Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan at the JUMPSTARTER 2025 Grand Finale today (March 26):
Cindy (Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund, Ms Cindy Chow), distinguished guests, innovators, participants, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. It’s a pleasure to be here at the Grand Finale of Alibaba’s JUMPSTARTER. A warm welcome to all innovators, entrepreneurs and investors joining us today, especially those who have travelled from far and wide.
You have come at a truly exciting time, as we celebrate “Super March” in Hong Kong, a wonderful showcase of an array of global gatherings, from prestigious business conferences like this one to cultural and sporting events such as Art Basel and the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens. There are just abundant opportunities to connect, collaborate, and create unforgettable moments together.
Since its inception eight years ago, the Alibaba JUMPSTARTER event has become a remarkable event for start-ups and scale-ups to pitch their innovative ideas and present cutting-edge solutions while connecting with potential investors from around the globe.
AI for a sustainable future
More than a competition, today’s event is an excellent platform for exchanging ideas, sharing experiences and driving thought leadership regarding our technological future. The theme of this year’s event, “AI and sustainability”, is a crucial one, as it addresses two of the most significant issues facing humanity. The potential of AI to support sustainability goals is vast and evident. Taking climate change as an example, AI’s sweeping application can transform many sectors, through optimising energy consumption, accelerating the development of new materials, enhancing climate forecasting, and much more.
Indeed, the future of AI is a captivating topic that draws significant attention. One thing is certain: it will transform production, business and consumption models, fundamentally redefining the core competitiveness of many economies. This is why countries and regions around the world are making AI the prime focus.
What is less certain is the path along which AI and related technologies will evolve. Not long ago, we assumed that the unprecedented advancement of AI would lead to an exponential demand for supercomputing power, chips, data centres. The startling emergence of deep learning models like DeepSeek and open-source alternatives has prompted a critical re-evaluation of this assumption. We must now ask ourselves – do we truly need such an abundance of chips? Are we perhaps over-investing in data centres?
But regardless of the path, one truth remains: the market inherently favours innovative and cost-effective technologies that generate greater value. History shows that groundbreaking solutions can bring about positive disruptions to the market. And this highlights the immense value of start-ups and their innovations. It reinforces that creativity and innovation are equally essential, if not more, in driving success.
Another critical topic is talent in the age of AI. As AI becomes central to economic competitiveness, we must re-invent our education systems to nurture talent for AI-related industries. Enhancing AI literacy among the general population is also vital, equipping individuals with the skills needed to adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by AI.
Hong Kong: ahead with AI
Here in Hong Kong, we are harnessing AI’s potential with a forward-looking perspective, actively pursuing a number of directions to secure a promising future with AI.
First, embracing AI as a core industry. Hong Kong’s future success relies on our ability to leverage AI to empower our industries. We have good potential: five of our universities rank among the global top 50 in data science and AI. Supported by a vibrant start-up ecosystem, we attract global capital and talent. Our city serves as a convergence point for Mainland and international data. To achieve our vision, we will promote more cross-sectoral collaboration among academia, tech and other industries, enabling AI to integrate widely and unleash its full potential. We also support cross-boundary collaboration on AI-related technologies and applications.
Second, nurturing talent for an AI-driven future. Recognising the importance of early intervention, we are actively promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education in schools. Recently, in my Budget, I engaged several leading technology companies in Hong Kong, including Alibaba, to organise a series of activities for primary and secondary school students. Their activities aim at sparking students’ interest in innovation and technology through hands-on experience with AI and robotics. We anticipate enriching these initiatives further in the future.
Finally, promoting responsible AI development. While AI offers tremendous benefits, it also presents challenges that require appropriate safeguards against misuse. In the financial sector, we have issued a policy statement emphasising a responsible approach to adopting AI, balancing its benefits against risks such as cybersecurity threats, intellectual property concerns and data privacy. We anticipate other sectors to similarly establish relevant principles and guidelines tailored to their needs and circumstances.
Concluding remarks
Ladies and gentlemen, the profound discussions on AI underscore the importance of today’s event. From experts’ insights to the innovative pitches by contestants, your contributions will deepen our understanding of this vital area. This collective effort will enhance Hong Kong’s thought leadership and raise our profile as an international hub for AI exchanges and collaboration.
With that in mind, I wish this event a great success, and all of you the best of business and health in the time ahead. Thank you very much.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a question by the Hon Luk Chung-hung and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (March 26):
Question:
Some organisations have reportedly found that the current disciplinary inquiry system of the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Hong Kong (VSB) is not well-established, lacks sufficient transparency in information disclosure, and has unclear regulatory oversight of general sales and services within veterinary clinics. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) whether, with reference to the Medical Council of Hong Kong’s practice of posting on its website the judgments of its disciplinary inquiries held since July 2, 2008 and the Dental Council of Hong Kong’s practice of posting on its website the judgments of its disciplinary inquiries handed down since September 17, 2009, it has considered extending the enquiry period for the judgments of the disciplinary inquiries conducted by the VSB’s Inquiry Committee and the orders made by it, as well as including the names of the veterinary surgeons involved in the relevant case summaries; if so, of the implementation timetable; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) given that in reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on the Estimates of Expenditure 2024-2025, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology stated that the VSB’s Inquiry Committee had completed 36 inquiry cases between 2021 and 2023, of which 29 were found to be substantiated, involving 30 veterinary surgeons, but that only two of these veterinary surgeons had been sanctioned with “removal of names of relevant veterinary surgeons from the register for three and six months respectively, along with a reprimand and compulsory participation in continuing professional development programmes or professional seminars”, and it is learnt that many pet owners consider such sanctions to be dissuasive, whether the Government will review the VSB’s existing arrangements for handing down judgments in disciplinary inquiries and consider imposing heavier penalties; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(3) given that item 22 of Schedule 3 to the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362) (the Ordinance) provides that a registered veterinary surgeon, as defined by section 2 of the Veterinary Surgeons Registration Ordinance (Cap. 529), is an exempt person under the Ordinance, and yet it is learnt that some pet owners have pointed out that veterinary assistants often promote nutrition supplements, pet food, over-the-counter drugs (such as deworming drugs), and medicinal fur cleaners, etc. to them while their pets are undergoing treatment at veterinary clinics, and that some veterinary clinics even promote pet accessories on online social media platforms, coupled with the view that the general conduct of sales within veterinary clinics should be regulated under the Ordinance, whether the Government has considered regulating the general conduct of sales and services within veterinary clinics; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(4) whether the Government has considered collaborating with relevant Mainland departments to enable local veterinary surgeons to acquire Mainland professional qualifications through agreements for mutual recognition of professional qualifications or professional qualification examinations under the framework of the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement?
