Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi  has expressed his happiness on receiving a heartwarming welcome from the vibrant Indian diaspora in Kuwait. Prime Minister Shri  Modi remarked that their energy, love and unwavering connection to India are truly inspiring.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has also expressed his happiness in meeting Shri Mangal Sain Handa Ji in Kuwait this afternoon.

In a post on X, he wrote:

“Received a heartwarming welcome from the vibrant Indian diaspora in Kuwait.

Their energy, love and unwavering connection to India are truly inspiring. Grateful for their enthusiasm and proud of their contributions to strengthening ties between our nations.”

Today, I am embarking on a two-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait.

We deeply value the historical connection with Kuwait that has been nurtured over generations. We are not just strong trade and energy partners, but also have shared interest in peace, security, stability and prosperity in the West Asia region.

I look forward to my meetings with His Highness the Amir, the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister of Kuwait. It would be an opportunity to chalk out a roadmap for a futuristic partnership for the benefit of our people and the region.

I eagerly look forward to meeting the Indian diaspora in Kuwait who have immensely contributed to strengthening of bonds of friendship between the two nations.

​I express my gratitude to the leadership of Kuwait for the special gesture of inviting me to the inauguration ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup, a premier sporting event in the Gulf region. I look forward to being a part of this celebration of athletic excellence and regional unity.

I am confident that this visit will further strengthen and reinforce the special ties and bonds of friendship between the people of India and Kuwait.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi  has invited everyone to Rann Utsav, which will go on till March 2025.  Prime Minister Shri Modi underscored that the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience.

In a post on X, he wrote:

“Kutch awaits you all!

Come, discover the pristine White Rann, the spectacular culture and warm hospitality of Kutch during the ongoing Rann Utsav.

The festival, which goes on till March 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience for you and your family.”

“कच्छ की परंपरा, संस्कृति और विरासत का प्रतीक रण उत्सव हर किसी का मन मोह लेने वाला है। अद्भुत क्राफ्ट बाजार हो, सांस्कृतिक कार्यक्रम या फिर खान-पान की परंपरा, यहां का आपका हर अनुभव अविस्मरणीय बन जाएगा। आप सभी से मेरा आग्रह है कि एक बार अपने परिवार के साथ इस रण उत्सव में जरूर आएं।”

• The present assessment also reveals that 19 states/UTs have above 33 percent of the geographical area under forest cover. Out of these, eight states/UTs namely Mizoram, Lakshadweep, A & N Island, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur have forest cover above 75 percent.

● The total mangrove cover is 4,992 sq km in the country.

• The total growing stock of India’s forest and trees outside forests is estimated as 6430 million cum, of which 4479 million cum is inside the forests and 1951 million cum outside the forest area. There is an increase of 262 million cum of total growing stock as compared to the previous assessment which includes an increase of 91 million cum inside the forest and 171 million cum outside the forest area.
• The extent of bamboo bearing area for the country has been estimated as 1,54,670sq km. As compared to the last assessment done in 2021 there is an increase of 5,227 sq km in bamboo area.
• The total annual potential production of timber from trees outside forest has been estimated as 91.51 million cum.
• In the present assessment total carbon stock in country’s forest is estimated to be 7,285.5 million tonnes. There is an increase of 81.5 million tonnes in the carbon stock of country as compared to the last assessment.
• Regarding status on achievement of target under NDC related to carbon sequestration, the current assessment shows that India’s carbon stock has reached 30.43 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent; which indicates that as compared to the base year of 2005, India has already reached 2.29 billion tonnes of additional carbon sink as against the target of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes by 2030.

Besides providing vital information for monitoring the country’s forest and tree resources, the data given in the ISFR serves as a useful source of information for the policy makers, planners, State Forest Departments, research organisation, line agencies involved in various developmental works, academicians, civil society and others interested in natural resource conservation and management.

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today expressed grief over the accident on Jaipur-Ajmer highway in Rajasthan. Shri Modi also announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased in the mishap, while the injured would be given Rs. 50,000.

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) posted on X:

“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the accident on Jaipur-Ajmer highway in Rajasthan. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi“

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attended the 61^st Raising Day function of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at Siliguri in West Bengal. Union Home Minister also E-inaugurated Integrated Check Point (ICP) Agartala and newly constructed residential complex of BGF at Petrapole. On this occasion, Director (IB), Secretary, Border Management, MHA, DG, SSB and several others dignitaries were present.

