MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, addresses the inaugural session of the two-day National Level Review Meeting in Shillong, Meghalaya

Initiatives and formulation of strategies to further strengthen and modernise the Cooperative Sector across the country discussed during the Review Meeting

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah Ministry is committed to promoting cooperative-led economic growth

Gujarat and Maharashtra are shining examples of how dairy can empower women and improve child nutrition

Role of national-level cooperative institutions such as NCEL, NCOL, BBSSL, NCCF, and NAFED pivotal in enhancing the cooperative ecosystem and driving innovation and inclusivity

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 6:24PM by PIB Delhi

The Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, addressed the inaugural session of the two-day National Level Review Meeting in Shillong, Meghalaya. The Review meeting, held on 10-11 April 2025, discussed initiatives and formulation of strategies to further strengthen and modernise the Cooperative Sector across the country.

 

Speaking at the inaugural session, Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah the Ministry is committed to promoting cooperative-led economic growth with robust inter-state cooperation to realize the vision of “Sahakar Se Samriddhi.” He stressed on collating the PAN numbers of all cooperative societies of the country to enable more accurate representation of the cooperative sector in the national GDP. Dr. Bhutani reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening and advancing the cooperative ecosystem in the country.

The Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation said that White Revolution 2.0 is one of the flagship initiatives, aimed at rural upliftment through the dairy sector. States like Gujarat and Maharashtra are shining examples of how dairy can empower women and improve child nutrition. He said that we are partnering with institutions like Amul and NDDB to support states Assam, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and other states in expanding dairy infrastructure. The economic potential of animal husbandry now exceeds that of traditional crop cultivation.

Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani said that passing of the bill to establish India’s first Tribhuvan Sahkari University is a historic move. This university will standardise cooperative education across states and uplift over 250 existing cooperative institutions.

Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, and Chief Secretary, Govt. of Meghalaya, along with senior officials, took part in a tree plantation drive under the initiative “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative in International Year of Cooperatives.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders including representatives from States and Union Territories, officials from cooperative federations, financial institutions, and policymakers, fostering a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange and strategic alignment.

The States Review Session spotlighted the pivotal role of national-level cooperative institutions such as NCEL, NCOL, BBSSL, NCCF, and NAFED in enhancing the cooperative ecosystem and driving innovation and inclusivity.

Director of IRMA, Anand (Gujarat), outlined the vision of Tribhuvan Sahkari University, the strategic objectives, and proposed institutional structure. The session reflected the Ministry’s long-term commitment to developing world-class cooperative education and research infrastructure.

A dedicated workshop on the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, focusing on strategic priorities such as benchmarking cooperative societies, impact assessment, and the formulation of a Business Reform Action Plan for the upcoming fiscal year. Delegations from Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttarakhand shared best practices and innovations in cooperative development.

The focus areas of the two-day sessions were on expansion of banking services for cooperative societies and ensure doorstep banking services via micro-ATMs along with provision of zero-interest loans through RuPay Kisan Credit Cards to members of Primary Agriculture Credit Societies (PACS), Dairy Cooperative Societies and other Cooperative institutions, and strengthening of Rural Cooperative Banking. Expansion of time-bound establishment of Multi-Purpose Agriculture Cooperative Societies (MPACS), Dairy and fishery cooperatives, Grain Storage Plan, digital transformation of PACS and Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (ARDBs) with an aim to improve transparency, operational efficiency, and service accessibility was also discussed. An analytical discussion was also held on the impact of NCDC’s schemes and the realignment of its strategic direction with broader national development priorities.

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RK/VV/PR/PS

(Release ID: 2121020) Visitor Counter : 50

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 5:40PM by PIB Itanagar

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi undertook an official visit to the Kra Daadi district of Arunachal Pradesh on Friday, where she engaged in a series of developmental programs and community interactions.
 

The Hon’ble Union Minister was accorded a warm and vibrant welcome by the local community with traditional songs and a captivating Nukkad Natak themed on Poshan Abhiyan, performed by local artists, highlighting the importance of nutrition and health awareness.

During her address to the gathering at the 7th Poshan Pakhwada event, Smt. Annpurna Devi reaffirmed the Centre’s unwavering resolve to bring development to every corner of the northeastern region of the country, echoing the Government’s guiding principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, aur Sabka Prayas.” She stated, “Under the National Health Mission, the Government is actively conducting special initiatives to bolster health and family welfare across all aspiring districts, with particular emphasis on the Northeast.”

