transparency and stability to the Government Securities market, the Government of India, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India, hereby, notifies the indicative calendar for issuance of Government dated securities, including Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs), for the first half of the fiscal year 2025-26 (April 01, 2025 to September 30, 2025). The issuance calendar is as under:

 

Calendar for Issuance of Government of India Dated Securities

(April 01, 2025 to September 30, 2025)

S.No.

Auction Week

Amount in (₹crore)

Security-wise Allocation

1

April 01-04, 2025

36,000

(i) 3 Year for ₹6,000 crore

(ii) 10 Year for ₹30,000 crore

2

April 07-11, 2025

32,000

(i) 15 Year for ₹16,000 crore

(ii) 40 Year for ₹16,000 crore

3

April 14-18, 2025

30,000

(i) 7 Year for ₹11,000 crore

(ii) 30 Year SGrB for ₹5,000 crore

(iii) 50 Year for ₹14,000 crore

4

April 21-25, 2025

27,000

(i) 5 Year for ₹15,000 crore

(ii) 30 Year for ₹12,000 crore

5

April 28 – May 02, 2025

36,000

(i) 3 Year for ₹6,000 crore

(ii) 10 Year for ₹30,000 crore

6

May 05-09, 2025

32,000

(i) 15 Year for ₹16,000 crore

(ii) 40 Year for ₹16,000 crore

7

May 12-16, 2025

25,000

(i) 7 Year for ₹11,000 crore

(ii) 50 Year for ₹14,000 crore

8

May 19-23, 2025

27,000

(i) 5 Year for ₹15,000 crore

(ii) 30 Year for ₹12,000 crore

9

May 26-30, 2025

36,000

(i) 3 Year for ₹6,000 crore

(ii) 10 Year for ₹30,000 crore

10

June 02-06, 2025

32,000

(i) 15 Year for ₹16,000 crore

(ii) 40 Year for ₹16,000 crore

11

June 09-13, 2025

30,000

(i) 7 Year for ₹11,000 crore

(ii) 30 Year SGrB for ₹5,000 crore

(iii) 50 Year for ₹14,000 crore

12

June 16-20, 2025

27,000

(i) 5 Year for ₹15,000 crore

(ii) 30 Year for ₹12,000 crore

13

June 23-27, 2025

36,000

(i) 3 Year for ₹6,000 crore

(ii) 10 Year for ₹30,000 crore

14

June 30 – July 04, 2025

32,000

(i) 15 Year for ₹16,000 crore

(ii) 40 Year for ₹16,000 crore

15

July 07-11, 2025

25,000

(i) 7 Year for ₹11,000 crore

(ii) 50 Year for ₹14,000 crore

16

July 14-18, 2025

27,000

(i) 5 Year for ₹15,000 crore

(ii) 30 Year for ₹12,000 crore

17

July 21-25, 2025

36,000

(i) 3 Year for ₹6,000 crore

(ii) 10 Year for ₹30,000 crore

18

July 28 – August 01, 2025

32,000

 

(i) 15 Year for ₹16,000 crore

(ii) 40 Year for ₹16,000 crore

19

August 04-08, 2025

 

25,000

(i) 7 Year for ₹11,000 crore

(ii) 50 Year for ₹14,000 crore

20

August 11-15, 2025

 

28,000

(i) 5 Year for ₹15,000 crore

(ii) 30 Year for ₹13,000 crore

21

August 18-22, 2025

36,000

(i) 3 Year for ₹6,000 crore

(ii) 10 Year for ₹30,000 crore

22

August 25-29, 2025

32,000

 

(i) 15 Year for ₹16,000 crore

(ii) 40 Year for ₹16,000 crore

23

 

September 01-05, 2025

 

25,000

 

(i) 7 Year for ₹11,000 crore

(ii) 50 Year for ₹14,000 crore

24

September 08-12, 2025

 

28,000

(i) 5 Year for ₹15,000 crore

(ii) 30 Year for ₹13,000 crore

25

September 15-19, 2025

 

36,000

(i) 3 Year for ₹6,000 crore

(ii) 10 Year for ₹30,000 crore

26

September 22-26, 2025

32,000

 

(i) 15 Year for ₹16,000 crore

(ii) 40 Year for ₹16,000 crore

 

Total

8,00,000

 

 

As hitherto, all the auctions covered by the calendar will have the facility of non-competitive bidding under which five per cent of the notified amount will be reserved for the specified retail investors.

