The government has employed Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods and IoT-enabled systems to improve crop productivity, sustainability and farmer livelihoods and to address various challenges in the agricultural sector to aid farmers etc. Some initiatives including Kisan e-Mitra are given below:
‘Kisan e-Mitra’, is a voice-based AI-powered chatbot, developed to assist farmers with responses to their queries on PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. This solution supports 11 regional languages and is evolving to assist with other government programs. At present, it handles over 20,000 farmer queries daily and so far, more than 92 lakh queries have been answered.
The National Pest Surveillance System, for tackling the loss of produce due to climate change, utilizes AI and Machine Learning to detect pest infestation in crop issues, enabling timely intervention for healthier crops. This tool, currently used by over 10,000 extension workers, allows farmers to capture images of pests to help them mitigate pest attacks and reduce crop losses. At present, it currently supports 61 crops and over 400 pests.
AI-based analytics using field photographs for satellite-based crop mapping being used in Crop-weather matching monitoring of crops sown.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Paris witnessed a moment of cultural pride as Stream-Story, a film produced by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), under the Ministry of Culture was awarded the Mention Spéciale – Prix du Patrimoine Culturel Immatériel 2025 (Special Mention – Intangible Cultural Heritage Award 2025) at Cinéma du Réel, one of the world’s most prestigious documentary film festivals.
Sponsored by the French Ministry of Culture’s Direction Générale des Patrimoines et de l’Architecture, this award recognizes cinematic works that preserve and celebrate the intangible cultural heritage of humanity—oral traditions, rituals, performing arts, and indigenous knowledge systems.
A Film That Brings Forgotten Traditions to Life
At its heart, Stream-Story is more than just a film—it is a poetic tribute to kuhl, the centuries-old water channels of Himachal Pradesh. These intricate irrigation systems, sustained by generations of community wisdom, are not just engineering marvels but also vessels of storytelling, folklore, and ecological philosophy.
Through a stunning visual and auditory experience, Stream-Story transforms water into a narrative force, flowing through time and memory, revealing the deep connection between people, nature, and tradition.
A Milestone for IGNCA and India’s Cultural Heritage
IGNCA representative Prof. Achal Pandya (Head, Conservation Division, IGNCA) while receiving the award said, “This international recognition is a proud achievement for IGNCA, an institution dedicated to preserving India’s vast artistic and cultural legacy. Stream-Story not only elevates a lesser-known yet vital part of India’s heritage but also reaffirms the power of cinema as a living archive—one that does not merely document but immerses, interprets, and evokes.”
Accompanying the film, a meticulously researched companion book, also published by IGNCA, expands on the themes of Stream-Story, weaving together history, myth, field studies, and visual storytelling. Together, the film and book form a unique cultural diptych—a once-in-a-lifetime artistic endeavor that brings India’s intangible heritage to the global stage.
This award at Cinéma du Réel marks a landmark moment for Indian cultural cinema, spotlighting the importance of preserving living traditions before they fade into obscurity. Stream-Story stands as a testament to the resilience of heritage, the beauty of oral traditions, and the timeless wisdom embedded in our natural world.
The Government has approved the Digital Agriculture Mission in September 2024 with a total outlay of Rs. 2817 Crores. The Mission envisages the creation of a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Agriculture, such as AgriStack, Krishi Decision Support System and a comprehensive Soil Fertility & Profile Map to enable a robust digital agriculture ecosystem in the country. This, in turn, would drive innovative farmer-centric digital solutions and make reliable crop-related information available to all farmers on time. The AgriStack DPI consists of three foundational registries or databases associated with the agriculture sector, i.e., Geo-Referenced Village Maps, Crop Sown Registry and the Farmers Registry, all created and maintained by the State Governments/ Union Territories.
The Government has targeted to generate Farmer IDs of 11 crore Farmers in the country by 2026-27 and to conduct Digital Crop Survey in all the States/UTs from Kharif 2025. As of 28.03.2025, a total of 4,85,57,246 Farmer IDs have been generated. Further, Digital Crop Survey has been conducted in 436 Districts in Kharif 2024 and 461 Districts covering more than 23.90 crore plots have been surveyed in Rabi 2024-25.
Further, the Government is providing technical and financial support to all the States/ UTs for the timely implementation of the Mission:
Software for Farmer ID and Digital Crop Survey.
Providing training to the State officials.
Support for hiring human resources for creating a Project Monitoring Unit.
