The Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has launched a “Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States” from the earmarked allocation of Preparedness and Capacity Building Funding Window under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for strengthening fire services in the States with a total outlay of Rs. 5,000 crore. An amount of Rs. 500 crore, out of the total outlay, has been kept for incentivizing the States on the basis of their legal and infrastructure-based reforms. A letter in this regard has been sent to the Chief Secretaries and Head of Fire Services of all States.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah had announced the scheme while chairing a meeting with Ministers of Disaster Management of the States/Union Territories in New Delhi on 13th June, 2023.

Under able guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, several key initiatives are being taken to ensure ‘zero death’ and minimum loss of property during disasters by strengthening disaster risk reduction system in India to make it disaster resilient.

Objective of the scheme is to expand and modernize Fire Services in the States with a view that activities for strengthening of fire services at the State-level through preparedness and capacity-building component of the NDRF will be ensured.

For seeking funds for the projects/proposals under the Scheme, the concerned State Governments shall have to contribute 25% (except for the North-Eastern and Himalayan (NEH) States which shall contribute 10%) of total cost of such projects / proposals from their budgetary resources.

The details of the scheme may be downloaded from website https://ndmindia.mha.gov.in of Disaster Management Division of Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

The Scheme finds its origin from the recommendation of the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV-FC) which allows an allocation of 12.5 percent of each of the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) [10% of the total corpus of the National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) and the State Disaster Risk Management Fund (SDRMF)] for the Funding Window of Preparedness and Capacity Building.

Out of the total National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) corpus, an amount of Rs. 5,000 Crore was earmarked for priority “Expanding and Modernization of Fire Services”. There shall be no spill-over for the liabilities committed for the projects sanctioned against earmarked allocation beyond the award period.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will undertake a visit covering four states on 7-8th July, 2023. He will visit Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh on  7th July. On 8th July, Prime Minister will visit Telangana and Rajasthan.

On 7th July, at around 10:45 AM, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various development projects in a public programme in Raipur. Prime Minister will reach Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh at around 2:30 PM, where he will participate in the closing ceremony of centenary celebrations of Gita Press Gorakhpur, followed by flagging off of Vande Bharat trains at Gorakhpur Railway Station. Thereafter, at around 5 PM, Prime Minister will reach Varanasi, where he will attend a public programme, where he will lay the foundation stone, inaugurate and dedicate to the nation multiple development projects.

On 8th July, at around 10:45 AM, Prime Minister will reach Warangal, Telangana and attend a public programme where he will lay the foundation stone of various projects. Prime Minister will reach Bikaner at around 4:15 PM, where he will lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation multiple development projects in Rajasthan.

PM in Raipur

In a major push to infrastructure development, Prime Minister will dedicate and lay the foundation stone for five National Highway projects worth around Rs. 6,400 crores. The projects that will be dedicated to the nation include the 33 km long 4-laning of Raipur to Kodebod section on the Jabalpur-Jagdalpur National Highway. Besides boosting tourism, the section is integral for the movement of raw goods, finished products of Steel plants near Jagdalpur and provides connectivity to iron ore rich areas. Prime Minister will also dedicate to the nation the 53 km long 4-lane Bilaspur-Pathrapali stretch of Bilaspur to Ambikapur section of NH-130. It will help  improve connectivity of Chhattisgarh with Uttar Pradesh and will boost movement of coal by providing connectivity to coal mines in adjoining areas.

Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for three National Highway projects for the Chhattisgarh Section of the 6-lane Greenfield Raipur – Visakhapatnam corridor. These include development of 43 km long six lane Jhanki-Sargi section on NH 130 CD; 57 km long six lane Sargi-Basanwahi section on NH 130 CD; and 25 km long six lane Basanwahi-Marangpuri section of NH-130 CD.  A key component is a 6-Lane tunnel of 2.8 Km length with 27 animal passes and 17 monkey canopies provided for unrestricted wildlife movement in Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary area. These projects will provide better connectivity to rice mills in Dhamtari and bauxite rich areas in Kanker, and also benefit the handicrafts industry in Kondagaon. Overall, these projects will give a major thrust to socio-economic development of the region.

Prime Minister will also dedicate to the nation the doubling of 103 km long Raipur – Khariar Road Rail Line which has been completed at a cost of Rs. 750 Crores. It will ease transportation of coal, steel, fertilisers and other commodities from ports for industries in Chhattisgarh. He will also dedicate to the nation a 17 km long new railway line connecting Keoti – Antagarh. Developed at a cost of Rs. 290 crores, the new railway line will provide connectivity to Bhilai Steel Plant with Iron Ore Mines of Dalli Rajhara and Rowghat areas and will link remote areas of southern Chhattisgarh passing through dense forests.

Prime Minister will also dedicate to the nation a bottling plant of the Indian Oil Corporation with a capacity of 60 thousand metric ton per annum at Korba, constructed at a cost of over Rs 130 crores. Further, Prime Minister will also kickstart the distribution of 75 lakh cards to the beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat.

