PM expresses pride on President being honoured with the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste

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The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has today expressed immense pride in a tweet regarding President Smt Draupadi Murmu’s recognition with the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, the highest civilian award of the nation. This prestigious honor highlights the deep-rooted ties and mutual respect between India and Timor-Leste.

In his tweet, Prime Minister Modi has said, “It is a proud moment for us to see Rashtrapati Ji being honoured with the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste. This reflects the strong ties and mutual respect between our countries. It is also a recognition of her monumental contribution to public life for several years.”

We all stand with the people of Kerala during this challenging time: PM

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has today said that Center will provide all possible assistance to the landslide affected Wayanad. In a series of posts on X, the Prime Minister has said that “the landslides in Wayanad have saddened us all. Since the tragedy unfolded, I’ve been closely monitoring the situation. The Central government has mobilised all resources to assist those affected. Today, I went there and reviewed the situation. I also undertook an aerial survey”

The Prime Minister has also met the victims of the tragedy. Upon his interaction he said “I personally met those who have been impacted by the landslides. I fully understand the effect this has had on numerous families. I also visited the relief camps and spoke with those who have been injured”

Promising full support the relief machinery at the disposal of the Union Government he said “ I assure everyone, especially those affected, that all possible support will continue being provided. We all stand with the people of Kerala during this challenging time.”

Subsequent to his aerial review of the situation, Shri Modi met those involved in the relief operations. Commenting on his meeting he has said “I also met officials and those working at the front lines to thank them for their service in challenging times. As soon as we receive detailed information from the Kerala Government, the Centre will take all necessary steps to assist in rebuilding essential infrastructure, including schools and homes, in the affected region.”

Our prayers are with those affected by the landslide in Wayanad: PM

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The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has said our prayers are with those affected by the landslide in Wayanad and the Centre assures every possible support to aid in relief efforts. He said Central Government is standing alongside the State Government for all assistance and relief work. The Prime Minister visited and inspected the landslide-hit areas after an aerial survey in Wayanad, Kerala today.

The Prime Minister met the patients who were injured during the natural disaster and interacted with those living in relief camps. .In a review meeting Shri Modi reassured that the Central Government and the country are with the disaster-affected victims in this hour of grief. He said  detailed memorandum will be sent by the Chief Minister.

Prime Minister said that he has been keeping a close watch on the rescue efforts in Wayanad  and has been in constant touch with the authorities. He said  disaster management funds have already been released and the remaining part will also be released immediately.

Shri Modi said that all central agencies that can deal with the present situation have been mobilized and are helping those affected. The Prime Minister lauded the personnel of NDRF, SDRF, Army, State Police, local medical force, NGO and other service-oriented institutions who reached the disaster-struck area immediately and started the search and rescue efforts.

Shri Modi stressed the need to formulate new long-term schemes to support those affected, especially the children who have lost their families. He expressed confidence that the state government will play a crucial role in this with all the support needed from the Center.

The Prime Minister assured the people of Wayanad that the country and the Central Government will leave no stone unturned to restore livelihood in the region, be it homes, schools, road infrastructure as well as the future of children.

The prosperity of the farmer is the goal of the Modi government: Amit Shah

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Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attended the Sugar Industry Symposium and National Efficiency Awards 2022-23 function of NFCSF as the Chief Guest in New Delhi today. On this occasion, Shri Amit Shah presented National Efficiency Awards to cooperative sugar mills in eight areas of cooperatives

In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that our country has been a witness to the cooperative movement and for a long time cooperation has been an integral part of our culture. Several states including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka played a leadership role in this, he added. He said that after independence, the cooperative movement did not undergo the necessary changes and due to this it was limited to a few states. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi took a historic decision and created a separate Ministry of Cooperation after which a lot of work has been done in the cooperative sector.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that in the last 10 years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the country has progressed in every field. He said that we have been successful in increasing the area of sugarcane production by about 18 per cent from 5 million hectares in the year 2013-14 to 6 million hectares, in just 10 years. Sugarcane production has increased by 40 per cent from 352 million tonnes in 2013-14 to 491 million tonnes, today. Similarly, yield increased by 19 per cent and sugar production by 58 per cent. Compared to zero diversion of sugar for ethanol production in 2013-14, today a diversion of 4.5 million tonnes of sugar is being allowed for ethanol production. The sugar industry used to produce 38 crore litres of ethanol earlier and there was limited use of it, which has increased to 370 crore litres today. Shri Shah said that the direct benefit of all this has gone into the pockets of the farmers.

