My dear countrymen, Namaskar. All my family members are welcome once again in Mann Ki Baat.

Today, once again, we will touch upon the accomplishments of the Country and the collective efforts of the country men. A lot is happening in Bharat of the 21^st century that is strengthening the foundation of a developed Bharat. For instance, on the 23^rd of August, the countrymen celebrated the first National Space Day. I do believe that all of you must have celebrated this Day; once again celebrating the success of Chandrayan-3. Last year, on this day, Chandrayan -3 had made a successful landing on the southern part of the moon at the Shiv-Shakti point. India became the first nation of the world to achieve this pride filled accomplishment.

Friends, the youth of the Nation has also benefitted a lot by the Space Sector reforms, that’s why in today’s Mann ki Baat I thought… why not speak to some of our young friends associated with the space sector. A team from Spacetech Start-Up GalaxEye is connecting with me now. This Start-up was launched by the alumni of IIT -Madras.  Suyash, Daniel, Rakshit, Kishan and Praneet, all of them are now connected with us on the phone line. Come lets know about the experiences of these youngsters.

Prime Minister: Hello!

All Youngster:    Hello!

Prime Minister: Namaste ji!

All Youngster:   Namaskar Sir!

Prime Minister: Well friends, I feel very happy to see that your friendship during IIT-Madras is still going strong. This is the reason that you thought of starting GalaxEye together. I also want to know about that subject too. Tell us about that. Also tell us how the country is going to be benefitted with your technology.

Suyash:        Yes Sir my name is Suyash… as you said, we all met, all of us met at IIT-Madras. We all studied there during different years, did our engineering. And at that time we thought about a project named Hyperloop, that’s what we wanted to do together. During that time we started a team named Avishkar Hyperloop, we took that to America as well. That year, ours was the only team from Asia that went there and waved our National flag there. And we were among the top 20 teams out of around 1500 teams from around the world.

Prime Minister: Well, before listening anymore, let me first congratulate you for this.

Suyash:      Many many thanks to you. Our friendship forged deep during that achievement and built our confidence to take up difficult and tough projects like this one. During that time after looking at SpaceX and what you opened up, privatization in the space sector in 2020 in that landmark decision… we got pretty excited about that. And I would like to invite Rakshit to speak on what we are building up and what its uses are.

Rakshit:     Ji, my name is Rakshit and I will answer about how we are going to be benefitted with this technology.

Prime Minister: Rakshit, where in Uttarakhand are you from?

Rakshit:      Sir, I am from Almorha.

Prime Minister: So you are a Baal Mithhaai wala

Rakshit:     Yes Sir, Yes Sir, Baal Mithhaai is our Favourite.

Prime Minister: You know Lakshya Sen, he regularly treats me with baal mithhaai. Yes Rakshit, tell me.

Rakshit:      So this technology of ours can see through the clouds in the Universe even during the night, so daily we can click a clear image of our country from any corner of the country. And that data we will use to work in the development of two areas; the first is, to make India very safe; we will daily monitor our Borders, our oceans and Seas. We will monitor the enemy’s activities and provide the intelligence to our Armed forces. And the second is to strengthen the farmers of Bharat. So we have already developed a product for the Prawn farmers of Bharat that can measure the water quality of their ponds from Space at one tenth of the current cost. And in future we wish to generate the best quality satellite images for the world in the fight against global issues like Global warming; we wish to provide the best quality satellite data to the world.

Prime Minister: This means your team will echo the essence of Jai Jawan as well as Jai Kisan too.

Rakshit:      Yes sir, absolutely.

Prime Minister: Friends, you are doing such good work, I would also like to know about the magnitude of the precision of this technology.

Rakshit:      Sir we can reach a resolution of less than 50 cm and. We’ll be able to image approximately more than 300 square km area at one time.

Prime Minister: So, I feel that when our countrymen will hear this, they will feel very proud. But I would like to ask one more question.

Rakshit:      Yes, Sir

Prime Minister: The Space ecosystem is becoming very vibrant. Now, what changes are being observed by your team?

Kishan:       My name is Kishan. After the start of Galax eye we have seen the coming in of IN-SPACE. Also we have seen lots of policies coming like the ‘geo-spatial data policy’ and India Space Policy. Also from the last 3 years we have seen many changes coming… along with many processes, a lot of infrastructure and many facilities of ISRO are available in a very nice way like we can go to ISRO and do testing of our hardware. This can now be done in a very easy way.  3 years ago these processes were not there and this has been very helpful for us and also for many more startups. Also because of recent FDI policies and availability of these facilities many start-ups are getting enough incentive and such start-ups can very easily and in a very nice way develop, in the field where usually development is very costly and time consuming.  Since the advent of current policies and INSPACE things have been easy for start-ups. My friend Daniel Chawda would like to speak on this.

Prime Minister: Daniel, tell me.

Daniel:       Sir, we have observed one more thing, we have seen a change in the thinking of engineering students. Previously they preferred going abroad to pursue higher studies and work there in the space domain, but now since a very good Space ecosystem is developing very well in India, they want to come back to India to be part of this eco system… So this is a very good feedback we have received and in our own company some people have returned and started working because of this.

Prime Minister: I feel that the aspects you two Kishan & Daniel have touched upon, I definitely feel many people might not have noticed, how reform in one field has multiple effects… Many people are benefitted… and as per your description, because you are from this field, you must have noticed and also observed that the youth of the country desires to try their future in this field here itself, and utilise their talent. Yours is a very good observation.

One more question I would like to ask is, what message would you like to give to those youth who want to achieve success in start-ups and the Space sector.

Pranit:        Sir, I am Pranit speaking and I will answer the question.

Prime Minister: Yes Pranit, tell me.