Reply:
President,
The Veterinary Surgeons Board of Hong Kong (VSB) is a statutory body established under the Veterinary Surgeons Registration Ordinance (Cap. 529) (the Ordinance), and is responsible for the regulation, registration and disciplinary control of veterinary surgeons, to ensure a high standard of veterinary services in Hong Kong. All veterinary surgeons must comply with the Ordinance and Code of Practice for the Guidance of Registered Veterinary Surgeons (the Code) promulgated by the VSB. The Code provides veterinary surgeons with guidelines on various aspects of conduct, including professional ethics, clinic premises and equipment, advertising and other operational details, etc. If a veterinary surgeon breaches the Code, the VSB may take disciplinary actions against the surgeon.
Having consulted the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the reply to the question from the Hon Luk Chung-hung is as follows:
(1) The VSB currently publishes on its website Orders made by Inquiry Committee within one year with names, and the Findings of Disciplinary Inquiries within three years on an anonymous basis. Moreover, all Orders are published in the Gazette and in one English and one Chinese newspaper circulating in Hong Kong as required by law. In response to the Government’s earlier suggestion on reviewing the existing arrangements with reference to the practices of other professional regulatory bodies, the VSB is considering extending the time for publishing Orders and Findings on its website.
(2) The VSB handles the complaints received in accordance with the complaint mechanism and disciplinary procedures provided under the Ordinance and the Rules of the Veterinary Surgeons Board (Disciplinary Proceedings). To ensure fairness and transparency of the disciplinary procedures, lay persons who represents the interests of persons utilizing veterinary services (e.g. members of animal welfare organisations or tertiary institutions) or medical and health professionals are involved in the handling of complaints by the VSB’s Preliminary Investigation Committee and Inquiry Committee, and the public can also observe the disciplinary hearings. The Inquiry Committee takes into account a number of factors in determining the judgment and penalty, including the seriousness of the case, the character, antecedents and disciplinary record of the veterinary surgeon involved (if any), and the reasons for mitigation (if any), etc., to make an appropriate disciplinary order. To further enhance the disciplinary mechanism, the VSB is considering the feasibility of drawing up guidelines on disciplinary sanctions.
(3) According to Schedule 3 to the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362), a registered veterinary surgeon is an exempt person, which refers that the acts in the capacity of his or her profession are exempted from being regulated by the “fair trading sections” of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance. However, sections 4 and 5 of such Ordinance about the requirement of the provision of information in relation to goods, and section 7 about trade descriptions of goods applied in the course of any trade or business remain applicable.
For persons who are not registered veterinary surgeons (including veterinary assistants), if they are suspected of engaging in unfair trade practices in the course of selling pet nutritional supplements, food and other supplies at veterinary clinics or through online platforms, the Customs and Excise Department may take enforcement actions pursuant to the Trade Descriptions Ordinance. Offenders may be prosecuted, and are liable to a maximum penalty of imprisonment for five years and a fine of $500,000.
Moreover, the Code stipulates that veterinary surgeons have the responsibility to supervise and ensure persons who are not registered veterinary surgeons engaged in merchandising are adequately trained to advise clients on directions for use of the products sold and to judge when the client should receive the personal attention of the veterinary surgeon; and the display and sale of goods are such as not to diminish the public’s confidence in the scientific integrity and impartiality of the profession, or damage relationships between the profession and the public. If persons who are not registered veterinary surgeons fail to meet the standards expected of the profession, the registered veterinary surgeon responsible for supervision may be regarded as committing professional misconduct or neglect, and members of the public may lodge a complaint with the VSB in respect of such professional misconduct or neglect.
(4) Under the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement Agreement on Trade in Services (Agreement), eligible Hong Kong residents may apply in the Guangdong Province to take the qualification examination for veterinary practitioners in the whole Mainland, and a corresponding qualification certificate will be issued to those passing the examination. The Agreement also allows Hong Kong residents who have obtained the qualification as national practising Licensed Veterinarians to practise on the Mainland. The Government will continue to liaise with the trade to understand their demand for practising on the Mainland.
The Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit, which drew some 360 influential global family office principals, visionary leaders and industry pioneers to explore how wealth can drive social progress and sustainable impact, concluded today.
Co-organised by the Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau and Invest Hong Kong, the third edition of the summit delivered an influential platform for collaboration and innovation and drew global decision-makers from regions including the Mainland, Asia, Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Africa and Hong Kong.
Themed “Hong Kong of the World, for the World”, the event was opened by Financial Secretary Paul Chan. He noted that as an international financial centre, Hong Kong is an ideal place for family offices to thrive.
“We have a robust network of world-class financial service professionals and offer an extensive array of investment opportunities.
“In this city, international foundations, charities and non-governmental organisations come together to form a vibrant philanthropy network. We are also investing heavily to propel Hong Kong’s development in innovation and technology like green tech and AI, benefiting the future of humanity.
“All these, together with the quality lifestyle in Hong Kong, the convergence of Eastern and Western cultures, the dazzling array of mega events, make Hong Kong the ideal place for family offices to thrive and realise their ambitions.”
Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui supplemented that the well-received event reaffirmed Hong Kong’s stature as a pre-eminent global hub for family offices.
He said: “This vibrant city – a beacon of opportunity, a super connector between East and West, and a thriving hub for over 2,700 single family offices – is where your vision, your capital, and your passion can flourish.
“Together, we stand on the cusp of a new era, one where wealth is not just preserved but harnessed as a force for good, transcending borders and generations.
“I invite you to join us in a shared mission: to build, to learn, and to give. These three pillars will define our collaboration, inspiring you to leverage Hong Kong’s unique ecosystem to create a lasting impact.”
