MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

Union Ministers of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Shri Sanjay Seth Celebrate Tribal Heritage at “Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat” event in New Delhi, commemorating Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s 150th Birth Anniversary Year

Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel Calls for Recording Tribal Traditions to Safeguard India’s Heritage; Urges Tribal Communities to Prioritize Education

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

A special event under the “Hamari Parampara, Hamari Virasat” program, held in conjunction with Sarhul Mahotsav 2025, by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR), in collaboration with the Government of Jharkhand, marked a significant step in celebrating India’s indigenous heritage in New Delhi, today. The event, marking the 150th Birth Anniversary Year of Bhagwan Birsa Munda (Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh), celebrated tribal heritage at the national level. It was inaugurated by Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, and Shri Sanjay Seth, Union Minister of State for Defence, in the presence of Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, MoPR, Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, MoPR along with other key officials of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Government of Jharkhand along with over 560 tribal representatives from Jharkhand.  

Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, in his address, emphasized the significance of preserving India’s tribal culture that encompasses their local languages, music, food, and traditions defining their rich heritage. He articulated that the recording and documentation of “Lok Bhasha, Bhoosha, Bhojan, Sangeet” is imperative for keeping the nation’s heritage alive for future generations. While commemorating the valour and sacrifice of Bhagwan Birsa Munda in his 150th birth anniversary year, Prof. Baghel particularly acknowledged the invaluable contributions of tribal communities in the struggle against British colonialism, especially in the fight to conserve essential resources of “Jal–Jangal–Jameen” (water, forest, land). He highlighted how Adivasis, being the most indigenous group, have played a crucial role in environmental protection. Prof. Baghel noted that the Adivasis’ environmental conservation efforts are not merely part of their legacy but are vital to the overall ecological health of mother earth. He commended the community’s profound connection to land and environment, which has enabled them to preserve natural resources across generations. “If we had learnt the values like respect for nature from the tribal way of living, problems like global warming, ecological imbalance and ozone depletion may not have become so serious”, added Prof. Baghel. He urged tribal communities to prioritize their children’s education, as it is the cornerstone for societal upliftment and progress.

 Shri Sanjay Seth, Union Minister of State for Defence, addressing the “Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat” program, highlighted Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s inspiring legacy and appreciated the cultural awareness of Jharkhand’s tribal groups, that have immensely contributed to India’s rich cultural traditions. Referring to the Tribal Museum in Ranchi, established at the site where Bhagwan Birsa Munda was imprisoned during British rule, he stated that this museum serves as an inspiration center for future generations. Union Minister of State said “Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji inspires us to connect heritage with development. Taking forward this vision, the Sarhul festival organised in New Delhi gave a strong message to the nation – conserve Jal, Jangal aur Jameen. The contribution of the tribal community in preserving India’s civilizational values is unparallel. Sarhul reflects the belief that the closer we are to nature, the more joyful, energetic, and prosperous our lives become”.

Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, emphasized the vital importance of preserving rich tribal cultural heritage that forms the backbone of India’s diverse traditions. He asserted, “Our tribal songs, music, folklore, and traditions are invaluable treasures. If we do not safeguard them, they risk fading away with time. It is not just our duty but a profound responsibility to protect and nurture these cultural legacies for future generations”. Shri Bharadwaj apprised that over 3,000 villages in Jharkhand, have pledged to actively participate in this campaign to safeguard their art, culture, and traditions. He called for accelerated efforts in Jharkhand to establish it as a model for other States, showcasing how cultural preservation can thrive through community engagement.

 

The program also featured vibrant cultural performances, including traditional Mundari dance of the Santhali community and Munda tribal storytelling, alongside substantive discussions on the role of Gram Sabhas in heritage conservation, government initiatives for indigenous traditions, and insights from tribal leaders on grassroot governance and cultural preservation.

 

About Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat

 

The “Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat” initiative helps to integrate tribal heritage into the nation’s cultural and governance framework. Envisioned and supported by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, this campaign was launched by the Department of Panchayati Raj, Government of Jharkhand on 26th January 2025 and has already witnessed more than 3,000 villages pledging their dedication to preserving traditional self-governance and cultural legacy. The objective of “Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat” is to preserve, enhance, and transmit to future generations the cultural heritage, folk songs, festivals, and worship practices integral to the traditional governance systems of various Scheduled Tribe communities in Scheduled Areas. The program aims to document the vibrant history and cultural practices of villages across Jharkhand. This initiative aligns closely with the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA Act), which empowers Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas to safeguard tribal customs, traditions, and self-governance. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has constituted a high-level committee to oversee the successful implementation of this initiative, ensuring that the traditional governance structures of Scheduled Tribes continue to thrive.

