MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

CSIR’s Indigenously Designed and Developed HANSA-3(NG) Trainer Aircraft Signifies Giant Leap for Creating India’s Robust Aviation Ecosystem: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Huge Opportunity for Startups and MSMEs; Potential for Employment Generation through Indigenization of Technologies

Democratization and Decentralization of Pilot Training to Reduce Costs and Realize Youth Aspirations

Collaboration Model of Space Economy to be Replicated in Aviation Sector to Meet Growing Demand

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:13PM by PIB Delhi

NEW DELHI, April 4: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today officially launched indigenous “Trainer Aircraft” technology for Commercial Pilot Licensing (CPL) and also announced the decision to involve the private sector to collaborate in the manufacture of this aircraft.

At a ceremony held at National Media Centre here, the Minister formalized the Transfer of Technology (ToT) of CSIR’s indigenously designed and developed HANSA-3(NG) trainer aircraft for Commercial Pilot Licensing (CPL) at the National Media Centre, New Delhi. The licensing of the HANSA-3(NG) two-seater trainer aircraft has been granted to M/s Pioneer Clean Amps Pvt. Ltd.

Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the efforts of CSIR scientists for the successful demonstration and commercialization of the indigenous HANSA-3(NG), noting that the aircraft will fulfill the requirements of flying clubs in providing PPL (Private Pilot License) and CPL (Commercial Pilot License) training to the young generation.

The Minister emphasized the need to develop a large and world-class flying training ecosystem in India to meet the rapidly growing demand of the Indian aviation sector. The availability of CSIR’s indigenous HANSA-3(NG) aircraft will strengthen India’s aviation industry and help realize Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of India becoming a leading aviation hub by the end of the decade and achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the huge opportunity for StartUps and MSMEs, along with significant employment generation potential through the indigenization of aviation technologies. He emphasized that indigenous small aircraft manufacturing under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative would support the development of infrastructure and promote small & medium-scale private entrepreneurs in the production of airworthy components, including assembly and integration of aircraft in India.

He also pointed out the socio-economic potential of this initiative, which will create employment opportunities through on-the-job training for ITI & Diploma holders in various disciplines of aircraft building and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) training.

Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed the government’s focus on democratization and decentralization of pilot training, which will reduce the cost of pilot training and give wings to the aspirations of youth, many of whom give up on their dream of becoming pilots due to affordability issues.

He stated, “Success in Space Economy by collaborating with the private sector will now be replicated in the aviation sector to meet the growing demand.”

India will need 30,000 pilots over the next 15–20 years, up from the current 6,000–7,000 pilots, as Indian airlines collectively have over 1,700 aircraft on order. Currently, India’s commercial aircraft fleet stands at over 800 aircraft. Typically, each aircraft requires 15–20 pilots for narrow-body aircraft and 25–30 pilots for long-range wide-body jets. Hence, there is an urgent need to create a world-class flying training ecosystem in the country. Dr. Singh also credited Union Minister for Civil Aviation Shri K. Ram Mohan Naidu for enabling growth in the sector.

Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri K. Ram Mohan Naidu, complimented CSIR and CSIR-NAL scientists for their commitment towards the commercialization of the HANSA-3(NG) aircraft, following his recent visit to CSIR-NAL in October 2024.

The HANSA-3(NG) aircraft comes equipped with a digital display (glass cockpit) system and is powered by an advanced fuel-efficient Rotax 912 iSc3 Sports engine. The aircraft features a bubble canopy with a cabin width of 43 inches and electrically operated flaps, meeting modern user requirements. It offers excellent performance with a range of 620 nautical miles, 7 hours of endurance, and a maximum cruise speed of 98 Knots Calibrated Airspeed (KCAS).

Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, DSIR & Director General, CSIR, while congratulating the scientists, said that the successful flying demonstration of HANSA-3(NG) at Aero India 2025 reflects CSIR’s unwavering commitment to developing indigenous technologies to meet the national need. These efforts aim to serve end customers like Flying Training Organizations (FTOs), ensuring a complete ecosystem for commercialization of CSIR technologies.