Providing Cloud Infrastructure for implementing the project.
The Department of Expenditure (DoE), Ministry of Finance, has announced a Scheme for Special Central Assistance (SCA) to States for Capital Investment 2024-25 with a total allocation of Rupees 5000 Crores. As of 28.03.2025, an amount of ₹ 1076 Crore has been released to six States of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
Further, the Government has advised the States to adopt a Camp-mode approach, under which financial assistance of Rs. 15,000 per camp has been provisioned to the States to encourage States to organize field-level camps and mobilise local administration.
To accelerate the creation and verification of Farmers’ Registry, Rs. 10/- per Farmer ID has been provisioned from the administrative fund of the PM KISAN Scheme. This amount will be utilized to provide honorarium to the field functionaries involved in the creation of the Farmers’ Registry.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
CBIC to introduce electronic processing of import/ export through personal carriage by air passengers from 1st May 2025 at specified airports Nine airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur to allow personal carriage export of gems and jewellery
Seven airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur to allow personal carriage import of gems and jewellery
Four airports at Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai to allow personal carriage samples/prototypes of machinery
Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, has introduced electronic processing of Bill of Entry/ Shipping Bill pertaining to gems and jewellery/samples/prototypes through personal carriage by air passengers from 01.05.2025 onwards at specified airports.
The export/import through personal carriage shall be subject to the provisions of Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 and Handbook of Procedures (HBP), 2023.
The facility of personal carriage will be available, for export of gems and jewellery in the nine airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur) specified in para 4.87 of HBP and for import of gems and jewellery in the seven airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur) specified in para 4.88 of HBP. In case of samples/prototypes of machinery, the facility is initially being made available in Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai airports.
The harmonised procedure and electronic processing will promote ease of doing business for such mode of transaction especially for gems and jewellery and high-end manufacturing.
Ministry of Steel and all PSUs/institutions under its administrative control viz. SAIL, NMDC, RINL, KIOCL, MOIL, MECON, MSTC, NISST, JPC & BPNSI observed the ‘Swachhata Pakhwada’ from 16th-31th March, 2025. This was as per the Calendar of Swachhata Pakhwada for the year 2025 released by the Department of Drinking water and Sanitation. Officers/officials of the Ministry and employees in various plants/Units of PSUs spread across the country participated in various activities organized during the pakhwada.
The Pakhwada commenced by administering of ‘Swachhata Pledge’ ceremony at the Ministry of Steel. Cloth Banners and Standees were displayed at prominent places in the office premises of the Ministry for spreading awareness. Cleaning activities were undertaken in the premises of the Ministry thoroughly. ‘Shramdan’ by Officers/Officials of Ministry was done which included recording and weeding out of old files & records, removal of old posters/banners etc. Cleanliness inspection of rooms of Ministry was also conducted by a team of officers to observe cleanliness in Ministry of Steel. The PSUs organized the ‘Steel Safety Day’ on 28th March, 2025. Swachhata Pakhwada concluded in Ministry and all PSUs/institutions under the Ministry on 31th March, 2025 with determination of continuing the cleaning activities throughout the year.
During the Swachhata Pakhwada, PSUs/institutions under the Ministry have taken up various activities such as administration of swachhata pledge, cleaning up of townships, factories, nearby villages/slums, cleaning up of schools run of adopted by them under Swachh Vidyalaya, awareness program on curbing use of single use plastic etc. PSUs under administrative control of Ministry of Steel are also drawing up elaborated plans for the FY 2025-26 under Swachhata Action Plan which includes removal/reduction of slag, removal/reduction of iron ore fines and recycling of gaseous waste in power generation.
Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Stresses Need for Techno-Legal Framework to Address Emerging New-Age Crimes and to Ensure Prompt Investigation and Bringing Criminals to Justice for Effective Prosecution Technical knowhow of India’s academia, scientists and researchers should be harnessed to bring about technological solutions in investigations
Union Minister Urges CBI to Establish State-of-the-Art Cyber Forensic Labs in Collaboration with Academia
Amid Deepfake & AI challenges, Ashwini Vaishnaw says the Future of Effective Criminal Justice lies in combining legal frameworks with Technological Capability and Institutional innovation
Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw delivers 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture on CBI’s 62nd Foundation Day, presents police medals to 26 officers
Union Minister highlights CBI’s role in justice and outlines four key pillars of India’s growth strategy
Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi
Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Hon’ble Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, addressed the 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture on CBI’s 62nd Foundation Day held today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Speaking on the theme ‘VIKSIT BHARAT @ 2047 – A Roadmap for CBI’, the Minister outlined a strategic vision for the agency’s role in India’s progress over the next two decades. During the event, President’s Police Medals (PPM) for Distinguished Service and Police Medals (PM) for Meritorious Service to CBI officers were presented acknowledging their dedication and exceptional contributions.
