MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

Constitutional Offices Are Not Ornamental; Every Citizen Is Supreme In A Democracy, Stresses Vice-President

There Is No Visualisation in the Constitution of Any Authority above Parliament, Asserts VP

Is Our Discourse Controlled by Moneybags, Muscle Power, And Foreign Interests? You Must Discern, Urges Vice-President

The Constitution Is For the People; Elected Representatives Are Its Repository, Affirms VP

Soul of Democracy Resides In Each Citizen, Says Vice-President

If You Hesitate To Speak The Right Thing At The Right Time, To The Right Group  You’ll Not Only Weaken Yourself, But Also Deeply Wound Positive Forces, says VP

Vice-President presides over ‘Kartavyam’, an event commemorating 75 years of the Indian Constitution at the University of Delhi

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 2:43PM by PIB Delhi

The Hon’ble Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, today said, “For any democracy, every citizen has a pivotal role. I find it inconceivably intriguing that some have recently reflected that constitutional offices can be ceremonial or ornamental. Nothing can be far distanced from a wrong understanding of the role of everyone in this country, constitutional functionary or a citizen. According to me, a citizen is supreme because a nation and democracy are built by citizens. Every one of them has a role. The soul of democracy resides and pulsates in every citizen. Democracy will blossom. Its values will get heightened. When citizen is alert, citizen contributes and what a citizen contributes, there is no substitution of that.”

Addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest over ‘Kartavyam’, an event commemorating 75 years of the Indian Constitution at the University of Delhi today, the Vice-President and ex-officio Chancellor of the University of Delhi, stated, “There is no visualisation in the constitution of any authority above parliament. Parliament is supreme and that being the situation. Let me tell you, it is as supreme as every individual in the country. Part of ‘We the People’ is an atom in democracy and that atom has atomic power. That atomic power is reflected during elections and that is why we are a democratic nation.”

He also added that, “The Constitution is encapsulated—its essence, it’s worth, its nectar—in the Preamble of the Constitution. And what does it say? ‘We, the People of India’, the supreme power is with them. No one is above the people of India. And we, the People of India, under the Constitution, have chosen to reflect their aspirations, their desires, and their will through their public representatives. And they hold the representatives accountable—severely accountable, on occasions—through elections. A Prime Minister who imposed ‘Emergency’ was held accountable in 1977. And therefore, let there be no doubt about it: the Constitution is for the people, and its repository of safeguarding is that of the elected representatives. They are the ultimate masters as to what the Constitution’s content will be.”

Reflecting on the duty of citizens in democracy, the Vice-President said, “Democracy is not only for the government to govern. It is participatory democracy, just not laws, but also culture and ethos. Citizenship demands action, not merely status….Democracy is shaped not by governments, democracy is shaped by individuals. Because individuals bear the responsibility to uphold our symbols, preserve our heritage, defend sovereignty, foster brotherhood….. Government has a role that it [individual] does not become a handicap. Government has a role that it must have affirmative policies but government is like giving me a good stadium, a good football ground. Goals have to be scored by individuals.”

Underlining the significance of quality of discourse in any healthy democracy, the Vice-President said, “If you want to know the health of democracy, like the health of an individual, if you want to analyse how healthy is our democracy, then you will have to find out discourse quality, the kind of discourse we have. Is our discourse moderated? Is our discourse manipulated? Is our discourse controlled by moneybags, by muscle power, by foreign interests, by people working against the interests of this nation? You will have to discern.”

Underlining the significance of freedom of expression, he stated, “We have to understand—democracy thrives through expression and dialogue. Abhivyakti aur samvaad—these are the core mantras of democracy. These are the basic mantras. If your right of expression is throttled or regulated, as was done during the Emergency, democracy nosedives. But if you have the right of expression, and that expression reflects arrogance and ego—where you believe your expression is ultimate, where you refuse to entertain any different point of view, refuse to even look at the other side—that too is not true expression as per our civilization. Because every expression demands respect for dialogue, and respect for the other point of view. You must always be prepared to be challenged. And to challenge is not a physical act—it is a challenge of ideas, a difference in thought: “I disagree with you.” That does not mean “I am disagreeable.” There must always be space for such exchange. Therefore, expression and dialogue are complementary—they together define democracy. If we delve into our civilizational heritage, this was referred to in Vedic times as ‘Anantavad’—the idea of infinite perspectives. There was a tradition of vaad-vivaad—debate and discourse—And this tradition was free of ego. Vaad-vivaad dissolves ego and arrogance. Because if I believe that only I am right and no one else can be right—that arrogance tarnishes not only the individual but also institutions. That is why, for a healthy democracy, expression and dialogue are essential.”

