NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the reported detention of a journalist covering a protest over alleged financial irregularities in a bank in Guwahati, Assam Issues notice to the Director General of Police, Assam, calling for a detailed report within four weeks
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:51PM by PIB Delhi
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that on 25th March, 2025 in Guwahati, a journalist of a digital news portal was called at Panbazar police and detained after a dharna in front of the Assam Cooperative Apex Bank Ltd, which he had gone to cover. Reportedly, the journalist had questioned the Managing Director of the bank on the alleged financial irregularities, though no reason was cited for his detention.
The Commission has observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise the issue of violation of the journalist’s human rights. Therefore, it has issued a notice to the Director General of Police, Government of Assam, calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks.
According to the media report, carried on 25th March, 2025, the protestors were demanding a high-level inquiry into the alleged financial irregularities in the management of the bank and strict action against those responsible.
Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Patil launches Water Resource Census application and portal at New Delhi https://wrcensus.mowr.gov.in/
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:47PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Patil launched Water Resource Census application and portal at Shram Shakti Bhavan, New Delhi. The Water Resource Census application and portal aids in the following census schemes.
The 7thMinor Irrigation Census
2ndCensus of Water Bodies
1stCensus of Springs
1st Census of Major and Medium Irrigation Projects
A 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme, the reference year will be 2023-24 agricultural year (July 2023- June 2024) under Irrigation Census Scheme.
The main objective of the Water Resource Census is to build a comprehensive and reliable database in the irrigation sector for effective planning and policymaking including water use efficiency, water budgeting etc. The digital application for collection and validation of data significantly enhances data accuracy while reducing the time required for conduct of census.
The key features of the censuses are the following:
Paperless and end to end digital solution:
mobile application for data collection and
web application for management and validation processes
Ground truthing of data received from SAC database during 2nd Census of Water Bodies
Recording Latitude, Longitude and images of all schemes
Pre-population of previous census data (6th MI and 1st Water body Census) using LGD codes in the mobile application during data collection to the extent possible
Use of reverse GIS technology for ensuring accurate recording of Lat/Long of all scheme wherever village boundaries are available
Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Paatil launches Web based Reservoir Storage Monitoring System (RSMS) Portal https://rsms.cwc.gov.in/frameWork/web/public-dashboard
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:45PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Patil launched Web based Reservoir Storage Monitoring System (RSMS) Portal today at New Delhi.Central Water Commission monitors Live Storage Capacity of 161 important reservoirs of country an issues weekly bulletin on every Thursday. The total live storage capacity of these reservoirs at FRL is 182.375 BCM which is about 70.74% of the total live storage capacity estimated to have been created in the country. This Bulletin is sent to PMO, Niti Aayog, MoJS, MOP, MOA&FW, IMD, Disaster Management Authorities and all concerned states as well as uploaded on CWC web site. The storage position is updated every Thursday and Advisories are issued to concerned State Governments in case of (likely) critical situation of storage.
The present system involves manual generation of various Graphs, Charts and Tables etc. for inclusion in the bulletin. However, in the new portal all required data analysis and generating maps, tables, graphs etc. including issuing the final bulletin shall be done automatically by clicking the button(s) once the data is entered in the portal. Also, through this portal, general public can get information about the storage status of any particular reservoir or any state or country as a whole. If required, any person can also download the bulletin from the portal. Today i.e. 3.4.2025, first bulletin of Financial Year 2025-26 has been issued with the launch of Web based Reservoir Storage Monitoring System (RSMS) Portal by Union Minister of Jal Shakti.
Live storage status of reservoirs is a very important input for the decision makers in order to priorities the requirements of water in terms of its domestic, agriculture, power, navigation and recreations uses. It indicates the level of water security in the country. It also helps respective authorities to plan various agricultural activities across the country.
Water is a critical resource that underpins not only our daily lives but also the economic and social well-being of our communities. Agriculture is a primary source of income and livelihood for a substantial portion of India’s population, particularly in rural areas. Reservoirs are crucial for irrigation as they store water during wet periods, enabling its regulated release for agricultural use during drier seasons, ensuring a reliable water supply for crops and mitigating the impacts of water scarcity. They also provide a safeguard during the dry season and help us mitigate the impacts of extreme weather patterns, which are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.
Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Patil launches a new website of the Department of Water Resources, RD &GR based on DBIM Framework https://www.jalshakti-dowr.gov.in/
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:43PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Patil launched a new website of Ministry of Jal Shakti (Department of Water Resources, RD & GR) in Digital Brand Identity Manual (DBIM) format with objective to align to cohesive digital ecosystem across all Ministries/Department today at Shram Shakti Bhavan, New Delhi.
The upgraded website is among the first few government platforms to be successfully onboarded& revamped in full compliance with the latest DBIM and Guidelines for Indian Government Websites (GIGW) 3.0.
Aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of a harmonized and unified digital identity for Government of India, the Key Features of the New Website are :
1. Consistency Across Government Websites: The DBIM framework ensures a unified look and feel across all government websites. This consistency not only strengthens the government’s digital identity but also helps in promoting trust and recognition among citizens.
2. Uniform User Experience: The new website is designed to provide a uniform user experience across all central government portals. Citizens will now find it easier to navigate and access information across different departments, thanks to standardized menus, layouts, and features.
3. Enhanced Accessibility: The website complies with the latest Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) of STQC, making it accessible to all citizens, including those with disabilities.
4. Optimized for Speed and Performance: Leveraging the DBIM framework’s optimized coding structure, the website offers faster load times and improved performance, ensuring a seamless experience even on low bandwidth connections. This is particularly beneficial for users in rural and remote areas.
5. Centralized Banner Publishing System: One of the standout features of the DBIM framework is the centralized banner publishing system integrated with My Gov. This system allows us to publish important government announcements, public service messages, and critical information directly across all government websites. This centralized approach ensures that citizens receive the latest updates promptly, improving communication and outreach.
6. Mobile-Friendly Design: The responsive design ensures that the website functions smoothly across all devices, including smart phones, tablets, and desktops. This flexibility enhances the overall user experience, especially for citizens who predominantly use mobile devices to access online services.
7. Centralized Content Management: The framework includes a centralized content management system (CMS) that allows for efficient updates and maintenance across various government portals. This reduces the time and effort required for website management and ensures up-to-date information is available to the public.
8. Improved Security Features: The DBIM framework is built with robust security protocols, including SSL encryption, secure authentication, and regular vulnerability assessments. This ensures that citizen data remains safe and secure, in line with the government’s data protection policies.
The upgraded portal now features a unified interface, consistent branding, and technology standardization, making Department of Water Resources, RD & GR an exemplar of digital excellence and accessibility.
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi thanked the Prime Minister of Thailand H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra for giving a copy of the Tipitaka in Pali, hailing it as a beautiful language, carrying within it the essence of Lord Buddha’s teachings.
In a post on X, he wrote:
“A very special gesture!
I am grateful to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for giving me a copy of the Tipitaka in Pali. Pali is indeed a beautiful language, carrying within it the essence of Lord Buddha’s teachings. As you are all aware, our Government had conferred the status of Classical Language on Pali last year. People from all over the world have appreciated this decision and it has also encouraged research as well as study on this language.
@ingshin”
A very special gesture!
I am grateful to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for giving me a copy of the Tipitaka in Pali. Pali is indeed a beautiful language, carrying within it the essence of Lord Buddha’s teachings. As you are all aware, our Government had conferred the… pic.twitter.com/FDTx4yfmDd
The Government has prepared plans across key sectors namely Industry, Buildings (including appliances), Transport and Others/Miscellaneous. By implementing these plans, it is aimed to reduce the energy consumption by 89 Million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe) in 2030 as compared to the scenario in which these interventions are not carried out.
Sustainable cooling acts as a tool to address the growing cooling demand. To balance the growing cooling demand while ensuring the sustainable and energy efficient cooling solutions, two new building codes: the Energy Conservation and Sustainable Building Code (ECSBC) for commercial buildings and the Eco Niwas Samhita (ENS) for residential buildings have been published by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) for adoption by States. The Air-conditioners, Ceiling Fans and Refrigerators have been brought under mandatory compliance of Standard and Labelling programme to ensure that energy efficient devices are deployed for cooling purposes.
Additionally, with the overarching goal to address the rising cooling demand, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) launched India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP).