 

***

Aditi Agrawal

(Release ID: 2118876) Visitor Counter : 73

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:02PM by PIB Delhi

There are a total of 101 projects of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. All of these are only infrastructure projects related to port and waterways development.  The state wise details of 101 projects is annexed. [Annexure-I]

Out of 101 MoPSW projects under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, 5 projects are related to waterways development. The details of these projects are annexed. [Annexure-II]. The details of projects undertaken for development of National Waterways in India is annexed. [Annexure-III].

There are a total of 13 projects of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways of around Rs. 7101.68 Cr. in the state of Andhra Pradesh under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. These projects are being implemented by Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board and Visakhapatnam Port Authority. Details of these 13 projects are annexed. [Annexure-IV]

Ministry of Finance has informed that based on the recommendations of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), capital expenditure amounting to Rs. 202.00 crore was approved and released by Ministry of Finance under “Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for 2022-23” to the State Government of Andhra Pradesh as per details annexed. [Annexure-V]

Annexure-I

State wise number of projects of MoPSW under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan:

State	No. of projects
Andhra Pradesh	13
Gujarat	19
Karnataka	10
Kerala	3
Maharashtra	13
Odisha	7
Tamil Nadu	12
West Bengal	6
Bihar	2
Goa	12
Pondicherry	2
UP	2

 

Annexure-II

Waterways project under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan:

 

Sr No	Name of Project	Cost (Rs. Cr)	Executing Agency	State
1	Multi-modal terminal at Varanasi	186.61	IWAI	UP
2	Multi-modal terminal at Sahib Ganj	278.56	IWAI	Bihar
3	Multi-modal terminal at Haldia	503.16	IWAI	West Bengal
4	Setting up of the Freight Village at Varanasi	165	IWAI	UP
5	Industrial Cluster cum Logistic park, Sahib Ganj	72	IWAI	Bihar

 

Annexure-III

DETAILS OF PROJECTS ON NATIONAL WATERWAYS DURING THE LAST FIVE FINANCIAL YEARS WITH FUNDS SANCTIONED/ALLOCATED:    

 (Rs. in Cr.)

S.No	Name of Project in States	Sanctioned Cost
A	Ongoing sanctioned NWs projects –
1	Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP-I & II) from Varanasi-Haldia stretch on NW-1 (Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly River System) in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand & West Bengal	5061. 15
2	Comprehensive Development of NW-2 (River Brahmaputra from B’desh Border –Dhubri to Sadiya) in Assam	474.00
3	Comprehensive Development of NW-16 (River Barak from Lakhimpur to Tuker Gram) in Assam and Indian Portion of IndoBangladesh Route in Assam	148.00
B.	NWs projects sanctioned since 3 years
4	Development of Approach Road from Pandu Port Terminal to NH27 on NW-2	180.00
5	Development of Ship Repair Facility at Pandu, Guwahati (Assam) on NW-2	208.00
6	Development of 23 NW’s (Phase1) (** 3 existing & 13 new NW’s) — Development of 20 NWs (NW-3, 4, 5 & 17 new NWs) in the States of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Goa, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra & Assam	266.09
(i)	NW-3-West Coast Canal (Kottapuram – Kollam), Champakara and Udyogmandal Canals in Kerala
(ii)	Part of NW-4- Krishna River (Vijayawada – Muktyala) in Andhra Pradesh
(iii)	NW-5- Dhamra-Paradip via Mangalagadi to Pankopal of river Brahmani in Odisha
(iv)	NW-8- Alappuzha-Changanassery Canal in Kerala
(v)	NW-9- Alappuzha-Athirampuza Canal in Kerala
(vi)	NW-27-Cumberjua River in Goa
(vii)	NW-68- Mandovi River in Goa
(viii)	NW-111- Zuari River in Goa
(ix)	NW-86- River Rupnarayan in West Bengal
(x)	NW-97- Sundarbans Waterways in West Bengal
(xi)	NW-40- Ghaghra River in U.P. & Bihar
(xii)	NW-44- Ichamati River in West Bengal
(xiii)	NW-10- Amba River in Maharashtra
(xiv)	NW-28-Dabhol Creek Vashisthi River in Maharashtra
(xv)	NW-57- Kopili River in Assam
(xvi)	NW-31- Dhansiri River in Assam
(xvii)	NW-73- Pontoons in River Narmada in Gujarat
(xviii)	NW-73 (the Narmada) & NW-100 (the Tapi) – EIA/EMP Study in Gujarat NWs
(xix)	NW-110 (the Yamuna)- Pontoons in Mathura
(xx)	NW-37 (the Gandak)- Pontoons in Battiah in Bihar
	Total	6337.24