“If you hesitate to speak the right thing, at the right time, to the right group and the right person, you will not only weaken yourself but also deeply hurt those positive forces. Therefore, expression and dialogue are of utmost importance. Nations are not built by industrialists, nations are built by individuals. The power of the individual, as I said an atom. The power is atomic, you have that power. You only have to realise it”, he further added.

Emphasising the role of youth in nation-building, Shri Dhankhar added, “The quality of discourse defines our democracy and in this, I have no doubt, our youth must elevate beyond partisanship to thoughtful deliberation. Our youth cannot afford this critical juncture when Bharat is rising, the rise is unstoppable. We are destined to be a global power. We will be a developed nation. You cannot be tied down to partisan interests; you have to believe only in national interests.”

Shri Yogesh Singh, Vice-Chancellor, University of Delhi, Prof. Balaram Pani, Dean Colleges, University of Delhi, Shri Prakash Singh, Director, South Delhi Campus, University of Delhi and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

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JK/RC/SM

(Release ID: 2123424) Visitor Counter : 17

Source: Government of India

NISE’s New PV Lab to Set Global Benchmarks in Solar Testing Capabilities: Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi

India on Track to Meet 500 GW Non-Fossil Fuel Target by 2030, Including 292 GW Solar: Union Minister Joshi

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Inaugurates Solar PV Testing Facility at NISE, Gwal Pahari

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

Marking a major advancement in India’s renewable energy capabilities, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Shri Pralhad Joshi, inaugurated the PV Module Testing and Calibration Lab at the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), Gwal Pahari, Bandhwari, Haryana. Speaking at the occasion, the Minister stated that the new lab will set global benchmarks in solar R&D, testing, training, and policy support while marking a bold step towards self-reliance, innovation, and global excellence.

Shri Joshi also said that NISE is now equipped to offer comprehensive testing, calibration, and certification services, particularly for photovoltaic modules and technologies where no established standards currently exist. He termed the lab a pioneering facility for India and further highlighted that as Indian companies scale up the production of large modules, this lab will ensure that products meet the highest quality standards. Shri Joshi noted that the lab also aligns with BIS standards and will provide a major boost to the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and support India’s aspiration to become a global manufacturing hub.

The Minister also underlined the importance of NISE as a training ground for government officials, industry professionals, and international delegates. He appreciated NISE’s efforts in training over 55,000 Suryamitra technicians and for installing more than 300 solar air dryer-cum-space heating systems in Leh, which are being used by farmers to dry apricots. He said such initiatives strengthen technical capacity and foster collaboration among government, industry, and academia. Shri Joshi also stated that with the new facility, NISE will significantly improve its efficiency, quality, and research in accordance with global benchmarks.

Tremendous Growth in RE Sector

Highlighting the exponential growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Minister said that India’s installed solar capacity increased from 2.82 GW in 2014 to crossed 106 GW now, marking a growth of over 3700%. In terms of manufacturing, solar module production has increased from 2 GW in 2014 to 80 GW today, with a target of reaching 150 GW by 2030. Alongside solar progress, the Minister also underscored the achievement of 50 GW in wind energy capacity.

Emphasising the government’s ambitious targets, Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi said that India is firmly on track to achieve the 500 GW non-fossil fuel energy target by 2030, including 292 GW of solar energy, as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

The Minister said that NISE should reflect the transformation India’s renewable energy sector has seen in the last 11 years under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He also urged the institute to step up efforts in global research impact and patent generation.

Emerging Technologies and Scalable Innovations

Union Minister Joshi highlighted the need for deep research, innovation, and global collaboration. He advised NISE to build partnerships, develop talent, and push boundaries so that its work resonates across laboratories, manufacturing units, and solar farms worldwide.

He also acknowledged that NISE is already working on advanced technologies like Perovskite Solar Cells and Bifacial Panels. Going forward, he said, NISE should undertake initiatives for mass adoption of innovations such as AI for Solar Power Forecasting, Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), and Solar-Driven EV Charging Stations. He added that enabling sustainable EV charging through solar is a part of Prime Minister Modi’s vision and should be explored by NISE at scale.