Like in the past, the Government of India, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India, will continue to have the flexibility to bring about modifications in the above calendar in terms of notified amount, issuance period, maturities, etc. and to issue different types of instruments, including instruments having non-standard maturity, floating rate bonds (FRBs), inflation indexed bonds (IIBs), depending upon the requirement of the Government of India, evolving market conditions and other relevant factors, after giving due notice to the market. The calendar is subject to change, if circumstances so warrant, including for reasons such as intervening holidays. Such changes shall be communicated through Press Releases.

The Government of India, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India, reserves the right to exercise the greenshoe option to retain additional subscription up to ₹2,000 crore against each of the securities indicated in the auction notifications.

The Reserve Bank of India will also be conducting switches of dated securities through auction on the third Monday of every month or at more frequent intervals. In case the third Monday is a holiday, switch auction will be conducted on the fourth Monday of the month.

The auction of dated securities will be subject to the terms and conditions specified in the General Notification No. F.4(2)-B(W&M)/2018 dated March 26, 2025 issued by the Government of India, as amended from time to time.

****

NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2115880)

Calendar for Auction of Government of India Treasury Bills (For the Quarter ending June 2025)

Source: Government of India

Ministry of Finance

Calendar for Auction of Government of India Treasury Bills (For the Quarter ending June 2025)

Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 6:53PM by PIB Delhi

The Government of India, in consultation with Reserve Bank of India, hereby, notifies the calendar for the issuance of Treasury Bills for the quarter ending June 2025 as under:

Notified Amount for Auction of Treasury Bills

(April 01, 2025 to June 30, 2025)

( crore)

Date of Auction

Date of Issue

91 Days

182 Days

364 Days

Total

April 02, 2025

April 03, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

April 09, 2025

April 11, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

April 16, 2025

April 17, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

April 23, 2025

April 24, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

April 30, 2025

May 02, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

May 07, 2025

May 08, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

May 14, 2025

May 15, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

May 21, 2025

May 22, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

May 28, 2025

May 29, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

June 04, 2025

June 05, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

June 11, 2025

June 12, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

June 18, 2025

June 19, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

June 25, 2025

June 26, 2025

      9,000

      5,000

      5,000

   19,000

 

Total

1,17,000

65,000

65,000

2,47,000

 

The Government of India, in consultation with Reserve Bank of India, will have the flexibility to modify the notified amount and timing for auction of Treasury Bills depending upon the requirements, evolving market conditions and other relevant factors, after giving due notice to the market. Thus, the calendar is subject to change, if circumstances so warrant, including for reasons such as intervening holidays. Such changes, if any, will be communicated through press releases.

The auction of Treasury Bills will be subject to the terms and conditions specified in the General Notification No. F.4(2)-B(W&M)/2018 dated March 26, 2025 issued by the Government of India, as amended from time to time.

****

NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2115879)

Sagarmala Programme

Source: Government of India

Sagarmala Programme

Powering India’s Maritime Revolution

Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 6:51PM by PIB Delhi

Key Takeaways

  • 839 projects worth ₹5.79 lakh crores identified under Sagarmala, with 272 projects completed, investing ₹1.41 lakh crore.
  • 118% growth in coastal shipping over the last decade, reducing logistics costs and emissions.
  • 700% surge in inland waterway cargo movement, easing congestion on roads and railways.
  • 40 lakh+ passengers benefited from Ro-Pax ferries, enhancing coastal connectivity.
  • ₹40,000 crore budgetary support for Sagarmala 2.0, aiming to unlock ₹12 lakh crore in investments over the next decade.
  • 9 Indian ports are among the world’s top 100, with Vizag in the top 20 container ports globally.
  • Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative (S2I2) to drive Research, Innovation, Startups, and Entrepreneurship (RISE) in maritime technology.

