The Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute (SICI) successfully organized the Shastri Bilateral Education Forum (SBEF) 2025, themed “Bridging Borders with Sustainable Academic Collaborations”, on March 27-28, 2025. Funded by Global Affairs- Canada, the event was hosted in the premises of the National Museum, Janpath, New Delhi with co-operation of the Indian Institute of Heritage & a valued member of SICI’s Members’ Council.
SBEF 2025 brought together representatives from 22 Canadian and 55 Indian universities and institutions, primarily from SICI’s esteemed Members’ Council. The forum served as a dynamic platform for fostering transformative academic partnerships, strengthening Indo-Canadian collaborations, and shaping the future of bilateral academic synergies under the under the mandate of India’s National Education Policy 2020.
The event facilitated face-to-face engagements between Indian and Canadian institutions, fostering rich exchanges of ideas, expertise, and innovative solutions for academic collaborations. Discussions focused on enhancing institutional global partnerships, developing joint academic programs, advancing collaborative research, and creating sustainable, actionable initiatives. SBEF 2025 also provided strategic insights and frameworks for building impactful and long-term international academic collaborations. Through its interactive sessions, the forum empowered institutions to expand their global academic footprint, strengthen international networks, and explore new opportunities for faculty and student exchanges.
About the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute (SICI)
Established in 1968 through a joint declaration by the Governments of India and Canada, the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute (SICI) is a bi-national organization dedicated to fostering international academic and research collaborations. SICI facilitates faculty and student exchanges, research fellowships, skills development programs, and institutional partnerships. With a unique network of 196 leading academic institutions from both countries-including IITs, IIMS, NITS, AIIMS, NLUs, and prominent universities across India and Canada SICI continues to be a pivotal force in strengthening Indo-Canadian academic ties.
Towards India’s commitment on emission intensity reduction, Government of India has already notified The Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023 in June 2023, and laid the foundation for the Indian Carbon Market (ICM) by establishing the institutional framework, including the National Steering Committee for Indian Carbon Market (NSCICM). In December 2023, the scheme was amended to introduce the Offset Mechanism, enabling participation from non-obligated entities through voluntary climate mitigation projects.
Moving the journey of carbon market forward, the Government of India has now approved the Detailed Procedure for the Offset Mechanism and eight different methodologies under Offset Mechanism. This marks a major step forward in the operationalization of the Offset Mechanism under ICM.
The Offset Mechanism will encourage voluntary participation by entities for developing projects that reduce, remove, or avoid greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This framework enables businesses, industries, and organizations—particularly those not covered under the compliance mechanism—to participate in climate action and receive carbon credits for verified emission reductions. This mechanism will enable our country to tap climate change mitigation from sectors not covered under the compliance mechanism and can incentivize actions in such sectors.
Eight methodologies under Offset Mechanism, approved by Central Government, include methodologies for renewable energy (including Hydro and Pumped storage), green hydrogen production, industrial energy efficiency, landfill methane recovery, and mangrove afforestation & reforestation. These methodologies are expected to support a wide range of climate-friendly projects for voluntary carbon credit generation.
MoD inks two contracts worth Rs 62,700 crore with HAL for supply of 156 LCH, Prachand to the Armed Forces Out of 156 LCHs, 66 LCHs will be supplied to the Indian Air Force and 90 to the Indian Army
MOD also signs a contract with Metrea Management for Wet Leasing of one Flight Refuelling Aircraft; To provide Air to Air refuelling training to pilots of Indian Air Force and Indian Navy
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 7:46PM by PIB Delhi
Ministry of Defence on March 28, 2025, signed two contracts with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for supply of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), Prachand, along with training and other associated equipment worth Rs. 62,700 crore, excluding taxes. The first contract is for supply of 66 LCHs to the Indian Air Force (IAF) and second is for supply of 90 LCHs to the Indian Army.
The supply of these Helicopters shall commence from the third year and will be spread over the next five years. The contracts will enhance the combat capability of Armed Forces at high altitudes. LCH is India’s first indigenously designed and developed combat helicopter having a capability of operating at an altitude of over 5000 meters. This helicopter has a large number of components designed & manufactured in India and it is planned to achieve an overall indigenous content of over 65% during the execution of this procurement. This will involve over 250 domestic companies mostly MSMEs and will generate over 8,500 direct & indirect jobs.
