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(Friday, 7 February 2025 at 6.30 – 9.00pm,Taumeasina Island Resort)

Reverend Siaosi Salesulu

Lau Afioga, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II and Masiofo

Members of the Council of Deputies

Ministers of Cabinet,

Chief Justice and Members of the Judiciary,

Speaker of the Legislative Assembly

Leader of the Opposition

Members of Parliament,

High Commissioner of New Zealand, Your Excellency, Si’alei Van Toor

Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Distinguished Guests gathered here tonight,

Talofa lava and Good evening to you all.

It is a pleasure for me to join you all at the reception this evening to celebrate the 185th anniversary of the signing of New Zealand’s founding document, “Te Tiriti o Waitangi” the “Treaty of Waitangi”. On behalf of the Government and People of Samoa I convey through you, Excellency Si’alei Van Toor our warm congratulations and felicitations to the Government and the People of Aotearoa New Zealand on the celebration of your national day.

This evening, we join in the celebration of the commemoration of Waitangi Day around New Zealand and other parts of the world in remembrance of the signing of the treaty. The occasion is an important marker in your country’s history and I understand that numerous events are held around the world and nationally to reflect the significance of the Treaty to national unity and the richness of New Zealand’s history and culture. I am told that the Kapa Haka Performers from Tauranga, the “Te Paringa Tai” are here and will perform for us this evening. Earlier on in the day, Te Paringa Tai had treated the Samoan public to another spectacular performance of songs and dances at the Matagialalua Friendship Park showcasing a bit of Aotearoa’s rich heritage and culture.

This occasion is an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come in our partnerships towards the achievement of common goals, for people, peace and prosperity. Have they remained relevant and mutually beneficial?

Samoa and New Zealand continue to enjoy a warm and close friendship underpinned by the foundation of our shared history and a unique “Treaty of Friendship”. There have been exchanges of high-level visits of Heads of State and Government, ministers and parliamentarians reflecting the prominence both countries accord to strengthening people-to-people links. The exchange of high-level visits signifies the maturity of our relations and the mutual respect we hold in high regard for each other. It is not unusual for us to ask ourselves how far the uniqueness of our Treaty of Friendship can go; particularly as we crave for facilitative short-term travel to visit families or explore business opportunities.

Last October, we hosted leaders of the Commonwealth including New Zealand’s Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs. We take this opportunity to again express the sincere appreciation of the Government of Samoa and its people to the Government of New Zealand and its people and Samoa’s other key partners, for the generous support and assistance provided, ensuring that Samoa and the Pacific successfully hosted the first meeting of Commonwealth leaders in our Blue Pacific region. A mammoth undertaking it was, but made possible through the generosity and magnanimity of our development partners including New Zealand and the commitment and dedication of many people. What we did not have the resources for, was provided, the capacity gaps were filled even if temporarily and the readiness to support was assured. The high standard and quality of the services provided left a legacy of Samoa’s enhanced ranking and capability to deliver high-quality logistical support for future international meetings.

The close relations between our two countries is reaffirmed by the 2024 Statement of Partnership – O le Fogavaa e Tasi which identifies the priority areas of cooperation including partnerships, security, empowering communities, building climate resilience and inspiring growth which are in alignment with Samoa’s aspirations and priorities as outlined in the “Pathway for the Development of Samoa.” We also acknowledge with gratitude the confidence of the Government of New Zealand in the use of country systems reflected in the extension of budget support under the Joint Policy Action Matrix involving our other development partners as well.

Samoa appreciates the continued commitment of the Government of New Zealand to diligently carry out the Operation Resolution for the HMNZS Manawanui working in tandem with the Samoan authorities and other development partners for the removal of fuel and pollutants from the site. Like our Pacific neighbours, the coastal and marine environment are significant for the sustenance of our local communities and we will continue to work in partnership with the Government of New Zealand and our other development partners to ensure the success of this Operation.

Excellency,

We look forward to the continuation of the excellent bilateral relations and partnership between Samoa and New Zealand for the benefit of our two countries and our peoples.

To conclude, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I respectfully invite you all to join me in proposing a toast:

“To the unity and prosperity of the Government and the People of New Zealand. Happy Waitangi Day!”

SOIFUA

Photo by the Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)

February 21, 2025

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Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 8:47PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has invited inputs from citizens for Mann Ki Baat programme that will take place on 30th March 2025.

Shri Modi also expressed his happiness on getting wide range of inputs for this month’s Mann Ki Baat.