 

Annexure-IV

Sl.No	Name of Project	Cost (Rs. Cr)	Name of Port	Location	Project Status	Physical Progress	Objective of the Project
1	Development of Ramayapatnam Ports, Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh	4929.39	Ramayapatnam Port	Ramayapatnam Port	Under Implementation	52.95%	The port is being built to handle potential traffic of 34.04 MMTPA in Phase I (2024 25) to facilitate EXIM trade and rapid industrialisation in the region.
2	Liquid Jetty	236	Krishnapatnam Port	Krishnapatnam Port	Completed	100%	Liquid jetty has been constructed to handle 6 MMTPA (million metric tonnes per annum) of liquid cargo.
3	Berth 6 Mechanization	125.4	Krishnapatnam Port	Krishnapatnam Port	completed	100%	Mechanization of Berth undertaken  to carry out Mechanized handling of cargo at berth 6.
4	West Berth Extension	90	Krishnapatnam Port	Krishnapatnam Port	Under Development	0	Capacity Addition
5	West Berth Mechanization	200	Krishnapatnam Port	Krishnapatnam Port	Under Development	0	Capacity Addition
6	Phase-II of Wagon Loading Station	20	Krishnapatnam Port	Krishnapatnam Port	Under Development	0	Capacity Addition
7	Development of New Berth EQ-1A Visakhapatnam (left over civil works)	22.35	Visakhapatnam Port Authority	Visakhapatnam Port	Completed	100%	Capacity Augmentation of port
8	Extension of existing container terminal at VPT on DBFOT basis	633.11	Visakhapatnam Port Authority	Visakhapatnam Port	Completed	100%	Capacity augmentation from 0.54 TEUs to 0.99TEUs
9	Mechanisation of WQ-7 & WQ-8 berths in the Inner harbour	288.47	Visakhapatnam Port Authority	Visakhapatnam Port	Under Development	0	Augmentation of Port Cargo handling capacity with improved performance.
10	Mechanisation of EQ-7 berth in the Inner harbour	201	Visakhapatnam Port Authority	Visakhapatnam Port	Under Development	0	Augmentation of Port Cargo handling capacity with improved performance.
11	Additional Oil Jetty -OR3 along with OR1 and OR2 at Visakhapatnam	167.66	Visakhapatnam Port Authority	Visakhapatnam Port	Under Implementation	84.74%	The objective is to handle PANAMAX vessels with 85,000 DWT vessel.
12	a) Construction of cruise berth                                                                                                    b) Construction of cruise terminal	72.26	Visakhapatnam Port Authority	Visakhapatnam Port	Completed	100.00%	To enhance the tourism potential of this area & to create indirect employment to the local people.
13	Construction of covered storage sheds	116.04	Visakhapatnam Port Authority	Visakhapatnam Port	Completed	100.00%	to improve the Environmental Hygiene and to meet statutory requirements of Pollution control Board and NGT in order to  create Eco friendly environment during the cargo handling operations.

 

Annexure-V

Details of Capital Expenditure released by DoE, MoF to Govt. of Andhra Pradesh under Part-II (PM Gatishakti related Expenditure) of “Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for 2022-23:

(Rs. in crore)

Sl. No.	Name of project	Location	Estimated Project Cost	Capital Expenditure approved by DoE, MoF	Capital Expenditure released by DoE, MoF
1	Phase 1 to 46 MLD External Water Supply to Jagananna Mega Industrial Hub (JMIH)	Kopparthy YSR Kadapa district	171.00	171.00	171.00
2	Railway siding to YSR JMIH, Kopparthy, Kadapa	Kopparthy YSR Kadapa district	54.00	31.00	31.00
Total			225.00	202.00	202.00

 

This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in written reply to QUESTION NO. 5545 in the Lok Sabha.