In a major boost to maternal welfare, the Union Minister handed over payment approvals under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), reiterating the Government’s focus on supporting mothers during and after pregnancy to ensure a healthier future generation.

She also shared noteworthy budgetary developments, highlighting a remarkable increase in the Gender Budget allocation. “The total Gender Budget allocation for schemes targeted towards women’s empowerment has been significantly enhanced from ₹3.27 lakh crore in Budget Estimates 2024–25 to ₹4.49 lakh crore in Budget 2025–26. The Gender Budget’s share in the overall Union Budget has also seen a substantial increase from 6.8% to 8.86%,” she noted.

 

The visit was also graced by several esteemed dignitaries, including Smt. Dasanglu Pul, Hon’ble Minister for Women and Child Development, Science & Technology and Cultural Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh; Shri Balo Raja, Hon’ble Minister for Land Management, Civil Aviation and Urban Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh; Smt. Mimum Tayeng, IAS, Commissioner, Women and Child Development, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, and the Deputy Commissioner, Kra Daadi district.

The visit of the Union Minister to Kra Daadi underlines the Government of India’s resolve to empower women, promote child welfare, and ensure balanced development across all regions, especially the strategically vital and culturally rich Northeast.

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PD

(Release ID: 2121016) Visitor Counter : 43

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses gathering at Anandpur Dham, Madhya Pradesh

New India is moving ahead with the mantra of ‘Development as well as Heritage’: PM

Our country is the land of sages, wise men and saints, whenever our society goes through a difficult phase, some sage or wise man descends on this land and gives a new direction to the society: PM

The resolve to uplift the poor and the deprived, the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, this spirit of service is the policy and commitment of the government: PM

In a country like India, our culture is not only linked to our identity, It is our culture that strengthens our potential: PM

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 6:04PM by PIB Delhi

In line with his commitment to furthering the cultural and spiritual heritage of India, Prime Minister visited Anandpur Dham of Isagarh Tehsil in the Ashoknagar district in Madhya Pradesh today. He also performed darshan and pooja at Guru Ji Maharaj Temple and toured the temple complex at Anandpur Dham. Addressing the gathering, he welcomed the large number of devotees who had traveled from Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and across the country. He expressed his happiness upon visiting Shri Anandpur Dham, sharing his experience of offering prayers at Guruji Maharaj’s temple which filled his heart with bliss.

Remarking on the sanctity of the land nurtured by the penance of saints, where altruism has become a tradition and the resolve for service paves the way for humanity’s welfare, Shri Modi highlighted the uniqueness of this land, quoting saints who said that sorrow fears to enter Ashok Nagar. He expressed his joy at participating in the celebrations of Baisakhi and the birth anniversary of Shri Guru Maharaj Ji, paying respects to the pratham Padshahi Shri Shri 108 Shri Swami Advait Anand Ji Maharaj and other Padshahi saints. He noted the historical significance of the day, marking the Mahasamadhi of Shri Dwitiya Padshahi Ji in 1936 and the union of Shri Tritiya Padshahi Ji with his true form in 1964. The Prime Minister offered his tributes to these revered Gurus and extended his salutations to Maa Jageshwari Devi, Maa Bijasan, and Maa Janaki Karila Mata Dham. He conveyed his greetings to everyone on the occasion of Baisakhi and Shri Guru Maharaj Ji’s birth anniversary celebrations.

“India is a land of sages, scholars, and saints, who have always guided society during challenging times”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, highlighting that the life of Pujya Swami Advait Anand Ji Maharaj reflects this tradition. He recalled the era when acharyas like Adi Shankaracharya expounded the profound knowledge of Advaita philosophy. He noted that during the colonial period, society began to lose touch with this wisdom. However, it was during this time that sages emerged to awaken the nation’s soul through the principles of Advaita, he added, emphasising that Pujya Advait Anand Ji Maharaj carried forward this legacy by making the knowledge of Advaita accessible and simple for the common people, ensuring its reach to the masses.