In a X post, the Prime Minister said;

“Happy to be getting a wide range of inputs for this month’s #MannKiBaat, which will take place on the 30th. These inputs highlight the power of collective efforts for social good. I invite more people to share their ideas for the episode.

https://www.mygov.in/group-issue/inviting-ideas-mann-ki-baat-prime-minister-narendra-modi-30th-march-2025/?target=inapp&type=group_issue&nid=357950”

 

 

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MJPS/ST

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Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:55PM by PIB Delhi

Today, Delhi’s daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) clocked 206 (‘Poor’ category), as per the daily AQI Bulletin provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). In wake of the average/ overall air quality of Delhi recording ‘Poor’ air quality category ranging between 201-300, the Sub-Committee for invoking actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) met today to take stock of the current air quality scenario of Delhi-NCR. While comprehensively reviewing the air quality scenario in the region as well as the IMD/IITM forecasts and air quality index of Delhi, it was observed as under:

• AQI of Delhi has shown increasing trend due to variable surface wind and unfavorable meteorological conditions in Delhi-NCR. The AQI of Delhi has been recorded as 206 for 24.03.2025 (in ‘Poor’ category). Further, the forecast by IMD/IITM predicts AQI to remain in this range.

As per the unanimous decision of the Sub-Committee on GRAP, all 27 actions as envisaged under Stage-I of GRAP – ‘POOR’ Air Quality (DELHI AQI ranging between 201-300), to be implemented in right earnest by all the agencies concerned in NCR, with immediate effect. Various agencies responsible for implementing measures under GRAP including Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) of NCR States and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) have been addressed to ensure strict implementation of actions of Stage-I under GRAP during this period.

Further, the Sub-Committee also urges the citizens of NCR to cooperate in implementing GRAP and follow the steps mentioned in the Citizen Charter of Stage I of GRAP as under:

• Keep engines of your vehicles properly tuned.
• Maintain proper tyre pressure in vehicles.
• Keep PUC certificates of your vehicles up to date.
• Do not idle your vehicle, also turn off the engine at red lights.
• Prefer hybrid vehicles or EVs to control vehicular pollution.
• Do not litter / dispose wastes, garbage in open spaces.
• Report air polluting activities through 311 App, Green Delhi App, SAMEER App etc.
• Plant more trees.
• Celebrate festivals in an eco-friendly manner – avoid firecrackers.
• Do not drive/ ply end of life/ 10/15 years old Diesel/ Petrol vehicles.

A 27-point action plan as per Stage-I of GRAP is applicable with immediate effect, in the entire NCR. This 27-point action plan includes steps to be implemented/ ensured by various agencies including Pollution Control Boards of NCR States and DPCC. These steps are:

1. Ensure proper implementation of Directions/ Rules/ guidelines on dust mitigation measures in Construction and Demolition (C&D) activities and sound environmental management of C&D waste.
2. Ensure strict compliance of Direction Nos. 11-18 dated 11.06.2021 and do not permit C&D activities in respect of such projects with plot size equal to or more than 500 sqm which are not registered on the ‘web portal’ of the respective state / GNCTD and / or which do not fulfil the other requirements as per the above noted statutory directions, for remote monitoring of dust mitigation measures.
3. Ensure regular lifting of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), Construction & Demolition (C&D) waste, and Hazardous wastes from dedicated dump sites and ensure that no waste is dumped illegally in open land areas.
4. Carry out periodic mechanized sweeping and water sprinkling on roads and ensure scientific disposal of the dust collected in designated sites/landfills.
5. Ensure that C&D materials & waste are properly stored/ contained, duly covered in the premises.  Ensure transportation of C&D materials and C&D waste only through covered vehicles.
6. Strictly enforce the Statutory directions and yardsticks for use of anti-smog guns at C&D sites, in proportion to the total built-up area of the project under construction.
7. Intensify use of anti-smog guns, water sprinkling and dust suppression measures in road construction / widening / repair projects and maintenance activities.
8. Stringently enforce prohibition on open burning of bio-mass and municipal solid waste. Impose maximum EC upon violations in accordance with Hon’ble NGT’s orders dated 04.12.2014 and 28.04.2015 in OA 21/2014.
9. Strict vigil to ensure that there are no burning incidents in the landfill sites/ dumpsites.
10. Deploy traffic police for smooth traffic flow at all identified corridors with heavy traffic and congestion prone intersections.
11. Strict vigilance and enforcement of PUC norms for vehicles.
12. No tolerance for visible emissions – Stop visibly polluting vehicles by impounding and/ or levying maximum penalty.
13. Strictly enforce the Hon’ble Supreme Court order on diversion of non- destined truck traffic for Delhi, through Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways.
14. Strictly enforce NGT / Hon’ble SC’s order on overaged diesel / petrol vehicles and as per extant statutes.
15. Ensure strict penal/ legal action against non‑compliant and illegal industrial units.
16. Stringently enforce all pollution control regulations in Industries, brick kilns and hot mix plants etc. – strict compliance of the prescribed standards of emissions.
17. Ensure that only approved fuels are used by the industries in NCR including in brick kilns and hot mix plants and enforce closure in case of violations, if any.
18. Stringently enforce emission norms in thermal power plants and strict actions be taken against non-compliance.
19. Strictly enforce Hon’ble Courts / Tribunal orders regarding ban on firecrackers.
20. Ensure regular lifting and proper disposal of industrial waste from industrial and non-development areas.
21. DISCOMS to minimise power supply interruptions in NCR.
22. Ensure that diesel generator sets are not used as regular source of power supply.
23. Strictly enforce the extant ban on coal / firewood as fuel in Tandoors in Hotels, Restaurants and open eateries.
24. Ensure hotels, restaurants and open eateries use only electricity / gas-based / clean fuel – based appliances.
25. Information dissemination including through social media and bulk SMS etc. Mobile Apps to be used to inform people about the pollution levels, contact details of control room, enable them to report polluting activities / sources to the concerned authorities and inform them about actions that would be taken by Government.
26. Ensure quick actions for redressal of complaints on 311 APP, Green Delhi App, SAMEER App and other such social media platforms to curb polluting activities.
27. Encourage offices to start unified commute for employees to reduce traffic on road.

 

All the agencies concerned are also required to take note of various actions and the targeted timelines as envisaged in the comprehensive policy issued by the Commission to curb air pollution in the NCR and take appropriate actions accordingly in the field, particularly the dust mitigation measures for C&D activities & Roads/Open areas, which becomes a pre-dominant factor in the coming months determining the air quality in Delhi-NCR.

The Commission shall be keeping a close watch on the air quality scenario and review the situation from time to time for further appropriate decision depending upon the air quality in Delhi and forecast made by IMD/ IITM.

The comprehensive schedule of GRAP is available on the Commission’s official website and may be accessed on https://caqm.nic.in

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VM/GS

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PLI 1.1 Scheme Boosts India’s Specialty Steel Sector

Government Expands PLI Scheme to Strengthen Domestic Steel Manufacturing

PLI 1.1 Sees ₹17,000 Crore Investment Commitment in Second Round

42 MoUs Signed Under PLI Scheme 1.1, Strengthening India’s Self-Reliance in Steel

Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:30PM by PIB Delhi

New Delhi:The Ministry of Steel marked a key milestone today with the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 1.1 for specialty steel. Addressing the gathering, Union Steel Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy emphasized that the scheme is a significant step toward achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Make in India” vision. 

“The PLI scheme is a major step towards realizing the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of self-reliance. India is the second-largest producer and consumer of steel, yet we still import certain high-grade varieties. This scheme aims to bridge that gap by promoting domestic production,” he said. 

Launched in July 2021, the PLI scheme for specialty steel covers five broad categories and 19 sub-categories. The initiative ensures that only companies registered in India and engaged in end-to-end steel production are eligible for incentives. The scheme has generated strong industry participation, prompting the government to introduce Round 2, allowing more companies to benefit. 

To encourage investment and boost output, the government is offering incentives ranging from 3-4% based on investment and production targets. In the first round, 44 applications were submitted by 23 companies, with incentives already disbursed for one project. The second round has seen even greater enthusiasm, with 25 companies submitting 42 applications, committing investments worth ₹17,000 crore. 

Lauding the efforts of officials in the Ministry of Steel and the MECON team for fast-tracking the implementation of PLI 1.1, Kumaraswamy said, “The dedication and efficiency shown by the ministry officials and the MECON team have been instrumental in accelerating this scheme. Their efforts are crucial in ensuring the success of this initiative.” 

The minister also made a strong appeal to domestic steelmakers, urging them to focus on specialty steel production. “Domestically, we are not manufacturing specialty steel, but I personally request our steelmakers to invest in specialty steel plants. If you succeed in producing specialty steel domestically, it will boost capacity and production in the country. I urge all stakeholders to take up this challenge and contribute to our self-reliance,” he stated. 