Pranit:        Sir, I would like to say two things from my experience of a few years. Firstly if we want to establish a start-up, then this is the opportunity because today India has the fastest growing economy in the world, which means that we have a lot of opportunities…

Pranit:        …like at the age of 24 I feel proud thinking that next year we will launch our own satellite. Based on that, our government will take a few major decisions and we have made a small contribution in this. To get to work for such projects of National Impact, this is such industry and such a time, given that today now the space industry is commencing. So, i would like to tell my young friends this is the opportunity not just for impact but also for self financial growth and to solve a global problem.  So we talk to each other that when we were young we used to say that we will become actor, sportsmen when we grow up… things like that, but now if we listen to somebody saying that I want to become an entrepreneur, work in the Space industry after growing up, this is an extremely proud moment that we are playing a small part in this whole transformation.

Prime Minister: Friends, Pranit, Kishan, Daniel, Rakshit and Suyush, in a way, your start-up is as strong as your friendship. That’s why you are doing such wonderful work.  I had the opportunity to visit IIT-Madras a few years ago and I myself experienced the excellence of that institute. Also for IIT, there is a feeling of respect in the whole world and their passouts, when they work for India, definitely contribute something good. Many good wishes to all of you and other startups working in the Space sector.  I really liked talking to all five of you. Thanks a lot friends.

Suyush:      Thank you So much!

My dear countrymen, this year from Red Fort, I have urged one Lakh Youth who are not from a Political background to connect with the political system. This point of mine has garnered tremendous response.  We thus come to know that a large number of our youth are eagerly ready to enter politics.  All they are looking for is the right opportunity and apt guidance.  I have also received letters from youth across the country on this subject.  Enormous response is being received on social media as well.  People have sent me many kinds of suggestions.  Some youth have written in their letters that it is truly inconceivable for them.  On account of the absence of a political legacy on part of their grandfather or parents they could not enter politics despite wanting to.  Some youth have written that they possess a good experience of working at the ground level.  Hence they can be helpful in solving people’s problems.  Some youth have also written that dynastic politics crushes new talent.  Some youth have mentioned that such efforts will lend more strength to our democracy.  I thank each & everyone for sending in suggestions on the subject. I hope that now with our collective efforts, youth who do not possess a political background will also be able to come forward in Politics…their experience and their fervour will prove useful for the country.

Friends, even during the freedom struggle, many such people had come forward, who did not have any political background. They took the plunge for the sake of India’s Freedom.  Once more, we require the same spirit to attain the goal of Vikasit Bharat.  I shall urge all my young friends to positively join this campaign.  This step of yours will be transformative in terms of your future and the country’s future.

My dear countrymen, this time, the campaign HAR GHAR TIRANGA and POORA DESH TIRANGA attained its full height.  Amazing pictures connected with the campaign from all over the country have come to the fore.  We saw the Tricolour fluttering atop houses, as well as at schools, colleges and Universities. Some people had the Tricolour adorn their shops, offices… people also did the same on their Desktops, Mobiles and Vehicles. When people join hands to express a sentiment, it thus lends unparalled glory to any campaign.  The visuals that you are watching right now on your TV screens are from Reasi in Jammu and Kashmir.

A Tiranga rally, bearing a 750 metre long Flag was organized … this rally was taken out on the Chenab Railway Bridge, the tallest in the world.  Whoever viewed these pictures, their hearts swooned with delight. We all saw captivating pictures of the Tiranga Yatra on the Dal Lake in Srinagar.  A yatra with a 600 feet long Tiranga was carried out in East Kameng District in Arunachal Pradesh. On similar lines, in other States of the country as well, people of all ages participated in such Tiranga Yatras. You too must have experienced that Independence Day now is turning into a social festival. People festoon their homes with Tricolour strands. Women connected with Self Help Groups craft lakhs of flags.

On ecommerce platforms, items coloured in the hues of the tricolour witness a surge in sales.  On the occasion of Independence Day, all three colour of our flag were visible in every nook & corner across the country… on land, sea & air!  On the website of HAR GHAR TIRANGA, more than five crore selfies were posted.  This campaign wove the entire country into a thread of togetherness and this exactly is what EK BHARAT SHRESTH BHARAT is.

My dear countrymen, you must have seen many films based on the bond of love between human beings and animals. But these days, a real story is coming up in Assam. In a tiny village Barekuri in the Tinsukia district of Assam, people belonging to the Moran community reside.  And in the same village dwell the Hoolock Gibbons… there they are called “Holo Bandar”.  Hoolock Gibbons have made this village their abode.  You will be surprised to know- the people of this village share a deep bond with the Hoolock Gibbons.  Villagers adhere to their traditional values in the present times as well.  That’s why they left no stone unturned to strengthen their bonds with the gibbons.  When they realised that Gibbons love bananas a lot, they started growing bananas on their farms.  Besides, they decided that they would perform rituals connected with the birth and death of Gibbons, exactly as they would have performed for their near and dear ones.  They have also named the Gibbons.  Recently, the Gibbons were facing hardships on account of electric wires passing through, in the vicinity.  In this scenario, the villagers put forth the problem to the government and a quick solution was found out too.  I have been told that now these Gibbons also pose for pictures.

Friends, in terms of love towards animals, our young friends from Arunachal Pradesh too are second to none.  Some of our young friends in Arunachal have started using the 3-D printing technology.  Do you know why? Because they want to protect wild animals from being hunted for their horns and tusks… Under the leadership of Nabam Bapu and Likha Nana, the team undertakes 3-D printing of various parts of animals.  Be it horns or teeth, all of those are crafted through 3-D printing.  They are then made into items such as apparel and headgear.  This is an amazing alternative which makes use of Bio-degradable material.

