The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has shared an article by Union Minister, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya about importance of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendra (PMKSK).
Retweeting a tweet by Union Minister for Chemical and Fertilisers, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, the Prime Minister’s Office tweeted;
“केंद्रीय मंत्री श्री @mansukhmandviya लिखते हैं कि पीएम-किसान समृद्धि केंद्र, किसानों को सशक्त बनाने और देश की अर्थव्यवस्था की रीढ़ को मजबूत करने में गेमचेंजर साबित हो रहे हैं।”
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah today hoisted the Tiranga atop his residence in New Delhi, under Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and shared his selfie with the Tiranga. Through tweets, Shri Amit Shah said that millions of Tirangas billowing in Indian skies before Independence Day symbolize the nation’s collective will to make India the paragon of greatness again.
Union Home Minister said that Har Ghar Tiranga campaign called for by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is underway, across the country. He appealed to all the citizens of India to hoist the National Flag at their homes and upload selfies on http://harghartiranga.com. He also appealed everyone to also encourage their fellow citizens to do the same. Shri Shah said that cherishing India’s spirit of unity and fraternity, he has hoisted the Tiranga at his residence in Delhi today. Home Minister also shared a Certificate of Appreciation received for taking part in ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi remembered victims whose lives were lost in the partition of the country, as the nation observes ‘Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas’ today. Shri Modi paid tributes to them and recalled the the struggles of those who were uprooted from their homes.
In a tweet, the Prime Minister said;
“विभाजन विभीषिका स्मृति दिवस उन भारतवासियों को श्रद्धापूर्वक स्मरण करने का अवसर है, जिनका जीवन देश के बंटवारे की बलि चढ़ गया। इसके साथ ही यह दिन उन लोगों के कष्ट और संघर्ष की भी याद दिलाता है, जिन्हें विस्थापन का दंश झेलने को मजबूर होना पड़ा। ऐसे सभी लोगों को मेरा शत-शत नमन।”
The Prime Minister changed the DP of his social media accounts to the Tricolor. He asked everyone to do the same in the spirit of the #HarGharTiranga.
The nation is celebrating Har Ghar Tiranga movement between 13-15 August.
PM Modi tweeted:
“In the spirit of the #HarGharTiranga movement, let us change the DP of our social media accounts and extend support to this unique effort which will deepen the bond between our beloved country and us.”
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah addressed the Tiranga Yatra as part of Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign in Ahmedabad, Gujarat today. Many dignitaries including Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Bhupendra Patel were present on the occasion.
In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that on the occasion of Azadika Amrit Mahotsav, looking at thousands of people standing with the Tricolour in their hands, it seems that the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’scampaign to instil the spirit of patriotism in every child and youth of the country is being successful. He said that on August 15, 2022, there was not a single house in the country where the Tricolour was not hoisted and people had not taken selfies. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has called upon the people of the country to again hoist the Tricolour at their houses. He said that youths carrying the soil and Tricolour from Gujarat willreach Delhi. These youth will hand over the soil and Tricolour brought from all over the country to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in Delhi. The youth power will also disseminate the resolve for a great India in every village.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the movement of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav become a medium of raising the tide of patriotism, similarly ‘Meri Maati, Mera Desh’ program will also fulfil our resolve to make a great, developed and self-reliant India in the coming days. Union Home Minister appealed to all the countrymen to hoist the Tricolour at their houses from 13 to 15 August and upload selfies online, this effort of the people will become a campaign to make the entire country great. Shri Shah said that the enthusiasm with which the youth are standing in front of him, he is sure that this campaign will take the spirit of patriotism ahead and will imbibe the resolve to make the country great among the people especially the children and youth.
Shri Amit Shah said that thein the year of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has done the work of creating a tide of patriotism across the country. He said that on 15 August, 2023, the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav will conclude and under the leadership of Prime Minisiter Shri Narendra Modi, the country will celebrate the Amrit Kaal of Independence from 15 August 2023 to 15 August 2047. During the journey of 75 years to 100 years of independence, we will make the country great and number one in every field. Shri Shah said that Amrit Kaal is very important especially for our young generation. He said that just as in the 90 years from 1857 to 1947, the young generation led the freedom movement and freed the country from the shackles of slavery, in the same way the young generation has to dedicate the years from 2023 to 2047 to Mother India to make India great.