Highlighting the scheme’s impact, Kumaraswamy reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the steel industry. “The Government of India remains firmly committed to supporting the steel sector. The PLI Scheme has created strong momentum and brings us closer to self-reliance,” he noted. 

The expansion of the scheme is expected to further enhance India’s global competitiveness in specialty steel production. The minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his leadership in driving this transformative initiative and congratulated all the companies that signed MoUs under PLI 1.1. 

As the PLI scheme continues to gain momentum, industry leaders see it as a catalyst for reducing dependency on imports and positioning India as a global hub for high-quality steel production.  Secretary for steel Shri Sandeep Poundrik,Shri Abhijit Narendra, Joint Secretary, Shri Ministry of Steel, Mr SK Verma, MD, MECON and other officials from the ministry of steel were present at event.

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TPJ/NJ

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World Tuberculosis (TB) Day – 2025

Towards a TB-Free India

Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:26PM by PIB Delhi

“The decline in TB incidence is an outcome of India’s dedicated and innovative efforts. Through a collective spirit, we will keep working towards a TB-free India.” Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi [1]

Introduction[2]

World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed every year on March 24th to raise awareness about the need to eliminate TB, the world’s deadliest infectious disease. The day marks the discovery of the TB-causing bacterium by Dr. Robert Koch in 1882. India has been observing this day since 1982, along with the global community. Despite progress, TB still impacts millions, posing serious health, social, and economic challenges.[3] This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, highlights the importance of stronger commitments and action, especially against rising drug-resistant TB.[4]

India’s goal to eliminate TB by 2025 is one of the world’s most ambitious health missions. Under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), India has strengthened its TB response with advanced diagnostics, innovative policies, private sector partnerships, and a patient-first approach. Key drivers include record-high case reporting, better diagnostics, financial support for patients, and strong multi-sector collaboration. However, with global TB funding declining and shifting priorities, continued commitment is vital to meet India’s 2025 target and the UN’s goal of ending TB by 2030.

Despite global efforts, TB remains a major public health challenge worldwide, with India bearing the highest burden. Understanding both the global and national estimates is key to gauging the scale of the disease and the urgency of India’s elimination mission.

 [5]                                                                                         [6]

KEY INITIATIVES BY THE INDIAN GOVERNMENT TO ELIMINATE TB

To tackle this significant burden, the Government of India has implemented a range of focused strategies under its National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). These key initiatives under NTEP aim to strengthen diagnosis, treatment, and prevention efforts, accelerating progress toward a TB-free India.

National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP)[7]

In 2020, the Government of India renamed the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) the National TB Elimination Program (NTEP). This reflects India’s goal to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, five years before the global target of 2030. Here are the key targets for the Eradication of TB

The NTEP follows the National Strategic Plan (2017-2025), focusing on four key actions:
 

 Detect – Treat – Prevent – Build (DTPB) to control and eliminate TB in India.

Objectives [8]

Achievements of the NTEP Programme[9]

The NTEP is making strong strides toward eliminating TB by 2025. Here are its key achievements:

The programme recorded its highest-ever case notifications, reporting 25.5 lakh TB cases in 2023 and 26.07 lakh cases in 2024.

First-Ever Indigenious TB Burden Model: India’s own mathematical model for state-wise TB estimates.[10]

Incentives for ASHAs, TB Champions & Caregivers: Strengthening patient support systems.

3 Lakh Additional Cases Found via House-to-House Screening: Focus on high-risk groups.

Medical College Task Force Active: 560 colleges supporting TB detection & research.

Sub-National Disease-Free Certification Implemented: Regular surveys, drug sales tracking, and under-reporting assessments.

Strong Multi-Sectoral Partnerships: Collaboration with ministries, industries, NGOs & technical bodies.

According to WHO’s Global TB Report, India has made significant progress in fighting tuberculosis. Under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), the incidence rate of TB cases have dropped by nearly 17.7%, from 237 cases per 1 lakh people in 2015 to 195 in 2023. TB-related deaths have also reduced, falling from 28 to 22 per 1 lakh people during the same period.

[11]

One of its key achievements has been reducing the number of missing TB cases from 15 lakh in 2015 to just 2.5 lakh in 2023 with a decrease of 83%.