Shri Amit Shah said that a policy decision of the Modi government on ethanol-blending has reduced the import bill of petrol, improved the environment, benefited farmers and increased the profits of sugar mills. He said that the Modi government has ensured multi-faceted benefits to four sectors with the important decision of allowing 20 per cent blending. He said that it is constantly monitored, by the Prime Minister himself, through the Group of Ministers which reviews and takes decisions every 3 months and that is why we have been able to achieve the targets in ethanol blending much before time.

Union Cooperation Minister said that when Biofuel alliance will create worldwide awareness of benefits of ethanol blending, the biggest beneficiary will be our sugarcane farmers and sugar mills. He said the Modi government has promoted economic development as well as rural empowerment through cooperatives. We have also worked to achieve energy security, environmental improvement and sustainable growth of sugar mills. Shri Shah said that Modi ji has set a target of 20 per cent ethanol blending by 2030, but we will achieve this target much before by 2025-26. He said that out of about 5,000 crore litres of petrol sold, the requirement of ethanol will be one thousand crore litres.

Shri Amit Shah said that we should work towards making sugar mills viable. He said that the government is ready to extend all possible help to set up multidimensional biofuel production plants. He said that NAFED will procure 100 per cent maize and pulses from all farmers at Minimum support price (MSP). He said that the prosperity of farmers is our goal. Shri Shah said that for ethanol made from maize and bamboo, the government has kept the highest rate of 71.86 rupees per litre.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that cooperative sugar mills have contributed about 8 per cent of the ethanol supply in 2022-23, which we have to increase to 25 per cent. He said that NFCSF has acted as a bridge between the sugar mills and the government, technology, innovation and market conditions. He said it is a union of 259 sugar mills and nine state unions are associated with it, and it has the potential to expand. Shri Shah said that under the 10-year roadmap, the number of cooperative sugar mills should be increased by mapping the area of sugarcane sowing across the country. He said that the goal should be that all the profits of sugar production should reach the bank accounts of the farmers.

Shri Amit Shah said that after the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation, the government has also done a lot for sugar mills. He said that Prime Minister Modi has given relief to sugar mills from the tax liability of Rs. 15,000 crores which was pending for about 20 years. Along with this, cooperative sugar mills have been brought ‘at par’ with industries and a grant of Rs 1,000 crore has been approved in the loan scheme of National Cooperatives Development Corporation (NCDC), which will enable giving away of loans of up to Rs 10,000 crore in the next 3 years. He said that Modi ji has increased the possibilities of expansion for cooperative sugar mills. Shri Shah said that the work of reducing GST on molasses from 28 per cent to 5 per cent has been done by the Modi government. He said that under a futuristic approach, NAFED, KRIBHCO, IFFCO etc have set a target that these institutions will also increase their turnover by 25 per cent in the next 2 years.

Union Cooperation Minister said that we can only move forward from where we are when we believe in moving forward. He said that NFCSF should aim to transform all sugar mills under its ambit into ethanol producing sugar mills, in the next 2 years. Shri Shah said that we should work on making the federation dynamic and not be limited to the demand. He said that instead of a demand-driven federation, a dynamic federation should be formed and we should work with the goal of prosperity of sugarcane producing farmers.

The purpose of the ‘Tiranga Yatra’ is to awaken the spirit of patriotism among the citizens: Jagat Prakash Nadda

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Hon’ble BJP National President Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda inaugurated the party’s nationwide “Tiranga Yatra” from Rajkot, Gujarat on Saturday. He flagged off the Tiranga Yatra and also participated in it. Prior to this, he paid homage at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and also remembered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the champion of national unity and integrity. The “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign will continue until August 15, aiming to celebrate the tricolor by hoisting it in every home and establishment, spreading a message of unity and patriotism across the state. During the event, Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, State BJP President Shri C.R. Patil, former Chief Minister Shri Vijay Rupani, Mayor Smt Naina Ben, Cabinet Ministers Shri Raghav Patel, Shri Purushottam Rupala, and Shri Vinod Chavda, along with other party leaders.

Shri Nadda that it is a great fortune to have the opportunity to visit Gujarat, a land of sages, saints, social reformers, and deep inspiration. Shri Nadda emphasized that referring to Gujarat as a land of saints, social reformers, and a place that awakens inner consciousness was not an exaggeration but a reflection of the truth. The land had given birth to many saints and great souls and had also nurtured social reformers. Shri Nadda stated that as we embark on this Tiranga Yatra and witness the Tricolor everywhere, it evokes memories of the freedom struggle and the era that shaped our nation. We must remember that Gujarat played a pivotal role in crafting the image of the Independent India we know today. This land, known for its heroes and saints, is also the land of those who fought valiantly for our freedom. The nation can never forget the immense contribution of Mahatma Gandhi, who was instrumental in leading us to independence.