Union Home Ministerand Minister of Cooperation said that the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has kept the year of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav in front of the people of the country with a very good spirit. He said that during the period of 90 years from 1857 to 1947, lakhs of freedom fighters fought continuously and sacrificed their lives and freed the country. As a result, since the last 75 years, our country is world’s largest democracy and making its way across the globe.Shri Shah said that many freedom fighters laid down their lives in this struggle for freedom. The great freedom fighter Bhagat Singh happily accepted his death and raising the slogan of Inquilab Zindabad went to the gallows. 17-year-old Khudiram Bose, who had his whole life in front of him, sacrificed his life for the country without caring about caste, religion, state and region, while on the other hand, 80-year-old Babu Kunwar Singh ji attained martyrdom in the war of 1857. He said thatthe sacrifice of our freedom fighters is not just a sacrifice but it is a value for all usand the coming generations to live for the cause of country.Shri Shah said that today after 75 years of independence, we cannot die for the country but no one can stop us from living for the country.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation, development projects in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh today. The projects include laying the foundation stone of Sant Shiromani Gurudev Shri Ravidas ji Memorial to be constructed at a cost of more than Rs 100 crores, two road projects to be developed at a cost of more than Rs 1580 crores and dedicating to the nation doubling of Kota-Bina rail route to the nation developed at a cost of more than Rs 2475 crores.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that one can witness the ‘sagar’ (ocean) of harmony in the land of Sagar today with the presence of saints, the blessings of Saint Ravidas and the huge crowd comprising different sections of society. He mentioned that the foundation stone of Sant Shiromani Gurudev Shri Ravidas ji Memorial was laid today to further the shared prosperity of the nation. With the blessings of the saints, the Prime Minister recalled taking part in the ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ of the divine memorial earlier today and expressed confidence that he will come to inaugurate the temple on its completion in a few years. As a Parliamentarian from Varanasi, the Prime Minister informed about visiting the birthplace of Saint Ravidas Ji on multiple occasions and also paid tributes to him today from Sagar in Madhya Pradesh.
The Prime Minister said Sant Shiromani Gurudev Shri Ravidas ji Memorial will have grandeur as well as divinity which will flow from the teaching of Sant Ravidas ji. He informed that the memorial is steeped in the spirit of ‘Samrasta’ as the soil of more than 20000 villages and 300 rivers have been used in it. Families from Madhya Pradesh have sent grain for ‘Samrast Bhoj’ and five Yatras also concluded today at Sagar. “These yatras mark a new era of social harmony”, the Prime Minister added. The Prime Minister said when inspiration and progress (Prerna aur Pragati) come together a new era is heralded. He mentioned the projects i.e. two road projects and the doubling of Kota-Bina rail route and said that these development projects will provide better facilities to the people of Sagar and nearby areas.
The Prime Minister observed that the foundation stone of Saint Ravidas Ji Memorial and Museum is taking place at a time when the nation has completed 75 years of independence and the next 25 years of Amrit Kaal lie ahead of us. He emphasized forwarding the heritage of the land while also taking lessons from our past. Noting that the nation has completed a journey of a thousand years, the Prime Minister said that the emergence of evils in society is a natural occurrence. He underlined that it is the strength of Indian society that a saint or a Mahatama like Ravidas ji emerges time and again to ward off such evils. He informed that Saint Ravidas ji was born in an era when the Mughals ruled over the land and the society was struggling with imbalance, oppression and tyranny. He mentioned that in such a time, it was Saint Ravidas ji who was creating awareness and preaching ways to ward off evils of the society. Quoting Sant Ravidas ji, the Prime Minister said that on the one hand, people are tackling caste and creed while on the other, evil is gradually depleting humanity. The Prime Minister informed that Saint Ravidas ji was raising his voice against malpractices prevalent in the society while also rekindling the soul of the nation. Highlighting the bravery and patriotism of Sant Ravidas ji during the Mughal rule, the Prime Minister quoted him and said that dependency is the biggest sin and that those who accept it and do not take a stand against it are not loved by anybody. In a way, the Prime Minister emphasized, Sant Ravidas ji provided strength to the society to fight oppression, and Chatrapati Shivaji used it as an inspiration to lay the foundations of Hindavi Swarajya. He said that it was this feeling which found its way into the hearts of lakhs of freedom fighters during India’s struggle for independence. “Today, the nation is moving forward with the same spirit of liberation and rejecting the mentality of slavery”, the Prime Minister added.