In his address, Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw elaborated the important role played by CBI over the years in bringing out truth through in depth & professional investigation and in bringing criminals to justice through effective prosecution. He further said “Our academia, our scientists, our researchers today possess remarkable strength and capabilities. This strength must be harnessed by investigating agencies, law officers, and government departments to co-develop technological solutions. Law alone will not be sufficient, we need techno-legal approach to address the challenges posed by new-age crimes and investigation,” the Minister emphasized.
Union Minister urged the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take the lead in building state-of-the-art cyber forensic laboratories by actively partnering with academic and research institutions. He further highlighted the need for institutional frameworks that facilitate such collaborations and suggested that Ministries and Departments such as MeitY, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and Department of Science and Technology (DST) work closely with investigative agencies to co-create technologies required for modern-day law enforcement.
The Minister’s remarks come in the backdrop of rapid technological evolution, including challenges posed by artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and cyber-enabled crimes. He stressed that the future of effective criminal justice lies in combining legal frameworks with technological capability and institutional innovation.
Reflecting on India’s transformative journey over the past decade, the Minister noted the country’s rapid economic growth, strong governance, and technological leadership. He further highlighted four pillars of growth strategy in the last decade, first, public investment in physical, social and digital infrastructure, second a large number of inclusive growth programs, third a strong focus on manufacturing and innovation and fourth, simplification of legal and compliance structures.
First Pillar: Public Investment In Physical, Social and Digital infrastructure
The first pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on significant investments in social, physical and digital infrastructure, including the construction of national highways, new airports, and the electrification of railways. The Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has democratized technology with over 118 crore telecom subscribers, 70 crore smartphone users, and a robust AI ecosystem to support innovation. In social infrastructure, India has also expanded educational opportunities by opening 490 new universities and increasing the capacity of IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS.
Second Pillar: Inclusive Growth
The second pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on inclusive growth, ensuring that economic progress translates into real improvements in people’s lives. Over the past decade, 54 crore new bank accounts have been opened, 4 crore houses built, and 12 crore tap water connections provided. In addition, 35 crore citizens are part of the Ayushman Bharat program, with more than 25 crore citizens coming out of poverty and improved access to essential services for millions.
Third Pillar: Strong Focus on Manufacturing and Innovation
The third pillar of India’s growth strategy emphasizes manufacturing and innovation, shifting the country from a services-based economy to a manufacturing hub. Initiatives like Make in India and Startup India have spurred growth, with electronics becoming the third-largest export and India becoming the second-largest mobile manufacturer globally. Key successes include developments in the semiconductor, defense, telecom sector, and the launch of high-speed Vande Bharat trains.
Fourth Pillar: Simplification of legal and compliance structures
The fourth pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on simplification by eliminating outdated colonial-era laws. Over 1,500 archaic laws have been removed, and new frameworks like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have replaced old legal structures such as the IPC and CrPC. This simplification process is paving the way for a more modern and efficient legal system.
CBI Director, Shri Praveen Sood welcomed the guests on the occasion. Attorney General of India, Central Vigilance Commissioner, Director IB, Director ED, Heads of NIA & Central Paramilitary Forces graced the occasion. Police Liaison Officers (PLOs) of other countries, also attended the event.