*****

GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2118874) Visitor Counter : 88

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

Under Modernisation pillar of Sagarmala Programme, 234 projects at cost of around Rs. 2.91 Lakh crores have been undertaken for implementation across Coastal States/UTs. These projects are implemented by Central Ministries, IWAI, Indian Railways, State Government and Major Ports etc. Out of these, 103 projects worth Rs. 32,634 crores have been completed and 56 projects worth Rs. 74,744 crores are under implementation. The details of projects undertaken in Sagarmala Programme in the State of Andhra Pradesh under Port Modernisation pillar is annexed. [Annexure-I]

Under the Sagarmala Scheme, the Ministry provides financial assistance to State/UT Governments for Port infrastructure projects, Coastal berth projects, Road & Rail projects, fishing harbours, skill development projects, Coastal community development, cruise terminal and projects such as Ro-Pax ferry services. Ministry has till date undertaken 119 projects at a total Cost of Rs. 9407 Cr. for partial funding under Sagarmala Scheme. Out of these, 72 projects have been completed till date. The State Wise details of projects under Sagarmala Scheme are annexed. [Annexure-II]. Under Sagarmala Scheme, Ministry is partially funding 12 projects costing around Rs. 2,410 Crore in the State of Andhra Pradesh including Visakhapatnam Port Authority. Out of these, 7 projects have been completed. The details of projects are provided at Annexure-III.

Major Ports are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The details of companies (public and private) which are involved in the construction and upgradation of Major Ports across the country is annexed. [Annexure-IV]

Annexure – I

List of Sagarmala Projects in Andhra Pradesh under Ports Modernisation pillar.

Annexure II

Annexure-III

List of Sagarmala-funded Projects in Andhra Pradesh

Annexure-IV

Companies (public and private) which are involved in the construction and upgradation of Major Ports

• West Bengal: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port

Century Ports Pvt. Ltd.

Mackintosh Burn Limited

M/s Biswajyoti Bhattacharyya

M/s Tribeni Constructions Ltd

Hooghly Oil and Gas Terminal Private Limited (HOGTPL)

HDC Bulk Terminal Ltd (HBTL)

Ganges bulk terminal Pvt. Ltd.

• Tamil Nadu: Kamarajar Port Limited

Indian Pors Rail & Ropeway Corporation Limited

Tamil Nadu Road Development Company (TNRDC)

Jan De Nul Dredging India Pvt. Limited

Van Oord Dredging and Marine Contractors bv

Sripathy Associate Pvt. Ltd.

Sentinel Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

• Tamil Nadu:V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority

M/s Jandenul Dredging India Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Surabhi pile foundation & Gio Technics Pt. Ltd. Mumbai.

M/s Jefferson samuelraj& Sons.

M/s TTK Construction, Madurai

M/s R.K & Sons, Salem

M/s JSWTMTPL, Mumbai

M/s Tuticorin International Container Terminal Pvt. Ltd. (TICTPL), Tuticorin.

• Maharashtra: Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority

M/s Ferro Concrete Construction (India) Pvt. Ltd. Indore, MP

M/s Thakur- Mhatre JV, Mumbai.

M/s Alfra- Backbone- Tarmat JV Mumbai

M/s Thakur-Mhatre- Kharpatil JV, Mumbai

M/s RKEC Projects Ltd., Visakhapatnam.

M/s Blue Star Construction Co,

M/s Manoj Infracon Private Limited, Mumbai.

M/s J.M. Mhatre infra Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai.

M/s Paresh Construction Co., Mumbai

M/s JPR Balaji Infra Pvt. Ltd., Jalna.

M/s Niraj Cement Structurals Ltd., Mumbai.

M/s Ferro Concrete Construction (India) Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai

M/s DEV Engineers

M/s Capacite Engineering Pvt Ltd and M/s. Capacit’e Infraprojects Ltd. (JV), Mumbai.

M/s P.P. Kharpatil Construction Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai

M/s ITD Cementation Ltd., Mumbai

M/s Shandar Interior Pvt. Ltd, Pune

M/s Van Oord India Pvt Ltd

M/s MAN Infra Construction Ltd

M/s ITD Cementation

M/s MAN Infraconstruction Ltd

M/s Antelec Pvt Ltd

M/s Doosan Enerbility Vietnam

M/s Doosan Enerbility Vietnam

M/s Wuxi Huadong Heavy Machinery

M/s Cullen Grummitt& Roe (India) Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Egis India Consulting Engineers Pvt Ltd

M/s Ultratech Environmental Consultancy and Laboratory Pvt Ltd.