Strengthening Global Solar Cooperation

The Minister also chaired a meeting to review the progress of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), along with MNRE Secretary Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, ISA Director General Shri Ashish Khanna and other senior officials. He emphasized the need for collaborative global efforts in solar energy adoption.

Commemorating Earth Day with Green Commitments

Shri Joshi also planted a tree as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ plantation drive at NISE, calling it a heartfelt initiative by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He stated that each sapling is a tribute to our mothers and a promise for a greener tomorrow. On World Earth Day, he called upon all to renew their commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable planet.

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Navin Sreejith

(Release ID: 2123490) Visitor Counter : 84

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 5:02PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Labour and Employment has advised all States and UTs to ensure effective measures to reduce the impact of extreme heat waves on workers and labourers engaged in different sectors.

In a letter addressed to Chief Secretaries /Administrators of all States/UTs, Secretary, Ministry of of Labour & Employment emphasized upon the need to issue directions to the occupiers / employers / construction companies / industries to undertake necessary steps to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme heatwave on workers/labourers.

The letter recommended for a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach listing out various steps including rescheduling of working hours, ensuring adequate drinking water facilities, ventilation and cooling of work places, rest areas, conducting regular health check-ups for workers and providing emergency ice packs and heat illness prevention materials to construction workers etc.

The letter also advised for instructions to be issued to mine and factory managements to allow slower work pace, flexible schedules, two-person crews during extreme heat, proper ventilation in underground mines. In addition to factories and mines, it stressed upon special attention to be given for construction and brick kiln workers and the need for widespread dissemination of information to workers about ways to protect themselves from extreme heat conditions through awareness camps, posters and banners at labour chowks etc.

The ministry has also issued instructions to its organisations (DGLW, CLC, DTNBWED, VVGNLI, DGFASLI, DGMS, ESIC) to conduct awareness sessions and to include specific modules in their training programmes focusing on educating workers about causes and impact of heat wave, recognising heat stress, preventive strategies and ways to mitigate adverse effects of heatwave.

Hospitals and dispensaries under DGLW and ESIC have also been asked to set up dedicated desks to take care of heat stroke cases and ensure adequate supply of ORS, ice packs and other heat illness prevention material.

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Himanshu Pathak

(Release ID: 2123477) Visitor Counter : 14

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Coal today convened a stakeholder consultation on “Exploring the Opportunities for Sustainable Coal Transportation through the Rail-Sea-Rail (RSR) Mode” in New Delhi. The consultation aimed at driving consensus and synergy among key players in the coal logistics value chain to promote multimodal transportation for a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable future.

Delivering the keynote address, Shri Vikram Dev Dutt, Secretary, Ministry of Coal, termed the RSR model as a forward-looking initiative that aligns with the nation’s broader goals of enhancing logistical efficiency, ensuring energy security, and promoting environmental sustainability. He underscored that RSR transportation, which integrates rail and coastal shipping, is not only an economical alternative but also significantly environment-friendly due to its lower carbon footprint. Shri Dutt emphasized the importance of embracing innovative, smarter, greener, and more resilient multimodal transport systems to meet the growing demand for coal in distant consumption centers, especially in Southern and Western India. He called for close coordination among Ministries, State Governments, power generation companies (Gencos), coal producers, port authorities, and logistics providers to streamline infrastructure, optimize operations, and remove procedural bottlenecks for the successful implementation of RSR movement.

The consultation witnessed active participation from a wide array of stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Ministry of Power, State Governments, Coal India Limited (CIL), captive and commercial miners, Gencos and port operators. During the discussions, stakeholders shared valuable insights and practical suggestions on enhancing intermodal connectivity, deploying mechanized coal handling infrastructure at ports, improving rake availability, and rationalizing port charges.

With a projection of transporting 120 MT of coal through the Rail-Sea-Rail (RSR) mode by FY 2030, the Ministry of Coal has set a target of 65 MT to be moved via this route by FY 2026. This goal will be supported by key initiatives such as the Telescopic Freight Circular issued by the Ministry of Railways, which provides substantial freight savings, and the planned infrastructure expansion under the Rail Sagar Corridor to enhance port connectivity. Going forward, adequate rake supply and robust rail infrastructure connecting mines to ports will be crucial responsibilities of the Ministry of Railways. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) will play a vital role by optimizing shipping and port handling charges and developing dedicated coal berths. These coordinated inter-ministerial efforts are expected to provide strong momentum to the RSR model and significantly improve the sustainability and efficiency of coal transportation across the country.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to advancing multimodal coal logistics by fostering inter-agency collaboration, promoting infrastructure investment, and providing policy support to unlock the full potential of the RSR transportation model thereby supporting India’s journey toward energy security and sustainable growth.