Introduction

The Sagarmala Programme, launched in March 2015, is the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, aimed at revolutionizing India’s maritime sector. With a 7,500 km coastline, 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways, and a strategic position on key global trade routes, India holds immense potential for port-led economic growth. Sagarmala aims to streamline logistics, reduce costs, and enhance international trade competitiveness by shifting from traditional, infrastructure-heavy transport to efficient coastal and waterway networks. The program focuses on port modernization, industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable coastal development, ensuring minimal infrastructure investment while maximizing economic impact.

The Sagarmala Programme is a key pillar of the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 (MAKV), driving India’s ambition to become a global leader in maritime affairs. Building on Maritime India Vision 2030, MAKV sets ambitious targets, including 4 million GRT of shipbuilding capacity and 10 billion metric tons of port handling annually, aiming to position India among the top five shipbuilding nations by 2047.

Formulated through 150+ stakeholder consultations and an analysis of 50 global benchmarks, MAKV outlines over 300 strategic initiatives to develop world-class ports, expand coastal and inland waterways, and promote a sustainable Blue Economy. As a core enabler, Sagarmala plays a transformative role in enhancing logistics, infrastructure, and shipping, accelerating India’s maritime growth by 2047.

Current Status of the Sagarmala Programme

As part of the Sagarmala Programme, around 839 projects, estimated to cost around 5.79 lakh crores, have been identified for implementation. Central ministries, IWAI, Indian Railways, NHAI, State Governments, Major Ports, and other relevant organizations implement these projects. As of 19th March 2025, 272 projects have been completed, which account for an investment of approximately 1.41 lakh crores.

Achievements of the Sagarmala Programme

Sagarmala has made India’s ports faster, boosted the coastal economy, revived inland waterways, and improved global logistics rankings. Coastal shipping grew 118% in a decade, Ro-Pax ferries moved over 40 lakh passengers, and inland waterway cargo rose 700%. Nine Indian ports rank in the world’s top 100, with Vizag in the top 20 container ports. Indian ports now outperform many advanced maritime nations on key metrics.

New additions to the Sagarmala Programme

Sagarmala 2.0

The Government of India is advancing the Sagarmala Programme with Sagarmala 2.0, focusing on shipbuilding, repair, recycling, and port modernization to enhance India’s maritime competitiveness.

With a budgetary support of ₹40,000 crore, the initiative aims to leverage investments of ₹12 lakh crore over the next decade, driving infrastructure development, coastal economic growth, and job creation. Aligning with the vision of a Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047, Sagarmala 2.0 will accelerate port-led development and strengthen India’s position as a global maritime leader.

Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative (S2I2)

Launched on March 19th 2025, the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative (S2I2) is a transformative program designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in India’s maritime sector. S2I2 supports startups in green shipping, smart ports, maritime logistics, shipbuilding technology, and sustainable coastal development by providing funding, mentorship, and industry partnerships.

Anchored in the principles of RISE—Research, Innovation, Startups, and Entrepreneurship- S2I2 will drive technological advancements, enhance industry competitiveness, and accelerate economic growth. Together with Sagarmala 2.0, this initiative reinforces India’s commitment to maritime excellence and sustainable coastal development, paving the way for a globally competitive and future-ready maritime ecosystem.

Objectives of the Sagarmala Programme

With a strategic focus on port modernization, connectivity, industrialization, and skill development, the Sagarmala Programme is also unlocking new avenues for economic expansion, positioning India as a global maritime powerhouse. Sagarmala’s vision can have a potentially transformative impact on India’s logistics competitiveness and the wider economy. Its main objectives are given below:

 Components of the Sagarmala Programme

The Sagarmala program consists of several key components aimed at transforming India’s maritime sector. The overall set of projects under the Sagarmala Programme are divided into 5 pillars and 24 categories as displayed below.