Ministry of Defence also signed a contract with Metrea Management for Wet Leasing of one Flight Refuelling Aircraft (FRA) for providing Air to Air refuelling training to pilots of IAF and Indian Navy. Metrea will provide FRA (KC135 Aircraft) within six months which will be the first FRA to be wet leased by IAF.
With signing of these three contracts, the total number of contracts signed by Ministry of Defence during 2024-25 reaches to 193 with overall contract value exceeding Rs 2,09,050 crore, which is the highest ever and nearly double the previous highest figure. Out of these, the contracts to domestic industry are 177 (92%) with contract value Rs 1,68,922 Crore (81%).
On the auspicious occasion of Navratri, Akashvani’s Aradhana YouTube Channel is set to present a series of special programmes from 30th March to 6th April 2025, offering listeners an immersive devotional experience throughout the festive period.
To commemorate each day’s significance, the channel will feature a specially curated series from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Additionally, Shakti Aradhana will be broadcast daily from 8:30 AM to 8:40 AM, bringing divine renditions to the audience.
A special highlight of the celebrations will be Navratri Bhajans, performed by renowned artistes such as Anup Jalota, Narinder Chanchal, Jagjit Singh, Hari Om Sharan, Mahendra Kapoor, and Anuradha Paudwal. These renditions will be aired from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM every day.
Further enhancing the devotional experience, Devi Maa Ke Anek Swaroop, a unique series narrating inspiring stories on Navratri, will be broadcast daily from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM. The channel will also present special features on various Shakti Peeths across the country, providing listeners with deeper insights into the sacred sites dedicated to Goddess Durga.
The Navratri celebrations will culminate in a grand Live Programme on Ram Janmotsav, directly from Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Ayodhya. This special broadcast will take place on 6th April 2025 from 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM, bringing the divine festivities to audiences across the nation.
Listeners can tune in to Akashvani’s Aradhana YouTube Channel to experience the spiritual essence of Navratri and celebrate the festival in an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.
The sixth meeting of the National Scheme Sanctioning Committee (NSSC) under Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (SBM-G) Phase II for consideration of the Annual Implementation Plans of all the State/UTs for the financial year 2025-26 was held in New Delhi.
The virtual meeting was chaired by Shri Ashok Kumar Meena, Secretary, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry Jal Shakti. Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary, DDWS, applauded the National SBM-G team, all the supporting Ministries/Departments of MoPR, MoRD and MoHUA and teams of the State/UTs for having achieved 76% ODF Plus Model villages as of March 2025.
Commenting on the AIPs and the targets therein, the Secretary DDWS applauded the commendable achievements under SBM-G and emphasized the remarkable progress witnessed in 2024-25, attributing it to the collective effort of all States/UTs, Partners, and the National Team.
The Secretary DDWS also underscored the crucial role of local communities, partners, and existing networks of women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) as pivotal to the program’s success, portraying them not merely as partners but as leaders driving initiatives forward. He highlighted the importance of State Water & Sanitation Mission (SWSM) and District Water & Sanitation Mission (DWSM) who must play a proactive role in overseeing program implementation, convergence, and sustainability efforts at the regional level.
He outlined three fundamental principles that will guide this year’s sanitation initiatives. “First, all waste—solid and liquid—generated in rural areas should be treated as close to the source as possible. Second, an integrated approach to solid waste management, liquid waste management, faecal sludge management (FSM), and plastic waste, along with sustained ODF status, will be the key focus. Third, every village must become an ODF Plus Model village within this year, ensuring that no village is left behind. By March 2025, the mission aims to achieve 100% ODF Plus Model status across the country,” the Secretary DDWS said.
He emphasized that SBM-G must collaborate closely with JJM to strengthen the WASH agenda, ensuring that all relevant authorities, including the health sector, work together for a holistic approach. With over 50% of villages still awaiting verification, he underscored the importance of completing this crucial process, making the most of this final implementation year of SBM-G Phase-II.
Making a presentation, Shri Jitendra Srivastava, Joint Secretary and Mission Director SBM-G, gave an overview of achievements of SBM-G Phase II and the physical and financial targets for the financial year 2025-26.