Dr. Abhay Pashilkar, Director shared that CSIR-NAL has received Letters of Intent (LOI) for 110+ HANSA-3(NG) aircraft from FTOs across the country. To meet the domestic demand and export potential, CSIR-NAL has partnered with M/s Pioneer Clean Amps Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, who will set up a manufacturing facility aiming to build 36 aircraft per year, with plans to scale up to 72 aircraft annually, in alignment with the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2118821) Visitor Counter : 32

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:38PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry has taken steps to accelerate the growth of village e-Commerce, for consolidation of the rural economy. The Ministry has launched an e-Saras portal in year 2022 for online marketing of Self-Help Group (SHG) products as a marketing initiative under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana- National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). The portal is facilitating direct market access for SHGs through e-commerce. e-Saras has achieved initial milestones, including over 34 lakh product sales and are delivering more than 8,000 products to 30 States/UTs, making rural products accessible across country. Further, the Ministry in collaboration with Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has created “SARAS Collection” as a Store Front in GeM for marketing of SHG products. Also, Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) have been entered between Ministry and Flipkart Internet Pvt. Ltd., Amazon and Fashnear Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (Meesho) respectively to allow the SHGs producers including the artisans, weavers and craftsmen to access national markets through the Flipkart Samarth programme, Amazon Saheli initiative and Meesho for marketing of SHGs products. An MoU has also been signed between MoRD and JioMart for onboarding and marketing of SHGs products. The Ministry has converged with ONDC for promotion and sales of rural women SHG products on ONDC platform. Some States have also developed their own e-Commerce platform to support marketing of products of SHGs.

SHGs products are now available on various platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, JioMart, Meesho, and GeM. Concurrently, digital marketing efforts are focused on building awareness for Saras Aajeevika.

Some major challenges being faced by rural entrepreneurs in adopting e- commerce platforms and steps taken to address them are as under:

 

 

Various training programmes under DAY-NRLM have been conducted to onboard SHG members under DAY-NRLM on eCommerce Platforms like GeM, ONDC, Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, JioMart etc.

Under Digital India Initiative, various technology-led startups and innovation schemes like Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs (TIDE 2.0), Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups (GENESIS), domain specific Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and Next Generation Incubation Scheme (NGIS) have been undertaken. Also, BharatNet Project, which connects rural areas with Optical Fibre Cable, and USOF (Universal Service Obligation Fund) schemes that bring 4G services to remote villages have been implemented by Ministry of Communications to expand broadband access. These initiatives also support village e-commerce expansion.

This information was given by Minister of State for Rural Development, Shri Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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PawanSinghFaujdar

(Release ID: 2118846) Visitor Counter : 56

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The opening ceremony of the third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival (PCF) was held today (April 4) at the Grand Theatre of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC). Organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the PCF this year is themed “More Than Joy”. Audiences can appreciate how pop culture can be transmitted and transformed, and how integration and breakthroughs are possible in addition to joy and laughter.
 
     The Acting Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau; the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan; and an actor of the opening film “The Banquet” (1991), Mr Eric Tsang, officiated at the opening ceremony.
 
     The opening programme, “Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991)”, began after the ceremony. Pop singer Alfred Hui, a cappella choral theatre company Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey (Eric So) together with a live band performed songs from classic comedy films with fresh arrangements by renowned musician Ng Cheuk-yin. The digitally restored version of “The Banquet” (1991) was screened following the performance. Blending entertainment with cultural artistry, the audience was offered a fresh and inspiring perspective on the vibrancy of Hong Kong’s pop culture.
 
     Another highlight programme that kicks off the PCF is outdoor music carnival “ImagineLand 2025” to be held tomorrow (April 5) and on Sunday (April 6) at the HKCC Piazza, and the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars free of charge. Supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, “ImagineLand 2025” features both daytime and evening programmes, encompassing music, films, comics, and more.
 
    During “ImagineLand 2025”, “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” will be available during the day, while film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night. Over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong and eight countries and regions including the Mainland, Japan, Korea, the United States, Australia, France, the United Kingdom and Ukraine will perform on the three stages of “Go Beyond Concert”, showcasing boundless possibilities of music across the performances. Major line-ups of local artists include Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Yatfung, Cloud, Ashley Lin, Pandora, Wan Pin Chu and more, performing mesmerising popular songs and original works.
 