Under NTEP, India has rolled out improved drug-resistant TB treatments, including a safer, shorter all-oral Bedaquiline regimen, boosting success rates from 68% (2020) to 75% (2022). The mBPaL regimen (Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid) offers 80% success for MDR-TB, cutting treatment to six months.

Components Of the NTEP Programme

 

Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (PMTBMBA) [12]

The Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA), one of the components of NTEP, aims to unite communities, businesses, and institutions to support TB patients and their families. It focuses on providing nutritional, diagnostic, and vocational support to improve treatment outcomes, reduce illness and deaths, and fast-track India’s goal of TB elimination. PMTBMBA is also recognized as the world’s largest crowd-sourcing initiative for nutritional support to TB patients.

Key goals include:

Offering additional care and support to TB-affected individuals.

Promoting active community participation.

Mobilizing CSR contributions from businesses and institutions.

Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY)[13]

The NIKSHAY – TB Notification Incentive for the Private Sector, launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, incentivizes private healthcare providers to report TB cases, improving TB surveillance and treatment.

Under the Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY), financial support for TB patients’ nutrition has been increased from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per month, providing ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per patient throughout treatment. The patient must be registered and notified on the NIKSHAY portal.

The government has introduced Energy Dense Nutritional Supplementation (EDNS) for underweight TB patients (BMI < 18.5). Around 12 lakh patients will receive these supplements during the first two months of treatment to improve recovery rates and overall health outcomes.

Ni-Kshay Mitra initiative – Under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA), the Ni-Kshay Mitra initiative encourages individuals, NGOs, corporates, faith-based organizations, and others to adopt TB patients for at least six months, offering them nutritional, social, or economic support.

The scope of this initiative has now been expanded to include food baskets for household contacts of TB patients, aiming to boost immunity, lower infection risk, and reduce families’ financial burden. Additionally, over ₹3,202 crores have been disbursed to 1.13 crore beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY), supporting better nutrition and treatment outcomes. To further strengthen these efforts, the government has committed an additional ₹1,040 crores (shared 60:40 between Centre and States), ensuring enhanced support and reduced TB-related mortality.

Ni-kshay Portal

Ni-kshay Portal is a web-based patient management and surveillance system under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). Developed by the Central TB Division, MoHFW, in collaboration with NIC and WHO India, it helps health workers in both public and private sectors to register TB cases, order tests, record treatment, monitor adherence, and transfer cases. It also serves as India’s National TB Surveillance System, ensuring real-time data reporting to the government.[14]

Source – As of 23^rd March, 2025 – https://dashboards.nikshay.in/community_support/overview

Over 1.51 crore TB patients are receiving treatment, with approximately 1.18 crore consenting to receive support. Around 1.18 crore commitments have been made by Ni-kshay Mitras, and over 2.59 lakh Mitras are registered. The initiative emphasizes public participation in TB elimination, resonating with the Prime Minister’s call for humanity. More details can be found on the Ni-kshay Dashboard[15]

Conclusion

India is making steady progress in its goal to eliminate TB by 2025 through focused interventions under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP). Key initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA) and Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) are driving community participation and ensuring nutritional support, improving treatment adherence. The Ni-kshay Portal further strengthens surveillance and patient care. To sustain momentum, increased investments, innovation, and partnerships are crucial. With continued commitment, India is poised to become a global example in the fight against TB.

References

World Tuberculosis (TB) Day – 2025

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Santosh Kumar / Ritu Kataria / Vatsla Srivastava

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Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda Inaugurates World TB Day 2025 Summit

Our TB elimination strategy is based on ‘whole of the society’ and ‘whole of the government’ approach: Shri JP Nadda

“Over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs, or community screening and awareness camps were organised in the districts bringing essential TB services directly to the doorsteps of crores of people”

Under the 100-day TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, 12.97 crore people were screened for TB with over 7.19 lakh TB patients notified across India

Approximately 2.85 lakh of the notified patients were asymptomatic, who might have otherwise gone undetected without the stratified screening strategy of the campaign

With a proven blueprint derived from the campaign’s success, Union Health Minister announces nationwide expansion of the campaign, highlighting its efficient case finding, leveraging of technology and ensuring timely treatment initiation

State/UTs awarded for exemplary performance during the 100 Days intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and in the TB Mukt Gram Panchyat Initiative

A digital Coffee Table Book and Guidance document on ‘differentiated TB care’ launched at the event

Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:26PM by PIB Delhi

“Our TB elimination strategy is based on ‘whole of the society’ and ‘whole of the government’ approach”. This was stated by Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare during his address to the World TB Day 2025 summit, here today. The theme for this year’s World TB Day summit is “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”.