Meeting concluded with the approval of the Annual Implementation Plan 2025-26 for all the State/UTs and commended the State/UTs for their efforts to achieve an ODF Plus Model rural India by 2025-26 and emphasized on collective efforts to achieve the ambitious target.
The meeting was attended by members of the NSSC – Joint Secretary and Financial Advisor, DDWS; Joint Secretary, representatives from the Ministry of Panchayat Raj and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs; JS & MD, SBM-G, DDWS; and ACS/Pr. Secretary/Secretary in-charge of rural sanitation of the States/UTs. Non-official members of the NSSC were also present.
Lok Sabha Clears Crucial Maritime Bill to Enhance India’s Ease of Doing Business in the Sector Passing of the ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill’ in the Lok Sabha marks a crucial step toward realising PM Narendra Modiji’s vision of updating & modernising India’s legal framework—making it more relevant, efficient, and accessible, while shedding colonial-era legacies that have impeded progress:” Sarbananda Sonowal
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 7:10PM by PIB Delhi
The Lok Sabha passed an important bill — ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024’ — in an attempt to modernise, update legal framework as well as enhance Ease of Doing Business (EODB) in India’s maritime sector. The bill was introduced by Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways today.
In an effort to support the country’s growing shipping sector, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal introduced the ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024,’ marking a significant legislative reform by replacing the colonial-era ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925’. The colonial era act was rooted in the century-old Hague Rules, which limited scope with complex language, and misaligned with modern commercial realities. The new bill addresses these gaps with clarity, foresight, and renewed relevance for a rapidly evolving maritime sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The passing of the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill in the Lok Sabha marks a crucial step toward realising PM Shri Narendra Modiji’s vision of updating and modernising India’s legal framework—making it more relevant, efficient, and accessible, while shedding colonial-era legacies that have impeded progress. The passage of this bill is a significant step toward strengthening India’s legal foundation for maritime commerce. It not only promotes investor confidence but also positions India as Viksit Bharat.”
The Union Minister also introduced the ‘Indian Ports Bill, 2025’, aimed at consolidating laws related to port management, promoting integrated port development, and enhancing the ease of doing business in the maritime sector. The bill seeks to optimise the utilisation of India’s vast coastline by establishing and empowering State Maritime Boards to ensure effective management of ports other than major ports. It also proposes the formation of the Maritime State Development Council to foster structured growth and development of the port sector.
Adding further, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Today marks a historic milestone in India’s journey towards a modern, efficient, and globally competitive shipping sector. The passing of the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha is a significant step in fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji’s vision of modernising India’s Maritime sector to become future ready and globally competitive.”
A key strength of the bill lies in its simplified language and structure, making the law more accessible to stakeholders, particularly Indian exporters, importers, and shipping professionals. While retaining the substantive legal framework, the bill aligns it with contemporary drafting practices, reducing ambiguities and minimising the risk of potential litigation.
The bill empowers the government allowing India to swiftly adapt to evolving international maritime conventions. It also ensures transparency and accountability by providing for parliamentary oversight of executive notifications (Clause 10). The legislation formally repeals the outdated 1925 Act, marking a confident step away from colonial legal remnants and embracing a modern Indian maritime legal identity. This aligns with the government’s broader vision of simplifying laws, promoting ease of doing business, and building a globally competitive shipping ecosystem.
On the introduction of the Indian Ports Bill, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The introduction of the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha is a transformative step toward modernising India’s port governance and maritime infrastructure. By consolidating laws, empowering State Maritime Boards, and establishing the Maritime State Development Council, the bill attempts a way for integrated port development and improved ease of doing business. With a strong focus on safety, security, and environmental sustainability, this reform is set to enhance India’s global competitiveness in the maritime sector.”
The Indian Ports bill addresses critical aspects such as pollution control, disaster management, emergency response, security, safety, navigation, and data management at ports. It also seeks to ensure India’s compliance with international obligations and maritime conventions. To safeguard India’s port infrastructure, the bill includes provisions for port conservation and introduces adjudicatory mechanisms for resolving port-related disputes efficiently. The Indian Ports Bill, 2025, aims to modernise India’s port governance framework, enhance efficiency, and position India as a global leader in maritime trade.