Bureau of Energy Efficiency, under the aegis of Ministry of Power has taken several initiatives to promote the energy efficiency in industry, transport and domestic sectors which includes;
Perform, Achieve and Trade scheme to improve energy efficiency in energy-intensive industries. It sets sector-specific energy reduction targets, allowing industries to earn Energy Saving Certificates for exceeding targets, which can be traded on power exchanges. This incentivizes cost-effective energy savings while providing flexibility in compliance.
Under the Standards and Labelling programme, the major energy consuming appliances are given star rating from 1 to 5 with 5 star as most efficient appliance. Based on star label, the consumer is encouraged for making informed choice regarding purchase of energy efficient appliances thereby saving electricity consumption.
The Energy Conservation and Sustainable Building Code (ECSBC) for commercial buildings and the Eco Niwas Samhita (ENS) for residential buildings have been published for energy savings in building sector. These codes are to be adopted and implemented by the States / local bodies.
Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency norms for passenger cars for energy savings in transport sector.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Power, Shri Shripad Naik in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.
The Union Cabinet approved the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) on 6th September 2023, to support the development of BESS. As per the Scheme, VGF support will be provided for BESS approved during 2023-26. The fund disbursement will occur in 5 tranches: 10% upon financial closure of the project, 45% upon achieving the Commercial Operation Date (COD), and 15% per year over the next 3 years from COD.With the decline in battery prices, the scheme capacity has been increased from 4000 MWh to 13,200 MWh while staying within the approved budgetary allocationof Rs 3,760 Cr.
A budgetary provision of ₹96 Crore was made for 1000 MWh BESS in 2024-25, assuming 10% disbursement upon financial closure. However, with falling BESS costs, the VGF amount reduced from ₹96 lakh per MWh (estimated in 2023-24) to ₹46 lakh per MWh or 30% of capital cost, whichever is lower. As a result, the budgetary allocation was revised from ₹96 Crore to ₹46 Crore. As per scheme guidelines, 10% of VGF is to be disbursed after financial closure. Since, none of the projects could achieve financial closure, no expenditure was incurred under the scheme during 2024-25.
Central Electricity Authority (CEA) is responsible for monitoring the scheme, while the Ministry of Power oversees the scheme, to ensure timely completion and efficient fund utilisation.
The National Electricity Plan 2023 estimates that 236 GWh BESS would be required by 2031-32. This scheme will support integration of renewable energy and help minimize costs during peak demand periods in non-solar hours.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Power, Shri Shripad Naik in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.
Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament Concludes With Engaging Deliberations on One Nation, One Election Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Confers National Youth Awards (2021-22 & 2022-23) and Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament Awards 2025
Today’s youth will become the leaders of tomorrow, turning their resolutions into future accomplishments – Dr. Mandaviya
Young Participants Witness Legislative Process First-hand at New Parliament
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 8:55PM by PIB Delhi
The second day of the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament commenced with an enriching visit to the new Parliament building, where participants had the unique opportunity to witness live legislative proceedings. This first-hand experience provided the young delegates with deep insights into the parliamentary process, fostering a greater understanding of democratic governance. The participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to observe lawmakers engage in discussions and debates in real time.
Further, the key agenda for the day at the Youth Parliament was to discuss on the motion to refer the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) Bill to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). Following an engaging discussion, the Speaker of the House called for a vote. The motion passed with a landslide majority, endorsing the referral of the ONOE Bill to the Joint Parliamentary Committee. The jury for this round comprised of the members of Lok Sabha, Shri. Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, Shri Hemang Joshi and Smt. Bansuri Swaraj. The session facilitated a constructive exchange of perspectives, equipping the youth with a nuanced understanding of electoral reforms.
A significant highlight of the day’s proceedings was the conferment of the National Youth Awards for the years 2021-22 and 2022-23 by Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the invaluable contributions of young individuals whose vision and dedication set them apart. He emphasized that these awardees have always prioritized the nation’s welfare, spoken about social service, and inspired hope through their actions. Honouring such youth, he stated, is a moment of pride for the platform.
Looking towards the future, he expressed confidence that by the time India celebrates 100 years of independence in 2047, today’s youth will be at the helm of the nation. He remarked that the participants of today would become the leaders of tomorrow, turning their present-day resolutions into future accomplishments. He envisioned that India, which is currently developing, will emerge as a fully developed nation by 2047, and asserted that even destiny would soon acknowledge this inevitable transformation.