Hon’ble National President stated that, it is our privilege that Mahatma Gandhi’s connection is also with the sacred land of Gujarat, who contributed to the country’s independence. On this day, we cannot forget Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. It’s easy to say, but remember, when this country was gaining independence, it was divided into 562 princely states. Uniting 562 princely states was no easy task, but the ‘Iron Man of India’, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, born from the soil of Gujarat, united all 562 states within just 2 years of independence, making India great. It is our privilege that the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, also has a connection to this sacred land. He has committed himself to realizing the dream of ‘Amrit Kaal’ and ‘Viksit Bharat’. Gujarat has a significant contribution in ‘India in the Making’ or ‘India as a Developed Nation’ or ‘India as a Nation’.

Shri Nadda stated that this Tiranga Yatra commenced here in Rajkot today, will continue tomorrow in Surat, and then move on to Vadodara and Ahmedabad. However, this Tiranga Yatra will reach every taluka and every mandal. It will cover every taluka, and the Tiranga Yatra will continue until August 15. We will make this program a success, with the slogan ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’. Young friends must remember that our freedom was not easily obtained. It was not given to us just like that. Thousands of our young people sacrificed their lives for this freedom. Lakhs of families sacrificed themselves in the struggle for independence. They did not experience comfort, peace, their sole focus was to bring freedom to our India. They contributed in every possible way to this cause. This is why today India obtained freedom. Shri Nadda stated that, today is the moment, today is the opportunity. Many individuals here embody the essence of Gandhi and Sardar Patel. I pay my respects to them for helping us remember Gandhi and Sardar Patel and for reflecting on our history. They remind us of how, with profound patriotism, countless people laboured relentlessly to secure our nation’s freedom. Their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment ultimately compelled the British to leave India.

The BJP National President remarked that India cannot forget August 9. It is a sacred day when Gandhi declared “Quit India.” This was not just a slogan; it became the voice of every household, challenging the British in every home. It signified that India belonged to its people, and the British had to leave. Many movements were carried out, but we must acknowledge that if the Quit India Movement had not taken place during that period, we would not have achieved independence on August 15, 1947. The Quit India Movement played a crucial role in our freedom, leading to the country’s independence. Shri JP Nadda under Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s leadership, the country is progressing at a rapid pace, reaching new heights. Shri Nadda urged the young people present at the event to utilize this Amrit Kaal, as envisioned by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, and to work towards ensuring that by 2047, India will be a developed nation.

Shri Nadda stated that, our brave soldiers sacrificed their lives to secure our country’s freedom. Just as they protected the nation at its borders, keeping us safe and secure, it is our duty to make the most of this freedom. We must leave no stone unturned and dedicate ourselves fully to transforming India into ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 during this Amrit Kaal. We should resolve to commit our lives to this goal. This is the very essence of the Tiranga Yatra.

Hon’ble BJP National President highlighted that, under Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s leadership, while global economic powers are faltering and the economic situation of developed countries is shaky, India has surged from being the 11th largest economy in 2014 to becoming the 5th largest economy. It is now our responsibility under Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s guidance, to make India the 3rd largest economy within the next three years as part of this Tiranga Yatra. There was a time when India used to import iron from China and meet our steel requirements from abroad. Today, India has made a remarkable leap from being the fourth-largest steel producer to becoming the second-largest steel producer in the world. In the automobile industry, India has surpassed Japan to become the third-largest automobile market. Ten years ago, mobile phones often had labels like “Made in China,” “Made in Taiwan,” “Made in Indonesia,” “Made in Japan,” or “Made in Australia.” Today, if you pick up your mobile phone, you’ll see “Made in India” on it. Today, 97% of mobile phones are manufactured in India. There was a time when we used to import defence equipment from abroad, including bulletproof jackets. Soldiers on the border, particularly from hilly regions, had lacked bulletproof jackets. Today, not only do we have bulletproof jackets, but we are also exporting them to the world. This is a reflection of India’s changing image. Previously, India was known for scandals in defence deals and corruption. Today, under the “Make in India” initiative, India is manufacturing a significant portion of its defence equipment domestically. India is now producing fighter jets, helicopters, and automatic weapons. India is fully prepared to be ‘Atma Nirbhar’ in defence, and all this progress is happening under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji. Therefore, it is our responsibility to realize his vision and work towards ensuring that by 2047, we achieve these goals. You will witness, and through your efforts, India will stand as a developed nation by 2047. This dream will become a reality, and your contribution will be crucial.