Policy Samvad organized a one-day workshop titled “Funding the Future: Public Policy and Finance for Tribal Welfare and Inclusive Growth in collaboration with the Institute for Public Research and Development Trust (IPPRDT) and the Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya Memorial Trust at Malviya Smriti Bhawan, New Delhi.
The inaugural session was led by Policy Samvad Editor and Public Policy analyst Gaurav Kumar, who welcomed the guests and briefed on the theme of workshop. The Chief Guest, Shri Antar Singh Arya, Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, he emphasized the role and importance of Policy Samvad for constructive dialogue in public policy space and collaboration in raising awareness on tribal welfare. He elaborated on the role of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes and highlighted various initiatives for tribal welfare in the current Union Budget, noting the Central Government’s efforts toward the inclusive development of tribal communities.
The Guest of Honour, Shri Nirupam Chakma, Member of the NCST, stressed the need for comprehensive and inclusive development in public finance and its efficient management. Smt. Vijaya Bharati Sayani, former Acting Chairperson and Member of the NHRC, also shared her insights on the subject. Shri Harishankar Singh, National President of Mahamana Malviya Mission, discussed the role of public policy and finance in tribal welfare and policy making.
Additionally, Shri Amit Nirmal, Joint Secretary of the NCST, provided his perspective on the significance of public policy and finance in ensuring tribal welfare and inclusive development.
The workshop featured discussions among domain experts, policymakers, and stakeholders, who explored new avenues for public welfare. Scholars and researchers contributed valuable insights into the past, present, and future of tribal development. Key speakers included Dr Prakash Chand Kandpal (Professor JNU), Prof Pavanesh Kumar (IGNOU), Shri Chakshu Roy (PRS Legislative Research), Shri Vinay Kumar Singh (Senior Fellow, Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Foundation), Shri A K Choubey (General Secretary, Bharatiya Adivasi Sevak Sangh), Shri Prakash Uikey (Former Judge), and Dr Abhishek Srivastava (Assistant Professor, JNU).
During the event, the tenth issue of Policy Samvad was released by the Chief Guest and Special Invitees. The journal, curated by an advisory board of distinguished professors and analysts, focuses on governance, socio-economic development, and NITI Aayog’s initiatives, serving as a crucial platform for intellectual discourse on India’s policy landscape.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Dr Praveen Kumar Jha. The workshop saw participation from scholars, researchers, university students, and public policy professionals, including representatives from PRS Legislative Research.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses TV9 Summit 2025 Today, the world’s eyes are on India: PM
India’s youth is rapidly becoming skilled and driving innovation forward: PM
“India First” has become the mantra of India’s foreign policy: PM
Today, India is not just participating in the world order but also contributing to shaping and securing the future: PM
India has given Priority to humanity over monopoly: PM
Today, India is not just a Nation of Dreams but also a Nation That Delivers: PM
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:53PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the TV9 Summit 2025 in the Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi today. Addressing the gathering, he extended his best wishes to the entire team of TV9 and its viewers. He said that TV9 had a wide regional audience and added that now there is a global audience also getting ready. He also welcomed and greeted the Indian diaspora who had connected over teleconference to the event.
“Today, the World’s eyes are on India”, remarked the Prime Minister, highlighting that people around the globe are curious about India. He noted that India, which was the 11th largest economy in the world after 70 years of independence, rose to become the 5th largest economy in a span of 7-8 years. Citing a report of the IMF, Shri Modi said that India was the only major economy in the world which had doubled its GDP in the last 10 years. Emphasizing that India had added USD two lakh crore to its economy in the last decade, adding that doubling of the GDP was not just about numbers but had major impacts like moving 25 crore people out of poverty forming a ‘Neo-Middle Class’. He further added that the Neo-middle class was beginning a new life with dreams and aspirations along with contributing to the economy and making it vibrant. “India has the world’s largest youth population”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, noting that the youth were rapidly becoming skilled, thereby accelerating innovation. “India First has become the mantra of India’s foreign policy”, highlighted the Prime Minister. He remarked that while India once followed a policy of maintaining equal distance from all nations, the current approach emphasizes being equally close to all—an “Equi-Closeness” policy. The Prime Minister underscored that the global community now values India’s opinions, innovations, and efforts like never before. He emphasized that the world is keenly observing India today and is eager to understand “What India Thinks Today.”