The Union Minister reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to achieving a TB-Mukt Bharat in his address. While presiding over the Summit, he lauded the 100 Days Intensified TB Elimination campaign’s strategy to deploy cutting-edge technologies, including handheld X-ray units and upfront Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) some of which were deployed using mobile vans (Nikshay Vahans). This helped the campaign shatter geographical barriers and brought vital screening and diagnostic services to remote and underserved areas. He mentioned that over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs, or community screening and awareness camps were organised in the districts bringing essential TB services directly to the doorsteps of crores of people.

The Union Minister noted that TB treatment coverage in India has increased from 59% to 85%. He informed that 12.97 crore people were screened for TB with 7.19 lakh new cases detected. Among the notified TB cases, approximately 2.85 lakh were asymptomatic cases who might have otherwise gone undetected without the stratified screening strategy of the campaign. More than 5,000 MLAs and 10,000 Gram Panchayats participated in the campaign. Citing these successes, he announced the Ministry’s plans to scale the campaign nationwide. Stating that TB is not over yet, he announced further scaling up of the TB elimination campaign to cover all districts in India.

Shri Nadda highlighted that 22 line ministries supported the 100-days campaign and more than 30,000 elected representatives were mobilized for the common cause, demonstrating that the fight against TB is a collective mission. He informed that in just 100 days, over 1,05,181 new Ni-kshay Mitras have registered and distributed over 3,06,368 food baskets among TB patients and their family members.

He noted that during the recently concluded 100-Day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign, modern technology was leveraged to improve case detection, reduce diagnostic delays, and ensure timely treatment initiation, particularly for vulnerable populations. “The campaign strategically screened vulnerable populations, including asymptomatic individuals, household contacts of TB patients, those with a history of TB, undernourished individuals, and those with chronic comorbidities such as diabetes and HIV”.

Shri Nadda stated that India is one of the top global funders on TB research and congratulated ICMR for their significant research on TB. He highlighted some innovations like RT-PCR machines used during the Covid pandemic which is adapted for use in TB screening. Similarly, indigenous diagnostic kits developed by ICMR not only reduce the cost for TB detection but also improve efficiency by conducting 32 tests in one go. “Hand held x-ray machines with AI support have also played a huge role in detecting asymptomatic TB”, he added.

He concluded his address by thanking the invaluable support and involvement of elected representatives and community leaders, MPs, MLAs, Gram Pradhans and local leaders which was instrumental in raising awareness and mobilizing communities against this disease. “Their dedication has fostered a sense of ownership and accountability in the community, one of the many unique strategies India has adopted to fight TB”, he stated.

Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary said, “World TB Day is a day where we remind ourselves that this disease still exists while we can eliminate it”. She further stated that this is a day to chart out our task ahead. “All our stakeholders have put in a lot of effort towards the goal of eliminating TB and this should continue until we achieve the goal of TB Mukt Bharat”, she added.

A digital Coffee Table Book on TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, capturing and showcasing the implementation of the Abhiyaan through photos from the field, was unveiled on the occasion. The Union Health Minister also launched a ‘Guidance Document on Differentiated TB Care’ to ensure timely and effective care for high-risk patients. This document provides guidelines for triaging high-risk patients (for instance, those suffering from severe undernutrition or respiratory insufficiency) at diagnosis and refers to a comprehensive treatment plan for them.

State/UTs were awarded for the exemplary performance during the 100 Days intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and also for their performance in the TB Mukt Gram Panchyat Initiative.

Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research and DG, ICMR; Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services (DGHS); Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director, National Health Mission; and senior officials of the Union Health Ministry were present on the occasion. The event also witnessed participation from NTEP Staff from State and Districts, TB Champions, District Magistrates, District Collectors, MD NHMs, Medical Institutions, Civil society, WHO Consultants and development partners.

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India Achieves Milestone in TB Research: Dr. Jitendra Singh Announces completion of 10,000 Genome Sequences of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis

Genomic Breakthrough to Transform TB Diagnosis: Union Minister Highlights Faster, Precision Treatment

Whole-of-Nation Approach and Public Participation Key to TB Eradication: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:24PM by PIB Delhi

NEW DELHI, March 24 : In a significant breakthrough in the fight against tuberculosis, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the completion of genome sequencing of 10,000 isolates of “Mycobacterium tuberculosis” at a summit organised on the occasion of “World TB Day” at Vigyan Bhawan here.