  1. Port Modernization & New Port Development
    This focuses on upgrading existing ports and constructing new ones to enhance capacity and efficiency. It involves addressing bottlenecks and introducing modernization, mechanization, and computerization in port operations.
  1. Port Connectivity Enhancement
    This component aims to improve connectivity between ports and the hinterland, optimizing both time and cost of cargo transportation. It includes the development of multi-modal logistics solutions, such as inland waterways and coastal shipping, to ensure seamless movement of goods.
  1. Port-Led Industrialization
    The initiative encourages the creation of industrial clusters near ports, promoting economic growth and reducing logistics costs. These clusters attract industries that benefit from efficient transportation and proximity to ports.
  1. Coastal Community Development
    This focuses on the sustainable development of coastal communities by providing skill development and livelihood generation opportunities. It includes initiatives supporting fisheries, coastal tourism, and enhancing the well-being of the local population.
  1. Coastal Shipping & Inland Waterways Transport
    This component promotes the use of coastal and inland waterways for cargo transportation, reducing dependence on road and rail networks. It is an environmentally friendly mode of transport that helps alleviate congestion on roads and railways.

Project Implementation & Funding under Sagarmala

The Sagarmala Programme follows a strategic, stakeholder-driven approach to project identification and execution. Projects are selected based on the Master Planning of Major Ports, meetings of the National and State Steering Committees, and proposals from implementing agencies. Regular realignment and monitoring ensure relevance and efficiency.

Implementation Mechanism

Major Ports, central ministries, State Governments, state maritime boards, and other relevant agencies execute projects.

 

Funding Structure

Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Priority is given to private sector participation, with PPP models implemented wherever feasible.

Internal & Extra Budgetary Resources (IEBR) – Many projects are funded through the internal resources of MoPSW agencies, including Major Ports.

Grant-in-Aid – For projects with high social impact but low financial returns, partial funding is provided under the Sagarmala Scheme. This includes fishing harbours, coastal skill development, port modernization, cargo and tourism infrastructure, and urban water transport (Ro-Ro/Ro-Pax).

Equity As part of the institutional framework under the Sagarmala Programme, Sagarmala Development Company Limited (SDCL) was established in August 2016 to support project Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) set up by Central Ministries, State Governments, Ports, and State Maritime Boards through equity participation.

By leveraging private investment, institutional funding, and government support, Sagarmala drives port-led economic growth and enhances India’s maritime infrastructure.

Conclusion

The Sagarmala Programme is transforming India’s maritime sector by driving port-led economic growth, infrastructure modernization, and global trade competitiveness. With 839 projects worth ₹5.5 lakh crore, it has delivered remarkable outcomes, including 118% growth in coastal shipping, a 700% surge in inland waterway cargo movement, and nine Indian ports ranking among the world’s top 100. Building on this success, Sagarmala 2.0 and the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative (S2I2) will unlock ₹12 lakh crore in investments, strengthen shipbuilding, repair, and recycling, and position India as a hub for maritime innovation and sustainability. Anchored in Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat 2047, the Government of India is steering towards a future-ready, globally competitive maritime ecosystem that fuels economic growth, job creation, and leadership in the Blue Economy.

References

· https://sagarmala.gov.in/about-sagarmala/introduction

· https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2113023#:~:text=Sagarmala%202.0%20is%20a%20visionary,crore%20over%20the%20next%20decade.

· https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1992273

· https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2113023

· https://sagarmala.gov.in/project/port-modernization

· https://sagarmala.gov.in/project/port-connectivity

· https://sagarmala.gov.in/project/port-led-industrialization

· https://sagarmala.gov.in/project/coastal-community-development

· https://sagarmala.gov.in/projects/coastal-shipping-inland-waterways

· https://sagarmala.gov.in/projects/projects-under-sagarmala

Click here to download PDF

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Santosh Kumar / Sarla Meena / Vatsla Srivastava

(Release ID: 2115878) Visitor Counter : 418

PARLIAMENT QUESTION: NATIONAL MISSION ON INTERDISCIPLINARY CYBER PHYSICAL SYSTEMS

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 6:23PM by PIB Delhi

The Government has launched a National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) for boosting technology development in cyber-physical domains like AI, Robotics, IOT.

The Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India is implementing the NM-ICPS, which was approved by the Cabinet on December 6, 2018 with an outlay of Rs. 3,660.00 crore. Under this mission, 25 Technology Innovation Hubs (TIHs) have been established in reputed academic institutions across India. Each TIH specializes in cutting-edge domains such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML), Robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), Cybersecurity, and FinTech etc.