Shri Nadda stated that, on this auspicious occasion, there is no need to make any remarks about the opposition. However, it is important to remind the patriots and the Congress members that the nation can never forget Sardar Patel’s contribution to the freedom struggle. The country will always remember it. Yet, through Congress lens, they seem to see only one family. The Congress forgot the contributions of Chandrasekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the contributions of lakhs of people and leaders who dedicated their lives to freeing India from British rule. They only remember only one family. Shri Nadda pointed out that not a single leader from the Congress party has visited the Statue of Unity to pay their respects to Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai who united the 562 princely states to create this great India. These individuals with such narrow and limited thinking were taking out ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’. If they truly want to honor the person who united India, then they must visit Gujarat and pay respect to the Iron Man, Sardar Patel. These fake patriots, these people who merely showcase false nationalism.

BJP National President mentioned that those individuals who view the country through a political lens, those who divide society for political gain, and those who break apart communities to serve their own interests. Indians and our youth will show them the clear difference between right and wrong. They will reveal the truth to them. And the truth is that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, the country is progressing. Under the leadership of Shri Bhupendra Patel and other leaders, Gujarat is making significant strides forward, thanks to Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s blessings.

Shri Nadda emphasized that as participants in the Tiranga Yatra, it is important to take a pledge to advance Gujarat and contribute to the development of India. He expressed that the true spirit, purpose, and celebration of the Tiranga Yatra will be realized only when this resolution of a developed India is fulfilled. Shri Nadda voiced his confidence that school and college students, along with all participants, will join the Tiranga Yatra to strengthen and carry forward this resolution. He concluded by extending his best wishes to everyone involved in the Tiranga Yatra.

PM urges citizens to change the profile picture having tricolour on social media

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has urged citizens to change their profile picture having tricolour on social media platforms. Shri Modi changed his profile picture to tricolour to celebrate Independence Day. He urged everyone to do same to make Har Ghar Tiranga Movement a memorable mass movement.

Shri Modi also urged everyone to share selfie with Tiranga on harghartiranga.com.

In a X post, the Prime Minister said;

“As this year’s Independence Day approaches, let’s again make #HarGharTiranga a memorable mass movement. I am changing my profile picture and I urge you all to join me in celebrating our Tricolour by doing the same. And yes, do share your selfies on harghartiranga.com

PM congratulates Neeraj Chopra and Aman Sehrawat for winning Medal at Paris Olympics

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PM congratulates Neeraj Chopra for winning Silver at Paris Olympics

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today congratulated Neeraj Chopra for winning a Silver Medal in javelin throw at the ongoing Olympics in Paris, France.

Shri Modi expressed confidence that Neeraj would continue to motivate countless upcoming athletes to pursue their dreams and make India proud.

The Prime Minister posted on X:

“Neeraj Chopra is excellence personified! Time and again he’s shown his brilliance. India is elated that he comes back with yet another Olympic success. Congratulations to him on winning the Silver. He will continue to motivate countless upcoming athletes to pursue their dreams and make our nation proud. @Neeraj_chopra1”

PM congratulates wrestler Aman Sehrawat for winning Bronze at Paris Olympics

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today congratulated wrestler Aman Sehrawat for winning the Bronze Medal in the Men’s Freestyle 57 kg at the ongoing Olympics in Paris, France.

The Prime Minister posted on X:

“More pride thanks to our wrestlers!

Congratulations to Aman Sehrawat for winning the Bronze Medal in the Men’s Freestyle 57 kg at the Paris Olympics. His dedication and perseverance are clearly evident. The entire nation celebrates this remarkable feat.”

Dr. Jitendra Singh hails WHO on signing MOU with India for production of medical devices

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Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh hails WHO on signing MOU with India for production of medical devices at the ceremony to formally announce the agreement today at INSA, New Delhi.

MoU Signed Between Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology under Dept. of Science & Technology and WHO: A Seminal Step said Dr. Jitendra Singh expressing his gratitude to the WHO for its wonderful humanitarian initiatives in India.  He referred to the Covid technology access pool (CTAP) of the WHO, now known as Health technology access pool (HTAP), is an excellent initiative as it gives access to successful health technologies to various countries.  Dr. Singh said “Ministry of Science and Technology is proud to be a part of the MoU as it allows SCTIMST and Department of Science and Technology to enter into a partnership with global entrepreneurs, licensing the technologies and creating revenue generation through royalty.”