     At “Comics Fun Experience Gallery”, Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras will be displayed to highlight the creativity of local artists with immersive photo-taking opportunities. The exhibition also features the works of local humourist cartoonists and explores how comics intertwine with the city’s pop culture. Workshops on art, music, and crafts will be available for the public at “Funarts Corner”. In the evenings, two comedies, “Table For Six” (2022) and “Forbidden City Cop” (1996)”, will be screened at “Movie Under the Stars” tomorrow and on Sunday respectively, allowing audiences to enjoy outdoor films while relaxing on the lawn.
 
     Other highlights include the “Laughter Double Bill: Hong Kong Comedy Film Spectacular” film screening programme; exhibitions “Comic Fun for All: The Magic of Hong Kong Comedy Comics” and “Legends of HK Film Comedies, 1980s and 1990s”; concerts “The 2025 Fiesta of Music Office Bands, Choirs and Orchestras-Bands ‘The Animated Melodies – Our Nostalgic Memories'”, “Ko Shan Fest” and “Music & Laughs”, and more. To support the PCF’s theme of “More Than Joy”, the Hong Kong Public Libraries will also organise book displays and subject talks in a series of activities under the theme of “Happy Reading”.
 
Several industry partners are also offering a range of events as part of the festival, which are not to be missed.
 
     Hong Kong’s pop culture has drawn inspiration particularly from humour, a constant trendsetter that has left a deep footprint on many aspects of the city’s rich and colourful pop cultural landscape. The PCF 2025, with more than 20 programmes, not only delights audiences with exciting performances and works but also offers insight into the development paths of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”. By participating in these activities, audiences will be able to discover their own happiness.
 
     For more details, please visit the website: www.pcf.gov.hk, or call 2601 8703.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:32PM by PIB Delhi

Researchers have found a potential therapy for patients suffering from Autism / Intellectual Disability (ID) that will enable the patient to lead a life less dependent on others.

Current therapeutics prescribed to treat Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / ID are mostly related to alleviating the symptoms rather than correcting the phenotypes observed in neurodevelopmental disorders, especially after brain development.

A team led by Tapas K Kundu and James Clement from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) found that in mice with mutated syngap gene (Syngap1+/- mice) which resembles humans with mutated syngap gene (present in autistic patients) the acetylation of DNA-associated proteins, histones or proteins that provide structural support for chromosomes is repressed in the brain. The epigenetic enzyme behind this acetylation seems to be KAT3B or p300. Kundu`s group had previously discovered an activator of this enzyme, TTK21.

Upon conjugating this activator with glucose-derived nanosphere (CSP-TTK21) and feeding to the Syngap1 autistic mice, the researchers could induce acetylation in the brain. The team has shown in research published recently in the journal Aging Cell that the CSP-TTK21 restores neuronal function, learning, and memory, and induces neuronal rearrangements in Syngap1+/- mice, mainly when administered after the brain is considered to be developed (adolescents in human beings). This report not only directly connects histone acetylation with autism, for the first time, but also opens a very optimistic door for ASD therapy.

The study provides a new potential therapeutic option by targeting epigenetic modifications in Syngap1-related ID/ASD that can restore the deficits to an extent that will enable the patient to lead a life less dependent on others.

 

Fig: Explains how feeding activator with glucose derived nanosphere could induce acetylation in the brain & control autism

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2118838) Visitor Counter : 7

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:17PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met Rt. Hon’ble Mr. K.P. Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal, on the sidelines of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok today.

The two leaders reviewed the unique and close relationship between India and Nepal. They expressed satisfaction at the progress in enhancing physical and digital connectivity, people-to-people linkages, and in the domain of energy. They agreed to continue working towards further deepening the multifaceted partnership between our two countries and peoples.

Nepal is a priority partner of India under its Neighbourhood First Policy. This meeting continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries.

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2118826) Visitor Counter : 18

Source: Government of India

Indian Railways and DMRC Sign MoU for Automatic Wheel Profile Measurement Systems

Indian Railways partners with DMRC to introduce state-of-the-art Automatic Wheel Profile Measurement Systems

The system enables automatic, non-contact measurement of train wheel profiles for enhanced safety and efficiency

DMRC to procure, supply, install and commission four AWPMS units for Indian Railways

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:42PM by PIB Delhi

Indian Railways has taken a major step towards automation and efficiency in rolling stock maintenance by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for the procurement and installation of Automatic Wheel Profile Measurement Systems (AWPMS). The agreement was formalized today at Rail Bhawan, New Delhi.