The summit featured a distinguished lineup of international speakers who shared insights on the transformative power of wealth. At panel discussions, participants delved into the evolving landscape of art, culture and luxury, the strategic delivery of impact philanthropy, and the expanding role of technology and artificial intelligence in driving sustainable wealth creation. There was also a fireside chat.
Many speakers today rated Hong Kong highly as an ideal place for setting up family offices.
Alibaba Group Co-founder & Chairman Joe Tsai said even through challenging times, Hong Kong’s free-market DNA, vibrant financial markets, and supportive tax environment stand out – making it one of the best places for businesses and family offices to thrive.
The summit concluded with a gala dinner where attendees engaged in discussions about family legacies and opportunities.
Innovation is key to India’s future: Shri Piyush Goyal at National Intellectual Property Awards 2024 Shri Piyush Goyal Calls for AI and Data Analytics in Trademark Searches, Strengthened Copyright Protection
Posted On: 26 MAR 2025 10:16PM by PIB Delhi
Innovation is the key to India’s march towards Viksit Bharat. This was stated by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal at the National Intellectual Property Awards 2024.
The National Intellectual Property (IP) Awards are conferred annually to recognize and reward individuals, institutions, organizations, and enterprises for their outstanding contributions to IP creation and commercialization. These awards play a crucial role in strengthening the IP ecosystem in India and fostering innovation and creativity. The National IP Awards encourage effective IP portfolio management, which significantly impacts innovation across various industry sectors. The award function was held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, today. Judge of Delhi High Court, Justice Prathiba Maninder Singh was present on the ocassion.
Shri Goyal emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s intellectual property (IP) ecosystem through legislative changes, administrative reforms, and new initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and research. He said that, “This is the sangam of tradition and technology. Innovation has always been in our DNA. We are very proud that ‘zero’ originated from India. Chess, too, is now being recognized as a game that originated from our ancient tradition of Chaturanga. Innovation will define India’s journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat.”
Highlighting the significance of research and development (R&D), Shri Goyal stressed that no country can claim to be developed without focusing on innovation, new ideas, and technology-driven progress. “In our Amrit Kaal, as we work towards making India a resilient economy, R&D will play a crucial role. We are moving towards becoming a powerhouse of new technologies and ideas,” he added.
Shri Goyal announced the government’s continued efforts to support scientific advancements through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), which will facilitate collaboration between the government, private sector, and academia. “The NRF will be instrumental in fostering enthusiasm for science and technology innovation among stakeholders,” he noted.
The Minister also highlighted key achievements and reforms in India’s IP landscape. India’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index has improved significantly, from 81 in 2015 to 39 in the latest ranking. India now has the sixth-largest trademark filings globally, with patent grants reaching approximately 100,000 last year. There has been a reduction of fees by 80% for women entrepreneurs, startups, and MSMEs to encourage greater participation in the IP ecosystem. The government has implemented digital interventions to streamline trademark applications and patent processes. The recruitment of approximately 400 new patent examiners currently undergoing training will expedite patent processing and ensure speedy grant and protection of inventions. The inauguration of a state-of-the-art IP office building in Dwarka, accommodating over 750 officers, will enhance operational efficiency.
To further strengthen India’s IP framework, Shri Goyal called for more judicial support in IP-related cases. He proposed setting up specialized IP benches in High Courts and introducing an internship system for young law students to familiarize them with the IP ecosystem.
Shri Goyal emphasized the need for modern technologies such as AI and data analytics in trademark searches and IP enforcement. He also stressed the importance of stronger copyright protection measures to safeguard the interests of innovators and businesses.
Encouraging grassroots innovation, he lauded the Atal Tinkering Labs initiative, which fosters innovation among schoolchildren. He also advocated for greater public-private-academic partnerships, leveraging Anusandhan NRF funds to drive research initiatives.
Quoting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Goyal concluded, “The significance of science is not only in invention and development but also in fulfilling the aspirations of the last person. Inclusive growth remains our mantra, and scientific progress must support our efforts to bring development benefits to the most marginalized.”
Award Categories and Winners
The National Intellectual Property Awards 2024 were conferred across the following 13 categories:
S. No.
Category of National IP Awards
Name of Awardee
1
Top Indian Individual – Patents
Sidramappa Shivashankar Dharane (Male)
Dr. Swagatika Panda (Female)
2
Top Indian Individual – Designs
Dr. Anusha P. (Female)
3
Top Indian Academic Institution – Patents
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur
4
Top R & D Institution/Organization for Patents Filing, Grant & Commercialization
Anna University
5
Top Public /Private Company for Patents Filing, Grant & Commercialization in India
a. Manufacturing Sector
Tata Steel Limited
b. Services Sector
Jio Platforms Limited
6
Top Indian MSME for Patent Filing, Grant & Commercialization
West Bengal Chemical Industries Ltd.
7
Top Start-up for IP Filing, Grant/Registration and Commercialization
Numeros Motors Pvt. Ltd.
8
Top Indian Company/Organisation – Designs
Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay
9
Top Indian Company /Organization for creating Brand in India and Abroad
Biocon Biologics Ltd.
10
Best Incubator for Nurturing the IP
AIC – Nalanda Institute of Technology Foundation
Special Citations
Special citations were also awarded in the following four categories:
S. No.
Category
Name of Awardee
1
For Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC)
West Bengal State Council of Science & Technology, West Bengal
2
For Patent Information Centre (PIC)
West Bengal State Council of Science & Technology, West Bengal
3
For Institution’s Innovation Council (IICs)
Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering, Pune
4
For Atal Tinkering Laboratories (ATL)
DCM Presidency School, Ludhiana.
Additionally, a Jury Certificate Award was conferred for a Rural Centric Invention to-Sagar Defence Engineering Private Limited & Coromandel International Limited.
A Letter of Appreciation, as recommended by the Award Jury, was also presented in the following categories:
S. No.
Category
Name of Awardee
1
Of Special Citation- ATL
Amity International School, Sector-6, Vasundhara, Ghaziabad
2
Of Top Public /Private Company for Patents Filing, Grant & Commercialization in India
NTPC Energy Technology Research Alliance (NETRA)
Linking of National IP Awards with WIPO Awards
As part of the global recognition initiative, the National IP Awards are linked with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Awards, which include:
WIPO National Award for Inventors – Recognizing inventors for their contributions to national wealth and development.