Recalling PM Modi’s call for Atmanirbhar Bharat and Self-reliant India during the hard COVID times in the year 2020, Dr. Jitendra Singh despite producing indigenous devices we need to produce them at the required volume to meet the demand.

The Minister emphasized that by promoting indigenous manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports, this partnership strengthens India’s position as a leader in healthcare innovation. Additionally, it contributes to the development of a highly skilled workforce, further enhancing the nation’s manufacturing capabilities.

The Science and Technology Minister highlighted our world class facilities related to the development of technologies like in-vitro testing, genomics, precision medicine and vaccine production and added that technology developed by SCTIMST is a part of the rapidly expanding ecosystem of medical diagnostics.

Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed his confidence on the collaboration with WHO, which will result in more technology development as well as innovations and foster international partnerships to strengthen our medical, diagnostic, and therapeutic infrastructure and stay ahead in combating global diseases and future pandemics.

He recalled the pioneering efforts made by Padma Vibhushan late Prof Valiathan, the founding Director, whose vision has been responsible for the outstanding work the institute is carrying out in the field of biomedical technology development.

Dr. VK Saraswat, Member of NITI Aayog and President of SCTIMST, Dr. A Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Dr. Rogério Paulo Pinto de Sá Gaspar,  Hon. Officiating Additional Director General and  Director, Department of Regulation and Prequalification WHO, Geneva, Dr. Roderico H. Ofrin, World Health Organization  Representative in India, Dr. Manisha Shridhar, Regional Advisor to South East Asia Regional Office, WHO, Dr Sanjay  Behari, Director, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Dr. H K Varma, Head, Biomedical Technology Wing, Dr. Anoop Thekkuveettil, Scientist G, members of INSA, DST, ICMR, DBT and other organizations, members of WHO, members of SCTIMST were also present for the meeting.

Towards the conclusion Dr. Jitendra Singh also remarked that this partnership strengthens India’s position as a leader in healthcare innovation with focus on “Technology for Medical Diagnosis”. Thanking the Prime Minister for constant encouragement Dr. Jitendra Singh said “Whole of Government and whole of science approach under leadership PM Modi and gave credit of the transformation witnessed in the public healthcare in last decade.

Cabinet approves Eight new line projects across Indian Railways

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The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved Eight (8) projects of Ministry of Railways with total estimated cost of Rs. 24,657 crore (approx.).

The new line proposals will provide direct connectivity and improve mobility, providing enhanced efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways. The projects are in line with the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Vision of a New India which will make people of the region “Atmanirbhar” by way of comprehensive development in the area which will enhance their employment/ self-employment opportunities.

The projects are result of PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity which have been possible through integrated planning and will provide seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods and services.

The 8 (Eight) projects covering 14 Districts in Seven States i.e., Odisha, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Telangana and West Bengal will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by 900 Kms.

With these projects 64 New Stations will be constructed, providing enhancing connectivity to Six(6) Aspirational Districts (East Singhbum, BhadadriKothagudem, Malkangiri, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Rayagada), approx. 510 villages and about 40 lakh population.

Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site will be connected to Indian Railway Network facilitating large number of tourists.

These are essential routes for transportation of commodities such as agriculture products, fertilizer, coal, iron ore, steel, cement, bauxite, limestone, aluminium powder, granite, ballast, containers etc. The capacity augmentation works will result in additional freight traffic of magnitude 143 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum). The Railways being environment friendly and energy efficient mode of transportation, will help both in achieving climate goals and minimizing logistics cost of the country, reduce oil import (32.20 Crore Litres) and lower CO2 emissions (0.87 MillionTonnes) which is equivalent to plantation of 3.5 crore trees.

S.No. New Railway Line route Length of Line

(km)

Districts covered States
1 Gunupur-Therubali (New Line) 73.62 Rayagada Odisha
2 Junagarh-Nabrangpur 116.21 Kalahandi &Nabrangpur Odisha
3 Badampahar – Kandujhargarh 82.06 Keonjhar & Mayurbhanj Odisha
4 Bangriposi – Gorumahisani 85.60 Mayurbhanj Odisha
5 Malkangiri – Pandurangapuram (via Bhadrachalam) 173.61 Malkangiri, East Godavari &BhadradriKothagudem Odisha, Andhra Pradesh & Telangana
6 Buramara – Chakulia 59.96 East Singhbhum, Jhargram&Mayurbnanj Jharkhand, West Bengal & Odisha
7 Jalna – Jalgaon 174 Aurangabad Maharashtra
8 Bikramshila – Katareah 26.23 Bhagalpur Bihar

Prime Minister wishes on National Handloom Day

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today wished the people on occasion of National Handloom Day. While praising the efforts of Indian artisans, he reiterated the Government’s commitment towards ‘Vocal for Local’ intitative.