PM in Gorakhpur

Prime Minister will visit the Gita Press in Gorakhpur and participate in the closing ceremony of centenary celebrations of the historic printing press. He will release the chitramaya Shiva Purana granth during the programme. The Prime Minister will also visit the Leela Chitra temple in the Gita Press.

Prime Minister will flag off two Vande Bharat trains from Gorakhpur Railway station. The two trains are :  Gorakhpur – Lucknow Vande Bharat Express and Jodhpur – Ahmedabad (Sabarmati) Vande Bharat Express.

Gorakhpur – Lucknow Vande Bharat Express will pass through Ayodhya and will improve connectivity to important cities in the state and also give a fillip to tourism. Jodhpur – Sabarmati Vande Bharat Express will improve connectivity to famous places such as Jodhpur, Abu Road, Ahmedabad and will boost socio economic development in the region.

Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of Gorakhpur Railway Station redevelopment. The station will be redeveloped at a cost of around Rs. 498 crore and will provide world class passenger amenities.

PM in Varanasi

During the public programme in Varanasi, Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stones of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 12100 crore.

Prime Minister will dedicate Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Junction – Son Nagar railway line of Dedicated Freight Corridor. Built at a cost of more Rs 6760 crore, the new line will facilitate faster and efficient movement of goods. Prime Minister will also dedicate to nation three railway lines whose electrification or doubling has been completed at a cost of more than 990 crore.  These include Ghazipur city – Aunrihar rail line, Aunrihar- Jaunpur rail line and Bhatni- Aunrihar rail line. These projects have helped in achieving 100 percent electrification of railway lines in Uttar Pradesh.

Prime Minister will dedicate to nation the four-lane widening of Varanasi-Jaunpur section of NH-56, which has been completed at a cost of more than  Rs 2750 crore, making travel from Varanasi to Lucknow easier and faster;

Among the multiple projects in Varanasi that will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister are construction and renovation of 18 PWD roads; International Girls Hostel building constructed at BHU campus; Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET)- Vocational Training Centre at village Karsara; Residential buildings and amenities in Police station Sindhaura, PAC Bhullanpur, Fire station Pindra and Govt residential school Tarsada;  Economic Offences Research Organization building; Sewer line from Mohan Katra to Konia Ghat and a modern septage management system in village Ramna; 30 double-sided backlit LED unipoles; a cow dung-based bio-gas plant at NDDB Milk plant Ramnagar; and a unique floating changing rooms jetty at Dashashwamedh ghat which will facilitate the bathing of devotees in river Ganga.

The projects whose foundation stone will be laid by the Prime Minister include construction of 3 two-lane rail over bridge (ROB) near Chaukhandi, Kadipur and Hardattapur railway stations;  Construction of Vyasnagar – Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay Junction rail flyover; and construction and renovation of 15 PWD roads. These projects will be developed at a cumulative cost of about Rs 780 crore.

Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of 192 rural drinking water schemes, to be built at a cost of more than Rs 550 crore, under the Jal Jeevan Mission. It will provide pure drinking water to 7 lakh people in 192 villages.

Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of redesigning and redevelopment of Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats. The redevelopment ghats will have provision of public conveniences, waiting areas, wood storage, waste disposal and eco friendly cremation pyres.

Other projects whose foundation state will be laid include floating changing room jetties at six religiously significant bathing ghats on river Ganges in Varanasi on the lines of floating changing room jetties of Dashashwamedh Ghat and construction of students hostel at CIPET campus Karsara.

During the programme, Prime Minister will also distribute the loans of PMSVANidhi, keys of PMAY Rural houses and Ayushman Bharat cards to the beneficiaries in Uttar Pradesh. This will  kickstart the Grih Pravesh of 5 lakh PMAY beneficiaries, distribution of 1.25 lakh PMSVANidhi loans to eligible beneficiaries and distribution of  2.88 crore Ayushman cards.

PM in Warangal

Prime Minister Narendra will lay the foundation stone for several crucial infrastructure development projects in Telangana worth around Rs. 6,100 crores.

Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for 176 km long National Highway projects worth over Rs. 5,550 crores. The projects include 108 km long Mancherial – Warangal section of Nagpur-Vijayawada Corridor. The section will reduce distance between Mancherial and Warangal by around 34 km, thus reducing travel time and decongesting traffic on NH-44 and NH-65. He will also lay foundation stone for upgradation of the 68 km long Karimnagar – Warangal section of NH-563 from existing two lane to a four-lane configuration. This will help in improving connectivity to Hyderabad-Warangal Industrial Corridor, Kakatiya Mega Textile Park and SEZ at Warangal.

Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of the Railway Manufacturing Unit, Kazipet. To be developed at a cost of over Rs. 500 crores, the modern manufacturing unit will have enhanced Rolling Stock manufacturing  capacity. It will be equipped with latest technology standards and facilities such as Robotic Painting of Wagons, State-of-the-art Machinery and Plant with modern material storage and handling. It will help in local employment generation and development of ancillary units in nearby areas.