WIPO National Award for Enterprises – Encouraging businesses, including SMEs, to leverage the IP system in their operations.
WIPO National Award for WIPO Users – Recognizing early adopters or innovative users of WIPO’s IP services.
These WIPO Awards were conferred in the following categories:
S. No.
Category
Name of Awardee
1
WIPO IP Enterprises Trophy
Jio Platforms Limited
Tata Steel Limited
2
WIPO Medal for Inventors
Sidramappa Shivashankar Dharane
3
WIPO Users Trophy
Biocon Biologics Limited
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur
The National Intellectual Property Awards 2024 reaffirm India’s commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening its IP framework, and accelerating growth in the intellectual property landscape.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah replies to the discussion on Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha, the Lower House passes the Bill after discussion After 75 years of independence, the country is getting its first cooperative university
Tribhuvan Sahkari University will strengthen the rural economy as well as promote innovation and research in the cooperative sector
The Cooperative University will have the capacity to train 8 lakh people every year
The cooperative university will provide the entire country with young cooperative leadership equipped with the spirit of cooperation and modern education
In the previous governments, there was injustice with cooperative institutions in terms of taxes, Modi government gave respect to PACS and reduced the taxes imposed on them
Soon, cooperative institutions will provide taxi and insurance services
The cooperative university will play an important role in the foundation of a prosperous India that Modi ji is laying through cooperation
The principle of “Cooperation among Cooperatives” is being implemented in the Modi government
The opposition is protesting because there is no university in the name of a particular family, they do not know that Tribhuvan Das Patel was also their leader
When PACS will reach every Panchayat, then the cooperative movement of the country will be established in a balanced manner
100% organic products are being made available across the country in the name of ‘Bharat Brand’
Co-operative sector is the only one that connects crores of people with the country’s development through self-employment and also protects their dignity
The 10-year period of the Modi government will be written in golden letters for the welfare of the poor of the country
Posted On: 26 MAR 2025 9:37PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill 2025 in Lok Sabha in the Parliament. Subsequently the bill was passed by the lower house.
Replying to the discussion, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that cooperation sector touches lives of all families in the country in some way or the other. He said that every village has some or the other cooperative unit engaged in agricultural development, rural development or generating employment thereby contributing to the development of the country. Shri Shah said that after 75 years of independence, today the country is getting its first cooperative university. He said that this bill will strengthen the rural economy, develop the ecosystem of self-employment and small entrepreneurship, increase social inclusion and will increase opportunities to set new standards in innovation and research. He said that in a way, the whole country will get a new cooperative leadership inspired by the spirit of cooperation and equipped with modern education.
Shri Amit Shah said that it was decided to name this cooperative university as Tribhuvan Sahkari University. He said that Tribhuvan Das Patel was among many others who laid the foundation of co-operatives in India under the guidance of Sardar Patel. He said that it is the cooperative institution Gujarat State Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) which is popularly known as Amul. He said that the journey of Amul which began in 1946 with 250 litres of milk in a town of Gujarat, has today become India’s largest dairy brand and stands before the world. Shri Shah said that in 2003, the turnover of Amul was Rs 2882 crore which has crossed Rs 60 thousand crore today. He said that the opposition is protesting because there is no university in the name of a particular family; they do not know that Tribhuvan Das Patel was also their leader.
Union Minister of Cooperation said that in 2014, a new government under the leadership of Shri Narendra Modi came to power and the 10-year period of the Modi government will be written in golden letters for the welfare of the poor of the country. He said that in these 10 years, houses were built for the poor, toilets were built, drinking water was provided to the poor, free ration of 5 kg free food grains for the poor, gas connections for the poor, free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh, and electricity for all in the country has been accomplished. He said that in the past 10 years, 25 crore people of the country have been brought above poverty line. Shri Shah said that what was essential for living for the poor people of the country, who used to spend their lifetime for it, were provided to them by Prime Minister Modi in the past 10 years. He said that now the question before these crores of people is how can they grow further, how to start a business and contribute to the development of the country with no capital. Shri Shah said that the only way to connect a person without capital with entrepreneurship is Cooperation. He said through Cooperation crores of people with small capital are coming together to start their businesses and are living with dignity by generating self-employment.
Shri Amit Shah said that in a country like India with a population of over 130 crore, employment is also a big indicator of the health of the country’s economy, along with GDP. He said that cooperatives are the only sector that connects 130 crore people with the country’s development through self-employment and also protects their dignity. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Modi formed the Ministry of Cooperatives three and a half years ago, fulfilling the decades-long demand of farmers, villagers, and cooperative leaders. He said that after the formation of the Ministry of Cooperatives, a new chapter of development of cooperatives has started.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that today there are 8 lakh cooperative societies in India and 30 crore people are their members. In a way, every fifth person in the country is associated with cooperatives, but no effort was made for its development in the past 75 years. Shri Shah said that cooperatives were running unevenly across the country and anomalies had started to appear in the cooperative movement. He said that it was the reason for Modi ji to established the Cooperative Ministry. Since its establishment, the Ministry of Cooperatives has done a lot of work in the last three and a half years. He said that to develop cooperatives, a national cooperative database was prepared together with all the states and today information about cooperatives of every state, district and village is available in this database.
Shri Amit Shah said that 2 lakh new Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) will be formed in the country and there will not be a single Panchayat in the country where there will not be a PACS. He said that the Modi government decided to change the by-laws of PACS and the entire country from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Northeast to Dwarka accepted the model by-laws issued by the Centre. This enabled linking of more than 25 economic activities with PACS, improvements in the election process and development of a common accounting software, available in all languages so that it can cater to all. He said that 43 thousand PACS Common Service Centres (CSCs) have been established in the country where benefits and facilities of more than 300 schemes of the Central and State Government are available. Shri Shah said that today 36 thousand PACS are working as PM Samridhi Kendras in the country, 4 thousand PACS have been established as Jan Aushadhi Kendras and 400 PACS are also running petrol pumps.