Quoting Sant Ravidas on social equality and availability of amenities for all, the Prime Minister said that in the Amrit Kaal, we are trying to eradicate poverty and hunger from the country. He recalled his determination to provide food to poor and deprived sections during the pandemic. “I know the pain of hunger and self-respect of the poor. I am a member of your family and I don’t need to look into the books to understand your pain”, Shri Modi said. Free ration was ensured for more than 80 crore people under Pradhanmantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, a feat, said the Prime Minister, is being appreciated globally.
Talking about the Garib Kalyan Schemes being run in the country, the Prime Minister said that unlike earlier, the nation is standing with dalits, poor, tribals and women at every stage of life. At the time of birth Matru Vandana Yojana and Mission Indradhanush for total vaccine security of the newborn children where more than 5.5 crore mothers and children have been immunized. He informed that the campaign to save 7 crore Indians from Sickle Cell Anemia is going on along with a campaign to free India from TB by 2025. Shri Modi also noted the decreasing incidence of kala-azar and encephalitis. Talking about the Ayushman Card, the Prime Minister said “People say that they have got Modi Card. For treatment needs of up to 5 lakh, your son (the Prime Minister) is there”.
Underling the importance of education in life, the Prime Minister mentioned 700 Eklavya Schools in the tribal areas with books and scholarships and a robust mid-day meal system. He also listed measures like the Sukanya Samridhi Yojana for girls, scholarships for SC, ST and OBC students, loans to large numbers of SC, ST community members under the MUDRA loans. He also talked about cumulative financial help of 8 thousand crores to SC, ST youth under Standup India and the inclusion of 90 forest products under MSP along with Pradhan Mantri Awas with electricity, water and gas connections. “The people of SC-ST society are standing on their feet today. They are getting the right place in the society with equality”, he added.
“Sagar is such a district which has Sagar in its name and it is also identified with the 400-acre Lakha Banjara Lake”, the Prime Minister remarked. He touched upon Lakha Banjara who is associated with the region and mentioned that he understood the importance of water many years ago. The Prime Minister lamented that the past governments did provide drinking water to the poor and mentioned the Jal Jeevan Mission which is accomplishing this work today. He informed that piped water is reaching Dalit settlements, backward areas and tribal areas. The Prime Minister further added that 75 Amrit Sarovars are also being built in every district by taking forward the tradition of Lakha Banjara. “These lakes will become a symbol of the spirit of freedom, a center of social harmony”, Shri Modi said.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the government is giving due respect and providing new opportunities for dalits, the deprived, backwards and tribals of the country. “Neither the people of this society are weak, nor their history”, the Prime Minister remarked as he highlighted that great personalities have emerged from these sections of the society one after the other who have played an extraordinary role in nation building. That’s why, the Prime Minister said, the country is proudly preserving their legacy. He gave examples of the beautification of the temple at the birthplace of Sant Ravidas ji in Banaras, the Global Skill Park being built here at Govindpura in Bhopal named after Saint Ravidas, developing important places related to the life of Baba Saheb as Panch-Teerth and the development of museums in many states to immortalize the glorious history of the tribal society. The Prime Minister also informed that the nation has begun celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. He further added that Habibganj railway station in Madhya Pradesh was named after Queen Kamlapati of the Gond community, and Patalpani station is named after Tantya Mama. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister emphasized that the dalits, backward and tribal traditions are getting due respect for the first time in the country. He urged the nation to move forward with this resolution of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas’ and expressed confidence that the teachings of Sant Ravidas ji will continue to unite the citizens of India in its journey.
Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mangubhai Patel, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Union Ministers Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia and Shri Virender Kumar, Union Minister of State, Shri Prahlad Singh Patel, Member of Parliament, Shri V D Sharma, and Minister from Madhya Pradesh Government were present on the occasion among others.
Background
Honoring prominent saints and social reformers has been a special hallmark of the work done by the Prime Minister. Driven by his vision, Sant Shiromani Gurudev Shri Ravidas ji Memorial will be constructed in an area of more than 11.25 acres and at a cost of more than Rs 100 crores. The magnificent memorial will have an impressive art museum and gallery to showcase the life, philosophy and teachings of Sant Shiromani Gurudev Shri Ravidas ji. It will also have facilities for devotees visiting the memorial like Bhakt Niwas, Bhojanalay etc.
The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation the project marking the completion of the doubling of the Kota-Bina rail route. The project, which has been built at an estimated cost of more than Rs 2475 crores, passes through Kota and Baran districts in Rajasthan, and Guna, Ashoknagar and Sagar District in Madhya Pradesh. The additional rail line will increase capacity for better mobility and will help improve train speed along the route.
The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of two road projects at a cost of more than Rs 1580 crores. These include a four-laning road project connecting Morikori – Vidisha – Hinotiya and a road project that will connect Hinotiya to Mehluwa.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah performed BhoomiPujan of Border Security Force(BSF)’s Mooring Place and e-unveiled various projects in Kutch, Gujarat, today. Several dignitaries including Union Home Secretary and Director General, BSF were present on the occasion. Union Home Minister visited Harami Nala and reviewed the security situation there, also visited the Border Outpost 1170 and interacted with BSF personnel.
In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that Bhumi Pujan and inauguration of three infrastructure works have taken place today. He said that today Bhumi Pujan and foundation stone laying ceremony of Mooring Place, Koteshwar has been done, under which administrative complex, officers’ mess, canteen, parade ground, training centre, a workshop for repair and supply of water vesselsalong with a state-of-art unit has been set up at a cost of about Rs 250 crore. He said that after the construction of this facility, arrangements would be ready for smooth maintenance of all the vessels of BSF’s water wing from HaramiNala in the western region to the water border of the entire Gujarat. Along with this, BhumiPujan of Mooring Place, Koteshwar at a cost of Rs 257 crores, as well as inauguration of 28 km long Chidiyamode – BR Bet Link Road built at a cost of Rs.101 crore was done, which will prove very helpful in operational and logistic support to BSF deployed on the border. He said that an outpost tower 1164 has also been e-inaugurated today and this 9.5 meter high tower is fitted with state-of-the-art cameras which will be able to capture even the smallest movement across the border and alert our border guards. He said that with the construction of the OP tower, BSF will be able to keep an eye on the activities of the enemy even in adverse conditions. He said that all these three works have their own importance but out of these the lowest cost of Rs. 3 crore has been incurred on the outpost tower. He said that making 7 such outpost towers is critical for the security of this border.
Union Home Minister said that former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee had taken the decision of One Border, One Force. He said that due to this decision it became very easy for our border guarding forces to assess the geographical conditions, our political relations with the border country and threats. He said that at that time the BSF was given the responsibility of guarding the border with Pakistan and Bangladesh. There must have been a lot of deep thinking behind taking this decision because BSF is fully alert and capable of protecting the borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh. Shri Shah said that BSF is the only force among all CAPFs which has expertise in securing land and water borders and it has its own air wing also. He added that BSF has the capability, strength and courage to protect water, land and sky like the Indian Army.
Shri Amit Shah said that as the Home Minister of the country, from the point of view of internal security, he isassured about the security of the country’s borders because this responsibility is in safe hands of BSF. He said that BSF guards the borders in adverse conditions of temperature ranging from -43 degree to +43 degree. He said that be it Sundarbans, HaramiNala, snow-clad hills of Jammu and Kashmir or Bangladesh border surrounded by various waterfalls, BSF has always kept its eyes on the enemy. Shri Shah said that many important institutions are located in the coastal areas of Gujarat, this makes the coastal security very important and in this direction, BSF is working with utmost vigilance and promptness. The security of all these is very important across the year. He said that BSF has more than 450 water vessels and this facility will go a long way in maintaining their upkeep and vigilance.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, said that more than 1900 BSF Jawans have made the supreme sacrifice for the security of the country and the whole country bows down and salutes their sacrifice and pays tribute to them. He said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, such arrangements have been made in Nadabet at a cost of hundreds of crores, under which common citizens can know about BSF, youth can take inspiration and children can feel pride over the bravery and sacrifice of the brave soldiers of the country.There is also an exhibition giving detailed information about the history of BSF and arrangements have also been made to pay e-tribute to the martyred soldiers of BSF.