PM in Bikaner

Prime Minister will dedicate and lay the foundation stone of development projects worth over Rs. 24,300 crore in Bikaner, aimed at enhancing the region’s infrastructure and welfare.

Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation six lane greenfield expressway section of the Amritsar – Jamnagar Economic Corridor. Spanning over 500 km in Rajasthan, this section which runs from village Jakhdawali in Hanumangarh district to village Khetlawas in Jalore district, is built at a cost of around Rs. 11,125 crore. This expressway will significantly reduce travel time and improve connectivity between major cities, and industrial corridors. The expressway will not only facilitate seamless transportation of goods but also enhance tourism and economic development along its route.

Giving a boost to the power sector in the region, Prime Minister will dedicate to the Nation the phase-I of the Inter-State Transmission Line for Green Energy Corridor worth around Rs. 10,950 Crore.  The green energy corridor will integrate about 6 GW of renewable power and help in grid balancing of Renewable Power with Thermal Generation in Western Region and Hydro Generation in the Northern region, thereby strengthening transmission capacity between Northern Region and Western Region. Prime Minister will also dedicate Bikaner to Bhiwadi Transmission Line. To be developed by Power Grid at a cost of  around Rs. 1,340 crores, Bikaner to Bhiwadi Transmission Line will help in evacuation of 8.1 GW of Solar Power in Rajasthan.

Prime Minister will dedicate a new 30-bedded Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Hospital in Bikaner. The hospital will have a capacity upgradeable to 100 beds. This hospital will serve as a vital healthcare facility, catering to the medical needs of the local community and ensuring accessible and quality healthcare services.

Further, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the redevelopment of the Bikaner Railway station. To be developed at a cost of around Rs. 450 Crores, the redevelopment work will involve  renovation of all platforms along with flooring and ceiling while ensuring preservation of the heritage status of the existing structure of the railway station.

Foundation Stone for the Doubling of the 43 km long Churu – Ratangarh section will also be laid by the Prime Minister.  Doubling of this rail line will enhance connectivity, facilitate easier transportation of gypsum, limestone, food grains and fertiliser products from Bikaner region to the rest of the country.

Excellencies,

Namaskar!

Today, at the 23rd SCO Summit, you all are warmly welcomed. In the past two decades, the SCO has emerged as a significant platform for peace, prosperity and development in the entire Asian region. The thousands of years old cultural and people-to-people ties between India and this region are a living testament to our shared heritage. We do not see this area as an “extended neighborhood”, but as an “extended family”.

Excellencies,

As the Chairperson of the SCO, India has made continuous efforts to take our multi-dimensional cooperation to new heights. We have based all these efforts on two fundamental principles. Firstly, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which means the whole world is one family. This principle has been an integral part of our social behaviour since ancient times. It continues to serve as a source of inspiration and energy for us in modern times. The second principle is SECURE, which stands for Security, Economic development, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environmental protection. It reflects the theme of our chairmanship and the vision of our SCO.

With this perspective, India has established five new pillars of cooperation within the SCO:

◦ Startups and Innovation,
◦ Traditional Medicine,
◦ Youth Empowerment,
◦ Digital Inclusion, and
◦ Shared Buddhist Heritage.

Excellencies,

Under India’s chairmanship, we have hosted more than one hundred forty programs, conferences, and meetings within the SCO. We have actively involved all Observer and Dialogue Partners of the SCO in fourteen different programs. In the fourteen Ministerial-level meetings of the SCO, we have collectively prepared several important documents. With these we are adding new and modern dimensions to our cooperation – like

• Cooperation on emerging fuels in the energy sector.
• Collaboration on decarbonization in the transportation sector and digital transformation.
• Cooperation in the field of digital public infrastructure.

India has made efforts to ensure that cooperation within the SCO is not limited to governments alone. Under India’s chairmanship, new initiatives have been taken to enhance contact and engagement among people. For the first time, the SCO Millet Food Festival, Film Festival, SCO Surajkund Craft Mela, Think Tanks Conference, and International Conference on Shared Buddhist Heritage were organized.

The first tourism and cultural capital of the SCO, the eternal city of Varanasi, became a center of attraction for various programs. To harness the energy and talent of the youth from SCO countries, we organized new forums such as the Young Scientists Conclave, Young Authors Conclave, Young Resident Scholar Programme, Startup Forum, and Youth Council.

Excellencies,

The present times mark a crucial phase in global affairs.

In a world surrounded by conflicts, tensions and pandemics; food, fuel, and fertilizer crises is a significant challenge for all nations.

We should collectively ponder upon whether we are capable, as an organization, of fulfilling the aspirations and expectations of our people?

Are we equipped to tackle modern-day challenges?

Is SCO evolving into an organization that is fully prepared for the future?

In this regard, India supports proposals for reforms and modernization within the SCO.