Addressing the pressing global concerns of war, conflict, and the erosion of human values amidst material progress, Shri Modi identified the root cause of these challenges as the mindset of division—of “self and other”—which distances humans from one another. “The solution to these issues lies in the philosophy of Advaita, which envisions no duality”, he emphasised, explaining that Advaita is the belief in seeing the divine in every living being and, further, perceiving the entire creation as a manifestation of the divine. He quoted Paramhans Dayal Maharaj, who beautifully simplified this principle as, ‘What you are, I am’. He remarked on the profoundness of this thought, which eliminates the divide of “mine and yours,” and noted that if universally embraced, it could resolve all conflicts.

The Prime Minister shared his earlier discussion with the chate Padshahi Swami Shri Vichar Purna Anand Ji Maharaj, who spoke about the teachings of the pratham Padshahi Paramhans Dayal Maharaj Ji and the service initiatives of Anandpur Dham. He highlighted the five principles of meditation established at Anandpur Dham, emphasizing selfless service as one of them. He remarked on the spirit of serving the underprivileged with a selfless attitude, seeing Narayan in the act of serving humanity, which forms the foundation of Indian culture. He expressed his happiness that Anandpur Trust is advancing this culture of service with dedication. He noted that the trust operates hospitals treating thousands of patients, organizes free medical camps, runs a modern cowshed for cow welfare, and manages schools for the development of the new generation. He also praised Anandpur Dham’s significant contribution to humanity through environmental conservation, highlighting the efforts of the ashram’s followers in transforming thousands of acres of barren land into greenery, with thousands of trees planted by the ashram now serving altruistic purposes.

“The spirit of service is at the core of every initiative undertaken by the government”, said Shri Modi highlighting that under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, every needy individual is free from the worry of food. Similarly, the Ayushman Bharat scheme has relieved the poor and elderly from concerns about healthcare, while the PM Awas Yojana is ensuring secure housing for the underprivileged. He noted that the Jal Jeevan Mission is addressing water issues in villages, and the establishment of record numbers of new AIIMS, IITs, and IIMs is helping even the poorest children realize their dreams. He reiterated the government’s commitment to environmental conservation through the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, under which crores of trees have been planted across the country. The Prime Minister remarked that the scale of these achievements is driven by the spirit of service. He reiterated the government’s resolve for the upliftment of the poor and marginalized, guided by the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’. “This spirit of service is both the policy and the commitment of the government”, he stressed.

Underlining the fact that embracing the resolve of service not only benefits others but also enhances one’s personality and broadens perspectives, the Prime Minister noted that the spirit of service connects individuals to larger objectives of society, the nation, and humanity. He acknowledged the dedication of those engaged in service, highlighting how overcoming hardships becomes second nature through acts of selfless service. He described service as a spiritual practice, likening it to a sacred Ganga in which everyone must take a dip. He remarked on the responsibility of developing regions like Ashok Nagar and Anandpur Dham, which have contributed immensely to the nation, pointing out the rich heritage of art, culture, and natural beauty in these areas, noting their vast potential for development and heritage. PM further highlighted efforts to boost progress in Madhya Pradesh and Ashok Nagar, including elevating Chanderi handloom through Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Chanderi sarees and the establishment of a Craft Handloom Tourism Village in Pranpur to accelerate economic growth in the region. He also noted that the Madhya Pradesh government has already commenced preparations for the Ujjain Simhastha.

Acknowledging the recent celebration of the grand festival of Ram Navami, Shri Modi highlighted the ongoing development of the “Ram Van Gaman Path,” noting that a significant portion of this path will pass through Madhya Pradesh. He remarked on Madhya Pradesh’s remarkable and unique identity, stating that these initiatives will further strengthen its distinctiveness.

The Prime Minister affirmed the nation’s ambitious goal of becoming a developed India by 2047 and expressed confidence in achieving it. He emphasized the need to preserve India’s ancient culture during this journey, noting that while many countries lost touch with their traditions in the pursuit of development, India must maintain its heritage. “India’s culture is not just tied to its identity but strengthens its capabilities”, highlighted the Prime Minister commending the Anandpur Dham Trust for its significant contributions in this regard and expressed confidence that the trust’s service initiatives will infuse new energy into the vision of Viksit Bharat. He concluded by extending his greetings on the occasion of Baisakhi and the birth anniversary celebrations of Shri Guru Maharaj Ji.

The Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mangubhai Patel, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mohan Yadav, Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia were present among others at the event.