Shri Modi in a post on ‘X’ wrote:

“Greetings on National Handloom Day! We take immense pride in the rich heritage and vibrant tradition of handlooms across our nation.  We also cherish the efforts of our artisans and reiterate our commitment to be ‘Vocal for Local.’”

PM congratulates President on being bestowed the highest civilian award of Fiji

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The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu has been bestowed the highest civilian award of Fiji, Companion of the Order of Fiji.

Congratulating the President, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi posted on X today:

“Congratulations to Rashtrapati Ji on being bestowed the highest civilian award of Fiji, Companion of the Order of Fiji. This is a moment of immense pride and joy for every Indian. It is also a recognition of Rashtrapati Ji’s leadership as well as the historic people-to-people connect between India and Fiji. “

India emerging as world-class cost-effective healthcare destination: Dr. Jitendra Singh

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Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, addressing the “Global MedTech Summit 2024” organized by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) at Hotel Le Meridian here, highlighted India’s emergence as a world-class cost-effective healthcare destination and at the same time, a leader in the global pharmaceutical industry.

Speaking on the transformation in healthcare brought about in recent times, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has laid down a vision for a healthy India with the elimination of communicable diseases and prevention of non-communicable diseases, developing health indices and making steady progress.” He said, “India carried out the world’s largest vaccination drive in COVID pandemic; this reaffirms that the Modi Govt firmly believes that accessible healthcare is a right of every citizen. He also pressed on the new burden of metabolic disorders and the challenges it posed with a wide spectrum of diseases and increasing life span bringing novel diseases.

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, said preventive healthcare is a national priority to achieve the vision India @ 2047.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, who is himself a professor of medicine & endocrinology, highlighted the Increasing prevalence of morbidities of later age happening in younger age like Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, young Heart attacks, malignancies etc, are not only a health challenge but also threaten to drain away the vital youth energy and youth potential which would otherwise be contributing to the task of nation building and realizing the vision of India 2047.

Dr. Jitendra Singh advocated for a “PPP + PPP” collaboration, urging the public and private sectors within India to partner with their counterparts in other countries. He highlighted that such partnerships not only boost economic resources but also enhance knowledge resources. He pointed to the success in the space and biotechnology sectors as role models for integrated partnerships, noting the rapid growth in private investment and StarUp numbers in these areas.

“Success In space and biotechnology sector serves as role model for Integrated partnership” remarked Dr. Singh. The Minister said opening up of the Space sector had ushered a private investment of more than Rs 1,000 crore within a few months and boosted the StartUp numbers from 1 startup in 2022 to 200 plus StartUps currently, with some of them having global potential.

The Minister also described India among the top 6 Bio-manufacturers of the world and one of the most cost-effective and efficacy-based Bio-manufacturing as well as cost-effective healthcare destinations. He referred to BIRAC-Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council as one platform for industry linkage and research.

The Minister also recalled the efforts of the Department of Biotechnology and their achievements for fostering research and development in translational health sciences. He said the Bio- manufacturing and bio-foundry has grown more than 10 times from $10 billion in 2014 to $130 billion in 2024.

The Science and technology Minister said the “Medical Devices is considered as one of the sunrise sectors in the country and the Government under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership is taking every possible step to make India its manufacturing hub”. Going further the minister informed that a research group is in place to create indices, draw benchmarks and propose plan of action.

Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that technology plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to healthcare. Technology is revolutionizing the healthcare sector, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) tools can significantly enhance our capabilities by leveraging technology, we can enhance efficiency, reduce wait times, and improve overall healthcare delivery. Sharing his experience with Telemedicine, the Minister shared how it has transformed healthcare and made services accessible even in the remotest villages of the country. But at the same time, he shared his experience with CPGRAMS and said we have to sometimes supplement AI with human intervention also by sharing the example of a human desk for taking feedback.

In conclusion, Dr. Jitendra Singh called for robust Industry-Academia-Research and Entrepreneurship linkages from the outset, reinforcing the need for a collaborative approach to achieve the vision of a healthy India by 2047.