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Shuhaib T

(Release ID: 2123476) Visitor Counter : 48

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 4:47PM by PIB Delhi

Minister of State for Minority Affairs Shri George Kurian inaugurated a two day (22- 23 April) orientation -cum-training program for Haj 2025 deputationists .

Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar & JS (Haj) Shri CPS Bakshi welcomed all the Haj deputationists and appealed to them to make Haj 2025 successful.

A total of 620 deputationists, including administrative and medical personnel, have been selected for this pious job.

The two day session aims at capacity building and training of the selected administrative and medical personnel.

 

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SS/ STK

(Release ID: 2123473) Visitor Counter : 87

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal Visits Nepal to Strengthen India-Nepal Energy Cooperation

Inaugurates Electromechanical Works at Arun-3 Project and Witnesses MoU Signing for Cross-Border Transmission Systems

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 9:36PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, undertook a significant visit to Nepal today, marking a new chapter in India-Nepal energy cooperation. Accompanied by Nepal’s Minister of Energy, Water Resources & Irrigation, Shri Dipak Khadka, and senior officials from both nations, the Union Minister reviewed key bilateral energy initiatives aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and sustainable power development.

During his visit to the 900 MW Arun-3 Hydroelectric Project in Nepal’s Sankhuwasabha district, Shri Manohar Lal reviewed the progress of this landmark project being developed by SJVN Limited, a leading Indian public sector enterprise. The Arun-3 project stands as a symbol of robust India-Nepal partnership in the hydropower sector. On this occasion, Shri Manohar Lal inaugurated the commencement of electromechanical works at the powerhouse site, a critical milestone towards the project’s timely completion.

Later in Kathmandu, in the august presence of Shri Manohar Lal and Shri Dipak Khadka, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between POWERGRID, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) of India, and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). This MoU paves the way for the incorporation of two joint venture companies—one in India and one in Nepal—to implement high-capacity cross-border transmission infrastructure.

The proposed projects include the development of the 400 kV Inaruwa (Nepal)–New Purnea (India) and 400 kV Dododhara (Nepal)–Bareilly (India) double-circuit transmission systems. These critical transmission links will significantly boost power exchange capabilities between the two countries, fostering energy security, grid stability, and economic growth across the region.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Yatindra Dwivedi, Director (Personnel), POWERGRID, and Shri Kamal Acharya, Director, Grid Operation Department, NEA.

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SK

(Release ID: 2123637) Visitor Counter : 43

Source: Government of India

Indian Yoga Association and State Chapters Celebrate World Earth Day with Nationwide Tree Plantation drive under Harit Yoga Initiative

Ministry of Ayush’s Harit Yoga Initiative Unites Indian Yoga Association’s State Chapters for Plantation Drive on World Earth Day

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 8:22PM by PIB Delhi

In a significant step towards fostering environmental sustainability and holistic well-being, the Indian Yoga Association (IYA), in collaboration with its state chapters observed World Earth Day on April 22, 2025, through a nationwide tree plantation drive under the ‘Harit Yoga’ initiative. Harit Yoga is one of the ten signature events of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025, underscores the seamless integration of Yoga’s principles with environmental consciousness, aligning with the global call for sustainable living.

The initiative aims to amplify the message that the true essence of Yoga encompasses not only personal wellness but also the vitality of the planet. The nationwide plantation drive saw active participation from 12 IYA state chapters, including Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Nagaland, New Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Pune, Jaipur, and Uttarakhand, alongside MDNIY, New Delhi, reaffirming their collective commitment to a greener future.

The event at MDNIY, New Delhi, was graced by Shri P.N. Ranjit Kumar, OSD-IDY Coordination, Ministry of Ayush, as the Chief Guest. Shri Kumar actively participated in planting saplings and emphasized eco-conscious living as a cornerstone of holistic wellness.