Major activities under the mission include 1. Technology Development, 2. Human Resource Development 3. Entrepreneurship Development  4. International Collaborations.

Significant achievements have been made under NM-ICPS, with a large number of technologies/ technology products developed in the various domains of cyber-physical systems. Some of the major technologies and technology products developed by the TIHs established under NM-ICPS are given in Annexure I. The details of other outcomes and achievements of the Mission are as follows:

 

S. No.

Mission Activity

Outcome

Total Number Achieved

1

Technology Development

Technologies / Technology Products commercialized

389

Publications, IPR and other Intellectual activities

2710

Increase in CPS Research Base

2895

2

Human Resource Development

Fellowships

6483

Training Programs

2716

Skill Development Beneficiaries

208669

3

Entrepreneurship Development

Start-ups & Spin-off companies

888

4

International Collaborations

Number of Collaborations

148

The year-wise details of the budgetary provisions allocated under NM-ICPS by the Government since its inception are as follows:

 

S. No.

Financial Year

Total Budget Allocation (Amount in Rs. Crores)

1

2018-19

0.01

2

2019-20

123.83

3

2020-21

270.85

4

2021-22

0

5

2022-23

300

6

2023-24

435

7

2024-25

815

TOTAL

1944.69

About 45,000 jobs have been created through the Mission by imparting advanced skills and generating skilled manpower.

 

Annexure – I

 

Major Technologies and Technology Products developed under NM-ICPS

  1. Information Technology–Operational Technology (IT-OT) Security Operations Centre (SoC), for monitoring of cyber threats on both IT and OT infrastructure of an organization.
  2. Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI), for secure storage and management of Digital Credentials.
  3. Blockchain-based technology, for maintaining tamper-proof records of Land Registry.
  4. Transferable Development Rights (TDR) system, for maintaining secure, transparent and tamper-proof Development Rights Certificate used in land trading.
  5. Crypto forensic tools for use by Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs).
  6. CharakDT Platform (Integrated Human Digital Twin System), for healthcare applications.
  7. Robotic Arms and soft grippers, for automatic handling of objects in various manufacturing industries.
  8. Technology products for fully automated Drone operations viz. Smart charging support, safe drone batteries, uninterrupted power supply for continuous drone operations etc.
  9. TiHAN Testbed, a state-of-the-art testbed for autonomous navigation technology development, for both aerial and terrestrial autonomous vehicles.
  10. Agri-IoT Farm Management System, to facilitate data-driven decision making by enabling real field monitoring for critical parameters viz. soil health, weather conditions, micro-climate conditions etc.
  11. Holographic Technologies for Mining, for visualization of remote mines.
  12. ORAN (Open Radio Access Network) Massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) 32TR (Transmit-Receive) radio unit, to enhance 5G technology by utilizing large antenna arrays, thus enabling long-range connectivity for rural areas.
  13. iRASTE, an application for enhancing road safety by using predictive capabilities of Artificial intelligence (AI).
  14. Artificial intelligence (AI) – based Oral Cancer screening and detection App, incorporating Data collection features.
  15. Autonomous Weather Station: Smart Climate Monitoring Solution, integrated with IoT enabled sensors, AI driven analytics and mobile-based alerts, to provide critical meteorological insights including temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed and soil moisture, thus enabling data driven decision-making.

 

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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PARLIAMENT QUESTION: PLASTICS AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 6:22PM by PIB Delhi

Technology Development Board (TDB), a statutory body under Department of Science and Technology (DST), has signed an agreement with M/s APChemi Private Limited, Navi Mumbai (2025), for production and commercialization of purified pyrolysis oil to enable downstream production of circular plastics and sustainable chemicals.

Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and Municipal Corporations of Delhi in 2019 for setting up of a plant to convert waste plastic to diesel and tiles using technologies developed by CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP), Dehradun and CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), Delhi.

CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad has a technology for converting different plastic waste to value-added products such as green plasticizers, fuel oil, preparation of monomers and hydrogen. Agreements have been signed with, CDG Petchem Limited, Hyderabad; Clean Seas India Private Limited, Hyderabad; Khar Energy Optimiser, Hyderabad; Resqpol Private Limited, Hyderabad and KLJ Private Limited, Delhi.