No amount of praise for such fabulous efforts is enough.  I would like to say that more and more start-ups should come forward in this field so that our animals stay protected and traditions continue.

My dear countrymen, in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh something splendid is taking place, that you should certainly know about.  There, our sanitation worker brothers and sisters have performed a marvellous task.  These brothers and sisters have shown us the essence of the message of WASTE to WEALTH turn into reality.  In a park at Jhabua, this team has created wonderful artworks out of garbage.  For this endeavour of theirs, they collected plastic waste, used bottles, tyres and pipes from the neighbourhood.  Included in this artwork are helicopters, cars and cannons.  Beautiful hanging flower pots too have been crafted.  Here, used tyres have been turned into creating comfortable benches.  This team of sanitation workers have adhered to the Mantra of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Owing to their efforts, the park has started appearing remarkably beautiful.  Apart from local residents, people living in neighbouring districts too are reaching there to have a look.

Friends, I am happy to note that today, many start-ups in our country too are involving themselves in efforts with an aim to promote the environment.  There is a team called e-conscious, that is using plastic waste to craft out eco friendly products.  This idea struck them on seeing litter spread around at our tourist places, especially in hilly areas.  A team comprising of like-minded people have begun a startup named Ecokaari.  They produce myriad beautiful items out of plastic waste.

Friends, Toy Recycling is another such field where we can work together.  You too are aware of the fact that whereas many children get bored of their toys within no time, there are children as well for whom such toys are a pipedream.  Toys that your children no longer play with… you can give them away to spaces, where they continue being useful.  That too, is a good path towards protecting the environment.  When we strive together, it will certainly strengthen the environment, taking the country forward.

My dear countrymen, just a few days ago, on the 19^th of August, we celebrated the festival of Rakshabandhan. On that very day, World Sanskrit Day was celebrated globally.  Even today, a special inclination towards Sanskrit can be observed within the country and equally the world over.  In many countries of the world, a variety of research and experimentation is being carried out in the realm of the Sanskrit language.  Before I move further, I am playing a short audio clip for you

Friends, this audio is connected with a European country Lithuania.  Vytis Vidunas a professor there has embarked upon a unique endeavour… He has named it SANSKRIT ON THE RIVERS.  A group comprising a few people came together on the banks of the Neris river and performed recitation of the Vedas and the Gita there.  Such endeavours have been continuing there over the past few years. You too, should try and bring forward such efforts which promote the Sanskrit Language.

My dear countrymen, fitness is extremely important in our lives.  To be fit, we have to keep paying attention to our diet, our lifestyles… everything.  In order to make people aware on Fitness, the Fit India campaign was launched.  For the sake of staying healthy, people are embracing Yoga, irrespective of age or class.  People have started according a place to superfood millets, also know as Shrianna, in their thalis.  The objective behind all these efforts is precisely to ensure that every member of the family stays fit and healthy.

Friends our family, our society and our country….including their future, depends on the health of our children…  and for the sake of their health, it’s imperative that they keep receiving adequate nutrition.  Children’s nutrition is a priority for the country. In fact, we pay attention towards their nutrition during the entire year but there is one particular month that is dedicated to focus, especially on this matter. For this, every year, Nutrition Month is celebrated from the 1^st of September to the 30^th of September.

In order to enhance awareness on nutrition, Nutrition Fairs, Anaemia camps, home visits for newborn babies, seminars, webinars… many such means are made use of.  At numerous places, under the aegis of Anganwadi,  Mother and child committees have been established. This committee tracks malnutritioned children, pregnant women and newborn babies… it continuously keeps monitoring them, ensuring arrangements for their nutrition.  Last year, the Poshan Abhiyan was linked with the New Education Policy.  Through the campaign Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi, balanced development of the children has been focussed upon.

You too should certainly connect yourselves with campaigns pertaining to awareness about nutrition. A tiny effort on your part, will help a lot in the fight again malnutrition.

My dear countrymen, that’s all this time in Mann Ki Baat. Conversing with you in Mann Ki Baat always fills me up with a lot of joy.  It feels like I am sharing my thoughts with my family members in an informal manner…that I am connecting with your hearts! Your feedback, your suggestions are extremely valuable for me.  Many festivals are round the corner. For them, I extend many greetings to all of you.

There is the festive occasion of Janmashtami as well.  In the beginning of next month Ganesh Chaturthi too is there. The festival of Onam also is about to arrive. I extend my greetings on Milad-Un –Nabi also.

Friends, this month on the 29^th is Telugu Bhasha Diwas, as well.  Its truly an amazing language. I extend good wishes to Telugu speakers across the world on Telugu Bhasha Diwas.

Prapanch Vyaaptanga Unn

Telugu Variki

Telegu Bhasha Dinotsav  Shubhaakaankshalu

Friends I shall urge you once again to take precaution in the rainy season…and along with that be part of the Catch the Rain Movement…I would also like to remind all of you the EK PED MAAN KE NAAM campaign.. Plant more and more trees and urge others also to do so.  In the next few days the Paralympics are about to begin in Paris.  Our divyang brothers and sisters have reached there.  140 crore Indians are cheering for our athletes and players.  You too also encourage our players with #Cheer4bharat”.  We will again connect next month and discuss a lot of subjects.  Till then, I take leave of you.

Many thanks, Namaskar.

Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi undertook a visit to Ukraine on 23 August 2024, at the invitation of the President of Ukraine, H.E. Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This was the first ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine, since diplomatic relations were established between the two countries in the year 1992.

Political Relations

Both Leaders expressed mutual interest in working towards elevating bilateral relations from a comprehensive partnership to a strategic partnership in the future.

They reaffirmed their commitment to further developing bilateral ties for the benefit of the peoples of both countries based on mutual trust, respect, and openness.