Following officers & officials of CBI were presented the medals by the Honb’le Minister for Distinguished and Meritorious Service:
(i) President’s Police Medals (PPM) for Distinguished Service were presented to :
1. Shri K. Pradeep Kumar, SP, CBI, ACB, Jammu;
2. Shri Naresh Kumar Sharma, ASP, CBI, Special Unit, New Delhi;
3. Shri Mukesh Kumar, ASP, CBI, AC-II, New Delhi;
4. Shri Ramji Lal Jat, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jaipur (Now Retired) and
5. Shri Raj Kumar, Head Constable, CBI, Head Office, New Delhi
(ii) Police Medals (PM) for Meritorious Service were presented to:
1. Shri Raghavendra Vatsa, IPS (GJ:05), then DIG-HoB, CBI, ACB, New Delhi (presently in the cadre as IGP, Gujarat Police);
2. Ms. Sharada Pandurang Raut, IPS (MH:05) then DIG- HoB, CBI, EOB, Mumbai (presently in the cadre as Jt. Commissioner, S.I.D., Maharashtra Mumbai);
3. Shri Prem Kumar Gautam, IPS (UP:05), then DIG – HoB, CBI, SU, New Delhi (presently in the cadre as IGP, Prayagraj Range, Uttar Pradesh);
4. Shri Manoj Chaladan, DLA, CBI, ACB, Mumbai;
5. Shri Srinivas Pillari, Principal System Analyst, CBI, ACB, Kolkata (Now posted at Systems Division, Delhi Branch);
6. Shri K. Madhusudhanan, DSP, CBI, ACB, Visakhapatnam;
CBI pays its respect and homage to its founder Director late Shri Dharamnath Prasad Kohli and has been organizing the D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture since the year 2000.
Shri Dharamnath Prasad Kohli was born in 1907 in Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. After joining Police Service in 1931, he served in UP, erstwhile Madhya Bharat and the Government of India. He had distinguished career in the Indian Police. He headed Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) from July 1955 to March 1963. On creation of Central Bureau of Investigation, on 1st April, 1963, Shri D.P. Kohli became its founder Director and continued as its Director from 1963 till his retirement on May 31, 1968.
The lecture series has been honoured to feature highly distinguished speakers and luminaries from various fields who share their insights and experience on pertinent topics. The lecture series is intended to contribute to fostering dialogue, sharing knowledge, and advancing the understanding of challenges and solutions in the realm of law enforcement, criminal justice system and criminal investigation. The D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture serves as an apt tribute to Shri D.P. Kohli’s vision and legacy in establishing the CBI as a premier investigating and prosecuting agency. It also underscores the agency’s commitment to upholding integrity, accountability, and excellence in its operations as enshrined in CBI’s motto Industry, Impartiality and Integrity.
The Central Bureau of Investigation was established by a Government of India resolution dated 1st April, 1963 to investigate not only cases of bribery and corruption, but also violation of central fiscal laws, serious crimes besides collecting supporting intelligence. Over the last more than six decades, the Central Bureau of Investigation has emerged as a premier investigating and prosecuting agency of the country covering entire gamut of crimes including emerging new age crimes like cyber enabled financial crimes, online CSAM (Child Sexual Abuse Material), etc. CBI as the National Central Bureau for INTERPOL in India also coordinates international cooperation in law enforcement.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Customs today (April 1) detected a drug trafficking case at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 600 grams of suspected methamphetamine with an estimated market value of about $300,000.
Customs officers intercepted a 50-year-old female passenger who planned to depart from Hong Kong to Koror, Palau. Upon a search, Customs officers found the batch of suspected methamphetamine on her body. The woman was subsequently arrested.
An investigation is ongoing.
Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/en).
Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) Sets New Benchmarks in FY 2024-25 A Year of Historic Achievements and Transformation
Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:16PM by PIB Delhi
Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a key subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), has delivered an extraordinary performance in FY 2024-25, achieving unprecedented milestones in coal production, financial success, sustainability, and social responsibility. With record-breaking operational feats, cutting-edge digital innovations, and a bold commitment to clean energy and community welfare, BCCL reaffirms its key position in India’s coal sector.
Unmatched Production and Operational Excellence
BCCL has rewritten its history with highest-ever coal production in the 4th quarter (11.44 million tonnes) and March 2025 (4.33 million tonnes) since inception. The company also recorded its highest-ever overburden removal (181.30 million cubic meters) and second-highest annual coal production (40.50 million tonnes), despite facing the heaviest rainfall in 50 years (1747 mm). Offtake reached a second-highest-ever 38.25 million tonnes, bolstered by a 6% growth in rail dispatch, even with high coal stocks at powerhouses. Underground coal production surged by an impressive 49% over last year, while 16 new hired patches were identified this year with a capacity of 13.30 million tonnes annually, out of which 7.0 million tonnes were awarded. For the first time, coal production under the Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) mode commenced at NTST-Kujama, Lodna Area, in April 2024. Additionally, grade confirmation through third-party sampling stood at 94%, exceeding the Ministry of Coal’s 90% guideline.