We would be happy to share India’s AI-based language platform, Bhashini, with everyone to remove language barriers within the SCO. This can serve as an example of digital technology for inclusive growth.

SCO can also become an important voice for reforms in global institutions, including the UN.

I am happy that today Iran is going to join the SCO family as a new member.

I extend my congratulations to President Raisi and the people of Iran on this occasion.

We also welcome the signing of the Memorandum of Obligation for Belarus’ SCO membership.

The interest of other countries in joining SCO today is a testament to the importance of this organization.

In this process, it is essential for SCO to maintain its primary focus on the interests and aspirations of the Central Asian countries.

Excellencies,

Terrorism has become a major threat to regional and global peace. Dealing with this challenge requires decisive action. Regardless of its form or manifestation, we must unite in our fight against terrorism. Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of their policies, provide shelter to terrorists. SCO should not hesitate to criticize such nations. There should be no place for double standards on such serious matters. We need to enhance mutual cooperation in dealing with terror financing as well. The RATS mechanism of SCO has played a significant role in this regard. We should also take proactive steps to prevent the spread of radicalization among our youth. The joint statement issued today on the subject of radicalization symbolizes our shared commitment.

Excellencies,

The situation in Afghanistan has directly impacted the security of all of us. India’s concerns and expectations regarding Afghanistan are similar to those of most of the SCO countries. We must come together to strive for the well-being of the people of Afghanistan. Humanitarian assistance to Afghan citizens; the formation of an inclusive government; the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking; and ensuring the rights of women, children, and minorities are our shared priorities. Between the people of India and Afghanistan, there have been centuries-old friendly relations. In the past two decades, we have contributed to the economic and social development of Afghanistan. Even after the events of 2021, we continued to provide humanitarian assistance. It is important that Afghanistan’s territory is not used to spread instability in neighboring countries or to encourage extremist ideologies.

Excellencies,

Strong connectivity is crucial for the progress of any region. Better connectivity not only enhances mutual trade but also fosters mutual trust. However, in these efforts, it is essential to uphold the basic principles of the SCO charter, particularly respecting the sovereignty and regional integrity of the Member States. Following Iran’s membership in the SCO, we can work towards maximizing the utilization of the Chabahar Port. The International North-South Transport Corridor can serve as a secure and efficient route for landlocked countries in Central Asia to access the Indian Ocean. We should strive to realize its full potential.

Excellencies,

The SCO represents approximately 40 percent of the world’s population and nearly one-third of the global economy. Therefore, it is our shared responsibility to understand each other’s needs and sensitivities. To resolve all challenges through better cooperation and coordination, and make constant efforts for the well-being of our people. We have received constant support from all of you in making India’s chairmanship successful. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for this. On behalf of the whole of India, I convey my best wishes to the next Chairman of the SCO, the President of Kazakhstan and my friend President Tokayev.

India is committed to actively contributing, together with everyone, for the success of the SCO.

Thank you very much.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered in Hindi.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah laid the foundation stone of Shri Motibhai R Chaudhary Sagar Sainik School run by Dudhsagar Research and Development Association in Mehsana, Gujarat through video conferencing, today.

In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that Shri Motibhai R. Chaudhary has realised the name of Dudhsagar Dairy in true sense by generating means of livelihood for the cattle rearers and especially, the women of Chaudhary community of Gandhinagar for last several decades. He said that under the leadership of Shri Motibhai, this Dudhsagar Dairy has been though many difficult phases. He said that under the guidance of Shri Tribhuvanbhai Patel and with the contribution of Shri Motibhai, milk production started in three districts of North Gujarat – Banaskantha, Sabarkantha and Mehsana. Shri Shah said that one should learn from the life of Motibhai Chowdhary to know about how an ideal worker should be in his public life and how his personality should be.

The Union Home Minister said that Bhumipujan of Motibhai Chaudhary Sagar Sainik School has been done here today and this Sainik School will become an easy and accessible mean for the children of not only North Gujarat but the whole country to join the Army. He said that the children who study in this school and go to the army, will dedicate their life for patriotism and defense of the country and those who will lead a civilian life, they will imbibe the culture of patriotism in their lives from this school and become a good citizen.

Shri Amit Shah said that the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has not only made the country safe and developed in the last 9 years, but he has also made India proud across the World. He said that earlier the governments used to take up the responsibility of development works alone, that is why the pace of development was slow. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been making efforts for the development of the country by taking along cooperative institutions, corporates people and Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) on a large scale. He said that the Prime Minister gave a call that there should be 100 Sainik Schools in the country on the PPP model and in this direction, the Bhumipujan of the 20th Sainik School has been performed here today.

The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi brought water revolution in Gujarat. He said that when Shri Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he took several initiatives to save North Gujarat. He said that Shri Modi brought the water of Narmada and Mahisagar to North Gujarat through various schemes. Shri Shah said that the Sujalam Suflam Yojana has worked to raise the water level in North Gujarat and by doing so, farmers have benefited in agriculture and many problems of cattle rearers have been solved. He said that the then Chief Minister of Gujarat and the presently the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi did the work of solving all these problems of lakhs of people in rural areas.