M/s National Institute of Oceanography (NIO)

M/s Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE)

M/s ARI Simulation, New Delhi

M/s Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune (CWPRS)

• Maharashtra: Mumbai Port Authority

M/s Vanoord India Private Ltd.

M/s Magoxy Infra Pvt. Ltd.

M/s BELIEVE Infra Project Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Belhekar and Kale Associated (JV)

M/s Kargwal Construction Pvt. Ltd

M/s ITD Cementation India Ltd.

M/s DVP Infraprojects Pvt Ltd.

• Andhra Pradesh: Visakhapatnam Port Authority

M/s Rail Vikas Nigam Limited

M/s RKEC & M/s SBEC

M/s ITD Cementation Ltd.,

M/s SSN&Co.

M/s Indus Project Pvt. Ltd.

M/s SSN&Co.

M/s PJR Constructions (P) Ltd.

M/s JD Constructions

M/s GR Constructions

M/s Sri Venkateswara Constructions

M/s Md. Jahangeer

M/s Lalitha Constructions

M/s Hardware Tools and Machinery Projects Pvt Ltd.,

M/s IPRCL

M/s IPRCL

M/s JD Constructions

M/s ShrushtiContechPvt. Ltd. & Others.

M/s AKVR Infra

M/s Shell Refractories and Insulations, (JV) with M/s. Karagwal Constructions Pvt.

M/s Integrated Cargo Terminal Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Everson Marine Trade Pvt. Ltd.

• Gujarat: Deendayal Port Authority

M/s Kandla International Caontainer Terminal

M/s Italgrus.r.l., Italy

M/s Suzlon Energy Limited, New Delhi

M/s Inox Wind Limited, Noida.

M/s RISHI Shipping, Gandhidham

M/s Merit BMH Engg. Pvt. Ltd., Chennai

M/s Sterling and Wilson Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Omkar Enterprise, Ahmedabad

M/s Hi-Tech Elastomers Ltd., Ahmedabad

M/s Hi-Tech Elastomers Ltd., Ahmedabad

M/s Woodfield Systems International Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai

M/s Italgrus.r.l., Italy

M/s Jay Project, Baroda and M/s Patel Construction Co., Gandhi Dham

M/s Jay Project, Baroda

M/s C.K Electrical, Surat

M/s L&T Energy Green Tech Limited, Vadodara.

M/s Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZL)

M/s Hindustan Gateway Container Terminal Kandla Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Kandla Oil Terminal Private Ltd.

M/s Coviva Energy Terminal Ltd.

M/s Rock and Reef Dredging Pvt Ltd.

M/s K.K. Sorathia JV Hariom Earthmovers and Transport, Adipur

M/s BMS Projecs – Marymatha JV

M/s Indian port rail & ropeway corporation limited (IPRCL)

M/s Neelkanth Infratech Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Hariom Earthmovers and Transport – Adipur

M/s Radhe Associated, Mehsana

M/s Neelkanth Infratech Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Dhanji K. Patel

M/s Patel Corrtech JV

M/s Patel Construction Co., Gandhidham

M/s Baldaniya Construction

• Goa: Mormugao Port Authority

M/s South West Port Ltd (SWPL)

M/s Delta Ports Mormugao Terminal Pvt. Ltd.

M/s Goa IGT Pvt. Ltd. Navi Mumbai

• Kerala: Cochin Port Authority

M/s KVJ Builders & Developers Pvt. Ltd. Kochi

M/s KVJ Builders & Developers Pvt. Ltd. Kochi

M/s RKEC Projects Pvt. Ltd., Visakhapatnam

• Karnataka: New Mangalore Port Authority

M/s JSW-MCTPL

• Odisha: Paradip Port Authority

Paradip East Quay Coal Terminal Pvt. Ltd.

Jindal Paradip Port Ltd.

This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in a written reply to QUESTION NO. 5544 in the Lok Sabha.

*****

GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2118872) Visitor Counter : 86

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:57PM by PIB Delhi

Major Ports are under the administrative control of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ports other than Major Ports (Non-Major/Minor) are under the jurisdiction of respective State Government. 12 Major Port in the country accounts for the bulk of India’s cargo handling capacity and have benefitted from substantial investments in infrastructure, modernization, and automation. For a balanced and sustained growth of the Indian port sector, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways under Sagarmala Scheme is providing financial assistance to State Government / UT for development of port infrastructure.