Prime Minister highlighted that India is not merely participating in the world order but is actively contributing to shaping and securing the future. He remarked about India’s vital role in global security, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Defying doubts, India developed its own vaccines, ensured rapid inoculation, and supplied medicines to over 150 countries, he added. He emphasized that in times of global crisis, India’s values of service and compassion resonated worldwide, showcasing the essence of its culture and traditions.
Reflecting on the global context post-World War II, noting how most international organizations were dominated by a few nations, Shri Modi remarked that India’s approach has always prioritized humanity over monopoly, striving for an inclusive and participatory global order. He added that in line with this vision, India has led the way in establishing global institutions for the 21st century, ensuring collective contribution and cooperation. Shri Modi remarked that addressing the challenge of natural disasters, which cause immense damage to infrastructure worldwide, India took the initiative to establish the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). CDRI represents a global commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience, he added. The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s efforts to promote the construction of disaster-resilient infrastructure, including bridges, roads, buildings, and power grids, ensuring they can withstand natural calamities and safeguard communities across the world.
Emphasising the importance of global collaboration to tackle future challenges, particularly in energy resources, Shri Modi highlighted India’s initiative of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as a solution to ensure sustainable energy access for even the smallest nations. He remarked that this effort not only positively impacts the climate but also secures the energy needs of Global South countries. He proudly noted that over 100 countries have joined this initiative. Talking about the global challenges of trade imbalances and logistics issues, Shri Modi highlighted India’s collaborative efforts with the world to launch new initiatives, including the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). He remarked that this project will connect Asia, Europe, and the Middle East through commerce and connectivity, boosting economic opportunities and providing alternative trade routes. He underscored that this initiative will strengthen the global supply chain.
Underlining India’s efforts to make global systems more participative and democratic, the Prime Minister remarked on the historic step taken during the G-20 Summit at Bharat Mandapam, where the African Union was made a permanent member of the G-20. He emphasized that this long-standing demand was fulfilled under India’s presidency. Shri Modi underscored India’s role as the voice of Global South countries in global decision-making institutions, highlighting India’s significant contributions in various fields, including International Yoga Day, the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, and the development of a global framework for Artificial Intelligence. He remarked that these efforts have established India’s strong presence in the new world order. “This is just the beginning, as India’s capabilities on global platforms continue to reach new heights”, he added.
Noting that 25 years of the 21st century have passed, out of which 11 years have been dedicated to serving the nation under his government, Shri Modi emphasized the importance of reflecting on past questions and answers to understand “What India Thinks Today.” He highlighted the transformation from dependency to self-reliance, aspirations to achievements, and desperation to development. He recalled that a decade ago, the issue of toilets in villages left women with limited options, but today, the Swachh Bharat Mission has provided a solution. He noted that in 2013, discussions about healthcare revolved around expensive treatments, but today, Ayushman Bharat offers a solution. Similarly, he highlighted that kitchens of the poor, once associated with smoke, now benefit from the Ujjwala Yojana. The Prime Minister pointed out that in 2013, women often remained silent when asked about bank accounts, but today, over 30 crore women have their own accounts due to the Jan Dhan Yojana. He also mentioned that the struggle for drinking water, which once required reliance on wells and ponds, has been addressed through the Har Ghar Nal Se Jal Yojana. He emphasized that it is not just the decade that has changed but also the lives of people. He remarked that the world is recognizing and accepting India’s development model. “India is no longer just a ‘Nation of Dreams’ but a ‘Nation That Delivers’”, he added.
Shri Modi said that when a nation values the convenience and time of its citizens, it transforms the nation’s trajectory. He highlighted that this is precisely what India is experiencing today. He provided an example of the significant changes in the passport application process. He noted that earlier, obtaining a passport was a cumbersome task, involving long waiting times, complex documentation, and limited passport centers, mostly located in state capitals. He emphasized that people from smaller towns often had to arrange for overnight stays to complete the process. The Prime Minister highlighted that these challenges have now been completely transformed. He shared that the number of passport service centers in the country has increased from just 77 to over 550. Additionally, he remarked that the waiting time for obtaining a passport, which used to be as long as 50 days, has now been reduced to just 5-6 days.
