The two-day international conference of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on “Shared Buddhist Heritage” was inaugurated at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi today, with focus on India’s civilizational connect with the SCO nations.

The session was graced by Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and DoNER Shri G.K Reddy; Minister of State for Culture and External Affairs Smt Meenakashi Lekhi; Minister of State for Culture and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal; DG, International Buddhist Confederation, Shri Abhijit Halder and delegates from China, Pakistan, Russia, Bahrain, Myanmar, UAE.

On the occasion Shri G. K Reddy said that the conference will not only celebrate Buddhist common heritage but will also build stronger and deeper bonds amongst our countries. He also said that Buddhism with its profound vision of eternal harmony in the world has spread far and wide and it touched the lives of inhabitants in all the SCO countries centuries ago. Today, we have all gathered here, at a first of its kind conference, because of this underlying link that binds us. The purpose of this Conference is to renew trans cultural links and shared histories between the nations gathered here, the Minister explained.

Addressing the participants, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal said that teachings of Buddha about self-realization and self-examination are very relevant for 21st century also. The Minister suggested that the SCO countries should take up programmes and projects on our shared Buddhist heritage which binds us together .He also suggested to make Buddhist manuscripts in Pali to be translated into a common language for SCO countries and will make them accessible to all the countries.

In her address, Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi said that heritage and history connects all the SCO countries. She also said that Lord Buddha talked about value based living which  is essential for our co-existence. SCO members are connected by Buddhist  philosophy which can make SCO a formidable force in terms of ethics and value system, the Minister added

The event, a first of its kind, under India’s leadership of SCO (for a period of one-year, from 17 September, 2022 until September 2023)  brings together Central Asian, East Asian, South Asian and Arab countries on a common platform to discuss “Shared Buddhist Heritage”. The SCO countries comprise of Member States, Observer States and Dialogue Partners, including China, Russia and Mongolia. Several scholars – delegates from SCO are resenting research papers on the topic including from Dunhuang Research Academy, China; State Museum of the History of Religion, International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University, Myanmar, among others.

The two-day programme is being organized by the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of External Affairs and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC-as a grantee body of the Ministry of Culture). A number of Indian scholars of Buddhism are also participating in the event.

The aim of the Conference is to re-establish trans-cultural links, seek out commonalities, between Buddhist art of Central Asia, art styles, archaeological sites and antiquity in various museums’ collections of the SCO countries.

One of the natural marvels in this world is the evolution and spread of ideas, since times immemorial. Crossing effortlessly, formidable mountains, vast oceans and national boundaries; ideas that find a home in distant lands; getting enriched with the existing cultures.   So is the uniqueness of Buddha’s appeal.

Its universality crossed both time and space. Its humanistic approach permeated art, architecture, sculpture and subtle attributes of human personality; finding expression in compassion, co-existence, sustainable living and personal growth.

The Conference is a unique meeting of the minds, where countries from different geographical regions but with a common thread connecting them based on a shared civilization legacy, strengthened by Buddhist missionaries who played a major role in integrating various cultures, communities and regions in the entire Indian subcontinent and Asia will discuss for two days’ various themes, chalking out ways to continue the age-old bonds into the future.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; Minister of State (Independent Charge) Earth Sciences; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh said here today that India is fast emerging as the world’s knowledge based economy and over the last few years, it has grown by leaps and bound when it comes to innovation and technology. India stands today as one of the leading nations of the world in terms of scientific and technological prowess, he said.

Addressing the plenary session of the 28th edition of The CII Partnership Summit being held in partnership with Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Dr Jitendra Singh said that the Innovation prowess of any country is instrumental in shaping and sustaining its industrial sectors, delivering economic growth, jobs, wealth creation and ensuring a strategic edge. The Covid-19 pandemic taught the business world an important lesson – ‘innovate or perish’.

The Minister said that India is on a mission in the very first year of Amrit Kaal. This mission is technology-driven towards achieving its aspiration of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy. “Technology will therefore be at the centre-stage in this phase of socioeconomic growth and development”, he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh emphasized that the present Government clearly puts a strong emphasis on strengthening the Nation’s ecosystem of Research, Innovation and Technology development to achieve this aspiration. He added that the technology-driven, and innovation-focused enterprises that form the bedrock of an innovation nations have moved from being a buzzword to a critical component of national economic and strategic power.

Having leapfrogged from 81st to 40th in the Global Innovation Index 2022, the Minister said that we must aspire to be in the top 25 in the near term and in the top five by India @ 100. “Our Hon’ble Prime Minister has provided a huge impetus to innovation by adding Jai Anusandhan to the country’s evergreen slogan of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan”, he added.