The Leaders reviewed the steady and positive trajectory of bilateral ties that have strengthened significantly over the last three decades, and appreciated the role played by regular engagements between India and Ukraine at various levels, including their meetings in Apulia in June 2024 and in Hiroshima in May 2023 on the margins of the G7 Summits, the visit of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to New Delhi in March 2024, multiple interactions and telephone conversations between the External Affairs Minister of India and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine; between the National Security Advisor of India and the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, and the 9th round of Foreign Office Consultations held in Kyiv in July 2023, in enhancing mutual understanding, trust, and cooperation.

The Leaders appreciated the participation of Ukrainian official delegations in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, and the Raisina Dialogue 2024.

Ensuring a Comprehensive, Just, and Lasting Peace

Prime Minister Modi and President Zelenskyy reiterated their readiness for further cooperation in upholding principles of international law, including the UN Charter, such as respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty of states. They agreed on the desirability of closer bilateral dialogue in this regard.

The Indian side reiterated its principled position and focus on peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy, as a part of which, India has attended the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, held in Burgenstock, Switzerland, in June 2024.

The Ukrainian side welcomed such participation by India and highlighted the importance of high-level Indian participation in the next Peace Summit.

The Ukrainian side conveyed that the Joint Communiqué on a Peace Framework, adopted at the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, could serve as a basis for further efforts to promote just peace based on dialogue, diplomacy, and international law.

The Leaders appreciated various efforts to ensure global food security, including Ukrainian humanitarian grain initiative. The importance of uninterrupted and unhindered supply of agricultural products to global markets, especially in Asia and Africa, was emphasized.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the need for sincere and practical engagement between all stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that will have broad acceptability and contribute towards early restoration of peace. He reiterated India’s willingness to contribute in all possible ways to facilitate an early return of peace.

Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation

The Leaders discussed enhancement of cooperation in areas such as trade and commerce, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, defence, education, science & technology, and culture, apart from exploring a stronger partnership in domains such as digital public infrastructure, industry, manufacturing, green energy etc., including through greater involvement of business and industry from both nations.

The Leaders emphasized the importance of the Indian-Ukrainian Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical, Industrial and Cultural Cooperation (IGC) in facilitating a future-oriented and stronger economic partnership between the two countries.

They appreciated the review of the IGC conducted during the visit of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to India in March 2024 and the efforts to hold the meetings of the Joint Working Groups with a view to early convening of the 7th Session of the IGC at a mutually convenient time in 2024. The Ukrainian side welcomed the appointment of the External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar as the Co-Chair/Chairperson of the IGC.

In the light of the significant reduction in the annual bilateral trade in goods since the year 2022 due to the challenges related to the ongoing war, the Leaders directed the Co-Chairs of the IGC to explore all possible ways to not only restore bilateral trade and economic relations to pre-conflict levels but expand and deepen them further.

The Leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing the ease of doing business for mutual economic activities and investments, apart from removing any impediments for greater trade and commerce between India and Ukraine. The sides also encouraged greater engagement at official and business levels to explore joint projects, collaborations, and ventures.

The Leaders recalled the strong ties between the two sides in the domain of agriculture and the desirability of enhancing bilateral interaction and market access on the basis of strengths in complementary areas, including the harmonization of standards and certification procedures.

Recognizing cooperation in pharmaceutical products as one of the strongest pillars of the partnership, the Leaders reaffirmed the desire for greater market access and facilitation of investments and joint ventures including through testing, inspection, and registration procedures. Both sides expressed the desire for broadening cooperation on drugs and pharmaceuticals, including in training and sharing of best practices. They welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of the Republic of India and the State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drugs Control, and the holding of the 3rd Meeting of the Indian-Ukrainian Joint Working Group on Pharmaceutical Cooperation in August 2024 in virtual mode. The Ukrainian side also appreciated India as an assured source for the supply of cost effective and quality medicines.

The sides agreed to expedite work on expanding the legal framework of bilateral relations, particularly regarding mutual protection of investments, and exploring mutual recognition of educational documents; academic degrees; and titles.

Noting the successful implementation of the agreement between India and Ukraine on scientific and technological cooperation, effective functioning of the Indian-Ukrainian Joint Working Group on Scientific and Technical Cooperation, and completion of bilateral research projects, the sides encouraged holding of regular exchanges and programmes, especially in areas such as ICT, AI, machine learning, cloud services, biotechnology, new materials, green energy, and earth sciences. The sides welcomed the 8th Meeting of the JWG on Scientific and Technological Cooperation held on 20 June 2024.

Defence Cooperation

Underlining the importance of defence cooperation between India and Ukraine, the Leaders agreed to continue to work towards facilitating a stronger relationship between the defence entities in both countries, including through joint collaborations and partnerships for manufacturing in India and cooperation in emerging areas. The sides agreed to hold the 2nd meeting of the Indian-Ukrainian Joint Working Group on Military-Technical Cooperation, established under the 2012 Defence Cooperation Agreement, in the near future in India.

Cultural and People-to-People Ties

Recognizing the key role played by cultural and people-to-people ties in the enduring friendship between India and Ukraine, the sides welcomed the conclusion of the bilateral Programme of Cultural Cooperation, and the decision to hold festivals of culture in India and Ukraine. The Leaders emphasized the importance of sustaining and further expanding people-to-people and cultural exchanges, including through scholarships offered under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme and the General Cultural Scholarship Scheme of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.

The sides agreed to explore the possibility of mutual opening of branches of higher education institutions to meet the educational needs of citizens of both countries.

The Leaders appreciated the contribution of the Indian diaspora in Ukraine to the development of friendly relations and people-to-people contacts between the two countries.