Remarking on the transformation witnessed in India’s banking infrastructure, Shri Modi highlighted that while banks were nationalized 50-60 years ago with the promise of accessible banking services, lakhs of villages still lacked such facilities. He emphasized that this situation has now been changed. The Prime Minister noted that online banking has reached every household, and today, there is a banking touchpoint within every 5-kilometer radius in the country. He stated that the government has not only expanded banking infrastructure but also strengthened the banking system. He highlighted that banks’ Non-Performing Assets (NPA) have significantly reduced, and their profits have reached a record high of ₹1.4 lakh crore. He added that those who looted public money are now being held accountable, sharing that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has recovered over ₹22,000 crore, which is being legally returned to the victims from whom it was taken.
Stressing that efficiency leads to effective governance, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of achieving more in less time, utilizing fewer resources, and avoiding unnecessary expenditures. He remarked that prioritizing “red carpet over red tape” reflects respect for a nation’s resources. He noted that for the past 11 years, this has been a major priority of his government.
Mentioning the past practice of accommodating more individuals in ministries, which often led to inefficiencies, Shri Modi highlighted that his government, during its first term, merged several ministries to prioritize the nation’s resources and needs over political compulsions. He provided examples, noting that the Urban Development Ministry and the Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Ministry were merged to form the Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry. Similarly, the Ministry of Overseas Affairs was integrated with the Ministry of External Affairs. He also mentioned the merger of the Water Resources and River Development Ministry with the Drinking Water Ministry to create the Jal Shakti Ministry. He emphasized that these decisions were driven by the country’s priorities and the efficient use of resources.
Underlining the government’s efforts to simplify and reduce rules and regulations, the Prime Minister mentioned that approximately 1,500 outdated laws, which had lost their relevance over time, were abolished by his government. Additionally, around 40,000 compliances were removed. He emphasized that these measures achieved two significant outcomes: relief from harassment for the public and conservation of energy within the government machinery. The Prime Minister provided another example of reform through the introduction of GST. He noted that over 30 taxes were consolidated into a single tax, resulting in substantial savings in terms of processes and documentation.
Underscoring the inefficiencies and corruption that plagued government procurement in the past, often reported by the media, the Prime Minister said that his government introduced the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform to address these issues. He explained that government departments now list their requirements on this platform, vendors place bids, and orders are finalized transparently. This initiative has significantly reduced corruption and saved the government over ₹1 lakh crore. The Prime Minister also emphasized the global recognition of India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. He noted that DBT has prevented over ₹3 lakh crore of taxpayers’ money from falling into the wrong hands. He further highlighted that more than 10 crore fake beneficiaries, including non-existent individuals, who were exploiting government schemes, have been removed from official records.
Emphasising the government’s commitment to the honest utilization of every taxpayer’s contribution and its respect for taxpayers, Shri Modi highlighted that the tax system has been made more taxpayer-friendly. He remarked that the process of filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) is now much simpler and faster compared to earlier times. He noted that previously, filing ITR without the help of a Chartered Accountant was challenging. Today, individuals can file their ITR online within a short time, and refunds are credited to their accounts within days of filing. The Prime Minister also highlighted the introduction of the Faceless Assessment Scheme, which has significantly reduced the hassles faced by taxpayers. He remarked that such efficiency-driven governance reforms have provided the world with a new governance model.
Highlighting the transformation India has undergone in the past 10-11 years across every sector and field, the Prime Minister emphasized the significant shift in mindset that has taken place. He remarked that for decades after independence, a mindset was promoted in India that considered foreign goods superior. He noted that shopkeepers would often begin by saying, “This is imported!” when selling products. He emphasized that this situation has now changed and today, people proactively ask, “Is this Made in India?”
Underscoring India’s remarkable progress in manufacturing excellence, emphasizing the recent achievement of developing the country’s first indigenous MRI machine, Shri Modi said that this milestone will significantly reduce the cost of medical diagnostics in India. He underscored the transformative impact of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives, which have infused new energy into the manufacturing sector. He noted that while the world once viewed India as a global market, it now recognizes the nation as a major manufacturing hub. The Prime Minister pointed out the success of India’s mobile phone industry, stating that exports have surged from less than one billion dollars in 2014-15 to over twenty billion dollars within a decade. He highlighted India’s emergence as a power center in the global telecom and networking industry. Discussing the automotive sector, the Prime Minister remarked on India’s growing reputation in exporting components. He noted that while India previously imported motorcycle parts in large quantities, today, parts manufactured in India are reaching countries like the UAE and Germany. Shri Modi also highlighted the achievements in the solar energy sector, stating that imports of solar cells and modules have decreased while exports have increased by 23 times. He further emphasized the growth in defense exports, which have risen 21 times over the past decade. He stated that these accomplishments showcase the strength of India’s manufacturing economy and its ability to create new jobs across various sectors.