Background

Anandpur Dham has been established for spiritual and philanthropic purposes. Spanning 315 hectares, it houses a modern gaushala (cowshed) with over 500 cows and runs agricultural activities under Shri Anandpur Trust campus. The trust has been operating a charitable hospital in Sukhpur village, schools in Sukhpur and Anandpur and various Satsang Centers across the country.

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121014) Visitor Counter : 129

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

The following is the list, in order of merit, of 792 candidates who have qualified on the basis of the results of the Written Examination held by the Union Public Service Commission on 1^st September, 2024 and the subsequent Interviews held by the Services Selection Board, Ministry of Defence for admission to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of National Defence Academy for the 154^th Course and the Naval Academy for the 116^th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC). For detailed information regarding the date of commencement of the above courses, please visit the websites of Ministry of Defence i.e., www.joinindianarmy.nic.in, www.joinindiannavy.gov.in and www.careerindianairforce.cdac.in.

2.  The results of Medical Examination have not been taken into account in preparing these lists.

3   The candidature of all the aforesaid candidates is provisional, subject to their submitting the requisite certificates in support of date of birth, educational qualifications, etc. claimed by them directly to the Additional Directorate General of Recruiting, Adjutant General’s Branch, Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence (Army), West Block No.III, Wing–I, R.K Puram, New Delhi -110066, wherever this has not already been done, and NOT to UPSC.

4. In case, there is any change of address, the candidates are advised to promptly intimate the Army Headquarter directly at the address given above.

5. The result is also available on the UPSC website at https://www.upsc.gov.in. Marks of the candidates will be available on the website after 15 days from the date of declaration of final results.

6. For any further information, the candidates may contact Facilitation Counter near Gate ‘C’ of the Commission, either in person or on telephone Nos. 011-23385271/011-23381125/011-23098543 between 10:00 hours and 17:00 hours on any working day. In addition, for SSB/interview related matter, the candidates may contact over telephone No. 011-26175473 or joinindianarmy.nic.in for Army as first choice, 011-23010097 or Email: officer-navy[at]nic[dot]in   or joinindiannavy.gov.in for Navy/Naval Academy as first choice, and 011-23010231 Extn.7645/7646/7610 or  www.careerindianairforce.cdac.in for Air Force as first choice.

Click here to see Result:

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2121011) Visitor Counter : 74

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 8:38PM by PIB Delhi

The Government of India (GoI) has announced the sale (re-issue) of (i) “6.79% Government Security 2031” for a notified amount of ₹11,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction using multiple price method, (ii) “6.98% GOI SGrB 2054” for a notified amount of ₹5,000 crore (nominal) through price based auction using multiple price method and (iii) “7.09% Government Security 2074” for a notified amount of ₹14,000 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 17, 2025 (Thursday).

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 17, 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 17, 2025 (Thursday) and payment by successful bidders will be on April 21, 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.

 

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NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2121087) Visitor Counter : 53

Source: Government of India

Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary inaugurates 16 toilets and drinking water facilities under supervision of Varanasi Commissionerate of the Lucknow CGST Zone

Government of India committed to gender-sensitive sanitation, education, and vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047: MoS Shri Pankaj Chaudhary

Modern sanitation and safe drinking water would enhance attendance and instil confidence among girl students towards women empowerment: CBIC Member Shri Surjit Bhujbal

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 8:37PM by PIB Delhi

Under the Cleanliness Mission of the Government of India, Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary inaugurated 16 toilets and drinking water facilities — 3 in Government Girls Inter College and 13 across Kasturba Gandhi Vidyalayas — in Maharajganj district, today.

 

 

The project was executed under the overall supervision of the Varanasi Commissionerate of the Lucknow CGST Zone, with help from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Central Public Works Department (CPWD). The project began in FY 2022-23 and was completed in March 2025, benefiting over 5,000 girl students from remote rural areas.

The facilities located at the different remote locations of the district were formally inaugurated and handed over to the beneficiary schools today by Shri Chaudhary, in presence of Shri Surjit Bhujbal, Member, CBIC; Shri P.K. Katiyar, Chief Commissioner Lucknow Zone; and Shri Vinish Chaudhary, CGST Commissioner Varanasi.

 

 

In his address on this occasion, Shri Chaudhary emphasised the Government of India’s unwavering commitment to gender-sensitive sanitation, education, and the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Shri Chaudhary underlined the role of Swachchta in building a clean, inclusive, and empowered India.