The achievement marks a major stride in India’s commitment to eradicating TB ahead of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2030 targets.

Addressing a gathering of leading medical academicians, health scientists, researchers, and senior officials, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the government’s ambitious efforts to eliminate tuberculosis five years before the WHO’s global goal. He underscored the importance of collaborative research and the need for a whole-of-science, whole-of-government, and whole-of-mission approach to achieve this target.

The genome sequencing initiative is part of the Dare2eraD TB program (Data Driven Research to Eradicate TB), launched on March 24, 2022, which focuses on data-driven research to eradicate TB. A key component of this initiative is the Indian Tuberculosis Genomic Surveillance (InTGS) Consortium, spearheaded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in collaboration with major clinical institutions. The program aims to sequence over 32,000 TB isolates to identify drug resistance mutations and improve treatment outcomes.

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that the deep genomic dataset being developed has the potential to revolutionize TB diagnostics and drug resistance prediction. He noted that genome sequencing can significantly improve diagnostic accuracy and enable faster resistance profiling, reducing the time needed to determine effective treatments from weeks to mere hours or days. This, he said, will help in tailoring treatment regimens to individual patient needs and reduce the risk of treatment failure or relapse.

Drawing from his own medical background, Dr. Jitendra Singh reflected on the historical challenges of TB treatment in India, from the stigma surrounding the disease to the evolution of medical advancements. He called for greater community engagement, emphasizing that TB eradication is not just a scientific or medical challenge but a societal one. “Unless we involve common people, raise their consciousness, and evoke their participation, our fight against TB will remain incomplete,” he said.

Appreciating the pioneering scientific advancements and their instrumental role in fight against tuberculosis, Hon’ble Minister said that while phenotypic drug-susceptibility tests and M. tuberculosis culture are generally regarded as the gold standard for diagnosis, genome sequencing technologies are increasingly being applied for strain identification and drug resistance prediction, providing valuable insights for clinical decision-making and surveillance activities.

He also added that the adoption of molecular methods for TB diagnosis and resistance testing remains uneven, significantly influenced by socioeconomic disparities across countries. To fight the incessant TB, it is important to propel these innovations to scale and embed them into real-world implementation.

Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary DBT, hailed the completion of 10,000 genome sequences as a milestone achievement, adding that the data will be instrumental in strengthening India’s TB surveillance and diagnostic capabilities. He stressed the importance of translating this research into practical applications that can be scaled up for real-world impact.

The event also saw the participation of senior officials including Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General CSIR; Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General ICMR; and Dr. M. Srinivas, Director AIIMS, among others.

Dr. Jitendra Singh appreciated the proactive and visionary initiatives to support transformative innovations for a more robust pipeline of tools that can overcome the translational challenges and better prepare India to address TB than ever before.

With India accounting for a significant portion of the global TB burden, this breakthrough in genome sequencing is expected to bolster national and global efforts to combat the disease. The government’s continued investment in cutting-edge research, coupled with policy interventions and community participation, could pave the way for a TB-free India well ahead of its 2025 target.

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NKR/PSM

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India’s Digital Revolution Earns Global Recognition: Dr. Jitendra Singh

From DBT to Space Startups: Union Minister Showcases India’s Tech Leadership

Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:21PM by PIB Delhi

NEW DELHI, March 24 : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored India’s leadership in digital public infrastructure and technology innovation at the “ET Telecom 5G Congress”, emphasizing the transformative strides made in the last decade under the Digital India initiative.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s success in pioneering digital public infrastructure, which has become a model for the world. He pointed to the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme, launched during the early years of the Modi government, as a game changer. “The real litmus test of this digital transformation came during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring seamless transactions and financial inclusion without disruptions,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also spoke about the Swamitva scheme, which empowers citizens by enabling digital mapping of land ownership, reducing dependence on traditional revenue officers. “With nearly 70% of India’s villages already mapped, this initiative represents the true spirit of citizen-centric governance,” he added.