Union Minister of Cooperation said that the Modi government started the world’s largest grain storage scheme and so far 576 PACS have started the work of building godowns. Work on 11 of these has been completed and now the paddy and wheat purchased by PACS is being stored there. He said that more than 67 thousand PACS of the country have been connected with computers, software and data storage. Today, out of these 67,930 PACS, 43,658 PACS are working through computers. Now their accounts are reconciled in the evening, along with online audit, all business is also done online. He said that computerization has brought a revolution in the cooperative sector.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that with the creation of 2 lakh PACS, one in every Panchayat, the cooperative movement of our country will once again stand in a balanced manner. He said that more than 550 cooperative societies have been onboarded for procurement on Government e Marketing (GeM). Shri Shah said that during the previous governments, Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) faced a lot of injustice in Income Tax. The Modi Government has reduced the surcharge on income tax of cooperative societies from 12 to 7 percent, reduced MAT (Minimum Alternate Tax) from 18.5 to 15 percent, exempted from income tax penalty on transactions of less than two lakh rupees and reduced the rate for manufacturing cooperative societies from 30 to 15 percent. He said that the limit of cash deposit for PACS and others has been increased from 20 thousand to 2 lakh rupees. Along with this, the limit of exemption from TDS has been increased from one crore rupees to three crore rupees.
Shri Amit Shah said that the Modi government has formed three new national-level cooperative societies which will work to improve backward and forward linkages. He said that about 8 thousand PACs have been associated with the National Cooperative Export Limited (NCEL) and through these, our farmers’ products are being exported abroad. So far, 12 lakh tonnes of materials have been sold in the global markets through NCEL and the profit is being deposited directly into the farmers’ accounts. Shri Shah said that along with this, our traditional seeds are being preserved by preserving and collecting them through the Bharatiya Seed Cooperative Society Limited (BBSSL). Organic products are being certified as Bharat Brand through the National Cooperative Organic Limited (NCOL). He said that 100% organic products are being made available across the country under the name of ‘Bharat Brand’.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that when a small farmer or a rural person takes a loan, he also repays it, with interest. He said that this is why the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) has done a business of Rs 90 thousand crore with zero NPA. Shri Shah said that NCDC has given 44 sea trawlers to the fishermen of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Rs 10 thousand crore has been given to 48 cooperative sugar mills. About 3 thousand Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO) and one thousand 70 Fisherman Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPO) have been formed. He said that NCDC has earned a profit of Rs 800 crore this time. NCDC has succeeded in increasing the loan and keeping zero NPA and has also increased the profit from Rs 100 crore to Rs 800 crore.
Shri Shah said that to ensure flow of funds in the cooperative sector, an initiative of ‘Cooperation Among Cooperatives’ was undertaken in Panchmahal and Banaskantha districts of Gujarat. Under this, it was ensured that the members of every cooperative institution and cooperative society necessarily have their bank accounts in cooperative banks. Shri Shah said that he too has opened his account in a cooperative bank. He said that due to the initiative of ‘Cooperation Among Cooperatives’, deposits in banks in Gujarat have increased by about Rs 8000 crore. Due to all these steps, people’s confidence in cooperative banks has increased.
Shri Amit Shah said that earlier, Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) were not allowed to open new branches, but now they have permission from Reserve Bank of India to open up to 10 percent new branches on their own. Earlier, they were not allowed to provide ‘doorstep banking’ i.e. banking facilities to people at their homes, but now Urban Cooperative Banks can provide the facility of ‘doorstep banking’. Shri Shah said that earlier, Urban Cooperative Banks were not allowed ‘one time settlement’, but now they have been enabled like nationalized and scheduled banks to do ‘one time settlement’. Earlier, issues of cooperative banks were not entertained by RBI, but now a nodal officer has been appointed with the duty to hear the problems of cooperative banks and provide solutions. The loan limit of home loans given by Urban Cooperative Banks has been doubled. Permission has also been given to give loans to commercial real estate. He said that a lot of work has also been done to strengthen non-scheduled banks.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that an umbrella organization of National Federation of Urban Cooperative Banks and Credit Societies Limited (NAFCUB) has been formed. He said that whenever a cooperative bank becomes weak, NAFCUB will finance it and save it from closure. Modi ji has also increased the insurance of depositors from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, this has increased the confidence in cooperative banks.
Shri Amit Shah said that for the last several years, big cooperative leaders have been Agriculture Ministers, but the income tax problem faced by cooperative sugar mills was not resolved. He said that Shri Narendra Modi Ji ended the problem of income tax assessment forever in 2022, soon after he formed a new Ministry of Cooperation. The pending demand of Rs 4600 crore of sugar mills was met and the move put a break to the cycle of annual demand generation by the sugar mills of Rs 8 thousand crores. Cooperative sugar mills have hardly got such a huge benefit after independence. He said that a loan of Rs 10 thousand crore was sanctioned to 84 mills. Cooperative sugar mills were given priority in the Ethanol Blending program. A finance scheme was also started for Molasses based ethanol plant and multi feed plant. Our government reduced the GST rate on Molasses from 28 percent to 5 percent. Shri Shah said that the Central Registrar of Cooperative Societies (CRCS) office was computerized, Registrar offices in the states were computerized, branches of Rural Development Banks were computerized and the entire expense of these works was borne by the Government of India.
Union Minister of Cooperation said that under White Revolution 2.0, a target has been set to increase the procurement of milk from the current 660 lakh liters per day to 1000 lakh liters per day in 2028-29. He said that in the last three years, India has become the largest milk producing country in the world. One-fourth of the total milk production of the world is produced in India. In the year 2023-24, it has increased to about 24 crore tonnes. In the year 2014-15, this figure was 14.6 crore tonnes. He said that in the last 10 years, milk production has increased from 14.6 crore tonnes to 24 crore tonnes. Today there are 23 national level and 240 district level unions, 28 marketing dairies have been formed and primary milk production committees have also been formed in 2.30 lakh villages.