The Indian side reiterated its gratitude to the Ukrainian side for its help and support in the evacuation of Indian students from Ukraine in the early months of the year 2022 and ensuring the safety and well-being of all Indian nationals and students that have returned to Ukraine since then. The Indian side requested Ukrainian side’s continued support on easier visa and registration facilities for Indian nationals and students.

The Ukrainian side conveyed its gratitude to the Indian side for the humanitarian assistance provided to Ukraine and welcomed the conclusion of the Memorandum of Understanding on High Impact Community Development Projects between India and Ukraine which will enable the development of mutually agreed projects through Indian grant assistance.

The sides agreed to explore the possibility of involvement of Indian companies in Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery, in a suitable manner.

The Leaders were unequivocal in their condemnation of terrorism. They called for an uncompromising fight against terrorism and extremism in all their forms and manifestations, noting the importance of increasing cooperation in this area on the basis of international law and the UN Charter.

Both sides called for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary global realities and to make it more representative, effective and efficient in dealing with issues of international peace and security. Ukraine reiterated its support for India’s permanent membership of a reformed and expanded UN Security Council.

The Indian Side looked forward to Ukraine’s joining of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

The Leaders’ comprehensive discussions on the entire spectrum of bilateral ties and exchange of views on regional and global issues of shared interest reflected the depth as well as mutual understanding and trust that mark India-Ukraine relations.

Prime Minister Modi thanked President Zelenskyy for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit and invited him to visit India at a mutually convenient opportunity.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi presented four BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita & Maitri) Cubes to the Government of Ukraine today. President of Ukraine H.E. Mr. Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Prime Minister for the humanitarian assistance. The Cubes will help in expeditious treatment of the injured and contribute to saving precious lives.

Each BHISHM Cube consists of medicines and equipment for the first line of care for all kinds of injuries and medical situations. It also includes surgical equipment for a basic Operation Room that can manage 10-15 basic surgeries per day. The Cube has the capacity to handle about 200 cases of diverse nature in emergency situations such as trauma, bleeding, burns, fractures, etc. It can also generate its own power and oxygen in limited amounts. A team of experts from India has been deployed to provide initial training to the Ukrainian side to operate the Cube.

The gesture underscores India’s continued commitment to provide humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with the US Secretary of Defense Mr Lloyd Austin in Pentagon, Washington DC on August 23, 2024. They held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral defence cooperation, industrial collaboration, regional security and other international issues.

Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the various co-development and co-production opportunities in India in the areas identified in the India-US Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, which was adopted last year.

Both Ministers expressed happiness on the conclusion of the Security of Supplies Arrangement (SOSA) between India and US. The SOSA signed yesterday in Washington DC encourages the defence industrial ecosystems of both countries to work together, and enhances the supply chain resilience. They also welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between India and US regarding the Deployment of Liaison Officers. India shall be accordingly deploying the first Liaison Officer to the Headquarters Special Operations Command in Florida, US.

Both Ministers appreciated the progress made in operationalising the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness, a Quad initiative and lauded the ongoing efforts by India to enhance the Maritime Domain Awareness for the partners in the Indian Ocean Region. They welcomed the ongoing Indian participation in the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and noted that India shall deploy Indian Navy personnel in CMF’s Combined Task Force 150 headquarters in 2025.

The Raksha Mantri and Secretary Austin commended the efforts of the India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) for establishing the Defence Innovation bridge between the two countries. They appreciated INDUS-X establishing robust networks across start-ups, industry, academia, and governments, accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and enhancing war-fighting capabilities of both sides. The upcoming INDUS X Silicon Valley Summit in September 2024 shall witness announcements of several key initiatives.

The meeting at Pentagon was preceded by a solemn wreath laying ceremony by Shri Rajnath Singh at the Arlington National Cemetery. The Raksha Mantri and US Secretary of Defense looked forward to meeting again at the next India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited the multimedia Martyrologist exposition on children at the National Museum of History of Ukraine in Kyiv. He was accompanied by the President of Ukraine, H.E. Mr. Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Prime Minister was deeply touched by the poignant exposition set up in memory of children who have lost their lives in the conflict. He expressed his sorrow at the tragic loss of young lives and as a mark of respect placed a toy in their memory.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue in Kyiv today.

Prime Minister underscored the timeless relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s message of peace in building a harmonious society. He noted that the path shown by him offered solutions to present day global challenges.

Mahatma Gandhi’s statue, located in ‘Oasis of Peace’ park in Kyiv, serves as a beacon of hope and peace for humanity.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora at an event organized in his honour by the Indian community in Warsaw today.

Prime Minister was welcomed with special warmth and exuberance by the community. In his address, he noted that a visit to Poland by Indian Prime Minister was happening after 45 years and he was eagerly looking forward to meeting President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk to strengthen India-Poland ties. He stated that India as Mother of Democracy and its shared values with Poland bring the two countries closer.

Prime Minister shared his thoughts on the significant contribution made by the Indian Diaspora in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. He also commended their role in the success of Operation Ganga. He called upon the community to become a brand ambassador of tourism to India and be part of its growth story. He noted that the Dobry Maharaja, Kolhapur and Battle of Monte Cassino memorials were shining examples of vibrant people-to-people ties between the two countries. To further strengthen this special bond, Prime Minister announced a new initiative called Jamsaheb Memorial Youth Exchange Program under which 20 Polish youth would be invited to India each year. He also recalled the help provided by Poland during the earthquake in Gujarat.

Prime Minister spoke about the transformative progress achieved by India in the last 10 years. He expressed confidence that India will become the third largest economy in the next few years. He also spoke about his vision for the country to becoming a developed nation – Viksit Bharat – by 2047. He stated that Poland and India were enhancing their partnership in areas of new technology and clean energy and driving green growth.