Shri Amit Shah said that the jawans of our security forces are protecting the country’s borders and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is leaving no stone unturned to worry about the welfare of their families. He said that under the Ayushman CAPF scheme, more than 39 lakh Ayushman CAPF cards have been distributed and more than 24000 hospitals have been linked with it. He said that 13000 new houses have been built for jawans, the number of people registering on the e-Awas portal of CAPFs has gone up to 4,89,000 and with this initiative alone, the housing satisfaction ratio has increased by 13%. Shri Shah said that the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme has been started, the Central Ex-gratia Fund has also been streamlined, air courier services have also been arranged and the Central Police Welfare Store has also been made modern and people-oriented. He said that the Modi government has provided many facilities for the security personnel. Shri Shah said that the 130 crore people of the country see the dedication and sacrifice of the Jawans with great respect.
To bolster the participation of both industries and young individuals in apprenticeship training on a nationwide scale, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship today launched Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS). An amount of approx Rs.. 15 crores was disbursed to one lakh apprentices by the Minister today marking the launch of DBT in NAPS.
A total of 25 lakh youth have been engaged as apprentices since the inception of National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme in 2016, till 31st July 2023. Around 2.6 lakh Apprentices have completed training in FY 23-24.
The Government of India’s proactive efforts to promote quality training across sectors, led to the number of active establishments subsequently increase from 6,755 in 2018-19 to 40,655 in 2023-24.
Lauding the initiative, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said that today is a momentous day towards invigorating the apprenticeship ecosystem in our country. Launch of DBT in National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme is a big step towards fulfilling our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of making skilling an apprenticeship aspirational as well as encouraging earning while learning as envisioned in NEP. He congratulated all the 1 lakh apprentices who have received stipend through DBT today.
Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship said that empowering our nation’s youth with skills is at the heart of our vision, and the introduction of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) through NAPS marks a stride towards transparency and efficiency. A skilled workforce is paramount, and our multifaceted strategy, encompassing policy evolution, industry synergies, and heightened recognition. In harmony with India’s core values of inclusivity and diversity, today’s Chintan Shivir on Apprenticeship underscores a crucial mission. Together, we forge ahead to craft a future where every individual’s potential finds its truest expression, he added.
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan interacted with some of the vibrant industry clusters and enthusiastic apprentices across Maharashtra, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh. There has been more 488% increase in number of establishments who have started apprenticeship training since the commencement of NAPS. This increased adoption of apprenticeship training will strengthen our nation’s workforce and economy. Some of them were Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture (MCCIA), Baddi Cluster from Himachal Pradesh and North Malabar Consortium Industry cluster
The MSDE also organized the Chintan Shivir on “Enhancing Apprenticeship Engagement” to elevate the uptake of apprenticeship programs among all stakeholders. A core facet of this session is to amplify the role and responsibility of various entities, including other central and state governments, industry bodies, and the private sector.
The Chintan Shivir was divided in three breakout sessions themed on Stakeholder Convergences to Make Apprenticeship Aspirational, Strategies and Practices to promote Quality Apprenticeship, and Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Apprenticeship Ecosystem, respectively.
These sessions were co-chaired by Smt Sonal Mishra, Joint Secretary, MSDE, Additional Secretary, MSDE and Smt, Soumya Gupta, Joint Secretary, MoE MSDE; Trishaljit Sethi, Additional Secretary, Director General, DGT, MSDE and Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International; Shri. Nilambuj Sharan, Senior Economic Adviser, MSDE and Smt. Heena Usman, Joint Secretary, MSDE.