Shri Amit Shah said that now cooperative dairies are working on the principles of circularity. They will also provide animal feed to farmers who sell milk privately. Cooperative dairies will also vaccinate animals. Cooperative dairies will collect their dung and make gas. When the animal dies, its skin and bones will also be sent to the market through cooperative dairies with the earning coming back to the farmers directly. Work has already started on all these projects at a cost of Rs 10 thousand crore. Shri Shah said that more than 70 percent of the members associated with the dairy sector are women who will be empowered due to economic benefits in sector.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the previous governments did nothing on the demand for procurement of pulses at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). But Modi Government decided to purchase three pulses from farmers at 100 percent MSP. Shri Shah said that those farmers who get themselves registered through NAFED and NCCF websites are entitled to get this facility. He said similar facility is also extended to maize farmers, who on registering themselves on NAFED and NCCF websites, can offload their 100 per cent produce to the Government at MSP.
Shri Amit Shah said that for the first time we have created a cooperative ranking framework which will provide a dedicated system of performance evaluation in the cooperative sector, which has seven major parameters. He said PACS, dairy, fisheries, urban cooperative, housing credit and Khadi and Village Industries Committees will be covered under the scheme. Now awards for excellence will be given at the district, state and national level for promoting cooperatives. The cooperative entities will be able to get loans from cooperative banks according to their ranking.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Sahkar se Samriddhi’ is not just a slogan, the Ministry of Cooperation has worked day and night in three and a half years to realise it. He said that in a few months, a very big cooperative taxi service will be started, in which registration of two wheelers, taxis, rickshaws and four wheelers will be possible and the profit will go directly to the driver. He said that soon a cooperative insurance company is also going to be formed which will do the work of insurance in the cooperative system of the country. Shri Shah said that in a short time it will become the largest insurance company in the private sector.
Shri Amit Shah said that the work of registering an institute of Cooperative studies in any part of the country will be done after checking its status. He said that in view of the development and expansion of the cooperative sector, trained human resources are needed and Tribhuvan Sahkari University will work to fulfill this need. After the formation of a cooperative university, its diploma and degree holders will get jobs. Through this university, we will make a big contribution to the domestic as well as global value chain. New age cooperative culture will also start from this university. He said that there are thousands of cooperative education training institutes spread across the country, but none of them has a common course. We have done the work of designing the course keeping in mind the needs of the cooperative sector even before the university was formed. There will also be degree, diploma courses in the university and PhD degrees will also be given. There will also be a one-week certificate course for the existing employees.
Union Minister of Cooperation said that through this bill, cooperative principles and cooperative activities will be expanded. The cooperative sector will benefit from new technology. Research and innovation will also increase and the cooperative sector will be strengthened on the ground. This will also strengthen the rural economy. Shri Amit Shah said that being associated with the name of a great man like Tribhuvan Das, this cooperative university will prove to be a high-quality university. It will work to produce excellent cooperative workers in the country.
Union Minister of Cooperation said that the University will be registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. The country’s first university dedicated to the cooperative sector will be built 75 years after independence and it will have the capacity to provide education to about 8 lakh candidates every year. Colleges affiliated with the university will be opened in almost every district within a year. When 8 lakh people will graduate with diploma, degree or certificate every year, there will be an infusion of new blood in the cooperative movement. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that he has been associated with cooperatives since the age of 18 and has experienced its strengths and weaknesses. He said that Modi Ji is laying the foundation of a prosperous India and this bill will provide a strong structure in it. Shri Shah said that Tribhuvan Das Patel Ji’s vision was that profits in the cooperative sector should reach every poor woman, hence this bill is named after him.
Raksha Rajya Mantri flags-off Mt Everest & Mt Kangchenjunga expeditions from New Delhi “Mountaineering institutes embody PM Modi’s vision to foster self-reliance, resilience & fearless spirit among youth”: Shri Sanjay Seth
Posted On: 26 MAR 2025 8:24PM by PIB Delhi
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth flagged-off joint expeditions to Mount Kangchenjunga and Mount Everest from South Block, New Delhi on March 26, 2025. The expedition to Mount Everest is being organised in collaboration with Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling, West Bengal, and Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering & Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Jammu & Kashmir to commemorate 60 glorious years of Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM), Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. The Mount Kangchenjunga Expedition is organised by National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh, under its ‘Har Shikhar Tiranga’ initiative.
Speaking on the occasion, Raksha Rajya Mantri described the mission as not just about reaching the top of the world but showcasing India’s mountaineering excellence and leadership in adventure sports. “India is fast emerging as a powerhouse in the global adventure sports arena, and mountaineering institutions functioning under the Ministry of Defence are playing a pivotal role in shaping India’s adventure ecosystem,” he said.
Shri Sanjay Seth expressed confidence in the team’s abilities and highlighted the expedition’s significance. “By successfully summiting both mountains, the teams will set a new benchmark and inspire young mountaineers across the country and the world at large,” he said.
Raksha Rajya Mantri further emphasised that mountaineering institutes have been at the forefront of training and inspiring the youth, truly embodying the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to foster self-reliance, resilience, and a fearless spirit among the young minds. He stressed that the expeditions would not only test the team’s endurance, skill, and teamwork but also serve as an inspiration for young adventurers.
Expedition to Mt Everest
The team comprises of seven highly skilled climbers from NIM, HMI and JIM&WS, all of whom have extensive experience in high-altitude mountaineering and extreme conditions. The expedition will be led by Col Anshuman Bhadauria, Principal, NIM. The team will embark on its journey on April 02, 2025, following the traditional South Col Route in Nepal, a path taken by legendary climbers before them. Their journey will include climbing through the treacherous Khumbu Valley, acclimatisation at extreme high-altitude camps and extensive preparation for the summit push in May 2025. This expedition is aimed at providing invaluable first-hand Everest experience to instructors, enabling them to train and inspire future generations of Indian mountaineers.
Expedition to Mt Kungchenjunga
The expedition is a landmark journey, starting on April 07, 2025, as Kangchenjunga is India’s highest and only 8,000-meter peak, making it one of the most challenging summits in the world. The expedition is being led by Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal, Director, NIMAS, Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh. The team comprises of five highly skilled climbers and three support staff. NIMAS has already successfully climbed the highest peaks of 27 states of India. Now, with the summit of Mount Kangchenjunga, all 28 states will be covered.