The Minister said that an enabling atmosphere for innovation was missing in the earlier policy initiatives and political dispensation but now that atmosphere is being provided by the political dispensation led by our Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Dr Jitendra Singh further highlighted that the Indian industry is the backbone of the fastest growing large economy of the world and has the potential to revolutionize and bring in a technology movement. He added that integration of Research, Start-ups, Academia and Industry is no longer an option but a dire necessity to attract young innovators in the country, particularly in the States to come out with cutting-edge and globally competitive products and solutions.

Talking further about Industry, the Minister said that the key concern is R&D contribution by the private sector, less than 40% of the national GDP. This is in contrast to the global average of over 70%, especially in developed economies. It is important for industry to scale up investing in R&D and initiate collaboration through sponsorship research with the other pillars of the Quad, supported by policy and funding from the Centre.

Talking about Startups, the Minister said that India has the third-largest startup ecosystem and is home to the fastest-growing unicorns. Startups are very important as they are a source of new ideas and technologies. He added that linking Start-Ups with Industry right from the beginning as equal stakeholders in order to ensure sustainable Start-Ups is essential. Support from industry and government is crucial. “Thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there is a new awakening that has dawned in this country regarding Start-up India and Stand-up India. The result is that from just 350 start-ups we have more than 90,000 and we have more than 100 unicorns”, he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh mentioned that today the young talent of India, including especially Women via startups or otherwise, are scripting the saga of success for a thriving innovation led economy. This is creating valuable Intellectual property and simultaneously generating sizeable employment. “As we move ahead, we must consider creating synergies of startups with large corporates for incubation and handholding. In particular, women entrepreneurs must be encouraged to participate in the research, innovation and technology ecosystem of the country”, he added.

The Minister emphasized that a seamless and collaborative innovation ecosystem will enable a dynamic ecosystem. Private-public partnerships must be aligned with the national goals. “The time is opportune to collectively harness the strengths of all the innovation ecosystem stakeholders and quickly take India to the next level of technology and innovation leadership”, he added.

The 16^th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Youth Council was held in hybrid mode in New Delhi, under the chairship of the Republic of India today. The SCO Youth Council meeting was inaugurated by the  Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sh. Anurag Singh Thakur. Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs, Ms. Meeta Rajivlochan welcomed the chief guest and all the delegates from the SCO Member States.

The meeting was chaired by Shri Nitesh Kumar Mishra, Joint Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs, Government of India. During the meeting, the parties shared information on the activities of the national parts of the SCO Youth Council in 2022-2023. The report on the SCO Youth Conference held in virtual mode on 13^th March, 2023 on the theme “Effective Community Development Activities” was circulated for information to all SCO Member States.

The parties noted the high level of participation and the interest shown by the youth delegates of the SCO member states in the discussion held during the Conference. The parties also noted the promising enthusiasm shown by the youth delegates to engage in community development activities for the betterment of the society.

The parties highly appreciated the work of the national part of the SCO Youth Council from the Republic of India during this period and expressed gratitude to the Indian side for the hospitality and high level organisation of the SCO Youth Conference and SCO Youth Council meeting in New Delhi.

The Protocol was signed on 14^th March, 2023 in the city of New Delhi in eight copies in the Russian and Chinese languages.

SCO is a permanent intergovernmental organization which was established in 2001. SCO has eight member States viz India, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India became a full member of SCO on 9th June, 2017. There are four Observer States viz Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran and Mongolia. The official working languages of SCO are Chinese and Russian.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has shared the link of MSME Competitive (LEAN) Scheme and said that this is a a part of our efforts to strengthen the MSME sector, which is a key pillar of India’s economic growth. The MSME Competitive (LEAN) Scheme has been launched under MSME Champions Scheme.

In response to the tweet by Union Minister for MSME, Shri Narayan Rane, the Prime Minister tweeted;

“A part of our efforts to strengthen the MSME sector, which is a key pillar of India’s economic growth. lean.msme.gov.in“

Yoga Mahotsav 2023, the three days event to commemorate 100 days countdown to International Day of Yoga 2023 was inaugurated by Union minister for Ayush and Ports, Shipping & Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal at New Delhi today.  In his inaugural address the Minister talked about how the promotion of yoga and its widespread acceptance, has positioned India as a leader in the global health and wellness industry. Shri Sarbananda Sonowal also launched a one-minute video on “Y” Break Yoga for enabling larger mass, particularly for workaholics, to include Yoga in their lifestyle.

Earlier in the day PrimeMinister Shri Narendra Modi had urged through tweet that “With a hundred days to go for Yoga Day, urging you all to mark it with enthusiasm. And, if you haven’t made Yoga a part of your lives already, do so at the earliest.”