AWPMS is an advanced system that allows for automatic, non-contact measurement of train wheel profiles, ensuring real-time assessment of wheel geometry and wear. Utilizing laser scanners and high-speed cameras, the system provides accurate and rapid measurements without manual intervention. In case of deviations, automated alerts will ensure timely corrective actions, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency.

The MoU signing ceremony was attended by senior officials, including:

• Shri B.M. Agrawal, Member (Traction & Rolling Stock)

• Shri S.K. Pankaj, Additional Member (Production Units)

• Shri Ashish Sharma, Additional Member (Mechanical Engineering)

• Shri Parmit Garg, Director (Business Development), DMRC

Under this partnership, DMRC will take responsibility for the procurement, supply, installation and commissioning of four AWPMS units for Indian Railways.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the modernization of Railway maintenance practices. By integrating cutting-edge technology, Indian Railways is enhancing its rolling stock management, reducing maintenance time and improving overall service efficiency. The partnership also promotes technology exchange and skill development between Indian Railways and DMRC, reinforcing their commitment to innovation, safety and operational excellence.

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Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

(Release ID: 2118916) Visitor Counter : 73

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, moved a statutory resolution in the Rajya Sabha for the approval of the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, house adopted the resolution

Home Minister clarifies that no-confidence was not brought against the Manipur government because the opposition didn’t have enough members

This violence is not terrorism, government failure, or religious conflict, but ethnic violence caused by the feeling of insecurity between two communities due to a decision of the High Court

Under the rule of opposition governments in Manipur, there were, on average, more than 200 days of strikes, blockades, and curfews in a year, and over 1,000 people were killed in encounters, the then Prime Minister did not visit Manipur

There is a difference between ethnic violence and Naxalism, but the opposition fails to see any distinction between the two

The methods of dealing with Naxalites, who stand against the government and the public with weapons, and the ethnic violence between two communities, are different

Several meetings have already taken place between both parties, and another meeting is soon going to be held in New Delhi

Home Minister expressed confidence that both communities would understand the situation and adopt the path of dialogue

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Minister, Shri Amit Shah, moved a statutory resolution in the Rajya Sabha for the approval of the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur. The resolution was thereafter adopted by the upper house.

Introducing the resolution, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah clarified that no-confidence was not brought against the Manipur government because the opposition did not have enough members to bring such a proposal. Shri Shah mentioned that the Chief Minister of his party resigned, after which the Governor held discussions with 37 Members of Legislative Assembly from BJP, 6 from NPP, 5 from NPF, 1 from JD(U), and 5 from Congress. When most of members expressed that they were not in a position to form a government, the Cabinet recommended the imposition of President’s Rule, which was accepted by the President.

Shri Amit Shah mentioned that President’s Rule was imposed on February 13, 2025 while there has been no violence in Manipur since December 2024 until today. He urged that such misconceptions should not be spread. Shri Shah pointed out that if we refer to the situation seven years ago, when the opposition government was in power in Manipur, on an average, the state experienced 200 days of strikes, blockades, and curfews in a year, and more than 1,000 people were killed in encounters. He also noted that during that time, the then Prime Minister had not visited Manipur.

Union Home Minister said that there is a difference between ethnic violence and Naxalism. He said that when violence occurs between two communities, the approach to dealing with it is different from dealing with Naxals, who are armed and stand against the government and the people of the country. He mentioned that the opposition fails to distinguish between these two forms of violence. Shri Shah emphasized that this is a very sensitive issue, and politics should not be happen on it. He pointed out that in Bengal, women in areas like Sandeshkhali had been mistreated for hundreds of years, but the opposition did nothing, and similarly, nothing was done in the RG Kar case. He said that this double standard cannot last for long. The Home Minister also mentioned that 260 people had died in ethnic violence in Manipur, but in Bengal, nearly 250 people were killed in election-related violence alone. He said that the opposition wants to teach them a lesson by winning two seats, but the people of the country have consistently taught the opposition a lesson in the last three general elections.