Multiple Reforms to Enhance Safety and Efficiency in Railway Operations Initiatives like Gati Shakti, Enhanced Sanction Powers to GMs and DRMs, Kavach, and Rolling Blocks Expedite Approval and Execution of Railway Projects
Posted On: 26 MAR 2025 8:16PM by PIB Delhi
Reforms is a continuous and ongoing process in Indian Railways. These reforms are carried out to enhance safety and efficiency in train operations, improve passenger experience, expediting network expansion etc. Following reforms have been carried out on Indian Railways in recent past: –
(i) Gati Shakti Directorate/Units: The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (NMP) was launched in October 21 to bring a transformative change in the approach towards planning and execution of infrastructural projects pertaining to the transportation sector.
Indian Railways has immediately imbibed the principles of Gati Shakti in its project planning process. Drawing upon existing resources, a multi-disciplinary Gati Shakti Directorate has been created in Indian Railways. Similarly Gati Shakti Units have been created in Zonal railways. The Project DPRs are made after consultation with all stakeholders and other infrastructure ministries/departments.
This above initiatives have expedited the appraisal /sanction process and execution of Projects.
(ii) Enhanced power of sanction of Projects to GMs and DRMs: The power of sanction for various projects have been enhanced for GMs and DRMs for faster execution of projects.
(iii) Contracts finalisation and management: Full powers have been delegated to General Managers for finalisation of the tenders. Further, Works Contract Management System (IRWCMS) and Contractor’s e-MB have been implemented for transparent & quick/fast contract management and contractor’s billing.
(iv) Development and implementation of Kavach: To improve safety in train operations, Kavach has been developed as National Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system on Indian Railways. The work of implementation of Kavach has been taken up in mission mode on Indian Railways.
(v) Elimination of level crossings: To improve safety of train operations and road users, all unmanned level crossings on Broad gauge has been eliminated. Further, it has also been decided to replace all manned level crossings in a phased manner by construction of RoBs/RUBs.
(vi) Station Redevelopment: The Indian Railway has launched the Amrit Bharat Station scheme aimed at providing world class amenities to passengers and improving efficiency in train operations at Railway stations. So far, 1,337 stations have been taken up for redevelopment in the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
(vii) Introduction of Modern trains: To enhance passenger experience and provide comfortable journey, State of the Art Vande Bharat trains, Amrit Bharat Trains and Namo Bharat Rapid Rail with modern features have been introduced on Indian Railways.
(viii) Bharat Gaurav Trains: Indian Railways have launched theme- based Tourist Circuit trains named as Bharat Gaurav Trains (BGT) with an objective to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage and magnificent historical places to the people of India and the world through professionals of the tourism sector and other potential service providers.
(ix) Promoting Digital Transactions at Stations & Trains: Digital payment facility at various customer interface points such as Ticketing facility, Catering units etc.
(x) Freight transportation: With the view of increasing freight, Indian Railways has carried out major reforms in the form of many liberalized incentives in form of freight rebates, discounts on assured businesses, concessions on short leads, mini rake loadings, goods shed development, General Purpose Wagon Investment Scheme (GPWIS), Business Development Portal etc.
(xi) Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals: Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal initiative has been launched to fast track the approvals and ease of establishing Cargo Terminals to increase the freight loading share of IR. So far, 95 GCTs have been commissioned.
(xii) Railway- India Post Integration to develop “Joint Parcel Product”: As a joint collaborative initiative between two Government Departments to carry out business, a complete solution of parcel delivery has been started in which First-mile-last-mile connectivity by Department of Posts and Intermediate connectivity from station to station has been provided through Railways.
(xiii) Coal Chain Coordination Group: Large number of stakeholders involved in coal chain, viz. coal companies, captive and commercial mines, ports, power houses, industries and Indian Railways. To co-ordinate with all the stakeholders it has been planned to setup Coal Chain Coordination Group in Ministry of Railways.
(xiv) Annual Recruitment Calendar: Indian Railways has issued an annual calendar for recruitments which will not only reduce the uncertainty and waiting period for candidates but also enables the railways to fill vacancies in a timely manner.
(xv) Railway land policy: To streamline and simplify Railway’s land lease policy to enable faster integrated planning and development of infrastructure across the country under the PM Gati Shakti framework, the long-term land leasing policy has been issued.
(xvi) Introduction of Rolling blocks: Concept of Rolling Blocks have been introduced on Indian Railways in 2023 by Gazette notification wherein work of integrated/ maintenance/repair/replacement of assets is planned upto 52 weeks in advance on rolling basis and executed as per plan by the Divisions.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
DRDO & Indian Navy successfully flight-test indigenously-developed Vertically-Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile This missile system will be an excellent force multiplier for Indian Navy: Raksha Mantri
Posted On: 26 MAR 2025 8:13PM by PIB Delhi
Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy conducted the successful flight-test of indigenously-developed Vertically-Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha at about 1200 hrs on March 26, 2025. The flight-test was carried out from a land-based vertical launcher against a high-speed aerial target at very close range and low altitude. It has established the Near-Boundary-Low Altitude capability of the missile system.
During the test, the target was completely destroyed by the missile executing the high turn rate required for engaging targets at very close range, and establishing the missile’s agility, reliability & pin-point accuracy. The test was conducted with all weapon system elements deployed in combat configuration. These elements, including missile with indigenous Radio Frequency seeker, Multi-Function Radar and Weapon Control System, have performed as per expectations. The performance of the system was validated by the flight data captured by various Range Instruments developed by ITR Chandipur.
Congratulating DRDO, Indian Navy and the industry, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh termed the missile system as proof of India’s strong design and development capabilities in defence R&D. It will be an excellent force multiplier for the Indian Navy, he said.
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat also congratulated DRDO, Indian Navy & associated teams on this successful flight test, and stated that the missile, equipped with modern technologies, will give further technological boost to the Armed Forces.