Prime Minister dwelt on India’s belief in “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the world is one family – which inspires it to contribute to global well-being and to be the First Responder in humanitarian crises.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has paid tributes to Kolhapur Memorial in Warsaw, Poland. Shri Modi said that this Memorial is a tribute to the great Royal Family of Kolhapur. This Royal Family was at the forefront of giving shelter to Polish women and children displaced due to the horrors of World War II, Shri Modi further added.

The Prime Minister also said that inspired by the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great Royal Family of Kolhapur put humanity above everything else and ensured a life of dignity for the Polish women and children.

The Prime Minister posted on X;

“Paid homage at the Kolhapur Memorial in Warsaw. This Memorial is a tribute to the great Royal Family of Kolhapur. This Royal Family was at the forefront of giving shelter to Polish women and children displaced due to the horrors of World War II. Inspired by the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great Royal Family of Kolhapur put humanity above everything else and ensured a life of dignity for the Polish women and children. This act of compassion will keep inspiring generations.”

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has paid tributes to Jam Saheb of Nawanagar Memorial in Warsaw, Poland. Shri Modi said that the Jam Saheb of Nawanagar Memorial in Warsaw, Poland highlights the humanitarian contribution of Jam Saheb Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja, who ensured shelter as well as care to Polish children left homeless due to the Second World War. Shri Modi also has shared glimpses of wreath laying at Jam Saheb of Nawanagar Memorial in Warsaw, Poland.

The Prime Minister posted on X;

“Humanity and compassion are vital foundations of a just and peaceful world. The Jam Saheb of Nawanagar Memorial in Warsaw highlights the humanitarian contribution of Jam Saheb Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja, who ensured shelter as well as care to Polish children left homeless due to the Second World War. Jam Saheb is fondly remembered in Poland as Dobry Maharaja.

Paid homage at the Memorial. Here are some glimpses.”

On 20 August 2024, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim visited India, accepting the kind invitation of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi to undertake a State Visit. This was the Malaysian Prime Minister’s first visit to the South Asian region, and the first meeting between the two Prime Ministers, allowing them to take stock of the enhanced strategic ties. The wide-ranging discussions included many areas that make India-Malaysia relations multi-layered and multi-faceted.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was accompanied by a high-level delegation which included the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan; Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz; Minister of Tourism, Art & Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing; Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo and Minister of Human Resources, Mr. Steven Sim.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and he visited Raj Ghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. This was followed by bilateral talks between the two Prime Ministers. Thereafter, the Prime Ministers witnessed the exchange of bilateral documents. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim attended the banquet hosted by Prime Minister Modi. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called on the President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu. The External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar called on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also delivered a speech at the Indian Council of World Affairs.

Both Prime Ministers recognized that the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between India and Malaysia established in 2015 has helped in advancing bilateral ties into a multidimensional one. Recognising that the relations between India and Malaysia have evolved and matured across a broad spectrum of areas and that this deepening of engagement has significantly widened and intensified the relations, the Prime Ministers determined that the timing is propitious for relations to be further consolidated into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The two leaders noted with great satisfaction the deep-rooted ties of friendship and socio-cultural linkages between India and Malaysia, and its peoples. The countries’ shared history, complemented by the presence of a vibrant Indian diaspora in Malaysia ensures that the two countries remain trusted partners in the field of economic growth and development

Both Prime Ministers held discussions on the entire range of bilateral cooperation including political, defence and security cooperation, economic and trade, digital technologies, start-ups, fintech, energy including renewables, healthcare, higher education, culture, tourism and people-to-people relations.

Both leaders witnessed the exchange of MoUs on cooperation in the fields of Recruitment, Employment and Repatriation of Workers; Ayurveda and other Traditional Systems of Medicines; Digital Technologies; Culture, Arts and Heritage; Tourism; Public Administration and Governance Reforms; Youth and Sports; and Financial Services between Labuan Financial Services Authority (LFSA) and International Financial Services Centres Authority, India (IFSCA).

Malaysia appreciated India’s initiative in hosting the Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS), providing a platform by which countries of the Global South could deliberate and address their concerns, interests and priorities as well as exchange ideas and solutions. India appreciated Malaysia’s participation in all three editions of the VOGSS.

The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction the continued exchange of high-level visits between the countries. Acknowledging the importance of close interaction, they agreed to hold regular exchanges and dialogue on bilateral, plurilateral and multilateral issues of mutual interest, including regular convening of Joint Commission Meetings (JCMs) and Foreign Office Consultations.

The two Prime Ministers encouraged enhanced interaction and exchanges between the Parliaments of the two countries to further strengthen bilateral relations.

Both Prime Ministers recognised the important role of youth in the countries’ development, and, to this end, agreed to promote greater exchanges between the youth of both countries.

Both Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction on bilateral trade and acknowledged that trade is an important fulcrum of the two countries’ Enhanced Strategic Partnership, and welcomed the fact that bilateral trade has reached a record high of US$19.5 billion. They encouraged industry on both sides to further enhance bilateral trade in a sustainable manner for the mutual benefit of the two countries. In this regard, they expressed appreciation to the high-level CEOs Forum, and commended the convening of the ninth (9th) meeting in New Delhi on 19 August 2024.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the growing bilateral investments and encouraged cooperation and investments across multiple sectors.

Both sides agreed to support and expedite the review process of ASEAN- India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to make it more effective, user-friendly, simple, and trade-facilitative for businesses, aiming to achieve a substantial conclusion in 2025 and to strengthen supply chains between India and ASEAN countries.