Complementing the plantation efforts, a special Yoga session was organized in Jaipur to promote physical, mental, and environmental well-being, accompanied by the distribution of Ayurvedic drinks and the formation of a human chain to symbolize unity in environmental stewardship.

In Chhattisgarh, the IYA State Chapter organized a tree plantation drive at Teli Gundar School, Patan Tehsil, Durg district, where medicinal plants were planted, and tree guards were installed to ensure their long-term protection. Similar initiatives across other states highlighted the synergy between Yoga and environmental action, engaging diverse stakeholders, including nature clubs, NGOs, Yoga institutions, and government bodies.

Maa Dr. Hansaji Yogendra, President, IYA & Director, The Yoga Institute, congratulated the Ministry of Ayush for conceptualizing Harit Yoga, stating, “This initiative underscores the intrinsic connection between sustainable living and Yoga, serving as a powerful reminder that the well-being of the planet and its people are deeply intertwined.”

Swami Chidanand Saraswati, Member, Governing Council, IYA & President, Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, urged citizens to embrace Yoga’s deeper essence, noting, “Yoga is a journey of harmony between the self and nature, teaching us that we are an inseparable part of the natural world.”

Echoing this sentiment, Swami Bharat Bhushan Ji, Member, Governing Council, IYA & Founder, Mokshayatan, Saharanpur, revered the Earth as a mother, citing the Atharva Veda’s teaching that all living beings are her children, emphasizing the spiritual bond between humanity and nature.

Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, Joint Secretary, IYA & Chairman, ICYER, Puducherry, added, “Through practices like Vrikshasana, Yoga fosters a connection with Mother Earth, encouraging an environmentally-friendly attitude filled with gratitude.”

Other dignitaries further enriched the narrative. Ms. Ganga Nandini, Secretary, Uttarakhand State Chapter Committee, highlighted the 2025 theme, ‘Yoga for One Earth, One World,’ emphasizing the interconnection of all life forms. Acharya Pratishtha, President at Bharat Yoga Mokshayatan underscored trees as lasting guardians of the future, while Dr.Mridula, Former Deputy Director (Homeopathy)called for consistent individual efforts for a greener planet. Mrs. Sunila Athley, Principal of Amity International School, Vasundhara, Sector -6 shared her experience of integrating Yoga and tree plantation, uniting personal and planetary peace through mindful action.

The plantation drive serves as a powerful symbol of the synergy between Yoga and the global call for environmental stewardship. It reinforces the Ministry of Ayush’s vision to promote holistic well-being, emphasising that true health encompasses not only individual wellness but also the vitality of our planet.

Appendix

‘Harit Yoga’ campaign, one of the ten signature events of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025 was launched in Bhubaneswar by Union Minister of State for Ayush (I/C), Shri Prataprao Jadhav on the 75th day to IDY 2025. Harit Yoga integrates the principles of Yoga with environmental sustainability, advocating for mindful living in harmony with nature.

Through this campaign, MDNIY, Ministry of Ayush aims to amplify the message that the true essence of Yoga lies not only in personal wellness but also in planetary well-being. Alongside Yoga sessions, this year’s observance includes activities such as beach clean-ups, tree plantations, water body conservation, and adventure-based eco-Yoga experiences.

The objectives of the Harit Yoga initiative are to integrate Yoga with environmental consciousness through structured activities, fostering a holistic approach to well-being. It seeks to engage diverse stakeholders, including nature clubs, NGOs, Yoga institutions, and government bodies, to promote sustainable living. Additionally, the initiative encourages public participation in eco-friendly practices and educational campaigns focused on climate change and conservation, driving collective action for a greener future.

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MV/AKS

(Release ID: 2123600) Visitor Counter : 42

Source: Government of India

YOUTH MUST BECOME ACTIVE STAKEHOLDERS IN BUILDING A STRONG, SELF-RELIANT INDIA: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

INDIAN STUDENTS REPRESENT SPIRIT OF INNOVATION, DIVERSITY, AND GLOBAL LEADERSHIP: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

EDUCATION MUST EMBODY BOTH TRADITIONAL WISDOM AND MODERN INNOVATION: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

LOK SABHA SPEAKER INSPIRES YOUTH AT LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY WITH VISION OF “ONE INDIA & ONE WORLD”

LOK SABHA SPEAKER ADDRESSES AT LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY, PUNJAB

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 7:51PM by PIB Delhi

Phagwara/New Delhi, 22 April, 2025: Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today exhorted the youth to become active stakeholders in building a strong and self-reliant India. He called upon the youth to engage themselves proactively in nation building, innovation, and global leadership and to contribute meaningfully to India’s growth story by participating in democracy, research, law-making, and technological advancement.