Emphasizing India’s technological advancements, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that the country has emerged as a global leader in multiple domains, from space exploration to biotechnology. He cited India’s rapid ascent in the Global Innovation Index—from 81^st place to 39^th—as a testament to the nation’s innovation ecosystem. “India is now ranked sixth globally in patent filings, with 56% of those patents coming from resident Indians. This marks a dramatic shift from earlier decades when Indian talent sought recognition abroad,” he remarked.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to scientific research and innovation, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to the launch of a viability fund for space startups, a new National Research Foundation, and the recent decision to open up the nuclear sector to private players. “In the first 100 days of Modi 3.0, we allocated Rs 10,000 crore for space startups and launched a pioneering biotechnology policy—BioE3—focusing on environmental sustainability, employment generation, and economic growth,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also touched upon the role of women in India’s scientific advancements, stating that women are not just participating but leading critical missions. “India’s first solar mission, Aditya-L1, was led by a woman scientist, marking a paradigm shift in gender representation in STEM fields,” he noted.

Concluding his address, Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded India’s thriving StartUp ecosystem and the increasing global recognition of Indian talent. “Indian professionals are now the preferred choice in global innovation hubs, known for their dedication and work ethic. The world is looking at India not just as a participant but as a leader in the digital and technological revolution,” he affirmed.

As India continues to set benchmarks in digital governance and scientific innovation, Dr. Jitendra Singh’s remarks reinforce the country’s commitment to leveraging technology for inclusive growth and global leadership in emerging sectors.

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Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 5:26PM by PIB Delhi

Researchers have developed a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) wherein flexible single crystals of an organic compound was used as the main component for the fabrication of a self-powered tactile sensor which was used to monitor finger joint movements. This has significant importance particularly in biomedical and robotic system development and could pave the way for their utilization as biomedical wearable devices.

Organic materials are gaining importance for optoelectronic applications because of their lower cost and environmental footprint, easy fabrication, and practical feasibility. Among various organic materials, single crystals are better suited for device fabrication because of their well-ordered packing and precise spatial arrangements. They also possess intrinsic long range structural order and anisotropy and tuneable optical and electronic properties, thereby resulting in superior device performance. Additionally, the ease of synthesis, crystallization, and device fabrication position organic single crystals as promising candidates to meet the evolving demand for next generation technologies.

Scientists from Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) demonstrated the first ever fabrication of TENG incorporating flexible single crystals of small organic molecules. The research involved has been published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.

Triboelectrification was attained in single crystals as a result of surface functionalization with positively and negatively charged moieties, viz. Zn²⁺ and F⁻, respectively, which resulted in different surface potentials thereby leading to reversible adhesion through electrostatic interaction and induction phenomena.

The TENG incorporating the single crystals was capable of charging commercial capacitors thereby ensuring its ability to be used as a self-powered touch sensor. Capitalizing on these features, a self-powered tactile sensor was fabricated to demonstrate limb movements.

The protocol adopted to vary the surface charge on single crystals through surface functionalization techniques was simple and scalable. Moreover, the TENG developed works in the non-contact mode and promises outstanding endurance properties.

The excellent mechano-electric sensitivity (∼102 mV/kPa until 6 kPa range) and response time (∼38 ms) establish the viability of flexible organic single crystals for mechanical energy harvesting and biosensing applications.

Biomechanical signal sensing using TENG. Photographs of TENG attached to a finger along with the measured output voltage response at (a) 30°, (b) 60°, and (c) 90° bending angles.

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Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Cabinet has approved the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) on January 29, 2025. The NCMM aims to secure a long-term sustainable supply of critical minerals and strengthen India’s critical mineral value chains encompassing all stages from mineral exploration and mining to beneficiation, processing, and recovery from end-of-life products. The NCMM components also include ‘increasing domestic critical mineral production’ and ‘Acquisition of Critical Mineral Assets abroad’.

For acquisition of overseas mineral assets, the Ministry of Mines has established a joint venture company, Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL). KABIL has signed an Exploration and Development Agreement with CAMYEN, a state-owned enterprise of Catamarca province of Argentina, for exploration and mining of five Lithium Brine Block in Argentina in an area of 15703 Ha.

Further, an MoU has been signed between KABIL and Critical Mineral Facilitation Office (CMFO), Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISER), Government of Australia for carrying out joint due diligence and further joint investment in Li & Co mineral assets of Australia.

NCMM has provision of critical mineral processing parks for which there is budget provision of Rs. 500 Crore. Further, there is also budget provision of Rs. 1500 crore for recycling. In addition, there are also provisions for skill development and R&D activity support.

The governance framework of NCMM includes an Empowered Committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary with CEO of NITI Aayog and Secretaries of other stakeholder Ministries as members.

This information was given by Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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