Shri Amit Shah said that this Sainik School will work towards instilling the spirit of knowledge, security, bravery and patriotism and bring new light in the lives of many youth. He said that 50 cadets have been recruited in the year 2022-23 and 55 cadets in 2023-24. He said that the youth studying in the school follow a tough routine and are preparing themselves for the service of Mother India and will make India stronger.

The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the book ‘Shabd Moti’ has also been released today, which will prove helpful in understanding the life of Moti Bhai. He said that the life of Moti Bhai has always been a source of inspiration for the youth and adolescents. He said that Mehsana Dairy is moving forward with great enthusiasm and it has become the source of livelihood of about 5 lakh farmers. He said that Mehsana Dairy has also united communities of Chaudhary Samaj, women of Chaudhary Samaj and Thakor Samaj. He said that the founder of Mehsana Dairy, Shri Mansingh, envisioned that many sections of the society should derive their livelihood from dairy sector and the work to fulfil this same vision is being done, today. Shri Shah said that many youths, who have passed out from Mansingh Bhai Dairy and Food Institute and Technology are doing excellent work in the field of dairy technology, not only in Gujarat but across India.

Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi established the Ministry of Cooperation and gave the mantra of “Sahkar se Samriddhi” to the people. He said that the Modi Government has lifted the standard of living of even the most underprivileged and poor people by connecting them with the cooperative movement and the development of the country. He said that in the coming days, many new beginnings are going to take place in the country’s dairy sector.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 11 NH projects worth Rs 5600 Crore in Pratapgarh, Rajasthan.

Four national highway projects with a total length of 219 km and costing Rs 3,775 crore were inaugurated today in Rajasthan. This 6-laning project from Kishangarh to Gulbapura section on National Highway 48 will accelerate the economic and social development of Ajmer and Bhilwara districts. The 6-laning of Gulabpura to Chittorgarh section will strengthen the mutual connectivity of Udaipur, Jaipur and Kota regions of Bhilwara and Chittorgarh districts. The construction of 4-lane ROB on National Highway 162A at Fatehnagar will solve the problem of traffic jam at railway crossing.

Construction of high level bridge on Chambal river in Mandrayal under CRIF was inaugurated today. With the construction of this bridge connectivity will be maintained between Mandrayal, Karauli in Rajasthan and Sabalgarh in Madhya Pradesh.

Foundation stone of 7 projects costing Rs 1850 crore and total length of 221 km was also laid today. These projects will provide direct connectivity from the famous religious place Nathdwara to Udaipur airport. The construction of Pratapgarh bypass will reduce the traffic pressure inside the city. With the construction of the road from Raas to Biaora, the vehicles going towards Bhilwara will be facilitated. Tribal areas of Dungarpur, Udaipur and Banswara region will get better connectivity. With the construction of bypass in Sangwara and Garhi, the distance of Dungarpur-Banswara will be reduced by 10 km. Thirteen animal underpasses will be constructed in Todgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on the Beawar-Gomti road for protection of wildlife .

In Rajasthan, approval of 74 projects under CRF at a cost of 2250 crores was also announced during this program. The work on these projects will start soon.

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Textiles, Shri Piyush Goyal has said that India’s remarkable economic scale and market potential have played a pivotal role in enabling startups to flourish and thrive in the global startup ecosystem. While addressing the ‘Startup20 Shikhar’ at Gurugram, Haryana today, Shri Goyal said that there must be a global effort to nurture inclusive, supportive and sustainable startup ecosystems in all parts of the world to address global challenges.

Shri Goyal said that it is not just the role of individual nations but the collective responsibility of all nations to support innovation and the startup ecosystem. Highlighting the importance of the discussions on startups in the G20, the Minister said that the focus has to be on facilitating exchange of ideas, best practices and funding mechanisms and promoting collaborations in Research and Development.

The Minister lauded the Startup20 Engagement Group and said that this engagement of diverse experiences and knowledge is aimed to foster collaboration and bridge gaps between countries. Shri Goyal expressed hope that participants, both local and international, will leave with valuable memories, learnings, and connections to further nurture their own startup journeys and contribute to the growth of the entrepreneurial community in their respective nations. The Minister said that India is delighted to engage with its partner countries through Startup20 and remains committed to sharing experiences and working together to encourage the new generation of job creators who are reshaping the future.

Shri Piyush Goyal pointed out that India is in a unique position with huge talent and skill of its demographic dividend that is attractive for the startups. He said that India has a unique startup culture and large market potential, which are truly beneficial for startups.

The Minister further said that India, a relatively new entrant in the startup ecosystem has already become the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. Shri Goyal added that the country’s aspirations extend beyond this achievement, with a focus on fostering entrepreneurship among not only the youth but also individuals from diverse age groups. He said that over the last seven years, India’s 100,000 registered startups, including more than 100 unicorns, have made significant contributions to various sectors such as health, finance and agriculture and generated employment opportunities and given a spur to innovation.