Shri Birla was speaking at the Study Grant Awards event of Lovely Professional University (LPU), held under the theme “One India & One World”, which was attended by thousands of students including students from over 50 countries, faculty members, academic leaders, and families. He articulated the role of youth to achieve the vision of Vikshit Bharat 2047 – a vision that encompasses economic growth, social equity, global leadership, and sustainability. The Speaker’s speech struck a powerful chord with the youth, urging them to be proactive participants in shaping India’s destiny.

He mentioned that India today is being recognized globally for its vibrant youth population who are excelling in all domains—technology, governance, academia, and entrepreneurship. The Speaker encouraged the students to face challenges with resolve and to enrich India’s global standing with integrity, innovation, and a sense of service. Indian students represent the spirit of Innovation, Diversity and Global Leadership, he highlighted. With creativity, innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and moral conviction, the youth of India can steer this country toward becoming a model for the world, he added.

Stating that education must be a harmonious blend of traditional wisdom and modern innovation, Shri Birla underlined the importance of preserving cultural roots while embracing the transformative power of technology and contemporary knowledge systems. He emphasized that the timeless values enshrined in India’s ancient educational traditions must serve as the foundation upon which modern advancements in science, technology, and pedagogy are built. In a rapidly evolving global landscape, it is imperative that the education system nurtures not only skilled professionals but also socially conscious citizens, rooted in heritage and equipped to shape the future. He stressed the importance of developing a sense of purpose among the youth, grounded in national identity, global vision, and social commitment.

Commending LPU as a symbol of India’s educational progress, Shri Birla noted that the university reflects the spirit of unity in diversity. He called LPU a true microcosm of cultural richness, where students from every Indian state and over 50 countries study together in an atmosphere of friendship and mutual respect. He observed that LPU has continuously adapted to the evolving needs of the times, offering world-class facilities while upholding Indian values and culture. Events like “One India, One World” were lauded as excellent examples of India’s civilization philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family, he said, adding that the youth of India must think beyond national borders in an interconnected world we live in today. They must be global citizens with an Indian heart and that is what ‘One India & One World’ is all about,” he explained.

Shri Om Birla reiterated his optimism about India’s future and his deep faith in the younger generation. He urged that as we move toward 2047, let us pledge to build an India that is not just developed but also just, inclusive, compassionate, and wise and let us work toward a world where India leads with values, and where every Indian contributes to the global good. Shri Birla congratulated the graduating class and encouraged them to carry the values of discipline, determination, and unity into their professional journeys, and to strive for excellence while remaining deeply connected to their roots.

Shri Ashok Mittal, Member of Parliament and other dignitaries were present on this occasion.

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AM

(Release ID: 2123584) Visitor Counter : 71

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 7:51PM by PIB Delhi

As per the studies, 70-80% mobile data consumption takes places inside buildings or indoor areas.  High frequency bands are used to deliver high speed internet in 4G and 5G technologies. However, high frequences bands get attenuated at higher rate by the building fabric containing steel and concrete walls compared to 2G bands.  With the exponential rise in quantum and speed of data consumption due to progressive digitization of economy, governance and the society in general, good digital connectivity has become very important in the present age. Hence, the good in-building digital connectivity has become an essential requirement. To achieve seamless communication inside buildings, the Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) must be planned and developed alongside other essential building services such as water, electricity and safety systems.

The workshop was chaired by Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti, Chairman TRAI. The workshop received overwhelming response from States and UTs and was attended by over 125 participants, including senior officers from Housing & Urban development and IT department of States/Union Territories.  

Chairman, TRAI in his opening remarks, emphasised that States and UTs can play a pivotal role to drive collaboration among property developers and telecom service providers for facilitating development of DCI in the projects through respective building byelaws. TRAI regulations envisage star ratings of properties for quality of digital connectivity similar to Green Building Ratings of projects or Energy Efficiency Ratings of appliances. The digital connectivity ratings will be live process and cover review of digital connectivity rating during lifecycle of the project. TRAI has already started the process of empanelment or registration of Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs).