Shri Amit Shah noted that between 2004 and 2014, there were 11,327 violent incidents in the Northeast, but in the ten years of the Modi government, these incidents have reduced by 70 per cent, dropping to 3,428. He further mentioned that there has been a 70 per cent decrease in the death of security forces and an 85 per cent reduction in civilian casualties. Shri Shah highlighted that the Modi government has signed 20 peace agreements in the Northeast, and over 10,000 youths have surrendered their weapons and embraced peace.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that 260 people have been killed in the ethnic violence in Manipur so far and 70 per cent of the deaths occurred in the first 15 days. He emphasized that this is not the first time ethnic violence has occurred in Manipur. Shri Shah informed the House that between 1993 and 1998, there was a five-year Naga-Kuki conflict in Manipur, which resulted in 750 deaths, and sporadic incidents continued for a decade. He pointed out that the then Prime Minister did not visit the state during that period. In 1997-98, the Kuki-Paite conflict took place, which led to the destruction of more than 50 villages, the displacement of 13 thousand people, 352 deaths, hundreds of injuries, and the burning of 5,000 homes. Shri Shah further mentioned that in 1993, during the six-month-long Meitei-Pangal conflict, more than 100 people were killed. Even during these violent incidents, the then Prime Minister did not visit Manipur. He added that while his party did not politicize the violence at that time, today the opposition is exacerbating Manipur’s wounds by making political jabs.

Shri Amit Shah said that before the order of the Manipur High Court, there was not a single day of strikes or curfews in the seven years of governance in Manipur, and no violence had occurred. He said that the ethnic violence between the tribal and non-tribal communities in Manipur began due to a decision by the High Court. He said that this violence was neither a failure of the government nor terrorism or religious conflict, but rather ethnic violence arising from the sense of insecurity spread between two communities due to the interpretation of the High Court’s decision. He further mentioned that the very next day, the Supreme Court stayed the order because it was deemed unconstitutional.

Union Home Minister stated that the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur was not done to save anyone or due to a no-confidence motion. He explained that after the imposition of President’s Rule, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who was the Home Secretary to the Government of India, was appointed as the Governor of Manipur, and now there is peace in the state. Shri Shah informed the House that many meetings have already been held between both sides, and two meetings took place even during the ongoing session of the House. He also mentioned that another meeting between both communities is likely to take place soon in New Delhi. The Home Minister expressed confidence that both communities would understand the situation and adopt the path of dialogue. He further stated that as soon as the situation in Manipur normalizes, President’s Rule will be lifted immediately, as it is not the policy of his party to keep President’s Rule in place.

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RK/VV/PR/PS

(Release ID: 2118913) Visitor Counter : 109

Source: Government of India

Bridging Progress: The Rise of the New Pamban Bridge

India’s first vertical lift sea bridge sets a new benchmark in modern infrastructure and maritime harmony

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

Introduction

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the New Pamban Bridge during his visit to Tamil Nadu on April 6, on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.

The New Pamban Bridge stands as a testament to India’s engineering prowess and visionary infrastructure development. Rooted in history, its story traces back to 1914 when British engineers constructed the original Pamban Bridge, a cantilever (a long piece of metal or wood that extends from a wall to support the end of a bridge) structure with a Scherzer Rolling Lift span to connect Rameswaram Island with mainland India.

For over a century, it served as a critical lifeline for pilgrims, tourists, and trade. However, the harsh marine environment and growing transportation demands necessitated a modern solution. In 2019, the Government of India sanctioned the construction of a technologically advanced, future-ready replacement.

The result is India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, a 2.07-kilometre-long marvel spanning the Palk Strait in Tamil Nadu. Blending heritage with innovation, the New Pamban Bridge not only preserves the cultural and historical importance of the region but also marks a significant leap forward in design, connectivity, and regional development.

The New Pamban Bridge was constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Railways.

Key Features of the New Pamban Bridge:

The 72.5-meter navigational span can be lifted up to 17 meters, allowing larger ships to pass underneath.

The new bridge is 3 meters higher than the existing one, improving sea connectivity.

The substructure is designed for two tracks, with the superstructure initially accommodating a single line.

The use of modern materials and engineering techniques will ensure the bridge’s longevity.

The bridge has been constructed with stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade protective paint, and fully welded joints.

Special polysiloxane coating protects it from corrosion, ensuring longevity in the harsh marine environment.

The Need & Vision for the New Pamban Bridge

By the early 21st century, the old bridge could no longer meet the demands of modern transportation. The increasing volume of traffic, coupled with the need for faster and safer connectivity prompted the government to envision a new structure that would be technologically advanced, durable, and future-ready.