The Prime Minister remarked on the significance of the TV9 Summit, emphasizing the detailed discussions and deliberations on various topics that will take place. He highlighted that the ideas and visions shared during the summit will define the nation’s future. He recalled the pivotal moment of the past century when India embarked on a new journey towards independence with renewed energy. He noted India’s achievement in gaining independence in 1947 and stated that, in this decade, the nation is striving towards the goal of a developed India. He emphasized the importance of realizing the dream of a developed India by 2047 and reiterated his statement from the Red Fort that collective efforts are essential to achieve this vision. The Prime Minister commended TV9 for organizing this summit, acknowledging their positive initiative and extended his best wishes for the success of the summit. He lauded the TV9 network for involving over 50 thousand youth in various interactions in mission mode and training the selected youth. He concluded by expressing confidence that the youth will be the biggest beneficiaries of Viksit Bharat in 2047.
The Government of India (GoI) has announced the sale (re-issue) of (i) “6.64% Government Security 2027” for a notified amount of ₹6,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction using multiple price method and (ii) “6.79% Government Security 2034” for a notified amount of ₹30,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction using multiple price method. GoI will have the option to retain additional subscription up to ₹2,000 crore against each security mentioned above. The auctions will be conducted by the Reserve Bank of India, Mumbai Office, Fort, Mumbai on April 04, 2025 (Friday).
Up to 5% of the notified amount of the sale of the securities will be allotted to eligible individuals and institutions as per the Scheme for Non-Competitive Bidding Facility in the Auction of Government Securities.
Both competitive and non-competitive bids for the auction should be submitted in electronic format on the Reserve Bank of India Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) system on April 04, 2025. The non-competitive bids should be submitted between 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. and the competitive bids should be submitted between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
The result of the auctions will be announced on April 04, 2025 (Friday) and payment by successful bidders will be on April 07, 2025 (Monday).
The Securities will be eligible for “When Issued” trading in accordance with the guidelines on ‘When Issued transactions in Central Government Securities’ issued by the Reserve Bank of India vide circular No. RBI/2018-19/25 dated July 24, 2018 as amended from time to time.
Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC) are regulated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). TRAI has issued Telecommunications Commercial Communications Consumers Preference Regulations, 2018 (TCCCPR-2018) which deals with UCC.
Under the TCCCPR-2018 regulations a number of directions have been issued for the implementation of its provisions. These directions inter-alia have provisions for registering preferences for commercial communication where a telecom subscriber can opt to block all commercial communications or can selectively block commercial communications as per preference categories.
Customers can register complaint against senders of UCC through Mobile App, sending SMS or calling on a specific number 1909.
The Government of India has taken major initiatives like enactment of Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000, setting up of Indian Computer Emergency Response Team and National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre, releasing of National Cyber Security Policy 2013, appointing Chief Information Security Officer, thus ensuring security and privacy of personal information of users in India.
The Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011 under the IT Act prescribes reasonable security practices and procedures to protect sensitive personal data of users.
Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (“DPDP Act”) provides the legal framework for processing of personal data, notice to be issued to data principal, consent of the data principal including withdrawal of such consent, rights of the data principal, obligations of the data fiduciaries, penalties for non-compliance, etc.
The DPDP Act provides legal framework for Data Fiduciaries to notify breaches and ensure effective observance of the provisions Act by implementing appropriate technical and organizational measures.
Further, the DPDP Act establishes a robust framework of accountability mechanisms to ensure the lawful processing of digital personal data with Data Protection Board of India as an independent adjudicatory body empowered to investigate complaints, conduct inquiries, and impose penalties.
Ministry of Home Affairs has also established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre to deal with cyber-crimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.
Public awareness campaigns, such as Cyber Security Awareness Month and Safer Internet Day, are organized to educate citizens about online safety, secure online transactions and digital services.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in Rajya Sabha today.