Total 24 National Youth Awards were given in individual and organisations categories. Total 11 awards were given for NYA 2021-22 in individual category. Total 13 awards were given for NYA 2022-23 which includes 12 awards in individual category and 1 award in Organization category. The award comprises of a medal, a certificate and a cash prize of Rs 1,00,000/- to individual and a medal, a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 3,00,000/- to organization.
The recipients of the National Youth Awards are as follows:
Additionally, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya conferred Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament Awards 2025 upon exceptional participants who demonstrated remarkable leadership and articulation during the event.
In his closing address at the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya expressed his gratitude to all participants for their active engagement in discussions, debates, question hours, and resolutions over the past two days. He acknowledged the immense contribution of the 75,000 youth from 300 districts, out of which the 105 best young parliamentarians were selected. He praised the discipline and decorum maintained throughout the event, which reflected the participants’ high standards of conduct.
Union Minister highlighted that the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament was launched under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, aiming to nurture the future leaders of the nation. He expressed hope that today’s Youth Parliamentarians would evolve into the leaders of tomorrow.
The recipients of Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament Awards are as follows:
Best Opening Speaker Award (Dhirendra Singh, Uttar Pradesh) – Given to the most impactful and articulate speaker who sets the tone for discussions with clarity, confidence, and depth.
Best Question (Harshita Sharma, Rajasthan) – Awarded for the most insightful and thought-provoking question raised during the session.
Best Reply (Laasya Priya, Andhra Pradesh) – Given to the participant who provides the most well-structured and convincing response.
Best Speaker (Riya Gupta, Jharkhand) – Short Discussion
Smt. Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, congratulated the participants and acknowledged their invaluable contributions to nation-building. She emphasized the role of youth in shaping India’s future and urged them to continue their journey of service and innovation.
Smt. Meeta Rajivlochan, Secretary Department of Youth Affairs delivered the opening remarks for the National Youth Awards, highlighting the exceptional contributions of young individuals towards nation-building and community development
The Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament continues to provide a platform for the nation’s youth to engage in policy dialogues, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the vision of a developed India by 2047. The program aligns with the Government of India’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering informed civic participation.
Union Commerce & Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal Calls for Investments in Emerging Technologies to Propel ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ Vision Shri Piyush Goyal inaugurates Startup Mahakumbh
Shri Piyush Goyal Urges Indian Investors to Strengthen Startup Ecosystem with More Domestic Capital
We need to handhold start-ups that are struggling to succeed: Shri Goyal
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 8:30PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, highlighted the need for investments in emerging technologies such as robotics, automation, machine learning, 3D manufacturing, and next-generation factories at the inaugural ceremony of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh in Delhi today. Shri Goyal, said these innovations are essential for realizing the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ and establishing India as a global leader in industry and innovation.
India’s position as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, attributing this achievement to the country’s dynamic entrepreneurial spirit and technological advancements. Speaking at the event which will run from April 3-5. He also underscored the evolving role of startups in driving India’s economic and technological growth.
Encouraging Indian investors to support the domestic startup ecosystem, Shri Goyal reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. He assured that the government will handhold and support those who face challenges in their startup journey, encouraging them to persevere and try again. He also stressed the need for increasing domestic capital investments, stating that a strong foundation of indigenous investment is crucial to reducing dependency on foreign capital and ensuring long-term economic resilience.
Shri Goyal emphasised the need to attract more domestic investors to strengthen India’s capital base and ensure self-reliance. He expressed confidence that with collective efforts, India’s startup ecosystem will continue to thrive and significantly contribute to the nation’s prosperity. He urged domestic investors to invest in the cuntry startups
Shri Goyal lauded the organizing committee, sponsors, and participants for their contributions and efforts in making the event a grand success. He commended the growth of the Startup Mahakumbh since its inception, calling it a reflection of India’s changing mindset and expanding innovation ecosystem.
Highlighting India’s economic trajectory, Shri Goyal noted that the country, currently the world’s fifth-largest GDP, is on track to become the fourth-largest by the end of 2025 and the third-largest by 2027, surpassing Japan and Germany. He credited this growth to India’s robust startup ecosystem, rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing, and deep-tech innovations.