The deliberations were centered around:
The key achievements of National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) include:
With the implementation of NAPS, the Government of India reimburses 25% of the prescribed stipend — subject to a maximum of Rs. 1500/- per month per apprentice — that all employers undertake by engaging apprentices. With the implementation of NAPS, it has been noted that not all establishments seek partial reimbursement of stipend by the Government. Going by past trends, 30% of target apprentices, under NAPS 2.0, will be paid their stipend by Government of India. With the implementation of DBT, the number of apprentices is expected to increase. Accordingly, the percentage of apprentices covered will be going up beyond 30%.
India’s Minister In-charge Personnel and Administrative Reforms, Dr Jitendra Singh reiterated India’s crusade against corruption and underlined Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for zero tolerance against corruption. He also recalled the 9 point agenda on fugitive economic offenders presented by PM Modi to G20 in 2018.
The Minister said, the G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial meeting is an opportunity for all of us to demonstrate collective and strong political will to lead the global fight against corruption. India’s zero tolerance approach for corruption also guides our approach towards international cooperation for combating corruption, he said.
The Kolkata Ministerial comes on top of the 3rd and final meeting of G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) under India’s Presidency held from 9-11 August 2023 in Kolkata.
Dr Jitendra Singh said, “I am impressed by the efforts put in by G20 ACWG members in updating the guides related to asset recovery and mutual legal assistance which will enhance the utility of existing knowledge resources. I also welcome work towards finalisation of the Accountability Report on a very important subject of Mutual Legal Assistance. Its findings and recommendations would be very useful in improving and strengthening cooperation between countries in combating transnational crime and maintaining global security. These are important steps towards dealing with the menace of Fugitive Economic Offenders,” he said.
India’s Minister said, fugitive economic offenders pose a significant challenge to both national and international law enforcement as they are able to exploit gaps and differences between legal and financial systems of countries to evade justice.
“Fugitive Economic offenders commit grave economic crimes in their home country and flee to another country to avoid arrest, prosecution, or the execution of their sentence. Economic crimes include a wide range of illegal activities such as fraud, tax evasion, money laundering, and embezzlement. Their actions undermine the rule of law, hamper economic development, and often contribute to corruption,” he said.
Dr Jitendra Singh referred to the 9 point agenda presented by PM Modi. “It called for strong and active cooperation across G20 countries in legal processes and mechanisms to deny safe haven to all fugitive economic offenders, effective implementation of international commitments, establishment of international cooperation for timely and comprehensive exchange of information and formulation of a standard definition of fugitive economic offenders, development of a set of commonly agreed and standardised procedures for dealing with fugitive economic offenders by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), setting up of a common platform for sharing experiences and best practices and initiation of work on locating properties of economic for its recovery,” he said.
Lauding the G20 ACWG for publishing an important G20 Action paper on International Cooperation dealing with Economic Crime, Offenders and Recovery of Stolen Assets in 2020, Dr Jitendra Singh said, it underscored the commitment of G20 countries to make efforts towards the denial of safe havens and facilitate the return of such fugitives and recovery of stolen assets.
“Taking forward the momentum, G20 ACWG under India’s Presidency has been successful in building consensus on important issues related to strengthening law enforcement cooperation, information sharing and asset recovery mechanisms. We, as the G20 need to be bold in our ambition and work together to address the lacunes in international cooperation to combat corruption. I am sure that G20 members will take concrete steps to implement these principles to enhance the effectiveness of extradition mechanisms, and to facilitate better tracking of cross-border financial flows which will deter fugitive economic offenders,” he said.
Dr Jitendra Singh said technology, transparency, and public participation form the bedrock of our anti-corruption efforts.
“Corruption can be countered by harnessing technology to enhance transparency and by fostering a culture of active citizen participation. I welcome the efforts of all G20 members to highlight the role of Information and Communication technology in preventing and combating corruption. By modernising governance, improving efficiency, and enhancing service delivery, these tools offer pathways to minimise corrupt practices,” he said.
Welcoming the consensus reached on principles regarding promoting integrity and transparency of specialised agencies, India’s anti-graft minister hoped it will help enhance the independence, transparency, and capabilities of such agencies and institutions.