 

 

In his address on at the occasion, Shri Bhujbal said that the availability of modern sanitation and safe drinking water would not only enhance attendance and confidence among girl students but would also stand as a meaningful step towards women empowerment.

 

 

Commending the CPWD for their exceptional coordination and commitment, Shri Bhujbal said CPWD beat the administrative, logistical and geographical challenges to ensure timely project delivery, and shared that the project was efficiently completed within the allocated budget and resulted in a noticeable cost savings.

The CBIC, in its continued commitment to the Swachh Bharat Mission, has successfully undertaken 3,062 Swachchta projects over the past six years, with a vision to support a defecation-free and cleaner India. In FY 2023-24, CBIC completed 197 projects out of the 40.39 crore allocated budget, utilising Rs. 36.70 crore towards key initiatives such as record digitisation, construction of Divyang-friendly toilets, and creation of workplace facilities like creches.

 

CBIC also actively contributes to a cleaner and greener society through plantation drives, public art, and park renovations. Under initiatives like Swachchta Hi Sewa and Swachchta Pakhwada, workshops have been conducted, e-office adoption has increased, and efforts towards effective records management and disposal of obsolete stock have been accelerated.

These initiatives reaffirm CBIC’s commitment to the national vision of Swachh Bharat and sustainable development.

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NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2121088) Visitor Counter : 50

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 8:27PM by PIB Delhi

Keel Laying ceremony of Yard 3039, the third Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (ex-GRSE) was held at GRSE Ltd, Kolkata on 11 Apr 25 with Shri Sugata Ghosh Dastidar, IDAS, Financial Advisor (Defence Services) as the Chief Guest. Cmde P R Hari (Retd), Chairman & Managing Director, GRSE and other senior officials from the Indian Navy and the Shipyard were present for the event.

The contracts for indigenous design and construction of eleven NGOPVs were concluded on 30 Mar 23 with Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), Goa and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, with seven ships to be constructed by Lead Shipyard GSL and four ships by Follow Shipyard GRSE.

The NGOPVs, with an approximate tonnage of 3000T, are designed for Coastal Defence & Surveillance, Search and Rescue operations, Protection of Offshore Assets and Anti-Piracy missions. Keel Laying of these vessels marks a significant milestone in the overall project timeline. The eleven NGOPVs are being built in consonance with the nation’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India and are poised to augment the Indian Naval maritime prowess.

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VM/SPS                                                                                                             84/25

(Release ID: 2121084) Visitor Counter : 81

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 6:08PM by PIB Mumbai

 

 Mumbai, April 11, 2025

The Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra, Maharashtra Film, Stage & Cultural Development Corporation Ltd. (MFSCDCL) and the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) for the establishment of a world-class institute dedicated to the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) sector i.e. Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) in Mumbai.

The MoU was signed between Chief Secretary of Government of Maharashtra Ms. Sujata Saunik and Secretary, Information and Broadcasting Sh. Sanjay Jaju and was exchanged in the presence of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra Sh. Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting   Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw today.

Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis stated that Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) in Mumbai — a first-of-its-kind institute will focus on nurturing talent and innovation in creative industries.

IICT will be located at the Dadasaheb Phalke Film City, Goregaon, and shall serve as a centre of excellence for education, research, innovation, and skill development in the AVGC-XR domain recognizing the importance of fostering the growth and development of this sector in the country and envisioning India to become one of the top global players in this field. Union Minister Shri Vaishnaw stated that the first Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), established in Mumbai—the capital of the creative economy and entertainment sector—will serve as a catalyst for the city’s entertainment industry, facilitating its global expansion.

The IICT has already been set up as a not-for-profit Section 8 company with equity participation from Government of India (48%), Government of Maharashtra (through MFSCDCL) (14%), and leading industry bodies – Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), holding 26% each.

Government of India has already provided an initial one-time budgetary grant of ₹391.15 crore for infrastructure development and initial operations. The IICT shall operate in a self-sustaining mode thereafter. The institute shall also benefit from a 10-acre land parcel leased by MFSCDCL for 30 years at Dadasaheb Phalke Film City, symbolizing a significant step forward in building a digital media and creative technology ecosystem.

Key highlights of the MoU include:

1. Establishment of an AVGC-XR centre with a strategic focus on education, skilling, industry development, and research & innovation.
2. Formation of a Governing Council and Board of Directors with representatives from Government and Industry.
3. Development of specialized councils on Academia, Skilling, Industry Development, and R&D to ensure sectoral alignment and global competitiveness.
4. Commitment to fostering public-private collaboration and attracting international partnerships.

