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.
Hon’ble Minister of State for Minority Affairs Shri George Kurian inaugurated the orientation-cum-training program for Haj-2025 deputationists. The session will run for two days, 22nd and 23rd April 2025. MoMA Secretary, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar & JS (Haj), Shri CPS Bakshi… pic.twitter.com/3o5fov3dVW
— Ministry of Minority Affairs (@MOMAIndia) April 22, 2025
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.
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.
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‘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.
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.
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 25th 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.
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 4th 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.
India hosts inaugural Capacity Building Programme for Central Asian Republics on combating terrorism financing Senior experts from five Central Asian countries of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan participated in knowledge exchange
Posted On: 22 APR 2025 7:38PM by PIB Delhi
The Department of Revenue (DoR), in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), successfully organised the first-ever Capacity Building Programme for Central Asian Republics (CARs) on ‘Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) through Cryptocurrencies, Crowdfunding, and Non-Profit Organisations’. The two-day programme was held on 21st-22nd April, 2025.
Bringing together senior experts from five Central Asian countries — Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan — the programme served as a platform for knowledge exchange and regional cooperation in tackling terrorism financing. Participants benefited from a series of sessions led by Indian authorities, including representatives from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Cell of the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Home Affairs, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and the Financial Intelligence Unit – India (FIU-IND). Additionally, an expert from the Eurasian Group (EAG), a FATF-style regional body (FSRB), contributed valuable insights on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) standards, with a focus on the non-profit and virtual asset sectors.
Customised to the specific needs of the Central Asian region, the programme aimed to build technical capacity and deepen understanding of emerging terrorism financing risks. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and the sharing of operational best practices, the initiative fostered a collaborative approach to addressing key challenges.
Technical sessions explored a broad range of issues, including the use of financial intelligence in terrorism-related investigations, the growing threat posed by the misuse of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), and the exploitation of crowdfunding platforms. Additional discussions covered the financing of radicalization and the abuse of Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) for terrorist purposes.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening regional cooperation and resilience against terrorism financing, reflecting India’s commitment to global counterterrorism efforts.
The National Pension System (NPS) has achieved significant growth of private sector subscriber enrolment of over 12 lakh during 2024-25, taking total subscriber number to over 165 lakh by March 2025.
NPS Vatsalya , a scheme specifically designed for minors, introduced in September 2024 has registered over one lakh subscribers .
The Assets Under Management (AUM) for both NPS and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) expanded by 23 percent during 2024-25 to Rs 14.43 lakh crore by end-March 2025.
Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian today inaugurated the orientation-cum-training programme of selected Haj deputationists of Haj 2025 for two days on 22ndand 23rdApril, 2025 at SCOPE Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi. In his inaugural address, the Minister of State, appreciating the role of Haj deputationists as crucial enablers in successful Haj operations, exhorted the deputationists to perform the duties assigned to them with utmost sincerity and commitment. In total, 620 deputationists (266 administrative and 354 medical) have been selected this year in order to assist CGI Jeddah in effective Haj management in Saudi Arabia with the objective of serving Indian Haj pilgrims.
These deputationists have been selected through a rigorous selection process and during the orientation-cum-training programme, they are being trained on different issues including overview of Haj operations, role of deputationists, health issues, crowd and disaster management, and the Haj Suvidha App before being deputed to Saudi Arabia. Special emphasis is being made to acquaint the deputationists with the functioning of Haj Suvidha App, which was introduced during Haj-2024 and played a crucial role in information dissemination and grievance redressal of Indian Haj pilgrims. Building on the success of the App during Haj-2024, the Government intends to further realise its potential by effectively providing training to the deputationists.
Further, since management of the Indian Haj pilgrimage is the largest logistical exercise managed by Government of India outside the country’s borders, the orientation-cum-training programme for Haj deputationists would contribute towards helping Indian pilgrims in successfully performing Haj.
Bharat Pavilion to be unveiled at WAVES 2025 To take through a journey of India’s Cultural Brilliance and Media Evolution
Posted On: 22 APR 2025 6:51PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 22 April 2025
As the world gathers for WAVES 2025 – the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit in Mumbai – India will proudly unveil the Bharat Pavilion, a vibrant tribute to the country’s profound legacy of storytelling and its growing influence in the global media and entertainment landscape.
Guided by the theme “Kala to Code” the Pavilion will celebrate India’s spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family — and showcase how the country’s artistic traditions have long been a beacon of creativity, harmony and cultural diplomacy.
Rooted in legacy and driven by innovation; India now looks to the future — ready to lead the world in storytelling, technology and transformative cultural exchange.
At the core of the Bharat Pavilion are four immersive zones that will take visitors through the continuum of India’s storytelling traditions:
Shruti – spotlighting oral traditions, from Vedic chants and folk ballads to classical music, radio and the spoken word.
Kriti – highlighting written legacies, tracing the journey from cave engravings and palm-leaf manuscripts to the evolution of print media, literature and modern publishing.
Drishti – exploring visual expression, from ancient dance forms, puppetry and folk theatre to India’s thriving cinema, television, digital and immersive storytelling ecosystems.
Creator’s Leap – showcasing the future of storytelling with cutting edge technology
Through these experiential zones, visitors are invited to witness how India’s timeless narratives have evolved into powerful modern media formats. From the echoes of Om to the beat of the tabla, from the etched symbols of Bhimbetka to today’s digital screens, from the dance of Nataraja to cinematic blockbusters—the Pavilion will be a living archive of how India shaped and continues to shape the global storyscape.
But this is more than a cultural showcase—it is a declaration of India’s creative prowess and future-forward vision. With many OTT platforms, a tech-savvy mobile-first audience, world-class VFX, gaming and animation studios, as well as a thriving Startup ecosystem, India stands as one of the fastest-growing media and entertainment markets in the world.
The Bharat Pavilion stands as a dynamic platform for creators, collaborators and change makers across the media and entertainment ecosystem. It will present a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to connect with India’s exceptional talent, advanced storytelling technologies and rapidly expanding market potential. More than a showcase of cultural heritage, the Bharat Pavilion will be a reflection of strong government support in fostering cross-cultural partnerships and investment — positioning itself as a Global centre for creative innovation and collaboration.
Bharat Pavilion at WAVES 2025 is where ancient inspiration will meet cutting-edge innovation. With its rich cultural legacy, unparalleled creative talent and world-class technological capabilities; India is poised to emerge as a Global leader in media and entertainment—ready to captivate and inspire the world.
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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rabee/ Sriyanka/ Darshana | 101