Shri Goyal highlighted that Gurugram, known as an economic powerhouse in the state of Haryana, showcases the dynamic landscape of India’s startup  ecosystem with over 100 Fortune 500 companies, leading tech firms, and numerous startups.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated Sai Hira Global Convention Centre in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh via video conferencing. The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries and devotees from around the world.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister congratulated everyone for the event where due to pressing engagements he could not be present physically. “The blessings and inspirations of Sri Sathya Sai are with us today”, Shri Modi remarked and expressed happiness that his mission is getting expanded today and the country is getting a new prime convention center by the name of Sai Hira Global Convention Centre. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the new center will create an experience of spirituality and splendor of modernity. He said that the center comprises cultural diversity and a conceptual grandeur, and it will become a focal point for discussions on spirituality and academic programs where scholars and experts will get together.

The Prime Minister said any idea is at its most efficacious when it moves ahead in the form of action. He also noted that today, apart from the dedication of Sai Hira Global Convention Centre, the Leader’s Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Global Council. The Prime Minister lauded the theme of the event – ‘Practice and Inspire’ and called it effective as well as relevant. Shri Modi emphasized the importance of good conduct by the leaders of the society as society follows them. He said that the life of Shri Sathya Sai is the live example of this. “Today India is also moving while prioritizing its duties. Moving towards the century of Independence, we have named Amrit Kaal as ‘Kartavya Kaal’. These pledges include the guidance of our spiritual values as well as resolutions for the future. It has both Vikas (development) as well as Virasat  (heritage).”

The Prime Minister continued, whereas there is rejuvenation of the places of spiritual significance, India is also leading in technology and economy. The Prime Minister underlined that India has now become one of the top 5 economies in the world which supports the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. He also mentioned that India is competing with the leading nations in the world in sectors like digital technology and 5G. The Prime Minister emphasized that 40 percent of real-time online transactions happening in the world are taking place in India and urged the devotees to transform the entire district of Puttaparthi towards a digital economy. He suggested that if everyone comes together to accomplish this resolution, the entire district will be turned digital by the next birth anniversary of Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

“The transformation witnessed in the country is a result of the contributions of every social class”, the Prime Minister remarked as he underlined that organizations like the Global Council are an effective medium to know more about India and connect with the world. Referring to ancient scriptures, the Prime Minister stated that saints are considered to be like flowing water as they never cease their thoughts and never tire of their behavior. “The lives of saints are defined by their continuous flux and efforts”, Shri Modi noted. He mentioned that the birthplace of a saint does not determine his followers. For the devotees, the Prime Minister continued, any true saint becomes one of their own and he becomes a representative of their beliefs and cultures. He said that all saints have nourished the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat’ for thousands of years in India. Even though Sri Sathya Sai Baba was born in Puttaparthi, his followers can be found worldwide and his institutions and ashrams can be accessed in every state of India. He said that all the devotees have connected with Prasanthi Nilayam irrespective of language and culture and it is this desire that weaves India into a single thread making it immortal.

The Prime Minister quoted Sathya Sai on the power of service. The Prime Minister remembered with gratitude the opportunity to interact with him and live in the shelter of Sathya Sai’s blessings. Shri Modi remembered the ease with which Sri Sathya Sai used to convey deep messages. He recalled timeless teachings like ‘Love All Serve All’; ‘Help Ever Hurt Never’; ‘Less Talk More Work’; ‘Every Experience is a Lesson -Every Loss is a Gain’. “These teachings have sensitivity as well as a deep philosophy of life”, the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister remembered his guidance and help during the earthquake in Gujarat. Shri Modi recalled the deeply compassionate blessings of Sri Sathya Sai and said that for him, the service of humanity was the service of God.

The Prime Minister noted that in a country like India religious and spiritual institutions have always been at the center of social welfare. The Prime Minister said that today when we are giving momentum to development and heritage with the resolutions of Amrit Kaal, Institutions like Sathya Sai Trust, have a major role to play in that.

He expressed delight that the spiritual wing of Sathya Sai Trust is creating cultural India within the new generation through programs like Bal Vikas. Highlighting the efforts of Sathya Sai Trust in nation-building and in the empowerment of society, the Prime Minister mentioned the hi-tech hospital in Prasanthi Nilayam and schools and colleges being run for free education for years. He also mentioned the organizations associated with Sathya Sai that are working with dedication. He also highlighted that Sathya Sai Central Trust has become a partner in the humanitarian work of providing free water to remote villages as the country is connecting every village with clean water supply under the ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’.

The Prime Minister mentioned the global acknowledgement of its climate initiatives like Mission LiFE and the prestigious Presidency of G-20. He highlighted the theme of One Earth, One Family, One Future. Mentioning the growing global interest in India, the Prime Minister talked about the world record created at the UN Headquarters where the most number of nationalities came together for Yoga. He also mentioned that along with yoga people are adopting Ayurveda and sustainable lifestyle practices from India. He also touched upon the return of stolen artifacts in recent times. “Behind these efforts and leadership of India, our cultural thinking is our biggest strength. Therefore, cultural and spiritual institutions like the Sathya Sai Trust have a great role to play in all such efforts”, the Prime Minister added.