Acknowledging the need to reflect on the contemporary economic priorities of the two counties, both Prime Ministers welcomed the discussions on convening the 2nd Joint Committee Meeting of Malaysia-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (MICECA).

Both Prime Ministers appreciated the collaboration between the Reserve Bank of India and Bank Negara Malaysia to promote usage of local currency settlement in bilateral trade and investments, and encouraged industries on both sides to further facilitate the invoicing and settlement of trade in local currencies, i.e. Indian Rupee and Malaysian Ringgit.

In the area of digital cooperation, both Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of the MoU on Digital Technologies and encouraged the early convening of Malaysia-India Digital Council to guide engagement in the digital realm and accelerate collaboration in this area such as Digital Public Infrastructure, digital B2B partnership, digital capacity building, cyber security, emerging technologies such as 5G, quantum computing, cloud computing, Internet of Things among others, between the two countries.

The leaders recognized the digital economy priorities of both the countries and acknowledged the success of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and commended the ongoing engagements in the area of payment systems between India and Malaysia.

Both sides welcomed the ongoing discussions between Start-up India and Cradle Fund of Malaysia among other stakeholders through an India-Malaysia Start-up Alliance.

Both Prime Ministers agreed to advance collaboration in the field of science and technology including space, nuclear energy, semiconductors, vaccines and other identified areas.

The two Prime Ministers acknowledged the steady and strong cooperation in bilateral defence and security partnership as one of the core pillars of the Enhanced Strategic Partnership. Both sides agreed to further intensify defence cooperation through regular exchanges and dialogues, exercises and capacity building cooperation.

Both sides agreed to further expand defence industry collaboration as well as defence R&D collaboration.

The two Prime Ministers condemned terrorism and agreed to call upon states to reject terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Both Prime Ministers underlined that no country should harbour terrorists and agreed to work together to bring perpetrators of terrorism to justice expeditiously, in accordance with domestic laws and international conventions.

They also agreed to recognize and vigorously address the linkages between terrorism and transnational organized crime. Both countries agreed to stimulate cooperation in this regard, including the sharing of information and best practices to counter terrorism and other traditional and non-traditional threats.

The two Prime Ministers also agreed to intensify cooperation in the field of higher education. Noting the strong bilateral collaboration and close exchanges in capacity building, Malaysia welcomed the special allocation of 100 seats under India’s Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme for Malaysian nationals in the areas of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

The two Prime Ministers emphasised their commitment to continuing the partnership, including in the establishment of the Ayurveda Chair by India’s Institute for Training & Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) under the Ministry of Ayush of India at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia. Both sides also agreed to conclude the MoU on Pharmacopoeia cooperation at an early date.

Both sides welcomed the discussions for establishment of Tiruvalluvar Chair of Indian Studies at the Universiti Malaya (UM).

Both sides also look forward to intensifying cooperation in the field of agriculture including joint research and development, capacity building and the application of digital technologies in agriculture.

Both Prime Ministers also agreed to expand cooperation in audio-visual co-production, taking note of the long-standing cultural-connect between the two countries.

The two Prime Ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation in promoting sustainable energy and adapting to climate change. Malaysia appreciates India’s initiative in establishing the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Both Prime Ministers also agreed that a concerted global effort would be needed in order to address climate change concerns and agreed for both countries to consolidate efforts to this end.

India also welcomed Malaysia’s decision to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) as its founding member. The two Prime Ministers encouraged the expeditious conclusion of negotiations on the Framework Agreement of the IBCA.

Both Prime Ministers welcomed the continued and valuable contributions of Indian nationals in Malaysia to the Malaysian economy. They also agreed to further streamline and strengthen the flow of skilled talent between the two countries.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the recent initiatives to promote greater tourism and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, particularly the relaxation of visa regimes by both the countries. Both Prime Ministers expressed their commitment to enhancing tourism cooperation, sharing best practices in sustainable tourism, and exploring the potential for increased tourism flows between the two countries. India noted the designation of 2026 as Visit Malaysia and Malaysia’s welcome of additional Indian tourists in celebration of the year.

Both leaders agreed that the connectivity between the two countries is key in ensuring greater inflow and outflow of peoples and encouraged the civil aviation authorities of the two countries to continue engaging in discussions to enhance air connectivity between both the countries.

The two Leaders reiterated their commitment to respecting freedom of navigation and overflight, and unimpeded lawful commerce, based on the principles of international law, as reflected notably in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982. The two Leaders urged all parties to resolve disputes through peaceful means in accordance with the universally recognised principles of international law including UNCLOS 1982.

Reaffirming the importance of India’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN, Malaysia appreciated India’s full support for ASEAN centrality and Malaysia’s upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. Malaysia welcomed more engagements between ASEAN and India through ASEAN-led mechanisms towards further consolidating the existing Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Both Prime Ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation and coordination at the UN, including at the UNSC, UNHRC, and other multilateral fora. The two leaders upheld that adherence to a rules-based international system is imperative to ensuring peace and development. They pledged to work together to enhance multilateralism, reflective of contemporary realities so as to make international organisations, including the UN Security Council, more representative. The strengthening of Council membership with a focus on increasing representation from developing countries, including through the expansion of UNSC in both the permanent and non-permanent categories will render it more effective in addressing current global challenges. India deeply appreciated Malaysia’s support for India’s permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim thanked Prime Minister Shri Modi for the warm reception and hospitality extended to him and his delegation for the visit, and invited the Prime Minister of India to undertake a visit to Malaysia in the near future, as mutually convenient.

H.E. Ms. Yoko Kamikawa, Foreign Minister of Japan, and H.E. Mr. Minoru Kihara, Defense Minister of Japan, called on Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 19th August 2024. Foreign Minister Kamikawa and Defense Minister Kihara are on a visit to India to hold the 3rd round of India-Japan 2+2 Foreign and Defense Ministerial meeting.