The details of cargo handled by Major Ports and Non-Major Ports is annexed. [Annexure-I]

Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has undertaken implementation of the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) to augment the capacity of National Waterway-1 (NW-1) (from Varanasi to Haldia, 1390 Kilometer stretch). The development objective of JMVP is to enhance transport efficiency and reliability of NW-1 which passes through the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Under JMVP, the details of developments in Bihar along with employment generation is annexed. [Annexure-II]. The number of people directly employed at Major Ports and Non-Major Ports is annexed. [Annexure-III]

Ministry constituted Maritime States Development Council (MSDC) in the year 1997, an apex advisory body for the development of maritime sector and aims to ensure development of Major and Non-Major Ports, in consultation with State Governments, the future development of existing and new Minor Ports by the respective Maritime States either directly or through captive users and private participation. Till date, twenty meetings of MSDC have been held. Further, under Sagarmala, the Government aims holistic port infrastructure development along the coastline though modernisation, mechanisation and computerisation.

Sagarmala is the flagship Central Sector Scheme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to promote port-led development in the country through harnessing lndia’s 7,500 km long coastline, and 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways. Under the Sagarmala Scheme, the Ministry provides financial assistance to State/UT Governments for Port infrastructure projects, Coastal berth projects, Road & Rail projects, fishing harbours, skill development projects, Coastal community development, cruise terminal and projects such as Ro-Pax ferry services. Ministry has till date provided partial assistance to 71 projects at a total Cost of Rs. 4925 Cr. for development of Non-Major Ports under Sagarmala Scheme.

Annexure-I

Year	Cargo handled by Major Ports (Million Tonnes)	Cargo handled by Non- Major Ports (Million Tonnes)
2019-20	704.92	615.05
2020-21	672.68	577.30
2021-22	720.05	603.75
2022-23	784.30	651.01
2023-24	819.30	723.59

 

Annexure-II

JMVP Sub Projects in Bihar	Cost (In Cr.)	Approx. No. of Employment Generated
Development of Intermodal Terminal Kalughat	84.5	171
Development of 21 Community Jetties in Bihar	34.79	546
Fairway Development Kalughat Access Channel	9.63	24
Fairway Development Sultanganj – Mahenderpur (2019 – 2024)	159.3	52
Fairway Development Mahenderpur to Barh (2019 – 2024)	182.9	48
Fairway Development Sultanganj – Mahenderpur – Barh (2027 -2027)	147.43	84
Fairway Development Barh – Digha	73.14	45
Fairway Development Digha – Majhauwa	58.93	50
Development of Ship Repair Facility Patna	50	–
Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanism	11.61	5
Total	800.62	1025
JMVP staff at Project Implementation Unit Patna		9
Total		1034

 

Annexure-III

Employment of Manpower at Major Ports and Non-Major Ports

Year	Major Ports (in numbers)	Non- Major Ports (in numbers)
2020	26318	5232
2021	23330	9945
2022	20924	9598
2023	18109	14219
2024	16667	13381

 

This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in written reply to QUESTION NO. 5693 in the Lok Sabha.

*****

 

GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2118871) Visitor Counter : 73

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:56PM by PIB Delhi

The government’s strategic initiatives seek to position the nation as a leading maritime power by expanding port capacity from about 2,600 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to nearly 10,000 MTPA by 2047. Key to this strategy is developing new ports with deeper drafts, increasing draft of the existing ports, establishing port clusters and transshipment hubs, developing automated ports, increasing private sector involvement, and enhancing policy support.

Central Government has introduced several legislative reforms to enhance India’s maritime capabilities, including the Major Port Authorities Act, 2021, Marine Aids to Navigation Act, 2021, Inland Vessels Act, 2021, Relaxation of Cabotage Rules, 2018, Recycling of Ships Act, 2019, National Waterways Act, 2016, the Policy for the Award of Waterfront and Associated Land to Port-Dependent Industries (Captive Policy), 2016, and Guidelines for Dealing with Stressed Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Projects at Major Ports.

Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) has launched the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) which aims to reduce carbon emissions and minimize environmental impact by encouraging adoption of environmentally sustainable tugboat operations. Additionally, Government has launched HaritSagar Guideline for Major Ports and Harit Nauka guidelines for inland vessels which aim to promote the adoption of greener technologies.