Dr Jitendra Singh said the G20 ACWG has made commendable progress on preparation of a compendium of good practices on the role of auditing in fighting corruption. “I hope it will prove to be an important knowledge resource to enhance good governance, integrity, accountability, and transparency in public and private sectors by using audit as a key tool,” he said.
Dr Jitendra Singh said the G20 ACWG has been leading the global efforts for combating corruption and promoting transparency and accountability in the public and private sectors since 2010.
“Our discussions and decisions today will have the potential to contribute towards a robust anti-corruption architecture, enabling fair, inclusive and equitable growth,” he said.
Dr Jitendra Singh said Corruption has a greater impact on weak and marginalised section of the society, particularly targeting women for coercive corruption and exploitation. “I commend ACWG for putting a spotlight on gender differential impact of corruption and its acknowledgment as a critical issue that requires concerted efforts by all of us.”
Pointing out that corruption undermines democracy and the rule of law, Dr Jitendra Singh said it perpetuates inequality and erodes public trust in institutions.
“Corruption disproportionately affects the poorest and most marginalised members of society. Corruption also fuels transnational crime and terrorism by enabling illicit flow of money, and even directly financing criminal groups, which has direct bearing on the national security of countries. All the countries of the world face the negative impact of corruption in one way or the other,” he said.
Stating that PM Modi’s principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas” i.e. “together with trust of all for development of all” is the guiding light, Dr Jitendra Singh said the eradication of corruption in all its forms has been a central pillar of Indian government’s pro-people approach towards development.
“India has been a strong advocate of a robust and holistic approach to tackle corruption. India’s zero tolerance approach for corruption also guides our approach towards international cooperation for combating corruption. India has been an active member at the G20 ACWG forum and spearheading efforts towards tackling economic crimes and punishing economic offenders,” he said.
Dr Jitendra Singh said,
it is the responsibility of G20, as leaders of the world’s major economies, to ensure that we continue this momentum until this vision of achieving a corruption free world becomes a reality.
“By prioritising and implementing robust anti-corruption policies, we can set global benchmarks for transparency, integrity, and accountability. We have the power to enhance international cooperation against corruption which includes harmonising anti-corruption laws, enhancing information sharing, and strengthening cross-border investigations and prosecutions,” he said.
Dr Jitendra Singh said the fight against corruption may be long and arduous, but it is not impossible to win.
“Let us commit ourselves to this cause and create societies where prosperity and justice are not undermined by the scourge of corruption,” said Dr Jitendra Singh, adding, “We have the tools, the technology, and most importantly, the collective will to combat it. What we need is to convert this will into concerted, global action.”
Dr Jitendra Singh said the fight against corruption is all the more important in our times since the world is confronted with unparalleled and diverse challenges today, including COVID pandemic, supply chain disruptions, geo-political conflicts, and climate-related incidents.
“All these have derailed the progress and development achieved by the world in the past,” he said.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial Meet held in Kolkata via video message.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister welcomed dignitaries to the city of Nobel Laureate Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Kolkata and stated that this is the first-ever G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial Meet taking place physically. Referring to the writings of Tagore, the Prime Minister cautioned against greed as it prevents us from realizing the truth. He also touched upon the ancient Indian Upanishads that strive for ‘Ma Gridha’, which translates to ‘let there be no greed’.
The Prime Minister underlined that the highest impact of corruption is borne by the poor and the marginalized. He further added that it affects resource utilization, distorts markets, impacts service delivery and ultimately diminishes people’s quality of life. Referring to Kautilya in the Arthashastra, the Prime Minister said that it is the government’s duty to enhance the State’s resources to maximize the welfare of its people. He emphasized the need to combat corruption to achieve this goal and said that it is the sacred duty of the government towards its people.