In order to foster indigenous technological advancements in sustainability, DST’s TDB has provided financial assistance for development of an integrated plant for the recovery of precious metals from E-waste, Jeweller’s waste, Automobile catalyst waste and also for setting up of a commercial plant for recycling Li batteries and E-waste using indigenous technology.

CSIR had sanctioned Rs. 345 crores to its constituent laboratories in the last three years for 15 projects supported under different categories to foster indigenous technological advancements in sustainability.

Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC) has setup 18 Centres of Excellences (CoE) to promote research on recycling process technologies, development of eco-friendly processes and products to minimize waste generation, reduce energy consumption, utilize renewable feedstocks, development of biodegradable and bio-based chemicals for various applications, etc.

Government of India has undertaken several steps across ministries to establish a self-reliant circular economy, generate employment and reduce dependence on imported crude oil, as detailed below:

  • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF& CC) has issued Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021, enforcing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging, mandating recycling and reuse. The ban on single-use plastics (effective from 2022) encourages alternative materials and reducing petroleum-based imports.
  • Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP& NG) are scaling up biofuel production, reducing crude oil imports and creating rural jobs in biomass supply chains.
  • Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has setup Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) nationwide, employing thousands in waste segregation and recycling, while promoting circularity in plastics.
  • DST through Waste Management Technologies (WMT) program, has been supporting research and innovation on circular economy with potential to ameliorate the environmental load from the huge amount of residuals generated by industrial development and consumption lifestyle.

These efforts are collectively building self-reliant circular economy and alsohelping generation of employment.

 

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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Read this release in: Urdu

PARLIAMENT QUESTION: EXPENDITURE UNDER NATIONAL QUANTUM MISSION

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 6:20PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Cabinet approved the National Quantum Mission at an outlay of Rs. 6003.65 Crore for a period of eight years. The details of estimated expenditure year-wise from 2023-2031 is given below:

 

Budget Head

Budget (in Crore)

2023-24 (Y1)

2024-25 (Y2)

2025-26 (Y3)

2026-27 (Y4)

2027-28 (Y5)

2028-29 (Y6)

2029-30 (Y7)

2030-31 (Y8)

Total

Recurring

441.505

617.225

694.415

624.245

530.905

415.525

210.875

171.665

3706.360

Non-Recurring

262.600

561.420

566.570

489.420

273.400

141.380

1.250

1.250

2297.290

Total Outlay of the Mission

704.105

1178.645

1260.985

1113.665

804.305

556.905

212.125

172.915

6003.650

 

The cabinet approved physical targets set under NQM, year-wise till 2031 is given below:

 

S. No.

Components

Fiscal Year

2023-24 (Y1)

Fiscal Year

2024-25 (Y2)

Fiscal Year

2025-26 (Y3)

Fiscal Year

2026-27 (Y4)

Fiscal Year

2027-28 (Y5)

Fiscal Year

2028-29 (Y6)

Fiscal Year

2029-30 (Y7)

Fiscal Year

2030-31 (Y8)

1.

Thematic Hubs

4

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

2.

Mission Coordination Cell

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

3.

Technology Development

10

57

117

190

227

277

327

397

4.

Human Resource Development

50

500

1255

1400

1417

270

210

190

5.

Entrepreneurship Development

5

12

28

41

35

33

34

29

6

International collaborations

5

6

10

11

8

6

5

5

 

NQM, DST in collaboration with the All India Council for Technical Education, has developed a curriculum on Quantum Technologies. Existing institutes offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses may use this curriculum for starting new programs or increasing seats for research and education in quantum technologies.

The Technology Innovation Hub established at Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune in the area of Quantum Technologies, under National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems, has supported eight startups namely QuNu Labs Private Limited, QpiAI India Pvt. Ltd, Dimira Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Prenishq Pvt. Ltd., QuPrayog Pvt. Ltd., Pristine Diamonds Pvt. Ltd., Quanastra Pvt. Ltd. and Quan2D Technologies Pvt. Ltd. at an outlay of Rs. 68.00 Crores.

Under National Quantum Mission, expenditure of Rs. 43.07 Crore has been incurred till date.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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