At the beginning of his address, Union Home Minister paid tributes to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in protecting the country’s borders and eliminating Left Wing Extremism from the eastern region. Home Minister told the families of the martyrs that the sacrifice of their brave sons has given the country a new life, energy and enthusiasm and the entire country is proud of them. Shri Shah said that in 61 years, SSB has received 4 Padma Shri, 1 Kirti Chakra, 6 Shaurya Chakra, 2 President’s Gallantry Medals, 25 Police Gallantry Medals and 35 Gallantry Medals. He said that these national level honours received by SSB show how determined the SSB jawans are to discharge their duties.

Shri Amit Shah said that the Sashastra Seema Bal has done a unique job of connecting the culture, language and rich heritage of the border villages of India with the mainstream of the country. He said that the SSB has fulfilled the motto of “Service, Security and Brotherhood” through its duties. He said that SSB has carried forward the traditions of trust, heritage and friendship with Nepal and Bhutan.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee had adopted the policy of one border, one force, after which SSB was given the responsibility of vigilance and security of the border with Nepal and Bhutan. He said that since its foundation in 1963, SSB has generated a great sense of patriotism and attachment with India in the border villages. Shri Shah said that the countrymen are assured of their safety because SSB jawans are standing guard at the 2450-kilometre-long Indian border with Nepal and Bhutan.

Shri Amit Shah said that in its glorious history of 61 years, SSB has personified the slogan of Service, Security and Brotherhood and spirit of service to the nation, devotion and nation first. Shri Shah said that the SSB jawans have very proactively stopped the narcotics smuggling, human trafficking, arms smuggling and infiltration of anti-national elements at the border. He said that SSB has played an important role in making the entire eastern region Naxal-free in coordination with CRPF and local police force.

Union Home Minister said that the SSB has played a pivotal role in making Bihar and Jharkhand Naxal-free after almost four decades. He said that the Siliguri Corridor is a very important area of ​​​​eastern India and the deployment of SSB here is a reason for reassurance and confidence for the whole nation. He said that due to vigilance of the SSB, we have been successful in creating an environment of trust in the eastern region.

Shri Amit Shah said that while respecting the dignity of the friendly relations between India and Nepal, the removal of more than 1100 encroachments in No Man’s Land by the SSB is a great achievement. Shri Shah said that SSB has adopted a zero-tolerance policy in last 3 years against encroachment on government land within 15 km of the border. He said that SSB has been successful in freeing thousands of acres of government land from encroachment.

Shri Amit Shah said that SSB is continuously working to remove encroachment from government land, stopping smuggling of narcotics, weapons, wildlife, forest products and counterfeit currency with a zero-tolerance policy. He said that SSB has seized more than 4,000 smugglers, more than 16000 kg of narcotics, 208 weapons and a huge amount of ammunition. He said that SSB has arrested 183 human traffickers and rescued 301 victims, including 231 girls. Shri Shah said that SSB has definitely played a huge role in protecting the dignity of women.

Shri Amit Shah said that SSB has performed its duty with full alertness even in terrorism-affected Jammu and Kashmir. He said that deployment of SSB in Jammu and Kashmir has given a big boost to all the security forces. Home Minister said that in Jammu and Kashmir, SSB jawans killed more than 19 terrorists and arrested 14 terrorists in different operations. He also said that SSB has arrested more than 600 Maoists in the last 7 years, killed more than 15 Maoists and 28 Maoists surrendered due to SSB’s crackdown.

Union Home Minister said that SSB’s duties are not limited to security but the force has also joined various relief operations and helped people with full readiness during disasters. He said that be it flood or landslide, these jawans have carried out relief operations in affected areas without caring for their lives and have stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of the country. Shri Shah said that the selfless service and determination of SSB jawans has saved the lives of millions of people and it has created a good feeling towards SSB in the hearts of the people of the country.

Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central Government has been making the lives of CAPF personnel easier with schemes like Ayushman Card, Barracks, CAPF e-Housing and Scholarships. He said that in the last 10 years, the Modi government has made more than 41 lakh Ayushman cards for the welfare of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), through which Rs 1600 crore has been paid. Along with this, 13,000 houses, 113 barracks and e-Awas portal have been created through which thousands of houses have been allotted. He said that so far 6 lakh 31 thousand 346 force personnel have got the benefit of CAPF e-housing portal.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that in the sporting arena as well, SSB has performed brilliantly in national and international competitions and won 72 medals for the country. He said that the trained personnel of SSB have prepared the youth of border areas for self-employment by giving them training in many areas like beekeeping, computer, mobile repairing and driving. Along with this, under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, SSB has also made a huge contribution in making about 36000 youth aware about the menace of drug addiction. Home Minister said that SSB has taken forward the tree plantation campaign of CAPFs and our CAPF jawans have served Mother Earth by planting more than 6 crore trees till 15 November 2024.

“Green Sustainability” is no longer a distant ideal or an optional endeavor—it has become an urgent necessity, a singular path forward in the face of global challenges, emphasized the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh.

The pressing realities of climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation demand immediate, actionable commitment. Governments, industries, and individuals alike must pivot towards sustainable practices, embracing innovation and responsibility to ensure a livable planet for future generations, said the Minister. This shift is not merely a choice but an imperative for survival and progress in an interconnected world, he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh was addressing the Green Sarathi Summit organized by the Indian Express group.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that public participation has the power to influence policy direction, citing the collective response during the COVID-19 pandemic as an example. He pointed out that when citizens take ownership of sustainability efforts, it creates pressure for systemic change, making policies more inclusive and effective. He urged all stakeholders—government, civil society, academia, and industry—to collaborate in fostering solutions that are not only innovative but also widely accepted by communities.

The Minister, who is a medical doctor and diabetologist, brought a unique perspective by linking sustainability to public health. He pointed out the alarming rise of health issues like diabetes due to environmental degradation. Explaining the connection, he said the destruction of carbon-absorbing ecosystems, increasing pollution levels, and the prevalence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as pesticides, are adversely impacting insulin production and its action in the human body. He stressed the importance of preserving biodiversity and reducing pollution, not just as an environmental imperative but also as a health necessity for India’s growing population.

Dr. Jitendra Singh elaborated on the government’s initiatives to combat climate change and promote sustainable practices. He highlighted the “Mission LiFE” initiative, which encourages individuals to adopt environmentally conscious lifestyles. He also discussed the Green Credits Program, which incentivizes eco-friendly actions by rewarding efforts that contribute to sustainability. National missions on climate change and strategic knowledge for climate resilience were also presented as key components of the government’s comprehensive framework to address environmental challenges.

The Minister spoke at length about the role of technology in managing climate change. He stressed the importance of digital public infrastructure, such as sector-specific solutions like a Climate Stack, which can provide accurate and real-time data for climate management. Additionally, he emphasized the necessity of accurate weather forecasting systems, particularly in the context of India’s vulnerability to extreme climate events, such as cyclones and urban flooding. These tools, he said, are crucial for disaster preparedness and resilience.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also drew attention to the pioneering work being undertaken by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Earth Sciences. He praised efforts to integrate science and technology into sustainability debates, such as developing early warning systems and sensor-based alerts to mitigate disaster risks. At the recent COP29 summit in Baku, India demonstrated its commitment to integrating disaster-resilient infrastructure into adaptation strategies, setting an example for global climate leadership.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Jitendra Singh outlined the immediate and medium-term priorities for the government in achieving sustainability goals. He emphasized the need to foster adaptation and resilience, advance scientific research, and build robust partnerships with private sector stakeholders. He urged the industry to step forward with innovative ideas and investments to complement government initiatives, stating, “Sustainability is not a goal that can be achieved in isolation. It requires the collective efforts of every sector, every individual, and every institution.”

The Summit brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academicians, and environmental advocates for an in-depth discussion on sustainability as a cornerstone of India’s development strategy. Dr. Jitendra Singh’s address reflected the government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable future through public participation, scientific innovation, and a collaborative approach.

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi attended the Christmas celebrations at the residence of Union Minister Shri George Kurian today and interacted with eminent members of the Christian community.

In a post on X, Shri Modi stated:

“Attended the Christmas celebrations at the residence of Union Minister Shri George Kurian Ji. Also interacted with eminent members of the Christian community.

@GeorgekurianBjp”

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke today with His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom.

Recalling the historic relations between the two countries, they both reaffirmed commitment to further strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UK.