Railway Electrification Gains Momentum: 100% Network Electrified in 22 out of 29 States/UT, Work Progressing Rapidly in the Remaining 7 States 136 Crore Liters Reduction in Traction Fuel Consumption from 2018-19 to 2023-24
Posted On: 26 MAR 2025 8:13PM by PIB Delhi
Currently, about 98% of the Indian Railways’ (IR) Broad Gauge (BG) network has been electrified and balance sections have been taken up. Significant progress has been made in railway electrification in recent years, a comparison of electrification before and after 2014 is as follows:
Period
Route Kilometer
Before 2014 (about 60 years)
21,801
2014-25 (upto Feb, 25)
45,922
State wise percentage of tracks already electrified till date are as under:
SN
STATE
% Electrified
SN
STATE
% Electrified
1
Andhra Pradesh
100%
16
Odisha
100%
2
Arunachal Pradesh
100%
17
Puducherry
100%
3
Bihar
100%
18
Punjab
100%
4
Chandigarh
100%
19
Telangana
100%
5
Chhattisgarh
100%
20
Uttar Pradesh
100%
6
Delhi
100%
21
Uttarakhand
100%
7
Haryana
100%
22
Tripura
100%
8
Himachal Pradesh
100%
23
West Bengal
100%
9
J&K
100%
24
Rajasthan
98%
10
Jharkhand
100%
25
Gujarat
97%
11
Kerala
100%
26
Karnataka
96%
12
Madhya Pradesh
100%
27
Tamil Nadu
96%
13
Maharashtra
100%
28
Goa
88%
14
Meghalaya
100%
29
Assam
79%
15
Nagaland
100%
About 96% electrification work of the railway lines situated in Tamil Nadu has been completed. The electrification work in the balance sections situated in Tamil Nadu has been taken up at a cost of Rs. 444 crore.
CO2 emissions in transportation by railways as compared to transportation by road is as under:
Mode of Transportation
CO2 emission for transportation of 1 tone for 1 km
Road
101 gm
Rail
11.5 gm (about 89% less)
Further, electrification of railway tracks reduces dependency on fossil fuels, decreased diesel consumption resulting in lower carbon emission. Electrification enables better haulage capacity and higher train speeds, leading to reduced travel time and enhanced efficiency. IR has witnessed reduction in fuel consumption for traction purpose by 136 crore liters during 2023-24 as compared to 2018-19.
Mission 100% Electrification is a highly challenging project, as it involves electrifying railway lines that are already in operation and encountering unforeseen various challenges during execution. To expedite railway electrification work, various steps have been taken by Indian Railways which include among others; formation of Project Monitoring Group (PMG) portal to resolve the constraints being faced during commissioning, ensuring effective project monitoring mechanism, assured funding and enhanced financial powers to field units.
The completion of Electrification project(s) depends on various factors like forest clearances by officials of forest department, shifting of infringing utilities, statutory clearances from various authorities, geological and topographical conditions of area, law & order situation in the area of project(s) site, number of working months in a year for particular project site due to climatic conditions etc. All these factors affect the completion time of the project(s).
This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Indian Railways to Implement Access Control System with Permanent Holding Areas at 60 Stations Indian Railways enhances crowd management with wider foot-over-bridges, CCTV surveillance and war rooms
Posted On: 26 MAR 2025 8:11PM by PIB Delhi
With a view to handle heavy rush of passengers at stations during festival/Mela periods, limited Access Control System has been experimented by the Railways where during such periods, holding areas were created outside stations and passengers were allowed only when the train came to the platform.
Further, to handle heavy rush of passengers at stations, following decisions have been taken by railways –
1. Permanent holding areas at 60 stations:
During the festival season of 2024, holding areas were created outside stations. These waiting areas were able to hold large crowds at Surat, Udhna, Patna and New Delhi. Passengers were allowed only when the train came to the platform.
Similar arrangements were made during Mahakumbh at nine stations of Prayag area.
Based on the experience of these stations, it has been decided to create permanent waiting areas outside stations at 60 stations across the country, which periodically face heavy crowds.
Pilot projects have started at New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Ghaziabad stations.
With this concept, the sudden crowd will be contained within the waiting area. Passengers will be allowed to go to platforms only when the trains arrive at the platform. This will decongest the stations.
2. Access control:
Complete access control will be initiated at the 60 stations.
Passengers with confirmed reserve tickets will be given direct access to the platforms.
Passengers without a ticket or with a waiting list ticket will wait in the outside waiting area.
All unauthorised entry points will be sealed.
3. Wider foot-over-bridges (FOB):
Two new designs of 12 metre wide (40 feet) and 6 metre wide (20 feet) standard FOB have been developed. These wide FOBs with ramps were very effective in crowd management during Mahakumbh. These new standard wide FOBs will be installed in all the stations.
4. Cameras:
Cameras helped crowd management in a big way during Mahakumbh. A large number of cameras will be installed in all stations and adjoining areas for close monitoring.
5. War rooms:
War rooms at large stations will be developed. Officers of all departments will work in the war room during crowd situations.
6. New generation communication equipment:
Latest design digital communication equipment like walkie-talkies, announcement systems, calling systems will be installed on all heavy crowd stations.
7. New design ID card:
All staff and service persons will be given a new design ID card so that only authorised persons can enter the station.
8. New design uniform for staff:
All staff members will be given new design uniforms so that they can be easily identified during a crisis situation.
9. Upgradation of station director post:
All major stations will have a senior officer as station director. All other departments will report to the station director.
Station director will get financial empowerment so that he can take on- the-spot decisions for improving the station.
10. Sale of tickets as per capacity:
Station Director will be empowered to control the sale of tickets as per capacity of the station and the available trains.
In addition, for the security arrangements and to streamline passenger flow, station specific plans are made involving all the stakeholders that include Government Railway Police (GRP), Local Police and Local Civil Administration and accordingly action is taken to manage the influx of passengers. Queue System is maintained for hassle free boarding of important trains at originating stations.
GRP & RPF staffs are deployed at foot-over bridges to regulate crowd smoothly in order to avoid stampede like situation during the heavy rush period and render real time assistance to passengers. Intelligence units (CIB/SIB) and plain cloth staff are deployed for collection of information about rush and accordingly arrangements were made associating GRP/Police.
During peak rush periods, when heavy movement of passengers is anticipated, zonal Railways are authorized to restrict entry to stations by stopping issuing of platform tickets except for persons coming to the station just to assist the aged, illiterate and female passengers who are not in a position to fend themselves at Railway stations.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.