The construction of a state-of-the-art sea bridge that could accommodate growing traffic volumes, ensure durability and facilitate smoother maritime navigation. The New Pamban Bridge was conceived to address the limitations of its predecessor while paving the way for enhanced regional connectivity and economic growth.

The New Pamban Bridge is set to ensure:

• Enhanced Transportation: Accommodating heavier rail traffic and faster trains.
• Maritime Integration: Allowing larger vessels to pass without disruptions.
• Durability: Ensuring a lifespan of over 100 years with minimal maintenance.

Modern Construction Techniques
 

The original 1914 bridge was vital for trade and pilgrimage but was no longer suitable for modern rail demands. Given the region’s seismic activity, cyclones, and marine corrosion, a resilient, technologically advanced replacement was essential. Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), under the Ministry of Railways, led the project, ensuring it met higher speed, load, and maritime requirements. This new bridge enhances connectivity while showcasing India’s infrastructure capabilities in safety, durability, and innovation.

1. Selection of Launching Method

• Site constraints like limited support structures, low shore draft, ship traffic, fishing activity, and strong sea currents made conventional lift span launching methods unfeasible.
• The solution used was pier-to-pier launching of the lift span girder using the ‘Auto Launching Method based on Relationship Principle,’ designed by Suntech Construction Engineering Consultants and verified by IIT Madras.

2. Transportation, Assembly and Final Welding

• After painting and inspection, segments were trucked to Pamban, where a temporary platform with two EOT cranes (Electric Overhead Traveling Cranes) enabled girder assembly. Welding was done in specialized huts, joints inspected by PAUT (Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing), and corrosion protection completed with metalizing and painting.
• Metalizing and painting completed corrosion protection, ensuring structural integrity.

3. Launching of the Lift Span

• Following assembly at Abutment No. 2, the 448.305m lift span was launched in 90 sequences to Pier 77–78 using launching girders and the auto-launching method, with counterweights ensuring precise movement along a 2.65° curve.

4. Components of the Launching System

• Key components included steel stools, stainless steel sliding bases, and swing-type traverse bases with guide rollers. Two front launching girders (51m each) and two rear ones (47m each) were supported at multiple points
• Each girder set had ~10 MT counterweights. Tooth plates held jack pistons, and 200T Hilman Rollers enabled smooth movement. Pivots allowed 360° rotation. Push/pull jacks (50T, 1000mm stroke) enabled span movement, requiring 13.375T–18.725T force, factoring lateral resistance.

5. Hydraulic Jacking and Final Placement

• Eight 200T hydraulic jacks lifted the span and repositioned the girders.
• Mounted on frames at end cross girders, they hung during movement and were supported by adjustable stools at each pier, ensuring precise placement.

6. Lift Span Movement Sequence

• With launching girders aligned and span loaded, movement began. Each pier was spaced 20m apart. The 75.70m span required two moves per pier—16m first (rear over pier), then 4m (front over next pier).
• Rear and front girders moved in turn to the next piers. This process, repeated over 90 sequences for 448.325m, took 2–3 days per pier. Once at its final position, temporary equipment was removed and the span lowered onto bearings.

7. Erection of Towers

• Towers were fabricated in 28 segments, painted, and transported to Pamban using trailers.
• A temporary jetty allowed segments to be loaded onto barges via a 150 MT crane and hauled by boats. A marine crane launched segments near the navigational channel.
• Towers were connected by a lintel forming a 21.30m × 6.80m × 4.50m machine room housing the lifting system. The room weighs ~100 MT, with 315 MT counterweights at each end ensuring balance and smooth operation.

 

Challenges in Construction: Overcoming the Odds

The construction of the new Pamban Bridge presented numerous challenges, ranging from environmental obstacles to logistical complexities. The Palk Strait’s turbulent waters, strong winds, and unpredictable weather patterns created difficulties in the construction process. Additionally, the region’s susceptibility to cyclones and seismic activity necessitated careful planning and robust design.

Another significant challenge was managing logistics, particularly the transportation of heavy materials to the remote construction site. The team had to make the most of the narrow timeframes offered by tidal conditions to ensure timely delivery. Despite these obstacles, the engineers and workers demonstrated remarkable ingenuity, leveraging innovative solutions, advanced technology, and unwavering determination to overcome the difficulties and successfully complete the bridge.

Throughout the execution of the project; which involved over 1,400 tons of fabrication, the launching of lift spans and 99 girders, as well as track and electrification work carried out at sea, the entire operation was completed without a single injury.