The workshop provided details of initiatives taken by TRAI for improving in-building digital connectivity in the country and overview of the “Regulation on Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity, 2024” issued by TRAI on 25^th October 2024. The presentation also covered the provisions of National Building Code (NBC) and Model Building By-Laws (MBBL) related to Digital Communication infrastructure. The session covered the rating process in detail by which properties are going to be assessed and rated. The workshop concluded with a Q&A session, allowing participants to engage directly with the experts to gain more insight about inbuilding digital connectivity.

The rating of buildings for digital connectivity will provide uniform standard reference for creating DCI in the country. With adoption of rating framework in the bylaws, the end user of residential and commercial properties will be able to make informed choices at the time of buying or leasing the properties. Further, the quality of experience in public buildings will also improve with the help of rating framework. Under the regulation, the consumer may also seek review of ratings in case of degradation of digital connectivity in the property. Like wise property mangers can seek review of ratings if they carry out significant improvements.

The workshop concluded with the closing remarks by Dr. M. P. Tangirala, Member, TRAI.

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Samrat

(Release ID: 2123585) Visitor Counter : 79

Source: Government of India

Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy Shri Shripad Yesso Naik chairs the 4th meeting of Group of Ministers constituted for addressing issues related to viability of distribution utilities in the country

Regulatory reforms, cost reflective tariff

Financial restructuring of DISCOMs to improve efficiency and quality  of operation

Reducing cost of Generation is essential to improving viability of Utilities

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 7:49PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, chaired the 4^th meeting of Group of Ministers constituted for addressing issues related to viability of electricity distribution utilities in Vijayawada today.

Shri A. K Sharma, Energy Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Gottipati Ravi Kumar, Energy Minister, Andhra Pradesh, Shri Hiralal Nagar, Minster of State for Energy, Rajasthan and Smt. Meghana Sakore Bordikar, Minister of State for Energy, Maharashtra as members of the Group attended the meeting. The meeting was also attended by senior representatives from All India DISCOM Association (AIDA), senior officials from Central Government, State Governments, State Power Utilities of Member States and Power Finance Corporation (PFC) Ltd.

Union Minister of State in his opening address welcomed Energy Ministers from the member States and thanked Energy Minister, Andhra Pradesh, for hosting the meeting. He highlighted about the deliberations held during the first three meetings of GoM regarding challenges being faced by the distribution utilities and stressed upon the need for regulatory reforms. He also mentioned about the key actionable items identified by GoM till the last held meeting including the steps that needs to be taken by the Central and the State Governments for improving efficiency of utilities.

Hon’ble Minister highlighted about the collective responsibilities of State Governments and Regulatory Commissions for making distribution sector sustainable.

In his address, Energy Minister, Andhra Pradesh thanked the Union Minister of State for having the 4th meeting of the Group of Ministers in Vijayawada.

All India DISCOMs Association (AIDA), as a special invitee, also made a presentation on the subject. It was mentioned that SERCs need to comply with Tariff Policy and Rules while finalising the Tariff petitions of the Utilities. It was also mentioned that there is a need for having a comprehensive review of the tariff policy which is in sync with the present requirements and challenges of the Utilities and its consumers.

Joint Secretary (Distribution), Ministry of Power, GoI made a presentation highlighting key areas of intervention. He presented the key parameters reflecting the present financial status of the utilities of the member States, and major regulatory disallowances in their tariff/true-up orders. It was also presented that the annual revenue increase of most of the utilities is not commensurate with the increase in debt being taken by them. The presentation also highlighted the action plan proposed to reduce the outstanding debts and losses of the distribution utilities.

The key points of discussions included role that the State Governments may play for ensuring cost reflective tariff, in ensuring timely payment of subsidies and Government department dues, expediting works ongoing under Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme including the smart metering works, increasing the use of Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics to improve power purchase optimisation and demand forecasting, etc. The States also requested support of GoI in reforming its distribution sector through measures like distribution franchisee/privatization/ introduction of parallel licensee, etc.

It was emphasised by the Member States that the Group of Ministers may be continued beyond submission of the final report, and on a rotation basis States may be invited to brainstorm on the issues affecting the power sector as a whole. It was proposed to hold a dedicated session on measure for reducing Power Purchase costs by inviting all the stakeholders.

The Group of Ministers reiterated its commitment and expressed resolve to take necessary measures for improving the financial viability of distribution utilities.

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