Financial Achievements
BCCL paid its maiden dividend of ₹ 44.43 crore to CIL on August 5, 2024. This milestone follows BCCL’s achievement of clearing its accumulated losses. The company achieved its highest-ever scrap sale of ₹ 18.01 crore. BCCL secured an income tax refund of ₹ 104 crores (₹ 63.87 crore principal, and ₹ 40.12 crore interest), and the company also paid the highest income tax of ₹406.00 crores in the last 10 years. BCCL also exceeded its CAPEX target for the fourth consecutive year, achieving ₹ 1,100 crore against ₹ 1,000 crore. At the same time, GeM procurement soared to ₹ 4,155.83 crore (136% of the ₹ 3,060 crore target), including ₹ 68.06 crore for heavy machinery and ₹ 120.47 crore for IT initiatives.
Washery Innovation and Monetization
BCCL’s washeries set new records. Raw coal feed reached 56 lakh tonnes (highest in 25 years, up 15%), and washed coal supply to the steel sector peaked at 17.02 lakh tonnes (highest in 20 years, up 16%). By-product disposal excelled with washery rejects at 8.67 lakh tonnes (up 77%) and washed power coal at 28.95 lakh tonnes (up 5%). Pioneering India’s first ever coal washery monetization, BCCL leased old & idle Dugdha Washery (2.0 MTPA) for ₹ 762 crore over 25 years. Also, RFP issued for monetization of Sudamdih Washery (1.6 MTPA) on March 28, 2025.
Digital Transformation and Operational Efficiency
One of the leading CIL subsidiaries, BCCL, implemented the SAP BG module, saving ₹ 86 lakh in upkeep allowances. Its in-house team developed ground-breaking ERP solutions, including the BPCL DDUs interface, alerts for sensitive posts and long absences, quarter management, integrated HEMM maintenance reports, and equipment transfer tracking. The Integrated Command Control Centre (ICCC) enhances e-security and surveillance, while automated road weighbridges with RFID-based boom barriers streamline operations. Digital pension claims processing achieved 99% PF claim settlements, boosting transparency.
Sustainability and Net Zero Commitment
BCCL advanced its Net Zero goals with 4.088 MWp of rooftop solar power commissioned, work orders for 25 MW at Bhojudih and 20 MW at Dugdha washeries, and a tender for 2 MW more in Central Township. Energy efficiency measures include 100% LED lighting, energy-efficient ACs, 762 super fans, 45 efficient motors, and autotimer switches across its areas. The company strategically moved towards electric vehicles in its official transportation fleet, supported by an EV charging station at Koyla Bhawan, resulting in fuel saving of approximately 2.50 lacs per month as the running cost is less than ₹ 1/Km. In Coal Bed Methane (CBM), Jharia Block-I is under exploration with 5 core holes drilled, while Jharia Block-II’s feasibility report was approved.
Environmental and Infrastructure Initiatives
BCCL planted 22 hectares over the degraded land and established two new eco-parks at Akashkinari (4.5 Ha) and Moonidih (0.9 Ha), adding 4 mechanical sweepers and 16 fog cannons to its fleet during the year. Infrastructure highlights include 21.69 MGD water supply via filter plants, and 8 km of PQC roads completed with 14 km under construction. Two bridges over Katri and Khudia rivers, upgrades to Nehru Complex, Jubilee Hall, and community halls, and hospital enhancements (including a new OPD at Central Hospital Dhanbad) underscore BCCL’s civil achievements.
Land and Mine Re-Operationalization
BCCL paid ₹ 24.80 crore for government land transfers, acquired 14.23 acres of tenancy land for ₹ 25.86 crore, and provided employment to 6 individuals. It shifted 170 encroachers, vacated 2.245 acres, and uploaded 16,381.09 Ha of land data to the PM GatiShakti portal. For discontinued mines, BCCL signed an agreement for Amalabad Colliery to reopen with 6.2 MT production target over 25 years, with a lucrative 4.1% revenue sharing. Mining plans for 3 discontinued mines (ASGKCC, Madhuband & PB project) also approved, driving growth and development.
Empowering People and Communities
BCCL’s CSR expenditure reached ₹ 21.89 crore (117% of the ₹ 18.76 crore target), training of 200 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) in petrochemical engineering (100% placement offered), 75 rural youth at MSME Tool Room, CTTC Kolkata with 100% placement offered, 150 in medical equipment, and 60 in fashion design (42 placed). BCCL installed smart classes & ICT labs in 79 schools in Dhanbad district (₹ 10.69 crore) and piloted STEM education in 5 schools. Welfare efforts included ₹ 66.98 lakh in fee reimbursements, ₹ 9.34 lakh in scholarships for 91 wards, and a harassment-free workplace for women. Medical upgrades featured a new DNB course, ICU expansion (8 to 16 beds), and a modular kitchen. BCCL recruited 77 Jr. Overmen and provided compassionate employment to 564 dependents during the year.