Prime Minister welcomed the Japanese Ministers and underscored the importance of holding 2+2 meeting in the context of increasingly complex regional and global order, and deepening ties between India and Japan.

Prime Minister shared his thoughts and ideas on closer cooperation between trusted friends like India and Japan, especially in areas like critical minerals, semiconductors and defence manufacturing.

They took stock of progress made in various areas of bilateral cooperation including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail project. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Prime Minister highlighted the crucial role India-Japan partnership plays in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Prime Minister also stressed upon the importance of strengthening economic cooperation and enhancing people-to-people ties between India and Japan. He looked forward to a rich and result-oriented visit to Japan for the next Summit of the two Prime Ministers.

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare & Chemicals and Fertilizers, Shri J.P. Nadda inaugurated the ‘First Policy Makers’ Forum’, here today, which will run until 22nd August 2024. To elevate India’s position in the global pharmaceutical sector, the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Ministry of External Affairs, hosted an international delegation of policymakers and drug regulators from 15 countries. The forum featured the launch of innovative digital platforms for pharmacopoeia and drug safety monitoring.

Underscoring India’s commitment to expanding the global recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP), the forum witnessed participation from various countries including Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Guyana, Jamaica, Lao PDR, Lebanon, Malawi, Mozambique, Nauru, Nicaragua, Sri Lanka, Syria, Uganda and Zambia. The forum aims to foster meaningful discussions on the recognition of the IP and the implementation of India’s flagship Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), popularly known as the Janaushadhi Scheme.

Welcoming the delegates from drug regulatory authorities and the health ministries from Latin American, African, Southeast Asian, and Pacific regions participating in the program, Shri J P Nadda stated that “this forum will provide an excellent opportunity to exchange views on the safety, efficacy, and the quality of medical pharmaceutical products amongst the participating countries that will ensure that we uphold the highest standards for the benefit of the patients”.  He added that “India has long been identified as the ‘pharmacy of the world’. We are proud that our generic drugs help to treat diseases like malaria, HIV-AIDS, and tuberculosis which are usually considered as the health problems of developing countries.”

Emphasizing India’s commitment towards eradication of these diseases, Shri Nadda stated that “this contribution underscores India’s commitment to global health and its responsibility in bridging the healthcare gap in developing nations”. He also highlighted that “since administering drugs for HIV-AIDS is very costly and it became a burden for developing nations, the Indian manufacturers came forward and took the lead in providing effective and affordable drugs”.

Shri Nadda further added that “India has always been the world leader in the production and supply of vaccines contributing to approximately 60 percent of the global supply of vaccines.” He stated that the World Health Organization procures 70 percent of its vaccine demand from India. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, India supplied COVID-19 vaccines to several countries across the world under the Vaccine Maitri Programme. This highlights India’s commitment to serving humanity without any discrimination”, he added.

Shri Nadda remarked, “India has made remarkable progress in global health diplomacy and pharmaceutical leadership through various initiatives and international collaborations, embodying the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.” Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India has launched several key initiatives, including the Jan Aushadhi Scheme. This program aims to provide high-quality medicines to all segments of society, especially the underprivileged, by establishing Jan Aushadhi centers nationwide. These centers offer generic medicines of equal quality to branded ones at more affordable prices, without compromising on quality. All medicines supplied through this scheme meet the standards set by the Indian Pharmacopoeia. The success of this initiative in India stands as a model that could be adapted by other countries to improve global access to affordable healthcare.

Additionally, the Government of India has launched several initiatives to enhance access to medicines and healthcare services. The Ayushman Bharat scheme, for instance, is the world’s largest government-funded healthcare programme, providing assurance and insurance coverage for more than 500 million people at a cost of 6,000 US Dollars. Under the Prime Minister’s leadership, this scheme is a “testament to our commitment to ensure healthcare to the most vulnerable section of society”.

Shri Nadda added that “as India’s pharmaceuticals and the healthcare sector continue to grow, our focus remains on improving global health.  India’s collaboration with various countries is a testament to its dedication to this goal.” He further added that “the discussions under the Policymakers’ Forum will pave the way for patient safety worldwide, successful implementation of shared goals and will strengthen our healthcare systems while building lasting relationships among our countries”.

Dr. Arunish Chawla, Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals stated that, “a global trend is emerging as patients increasingly opt for generic medicines. Generic medicines adhere to regulatory standardization equivalent to WHO standards and practices and are at least 50 to 90% cheaper than branded medicines. There is a rising feeling in the world to move towards generic medicines”. Highlighting the success of the Janaushadhi Programme, he stated that, “in just a short span of 10 years, the out-of-pocket expenditure has fallen over 40% due to generic medicines which is evidence of the success of the Jan Arogya Programme and more than 10,000 Janaushadhi Kendras are running in every nook and corner of the country. Jan Arogya is a social service that we want to offer to help other countries in other parts of the world where Healthcare expenditure is a major concern.”

A key highlight of the event was the launch of two significant digital platforms by the Hon’ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers —the IP Online Portal and the Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring System (ADRMS) software. The IP Online Portal represents a major step towards digitalizing the Indian Pharmacopoeia, making drug standards more accessible to stakeholders worldwide. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s commitment to promoting environmentally friendly solutions under the ‘Digital India’ campaign.

The ADRMS software, developed as part of the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India, is India’s first indigenous medical product safety database tailored to the needs of the Indian population. It facilitates the collection and analysis of adverse events related to medicines and medical devices, thereby significantly strengthening the country’s pharmacovigilance infrastructure. This software not only streamlines the reporting process but also empowers consumers and healthcare professionals to directly report adverse events, ensuring a more comprehensive capture of safety information.