The Prime Minister highlighted the ‘Prem Taru’ initiative where in the next 2 years a pledge has been taken to plant 1 crore trees. Shri Modi urged everyone to come forward to support such initiatives, be it tree plantation or plastic-free India resolution. He also urged people to be motivated by the options of solar energy and clean energy.

The Prime Minister lauded the initiative by Sathya Sai Central Trust of providing food made from Shri Anna Ragi-Java to about 40 lakh students of Andhra. Underlining the health benefits of Shree Anna, the Prime Minister said that the country will hugely benefit if other states connected with such initiatives. “There is health in Shree Anna, and there are also possibilities. All our efforts will increase India’s potential at the global level, and will strengthen India’s identity” he added.

“Sathya Sai’s blessings are with all of us. With this power, we will build a developed India and fulfill our resolve to serve the whole world”, the Prime Minister concluded.

Background

The Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust has constructed a new facility, Sai Hira Global Convention Centre, at Prasanthi Nilayam, Puttaparthi. Prasanthi Nilayam is the main ashram of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The Convention Centre donated by philanthropist Shri Ryuko Hira is a testament to the vision of promoting cultural exchange, spirituality, and global harmony. It provides a nurturing environment for people of diverse backgrounds to come together, connect, and explore the teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Its world-class amenities and infrastructure will facilitate conferences, seminars, and cultural events, fostering dialogue and understanding among individuals from all walks of life. The sprawling complex also features meditation halls, serene gardens and facilities for accommodation.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today chaired a meeting of the Council of Ministers.

The Prime Minister tweeted :

“A fruitful meeting with the Council of Ministers, where we exchanged views on diverse policy related issues.”

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has lauded the first methanol consignment to Bangladesh from Assam Petrochemical Plant, an effort towards establishing Assam as a major exporter of petrochemicals.

Replying to a tweet by Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Prime Minister tweeted:

“This will boost the petrochemicals sector in Assam and the entire Northeast.”

“Promotion and increased use of Hindi help us in communicating with a common national voice despite our wide diversity.” This was stated by Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya during his address at the meeting of Hindi Salahkar Samiti, here today. Prof S P Singh Baghel and Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar, Union Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare were also present on the occasion.

Hindi Salahkar Samiti is a committee constituted in each Ministry of the Central Government to promote official work in Hindi, with a provision to hold at least two meetings in a year.

Dr. Mandaviya said that it is important to understand the primacy of the national language.

“It provides a platform for our expression and also provides a bridge for national oneness and unit”, he stated.  “We may use our regional languages but we should respect to Hindi as the national language. Let us all use Hindi as a language that helps us in shaping our national character”, he said.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the various activities being done at the Ministry level to promote the use of Hindi in official work.

The Minister emphasizing the need for Ministries to use Hindi in their official work said, “Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is resolute in its commitment to fulfil the responsibilities entrusted upon it by the Department of Official Language, Ministry of Home Affairs, to propagate the official language Hindi and accomplish the goals outlined in the annual program. The ministry recognizes Hindi as a symbol of our national and cultural unity, reflecting our collective nationalism.”

Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar, MOS(HFW) stated that the Hindi language is both sweet and easy and its promotion should be encouraged not only because it is part of our tradition and heritage but also to connect with people in a better way.

MOS (HFW), Prof S P Baghel also urged everyone to progressively increase the usage of Hindi in official work. He stressed on better awareness and promotion of use of Hindi among the officers.

Various suggestions and inputs were also offered by the dignitaries present at the meet to promote progressively higher use of Hindi in various activities of the Ministry. . suggested naming of medicines of all branches – allopathy, homeopathy and ayurveda – in Hindi especially in the Hindi-speaking belt. He also proposed that doctors be encouraged to prescribe medicines in Hindi. This, he argued will both help people and promote the use of Hindi. also stated that the use of Hindi for official purposes should be enhanced so that people feel proud to speak in Hindi and in order to counter the impression that only English is a modern language. highlighted the need for ensuring that all the administrative work in the ministries are carried out in Hindi. Other members suggested organizing such meetings across India, encouraging people to speak in Hindi with a sense of pride

Dr Anil Agarwal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Shri Ghulam Ali, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) were present at the meeting. The meeting was also attended by Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Dept. of Health Research and DG ICMR; Shri Sudhansh Pant, Officer on Special Duty, Health Ministry; Smt. Roli Singh, AS & MD (NHM), Health Ministry; Shri Jaideep Kumar Mishra, AS & FA, Health Ministry; Shri Rajiv Manjhi, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry; Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services; Dr M Srinivas, Director, AIIMS (New Delhi); senior officials of the Union Health Ministry.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh has said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government has launched Mission Karmayogi and Mid-Career Training programmes, which are aimed to train officers for the priorities of  Amrit Kaal and to equip them to contribute to the making of Atmanirbhar Bharat with the optimum use of new technology.