“India has a strict policy of Zero Tolerance against corruption”, the Prime Minister remarked as he underlined that India is leveraging technology and e-governance to create a transparent and accountable ecosystem. He mentioned that leakages and gaps in welfare schemes and government projects are being plugged in. As a result, the Prime Minister said, hundreds of million people in India have received direct benefit transfers into their bank accounts amounting to more than 360 billion dollars and helping save over 33 billion dollars. The Prime Minister informed that the government has simplified various procedures for businesses and gave the example of automation and digitization of government services that have eliminated rent-seeking opportunities. “Our Government e-Marketplace, or GeM portal, has brought greater transparency in government procurement”, he added. Speaking about the enactment of the Economic Offenders Act in 2018, the Prime Minister said that the government is aggressively pursuing economic offenders and informed about the recovery of assets worth over 1.8 billion dollars from economic offenders and fugitives. He also mentioned the Prevention of Money Laundering Act which has helped attach the assets of offenders worth more than 12 billion dollars since 2014.
The Prime Minister recalled speaking on the challenges of fugitive economic offenders for all G20 countries and the Global South in his very first G-20 Summit in 2014. He also mentioned presenting a nine-point agenda for action against Fugitive Economic Offenders and Asset Recovery at the G-20 Summit in 2018 and expressed happiness that decisive steps are being taken by the working group. The Prime Minister welcomed the action-oriented High-Level Principles on three priority areas, namely, law enforcement cooperation through information sharing, strengthening asset recovery mechanisms, and enhancing the integrity and effectiveness of anti-corruption authorities. He expressed delight that an understanding has been reached on informal cooperation between law enforcement agencies which will prevent criminals from exploiting legal loopholes when crossing borders. Highlighting the importance of timely asset tracing and identification of proceeds of crime, the Prime Minister stressed the need to encourage countries to enhance their domestic asset recovery mechanisms. Shri Modi suggested that G20 countries can set an example by using non-conviction-based confiscations to expedite the recovery of foreign assets and said that it will ensure swift return and extradition of criminals after the due judicial process. “It will send a strong signal about our joint fight against corruption”, he emphasized.
The Prime Minister asserted that the collective efforts of G20 nations can significantly support the fight against corruption and a huge difference can be made through enhanced international cooperation and implementation of robust measures that address the root causes of corruption. Shri Modi also highlighted the role of audit institutions in the fight against corruption. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister urged the dignitaries to foster a culture of ethics and integrity in the value systems along with strengthening our administrative and legal systems. “Only by doing so, can we lay the foundation for a just and sustainable society. I wish you all a productive and successful meeting”, the Prime Minister concluded.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has said that the recent move of the government to enhance the Welfare Schemes for the Ex-Servicemen will improve their quality of life.
Union Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh informed that persuent to the top priority accorded to the welfare of the Ex-Servicemen and the policy of Ease of Living, the amount under the following Welfare Schemes of Ex-Servicemen has been enhanced.
1. Vocational Training Grant from Rs 20000 to Rs 50000 for widows of ESM upto Hav/equivalent.
2. Medical Grant from Rs 30000 to Rs 50000 for non- pensioner ESM/widows upto Hav/equivalent.
3. Grant for Serious Diseases from Rs 1.25 lakhs to Rs 1.50 lakhs for non- pensioner ESM/widows of all ranks.
In response, the Prime Minister tweeted:
“India is proud of the valiant Ex-Servicemen who have defended our nation. The welfare schemes which have been enhanced for them will greatly improve their quality of life.”
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has asked the citizens to upload the photos with Tiranga on harghartiranga.com under the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ movement between 13th to 15th August.
In a series of tweets, the Prime Minister said;
“‘हर घर तिरंगा’ अभियान ने आजादी के अमृत महोत्सव में एक नई ऊर्जा भरी है। देशवासियों को इस साल इस अभियान को एक नई ऊंचाई पर ले जाना है। आइए, 13 से 15 अगस्त के बीच देश की आन-बान और शान के प्रतीक राष्ट्रीय ध्वज को फहराएं। तिरंगे के साथ harghartiranga.com पर अपनी सेल्फी भी जरूर अपलोड करें।”
“The Tiranga symbolises the spirit of freedom and national unity. Every Indian has an emotional connect with the Tricolour and it inspires us to work harder to further national progress. I urge you all to take part in the #HarGharTiranga movement between 13th to 15th August. Upload your photos with the Tiranga here… harghartiranga.com”
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