MoPSW aligns maritime policies with international best practices through high-level events like the Global Maritime India Summit, Sagarmathan, Chintan Shivir, Post-Budget Industry Meets, and stakeholder consultations, fostering dialogue among policymakers, industry, and grassroots communities. Regular engagements with global maritime leaders and participation in international forums ensure that India’s policies meet global standards, positioning the country as a key player in the maritime sector.

This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in a written reply to QUESTION NO. 5735 in the Lok Sabha.

*****

GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2118870) Visitor Counter : 87

Source: Government of India

Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH to give boost to the export of AYUSH products and services

Ministry of Ayush has signed 24 Country-to-Country level Memorandum of Understanding and 51 Institute-to-Institute level MoUs, to promote and strengthen traditional Indian Medicine Systems globally

The Yoga Certification Board (YCB) under the Ministry of Ayush, provides certification of Yoga professionals and accreditation of Institutions

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:46PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Ayush is implementing the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH. Under this scheme the Ministry provides support to Indian AYUSH drug Manufacturers/ Ayush Service providers to give boost to the export of AYUSH products and services; facilitates the International promotion, development and recognition of AYUSH systems of medicine; foster interaction of stakeholders and market development of AYUSH at international level; promote academics and research through the establishment of AYUSH Academic Chairs in foreign countries and holding training workshop/symposiums for promoting and strengthening awareness and interest about AYUSH Systems of Medicine at international level including Yoga. The Ministry of Ayush has signed 24 Country-to-Country level Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs), and 51 Institute-to-Institute level MoUs, to promote and strengthen traditional Indian Medicine Systems globally.

At the initiative of the Prime Minister, the United Nations General Assembly took a historic decision in 2014 to declare 21st June as the International Day of Yoga. So far, approximately Rs. 161 crore has been spent for the promotion of International Yoga Day. IDY was successfully celebrated every year, spreading the message of yoga across the globe. It is also observed that more and more people from diverse backgrounds are joining the IDY celebrations each year.

The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) recommended Yoga as an integral part of Health and Physical Education. Health and Physical Education is a compulsory subject from Class I to Class X and optional from Class XI to XII. The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has already developed integrated syllabi on Health and Physical Education from Class I to Class X. The syllabus is available on NCERT website www.ncert.nic.in. Further, NCERT has brought up two modules and books for the introduction of Yoga in schools for the age group between 8-18 years.

The Yoga Certification Board (YCB) under the Ministry of Ayush, provides certification of Yoga professionals and accreditation of Institutions, prescribing syllabus for various levels of Yoga trainers and any such activities that may be considered necessary for the promotion of Yoga. The aim of YCB is to bring quality and standards in practice of Yoga and to promote Classical Yoga as a career skill.

This information was given by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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(Release ID: 2118856) Visitor Counter : 67

Source: Government of India

AYUSH

AYUSH Chair in foreign universities to promote and strengthen traditional Indian medicine systems globally

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:45PM by PIB Delhi

(Release ID: 2118854)

Source: Government of India

India set to launch a pioneering inter-ministerial scientific study to address zoonotic spillover risks at the human-wildlife-environment interface

The comprehensive research project aims to develop a real-time surveillance model to detect and diagnose zoonotic diseases in bird sanctuary workers and nearby residents

The National One Health Mission exemplifies the Government’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge science in real-world settings to anticipate and mitigate public health risks. By embracing the One Health approach, we are shifting from reactive responses to proactive preparedness: DG, ICMR

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:44PM by PIB Delhi

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, India is set to begin an ambitious, inter-ministerial scientific study aimed at detecting zoonotic diseases that could spill over from birds to humans, focusing on the critical intersection of human, bird, and forest health. The study entitled, “Building a surveillance model for detecting zoonotic spillover in increased bird-human interaction settings using the One Health approach: A study at selected bird sanctuaries and wetlands” was launched at the Indian Council of Medical Research Headquarters, here today. This unique study will be conducted in select bird sanctuaries and wetlands across Sikkim, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, leveraging the One Health approach to monitor the health of both human populations and migratory bird species, as well as the environment in which they coexist.