Addressing the inaugural session of 49^th Advanced Professional Programme in Public Administration (APPPA) at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) here today, the Minister said that the Government has initiated the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) and Ease of Governance to facilitate delivery of Citizen-centric services for welfare of the common man.

Towards this end, Dr Jitendra Singh said, the Government led by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi amended the Prevention of Corruption Act in 2018 after 30 years so that the bribe giver is also subject to punishment.

“So, the idea of this Government is that, on the one hand as the Prime Minister says, ‘Zero tolerance towards corruption’, (and) at the same time to provide a working environment which is enabling, which allows you to give maximum outlet to your potentials and capacities, and the Government is very supportive about that,” he said.

Mission Karmayogi aims at creating an opportunity of world class capacity building to all Government officials based on the key principle of “role-based” rather than “rule-based” and “Competency based” learning to enable government servants play their role efficiently, smartly and effectively.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, the Government has also changed the format of the PM Excellence Awards, which is now based on outcomes and targets achieved in implementation of the Flagship Programmes of the Government. Officer trainees will be required to submit dissertations on Flagship Programmes as part of their training, he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said the pace of movement is now very fast and Officers have to keep pace with it, especially since we are now part of the global world. New areas like Artificial Intelligence have a huge role in the Defence Forces as well, he said.

APPPA is a customized ten-month course for senior officers of the All India, Central Services including the Defence Services and the State Civil Services. It is designed keeping in mind the priorities of the government and the National Development Agenda.

Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) has successfully completed 48 such programmes and trained 1620 administrators/officers from All-India and Central Services including those from the armed forces and a few foreign countries, teachers of Indian Universities and officers of State Civil Services.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah launched -Made in India ‘Akshar River Cruise’ on Sabarmati Riverfront developed by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Limited through video conferencing, today.

In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that through this Akshar River Cruise, the Government of Gujarat and the Municipal Corporation have given a new gift to the citizens of Ahmedabad city, today. He said thatwhen Shri Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he only first time imagine and planned the riverfront in India and it was developed and completed during his tenure as Chief Minister. Shri Shah said that the riverfront is not only popular in Ahmedabad but across India and the world and has emerged as an attraction centre of tourism.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said thatwater level has not only gone up due to riverfront, but it has also emerged as a centre of various social and cultural activities for everyone including senior citizens, children and youth. He said this luxury river-cruise will be a new attraction for all the citizens of Ahmedabad. He added that this cruise is developed under Public Private Partnership by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Limited. This cruise is the first passenger catamaran built in India under Make in India at a cost of ₹15 crore with twin engines and it can safely travel for one and a half hours. He said that this 30-meter cruise would emerge as a centre of attraction for all the citizens of Ahmedabad and the country visiting the city. Shri Shah said that the cruise has a capacity of 165 passengers and also has a restaurant which will definitely attract the people.

Shri Amit Shah said that the cruise has been designed keeping in mind the convenience of the citizens and it is equipped with 180 life safety jackets, fire safety and emergency rescue boat. He said that during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Narendra Modi had always given priority to the tourism of Ahmedabad and Gujarat. He added that due to several initiatives taken in the field of tourism by Shri Narendra Modi, Gujarat and its two major tourist centres have emerged prominently on the country’s tourism map. He said that by investing crores of rupees, an ecosystem was developed for lakhs of tourists coming to Gujarat, good roads were constructed to connect all pilgrimages and borders, and roads connecting airports to tourist places were also built to provide the facilities to tourists.

Union Home Minister said that a light and sound show has started at Ambaji, flag is hoisted at Pavagadh temple after 500 years, Madhavpur fair has become a national fair, a tent city has been built in Kutch for the tourists from all over the world to stay in White Rann. Along with this, with the making of Kankaria pond and now, this riverfront in Ahmedabad, a huge tourism ecosystem has been created.  Shri Shah said that under the Sarhad Darshan Programme (Border visit programme), arrangements have also been made to give the youth of Gujarat an experience of Nadabet where the security forces performs their duties in difficult circumstances. He said that Shri Narendra Modi has taken forward the development of tourism, due to which the tourists footfall in Gujaratfrom within the country and around the world has increased many fold. Shri Shah added that the world’s largest cricket stadium is in Ahmedabad, where cricket matches are held regularly and tourism has also increased. Apart from this, now a very big sports city is also taking shape here. He said that Prime Minister Modi has given a new dimension to Gujarat’s tourism by taking various initiatives.

Shri Amit Shah said that the efforts made by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the last 9 years to make India number one in every field of the world are now showing results. He said that Prime Minister Modi has given a new shape to the development of the whole of India through schemes like Garib Kalyan, Bharat Gaurav, Bharat Utkarsh and infrastructure development in the last 9 years.