They exchanged views on Commonwealth of Nations and the recently concluded Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa.

Discussions were also held on a number of subjects of mutual interest, including Climate Action and sustainability. Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for His Majesty’s sustained advocacy and initiatives on these issues and briefed him on the multiple initiatives undertaken by India.

They both exchanged greetings on the upcoming festive occasions of Christmas and the New Year.

Prime Minister conveyed his best wishes to the King for his good health and well being.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has called upon the scientists and engineers to gain command over high-end technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence & Quantum Computing, in tune with the changing times, with the aim to further strengthen India’s position in the field of advance, frontier & cutting-edge innovation. He was addressing the inaugural session of Indian National Academy of Engineering’s Annual Convention at IIT Delhi on December 19, 2024.

Raksha Mantri emphasised that these niche technologies are going to impact almost every sector in a big way in the coming times. “Right now, we are in the initial phase. Our aim should be to first gain command over these technologies, so that in the future, they can be used for the welfare of the people to fulfil their immediate basic needs,” he added.

Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that the world is continuously evolving, and the defence sector cannot remain untouched by this change. He stated that earlier, due to some reasons, India was left behind in terms of modern weapons and technology, but ever since the Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has come to power, the country has moved towards self-reliance in defence at an unprecedented pace.

“Modern warfare is changing rapidly, therefore there is a need to adopt high-end technology. Towards this, we have brought out schemes like Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) and Technology Development Fund (TDF) to bring out the talent of the youth, through which their as well as the nation’s dreams can come true,” said Raksha Mantri.

Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that India is passing through a defining moment as it is exporting even those weapons which it once imported. He credited this revolutionary transformation to the collective efforts of the public & private sectors, academia, and engineers & innovators, exuding confidence that the country will soon achieve a formidable technical edge in the global arena.

While Raksha Mantri lauded the role of IITs in the scientific development of the country in collaboration with DRDO, he called for establishing an even better organic relationship among the industry, research & development organisations and academia. “In developed countries, academic campuses play an important role in progressing frontier technologies. There is a need to explore ways on how to co-opt IIT Delhi and similar institutions of higher scientific learning & excellence with the government’s development campaign,” he added.

“India is the youngest country at present. Our youth have the passion and the ability to innovate. Our government stands with them at every step. We encourage their innovation and provide them funds as per their needs. Today, India has become a hub of innovation and start-ups, due to which we are continuously gaining technological prowess. We will always stand with our engineers and innovators. With our combined efforts, we will realise our dream of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’,” said Shri Rajnath Singh.

Raksha Mantri commended Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) for playing a crucial role in making India self-reliant. By focusing on innovation, collaboration and modernisation, this institute has started a technological revolution in India, he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh also urged the engineers and innovators to never forget the country’s heritage as they make headway in new & disruptive technologies. He stated that there is no harm in adopting the western model as per the needs, but staying connected with the heritage would help in paving the way ahead. “Illuminate the path of your future with the light of your history. Build the tallest building of your future by making your past as a base,” he said.

On the occasion, Raksha Mantri also visited the exhibition put up by defence industries, wherein technologies and products developed by Defence-Industry-Academia co-operation were showcased. He also appreciated the poster session, presented by the Masters students and PhD Research Scholars of IIT Delhi.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat; INAE President Prof Indranil Manna; Director, IIT Delhi Prof Rangan Banerjee; Chairman & MD, Larsen & Toubro Ltd Shri SN Subrahmanyan; Delegates from Department of Science and Technology, Anusandhan National Research Foundation; DRDO and industry representatives were present on the occasion.

The three-day convention is being attended by about 400 engineers and technologists, comprising of INAE Fellows from the academia, industry, R&D organisations and Strategic Sectors; INAE Young Associates; Faculty, Post Graduate Students and Research Scholars of IIT Delhi and other professional associated with the engineering  domain. It provides a golden opportunity for networking amongst Fellows and Young Associates. Panel Discussions and Plenary Talk by eminent personalities are conducted on topics of interest for all delegates and participants.

INAE is an autonomous professional body partly supported by grant-in-aid from the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. The Academy undertakes meaningful technical activities each year, which have enhanced its visibility in the national engineering domain. INAE is enriched in its functioning through the leadership provided by iconic personalities in engineering and technology as its Presidents including Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. It, presently, has 1,004 Indian Fellows and 107 Foreign Fellows on its rolls identified in 10 Engineering Sections covering the entire gamut of engineering disciplines.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received a telephone call from H.E. Mr Dick Schoof, Prime Minister of the Netherlands.