A Vision for the Future
FY 2024-25 marks a transformative year for BCCL, blending record production, financial strength, and sustainable innovation. BCCL is committed to performing as a key player in effectively meeting India’s energy demands while building a brighter, greener future. With the installation of two heavy crushers (750 TPH each) in its Lodna Area, BCCL further strengthens the modern coal processing while corroborating its emphasis on better customer satisfaction and services.
BCCL’s stellar performance positions it as a vital player in the coal sector with a commitment to solidifying India’s energy and industry needs with sustainable growth.
FM launches “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” Portal Portal developed by NITI in collaboration with NCAER
Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:14PM by PIB Delhi
Finance Minister Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman launched the “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” portal today in New Delhi. The portal has been developed by NITI Aayog, in collaboration with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), which is a comprehensive repository of data on social, economic and fiscal parameters, research reports, papers, and expert commentary on State Finances for a period of about 30 years (i.e 1990-91 to 2022-23).
In her keynote address, Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman stated that NITI NCAER States Economic Forum will be beneficial in the availability of authentic data. She observed that the portal will help States to make more meaningful interventions, raising revenues, managing debts and learning from peer experiences. She emphasised the importance of balance in public finances between revenue generation without burdening the people. She said that this forum is a much-needed step in present times which will help in greater engagement with States.
Director General of National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), Dr. Poonam Gupta while making a presentation on the portal highlighted the diverse nature of fiscal path of the States. She underlined the need for a portal which has comprehensive data of all States, thereby, providing an opportunity to appreciate the position of other States while making informed policy decisions.
CEO, NITI Aayog, Shri BVR Subrahamanyam, in his remarks, emphasised that this forum will not only provide information for public knowledge but will also create awareness and fiscal learning across States. He further opined that this forum will play a pivotal role in human service and a permanent asset for the nation as a whole.
NITI Aayog, Vice Chairman, Suman K Bery, observed that the NITI NCAER State Economic Forum is a key step in data-driven research, especially on public finances.
India-Chile Mining Industry Round Table today witnessed significant discussions aimed at deepening cooperation between the two nations in the mining sector. Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of Coal & Mines, India, led a high-level Indian delegation comprising Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, senior officials from the Ministry, and CMDs/CEOs from leading Indian companies such as Coal India Limited (CIL), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), Hindalco, Vedanta, Adani, JSW, and JSPL. The Chilean delegation was led by H.E. Aurora Williams, Minister of Mines, Chile.
In his address, Shri G. Kishan Reddy emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Chile in copper, lithium, and other critical minerals, highlighting the growing importance of these minerals in India’s industrial growth and sustainable energy transition.
H.E. Aurora Williams, Minister of Mines, Chile, spoke about Chile’s leadership in the global mining sector, particularly in copper and lithium, and expressed enthusiasm for expanding collaboration with India to meet both nations’ mineral needs and support the transition to greener technologies.
The round table organised by the International Copper Association, India focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in various key areas of the mining sector, including mineral exploration, sustainable mining practices, and value-added mineral processing. Discussions also revolved around renewing the existing India-Chile MoU on Geology and Mineral Resources, ensuring a more robust and future-ready framework for collaboration in the critical minerals domain.
As India’s demand for critical minerals such as copper, lithium, and rare earth elements continues to grow, the round table highlighted the strategic importance of these minerals for sectors like electric mobility, renewable energy, and electronics manufacturing. With this collaboration, both nations are aiming to unlock new opportunities for joint ventures, long-term supply agreements, and cross-border investments.
Chile, being a global leader in copper and lithium production, offers significant opportunities for Indian companies looking to secure access to these minerals through Greenfield and Brownfield mining projects. The discussions also emphasized the potential for technology transfer, best practices in sustainable mining, and strengthening the global mineral supply chain.
This renewed cooperation not only promises to enhance economic ties between India and Chile but also aims to build a resilient and sustainable mining supply chain that supports both nations’ long-term energy and economic goals. The India-Chile Mining Industry Round Table is a crucial step in fostering mutual growth, technological exchange, and a more sustainable mining future.