On the occasion, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General, ICMR and Secretary, DHR said, “Just as a strong radar system is essential for timely and precise action, robust surveillance systems are critical for early detection and containment of emerging health threats. Scientific departments have a pivotal role in developing innovative tools and advancing research to strengthen these surveillance ‘radars’ which can be implemented in a programmatic manner. The National One Health Mission (NOHM) exemplifies the Government of India’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge science in real-world settings to anticipate and mitigate public health risks. By embracing the One Health approach, we are shifting from reactive responses to proactive preparedness—an urgent global necessity.”

Dr. Ranjan Das, Director, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) said, “It is imperative to understand the mechanisms and drivers responsible for zoonotic spillovers, so that timely and coordinated actions can be taken. NCDC welcomes this vital initiative, which aligns with our national strategy to detect, prevent, and respond to zoonotic threats. Strengthening surveillance at the human-animal-environment interface will significantly enhance India’s preparedness for future outbreaks.”

Dr. Sangeeta Aggarwal, Scientist F, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India said, “This is a pioneering example of inter-ministerial cooperation on scientific surveillance, essential for resilient health systems. Such collaborations are key to ensuring that our science translates into actionable policy.”

Mr Sunil Sharma, Assistant Inspector General of Forest, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) said, “This collaborative effort reinforces our commitment to conserving biodiversity while protecting communities from emerging health risks. Wildlife and ecosystem health are deeply intertwined with human well-being, and this study rightly addresses that balance. MoEFCC will provide continuous support for this and other initiatives of One Health.”

With India being a vital hub along the Central Asian migratory bird flyway, bird sanctuaries represent an interface where the risk of zoonotic transmission is heightened. Bird sanctuary workers, including rescue teams and veterinarians, are especially vulnerable due to their close proximity to wild and migratory birds. The interconnectedness of forest ecosystems, avian populations, and local human communities makes this an urgent area for surveillance. The study aims to develop a real-time surveillance model to detect and diagnose zoonotic diseases in bird sanctuary workers and nearby residents. It will involve periodic sampling of birds and environmental specimens to screen for emerging pathogens, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools like Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) for the early identification of novel infections.

This comprehensive research project, involving collaboration between multiple ministries, including the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Agriculture will establish India’s first early warning system for zoonotic spillovers, enhancing the country’s preparedness to respond to potential public health threats. By integrating wildlife health, environmental science, and human health, the study represents a critical step toward safeguarding both public and environmental health in India.

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(Release ID: 2118855) Visitor Counter : 68

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:43PM by PIB Delhi

All the recruitment against the regular posts of Group-‘A’ to ‘C’ in the Department of Rural Development is done through the respective Cadre Controlling Authorities, through the designated recruitment agency, such as Union Public Service Commission, Staff Selection Commission. Further, all the schemes of the Department of Rural Development are implemented through the State Governments/UTs; and field functionaries for implementation of such schemes are recruited by the respective State Governments.

The Department of Rural Development has recently come across a fake website of National Rural Development and Recreation Mission (NRDRM) impersonating Department’s content and called applications from the candidates for recruitment to various post. Taking cognizance of the matter, Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs was requested to take down the fraudulent websites of NRDRM. The I4C removed all the related websites of the NRDRM from the Internet. A disclaimer was also published on the website of the Ministry about this fake organisation and General public were also cautioned through public notice against the fraudulent websites of NRDRM and its fake recruitment drive. Further, this Department has also lodged an FIR in this regard.

The Department has also, in order to ensure immediate action in such incidences, designated an officer in the Department as Nodal Officer under the Information Technology Act, 2000 (21 of 2000) and Information Technology (Guidelines for Intermediaries and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 for issuing notice to intermediaries in relation to any information which is prohibited under any law for the time being in force pertaining to this Department.

This information was given by Minister of State for Rural Development, Shri Kamlesh Paswan in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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(Release ID: 2118851) Visitor Counter : 60

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:43PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Budget 2025, contained an announcement on Grameen Credit Score, a framework to be developed by the public-sector banks to cater to the credit needs of the members of rural Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and people in rural areas.

The current credit scoring mechanism of Credit Information Companies (CICs) is, by design generic to all individual borrowers with no specific consideration for the rural sector. A Grameen credit score tailored for the credit assessment purpose of rural and SHG borrowers would facilitate better credit assessment of rural borrowers, thereby improving their access to formal credit. The Government is working out the modalities and the contours of the Grameen Credit Score framework in consultation with the concerned stakeholders.

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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(Release ID: 2118852) Visitor Counter : 56