Both leaders underscored the trusted & valued partnership between India and the Netherlands that are based on shared values and belief in democracy and rule of law.

They discussed ways to further deepen the existing cooperation in the sectors of water, agriculture, health. Both agreed to elevate the bilateral partnership and provide it a strategic dimension in diverse sectors including trade, defence, security, innovation, green hydrogen and semiconductors.  Both emphasized on building the close people to people ties and exchanges in the field of education and culture.

The two leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments and reiterated commitment to work for promoting peace, security cooperation and stability.

The two leaders agreed to remain in touch.

The Union Ministry of Rural Development today organised a “Brainstorming” session on further strengthening of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) under the chairmanship of Union Minister of Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Union Minister Shri Chauhan held direct discussions with MNREGA workers, representatives and officials of social organizations, commissioners and other officials of about 20 states, officials of districts, blocks and gram panchayats. Ministers of State Shri Kamlesh Paswan and Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani, Secretary  Rural Development Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh, Additional Secretary Shri T.K. Anil Kumar, Joint Secretary Ms. Rohini R. Bhajibhakare and other senior officials of the Ministry and other stakeholders from various States/Union Territories and civil society organizations participated in this brain storming session.

The representatives gave important suggestions regarding the ambitious scheme of the Central Government. Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan said that MNREGA is a very important scheme for our brothers and sisters; to improve the standard of living further, suggestions are being taken by communicating with the concerned people.

Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated in the discussion session that MNREGA is not just a scheme but an important means of stability and empowerment in the lives of millions of people in rural India. During the time of Covid, MNREGA became a boon for the poor with the measures taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Due to the closure of factories, lakhs of people got livelihood through MNREGA. The central government gives a huge amount of money to MNREGA, which should be utilized properly. The objectives for which this scheme is made should be fulfilled. Shri Chouhan added that when we make any plan, we do not just sit with the officials but we work by communicating with all the concerned people so that it is as effective as possible. Even while being the Chief Minister in Madhya Pradesh, schemes for farmers, women and other sections were made by discussing with them and taking suggestions. Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that effective plans can be made by talking to the concerned people working on the ground. Unless we discuss with them, we will not get the right feedback. Those working and monitoring can tell us better where the problems are at the ground level and what can be done better.

Union Minister Shri Chouhan added that MNREGA is a big scheme which benefits the beneficiaries. It has also been improved through technology, a lot of good work has been done, but still some complaints come up, which need to be resolved. This opportunity gives us an opportunity to strengthen our resolve for the development of rural India. This discussion is a meaningful initiative towards empowering our rural India and improving this scheme. Today’s discussion is an opportunity to give new suggestions and set a direction to make this scheme more effective. During the session, various issues related to timely payment of wages, bottom-up planning, rights and entitlements under the scheme, use of technology, job card related issues, quality and monitoring of works and grievance redressal mechanism etc. were discussed. Union Minister Shri Chouhan concluded the session by expressing gratitude to all stakeholders for their valuable contribution. He said that the suggestions received during the discussion would be useful in further improving MNREGA. The brainstorming session is part of the Ministry’s larger efforts to align rural development schemes with the vision of a developed India by 2047, i.e. Amritkaal, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

The session was attended by officials and representatives from states like Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Odisha, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Meghalaya, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, along with labourers, farmers and many NGOs etc.

MNREGA provides employment to crores of workers – Through MNREGA, in this financial year so far, more than 6.7 crore workers from about 5 crore families across the country have been provided employment. More than half of the beneficiaries of MNREGA employment are women, which is an important step in the field of women empowerment. Along with women, MNREGA has encouraged inclusive growth by benefiting the marginalized sections of the society such as Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes, which is vital for the all round development of our country.

Construction of permanent rural infrastructure – Under MNREGA, not only employment has been provided, but permanent rural infrastructure has also been constructed. Under this, various durable and productive assets related to infrastructure, social development and agricultural initiatives have been constructed for poor families and communities, thereby accelerating poverty alleviation, social inclusion and rural development. 9.39 crore assets have been constructed under MNREGA and in the current year, 63.4 lakh various durable and productive assets have been constructed.