India Making its Mark on a Global Scale

While the new Pamban Bridge is India’s first vertical lift sea bridge, it shares similarities with other globally recognized bridges known for their technological advancements and unique designs. These include the Golden Gate Bridge in the United States, Tower Bridge in London and the Oresund Bridge in Denmark-Sweden. Each of these iconic structures, though different in design and functionality, represents a pinnacle of engineering excellence. Now, the new Pamban Bridge stands proudly in their company, combining cutting-edge technology with the challenges posed by India’s coastal and seismic conditions.

 

Safety & Environmental Features

Conclusion
The New Pamban Bridge is a symbol of India’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. Overcoming environmental, logistical, and technical challenges, this state-of-the-art vertical lift railway bridge stands as a proud testament to the nation’s growing infrastructure capabilities. With its modern design, enhanced safety features, and commitment to sustainability, the bridge not only revitalizes a critical transport link but also strengthens regional connectivity and economic development. As trains and ships are all set to pass effortlessly over and under, the bridge serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when vision meets determination.

References:

• Ministry of Railways

Click here to download PDF

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Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kritika Rane

(Release ID: 2118895) Visitor Counter : 113

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

In reference to the news item carried by some publications regarding private land/structure at Mandola, Bagpat causing hinderance in completion of the upcoming Delhi-Dehradun Expressway. This is to clarify that there is no hindrance on the main Expressway, and it remains unaffected.

Two ramps on each side of the Expressway have been provided for entry and exit of the traffic. Out of the four, ramp number 2, 3 & 4 have been completed, and service roads have already been constructed. The issue pertains only to a small stretch of 90-meter of the service road adjacent to ramp number 5.

The owner of the land parcel on ‘Ramp-5’ has filed a writ petition in the Hon’ble High Court of Allahabad (Lucknow Bench) and the matter is pending before the Hon’ble Court.

There will be no effect of this hinderance on the traffic using the main Expressway. Only a small part of the service road will be hindered by the disputed land/structure. In order to maintain the traffic flow at the location, a temporary bypass arrangement has been made. Vehicles taking the service road and exiting from ‘Ramp-5’, will be able to take a diversion road through internal road of Mandola Vihar Yojna, ensuring free flow of traffic in this area. 

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GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2118885) Visitor Counter : 61

Source: Government of India

Yogotsav Programme organised in Karbi Anglong; Assam Unites for Yoga

Event Marks 78 Days to International Day of Yoga 2025

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

As the countdown to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025 continues, the spirit of yoga echoed across Diphu Police Reserve Camp Field, Karbi Anglong, Assam, where a vibrant Yogotsav Programme marked day 78 of the 100-day countdown to IDY. The event brought together nearly 380 enthusiastic participants, including police personnel and local citizens, in a unified celebration of wellness and inner harmony.

Glimpses from the Yogotsav Programme organised at the Diphu Police Reserve Camp Field, Karbi Anglong, Assam on 04.04.2025

 

Spearheaded by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) under the aegis of the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, this Yogotsav is part of a nationwide initiative to raise awareness about yoga’s transformative power—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

The event witnessed the participation of 380 persons, including police personnel and public

The event wasn’t just a display of asanas—it was a resounding call to embrace balance, discipline, and holistic health, echoing India’s vision of creating a healthier, happier world through the timeless wisdom of yoga.

The event began with the practice of the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) led by Dibya Jyoti Deka, a distinguished Yoga Teacher, who has been conducting yoga sessions for the Governor of Assam for the past five years, his expert guidance and calm yet energizing instructions set a serene and disciplined tone for the morning.

Following the CYP, Yogacharya Subhasish Kar delivered an insightful session on “Yogic Tips for Better Health,” offering simple, practical ways to improve physical and mental wellness through daily yoga practices.

A key highlight of the programme was a live Jal Neti Practical Workshop, where participants were guided through this traditional yogic cleansing technique—highly regarded for its benefits in respiratory and sinus health.

Glimpses from the Yogotsav Programme organised at the Diphu Police Reserve Camp Field, Karbi Anglong

 

The programme concluded with a resonating message of wellness, harmony, and the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life. As a countdown event, it effectively set the stage for the upcoming International Day of Yoga 2025, reinforcing yoga’s integral role in promoting holistic well-being for individuals and communities.

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