Shri Goyal expressed his aspiration to make the next Startup Mahakumbh even bigger, targeting participation from all 770 districts of India. He proposed launching a nationwide competition to identify young innovators from colleges and incubators, ensuring widespread representation and participation in future editions.
India calls on BRICS to Unite on ‘Baku to Belem Roadmap’ to Mobilize USD 1.3 Trillion for Achieving NDC Goals, at the 11th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting in Brasilia India emphasizes on Collaborative Climate Action among BRICS Nations for Strengthening Global Sustainability and Just Transition for All
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 8:16PM by PIB Delhi
India has vociferously advocated the need for a Collective Leadership for advancing the 2030 Climate Agenda at the 11th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting, held in Brasilia, Brazil, today. The Indian delegation was led by Sh. Amandeep Garg, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Session I: Advancing Environmental Cooperation amongst BRICS towards Sustainable Development and a Just Transition for All
During the first session, India underscored BRICS’ pivotal role in shaping global sustainability and Climate action. Highlighting that BRICS nations collectively account for 47% of the world’s population and contribute 36% of global GDP (PPP), India emphasized the group’s responsibility in addressing climate change and sustainable development.
India reaffirmed the significance of the New Delhi Statement from the 7th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting 2021, which advocates a holistic approach to climate action by integrating adaptation, mitigation, and means of implementation. Stressing the urgent need for equitable carbon budget utilization, India called for a balanced transition that prioritizes developing nations’ growth while ensuring sustainability.
A key focus was the Baku to Belem Roadmap, aimed at securing USD 1.3 trillion in climate finance to support Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). India urged BRICS partners to strengthen climate financing mechanisms to meet global sustainability commitments effectively.
On energy security, India reiterated commitments made in the BRICS New Delhi Declaration (2021), which promotes a diversified energy mix, including fossil fuels, hydrogen, nuclear, and renewables. India highlighted the Green Grids Initiative – One Sun, One World, One Grid, launched under the International Solar Alliance, as a transformative project for global renewable energy integration.
India also emphasized the role of resource efficiency and the circular economy in achieving sustainability goals. The Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition, launched under G20, was cited as a model for global corporate collaboration in sustainable resource management.
“A Just Transition must acknowledge the diverse economic realities of nations. Each country has a unique development pathway, and the provision of adequate means of implementation—in finance, technology, and capacity-building—is essential to ensuring that no nation or community is left behind in this transition. As BRICS nations, we must strengthen our engagements in multilateral forums, championing the interests of developing economies and advocating for a fair and equitable transition”, India’s statement read.
Session II: Collective Leadership for Climate and the 2030 Agenda
In the second session, India highlighted that the expansion of BRICS from five to eleven members strengthens its leadership in global climate governance. With BRICS nations facing common environmental challenges such as desertification, pollution and biodiversity loss, India stressed the importance of collective action and shared responsibility.
Emphasizing the need for fair and equitable climate transition, India stressed for continued collaboration amongst BRICS Nations at multilateral forums such as UNFCCC, UNCCD, CBD, and UNEA. The country reiterated the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC) as a fundamental guideline for climate negotiations.
India also acknowledged BRICS’ leadership in sustainability through flagship initiatives, including the Partnership for Urban Environmental Sustainability, the Clean Rivers Programme, and Sustainable Urban Management. The country called for enhanced cooperation in tackling marine plastic pollution, improving air quality, and printing resource efficiency.
On Climate Finance, India highlighted the urgent need for developed nations to fulfill their commitments, noting that the proposed USD 300 billion per year by 2035 under the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance is far below the required USD 1.3 trillion. India emphasized the importance of COP30, to be hosted in Brazil, as a critical milestone for advancing global adaptation and resilience efforts.
India also reiterated its leadership in conservation and sustainability, mentioning initiatives such as the International Big Cat Alliance, a global effort for wildlife conservation. Furthermore, India urged BRICS nations to join global sustainability initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, Leadership Group for Industry Transition, and Global Biofuel Alliance to accelerate collective climate action.
India reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with BRICS partners to drive transformative change in climate action, environmental cooperation, and sustainable development. The Indian delegation expressed gratitude to Brazil, the BRICS Chair, for hosting the meeting and emphasized the importance of continued engagement for a greener, more resilient future.