 

IICT will be a world-class premium institute for the media and entertainment sector similar to the IITs and IIMs for technology and management. A temporary campus of IICT is being set up at the NFDC premises in Mumbai and will start operation soon. By producing a consistent flow of highly skilled content creators, the IICT will firmly establish India’s standing as a leading global centre for the creative economy

The MoU marks a significant milestone under the Government’s efforts to boost the digital economy, empower creative professionals, and generate high-value employment in emerging sectors.

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Sayyid Rabeehashmi/Sriyanka Chatterjee/Parshuram

 

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(Release ID: 2121017) Visitor Counter : 118

Source: Government of India

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal delivers Keynote Address at 9th Global Technology Summit

India offers unparalleled trade and investment opportunities: Shri Goyal

India’s decision not to join RCEP has been vindicated by recent developments: Shri Goyal

India will always work within the WTO framework, but WTO reforms are essential: Shri Goyal

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 7:52PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal delivered the Keynote Address at the 9th Global Technology Summit today in New Delhi, where he highlighted the opportunities that lie ahead for India in reshaping global trade, especially with trusted partners such as the United States.

Calling India the fastest-growing large economy in the world, Shri Goyal said, “There is a delta of opportunity that India offers. In the next two to two-and-a-half decades, India will grow eight times, supported by the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. This creates a massive domestic demand and offers the benefits of scale that are being recognised globally.”

Shri Goyal shared that in the last two years alone, at least eight high-level delegations have visited India, signalling the world’s growing interest in forging stronger trade relationships with the country.

The Minister underscored that India’s current tariff protection measures are directed mainly at non-market economies that engage in unfair trade practices. “India is well-positioned to engage in bilateral partnerships with countries that value reciprocity, trust, and fair play,” he stated.

Refuting concerns about external pressure on India’s trade decisions, Shri Goyal said, “There is no pressure. India being in a position of such opportunity is in itself very exciting. While our exports today form a relatively small share of our GDP, our strong domestic market and aspirational youth are ready to take Indian industry global.”

On China, Shri Goyal affirmed, “India will always put its interests first. As of now, there is little FDI from China, and historically too, Chinese investments have been minimal. Our efforts are focused on integrating with developed economies that adhere to honest business practices.” He reiterated that India’s decision not to join the RCEP in 2019 has been vindicated by current global trends.

Speaking on India’s talent base, he noted, “India has a vast pool of STEM graduates, with 43% being women. If undue pressure is exerted, Indian innovators will rise to the occasion with R&D-driven solutions better suited to our needs than what others can offer.”

On the global trading order, Shri Goyal stated, “The world cannot be viewed through a single lens. While developed nations enjoy prosperity, developing and least-developed countries must be given time and support to catch up. The WTO must recognise this and evolve accordingly.”

India remains committed to multilateralism, he added. However, reforms at the WTO are essential. Shri Goyal cited the need to reassess the definition of “developing countries” and called for clarity on e-commerce rules, agriculture decisions, and fisheries negotiations. “Unless those who have caused overfishing are willing to scale down, emerging economies will never get a fair chance,” he noted.

Reiterating India’s support for WTO principles, he said, “India will always work within the WTO framework. Our bilateral agreements, including with the US and EU, operate within its scope.”

On FTAs, Shri Goyal emphasised that while timelines are aspirational, national interest cannot be compromised to meet deadlines. “Every action must be equitable, fair, and mutually beneficial,” he said.

Regarding the EU FTA, the Minister acknowledged progress but pointed out challenges, especially around non-trade issues being linked with climate regulations. “Europe must reconsider the non-tariff barriers it has created. These are becoming trade hurdles not just for India but for the global economy,” he warned.

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Abhishek Dayal/ Nihi Sharma/ Ishita Biswas

(Release ID: 2121070) Visitor Counter : 109

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

​The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) welcomes the High Court’s decision today (April 11) to dismiss the application to substitute the applicant of the judicial review on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report of San Tin Technopole.

The spokesman said that the EPD had been vetting all EIA reports in strict accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance and its Technical Memorandum. The department will continue to strictly implement the statutory EIA process and ensure that the EIA reports fulfil all statutory standards and requirements before approval is given.