Inauguration ceremony of Yoga Mahotsav was attended by Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Culture, Tourism, and DoNER, Shri N. Biren Singh, Chief Minister, Manipur, Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture and Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai, Union Minister of State for Ayush. Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Minisry of Ayush and other officials were also present on this occasion.

The event saw participation of Dr. H.R. Nagendra, Chancellor, SVYASA University, Bengaluru, Munishree Kamal Kumar, Terapanth Samaj, Rajasthan and international athlete Ms. Hima Das.

On this occasion, Shri Sarbanandasaid, “The continued efforts of our Prime Minister have enabled India’s leadership in Yoga, Ayurveda and traditional knowledge healthcare systems. Through the promotion of yoga and its widespread acceptance, India is positioning itself as a leader in the global health and wellness industry. This aligns with the G20’s focus on promoting sustainable and inclusive growth, and underscores India’s commitment to “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” as a guiding principle in its engagement with the world.”

He appealed to all corporate houses, to initiate a “Yoga Cell” in their office premises which will help in rejuvenation and maximize efficiency in the workplaces. He further added that till now more than 12,000 research papers related to Yoga have been published in indexed journals. Extensive scientific evidence-based research has been conducted in India as well as other countries.

Shri G Kishan Reddy, said, “Yoga has become a vital component of tourism, and our Prime Minister sees Yoga as a cultural ambassador to unite people worldwide. With the growing popularity of Yoga his Ministry has launched Medical and Health Tourism, which focuses on offering specialized yoga and wellness programs to visitors seeking to improve their health and well-being.”

Ms. Meenakashi Lekhi, said, “Yoga has become an integral part of our lifestyle. Yoga is a big contributor to reducing stress in our lives its regular practice is the step to a healthy and disease free life, which leads to our physical and mental well-being.”

Chief Minister of Manipur Shri N. Biren Singh said, “Manipur University, in Imphal, was one of the six central universities selected to start Yoga department by the committee on Yoga education in Universities, Ministry of Human Resources and Development, Govt. of India. Since then Yoga day is celebrated across the plains and hills of the state. Various organisations including educational, health, security forces participate in large number.”

Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai, said that, “Every preceding edition of IDY has garnered immense popularity, global support and acceptance. The celebration of Yoga Mahotsav 2023 marks the official beginning of the 100-day countdown to IDY 2023 and to sensitize and motivate the masses to participate in Yoga centric activities to widen the horizons of Yoga.”

Indian Athlete Ms. Hima Das also attended the event. On this occasion she said that, “I have been practising Yoga regularly. Every day I dedicate 10 mins to Yoga. I do Prayanam to keep my mind and body fit. We should not do Yoga just to celebrate but it should be a part of our life throughout the year.”

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush said, “The Ministry has initiated multiple programs and collaborations to build on the progress achieved over the last eight years in taking the message of Yoga across India and the world, and to widen its reach further this year.”

Ministry of Ayush along with Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) is organizing Yoga Mahotsav from 13th to 14th March 2023 at Delhi’s Talkatora Indoor Stadium, New Delhi and Post Mahotsav Yoga Workshops on March 15, 2023 at MDNIY.

The three-day Yoga Mahotsav 2023 will feature a range of programs and activities which will include talks/discourses by Yoga gurus, Vice Chancellors Summit, where heads of leading institutes will share their experience, States/UTs Ayush Summit, Yoga Fusion/Demonstration, Yoga rhythmic performance, competitions like Quiz/Elocution/Poster presentation and ‘Y’ Break & CYP will also be performed.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari today inaugurated  and laid foundation stone of 18 National Highway projects with an investment of more than 10,000 crore in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh in the presence of Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister of State Shri Pankaj Chowdhary and all MPs, MLAs and officials.

Shri Gadkari said the 4-laning of Sonauli – Gorakhpur will strengthen border security along the international border. With the construction of the bypass, the Gorakhpur Ring Road will be completed relieving traffic jam in the city and also help in establishment of commercial, residential units.

The Minister said the construction of road from Kushinagar to Lumbini will give a boost to international tourism in Buddhist tourist places. He said the connectivity of Bahraich-Shrawasti-Balrampur will be better with the construction of Gilola bypass. Along with this traffic will be smooth for the tourists of Devi Patan temple, he added.

Shri Gadkari said these projects being inaugurated and foundation stone being laid on this holy land of Baba Gorakshnath ji will encourage investment and employment oppurtunities in Uttar Pradesh and boost industrial development.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; Minister of State (Independent Charge) Earth Sciences; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh said here today that the National Education Policy 2020 offers enabling opportunities to aspiring StartUps.

Addressing the Inaugural Session of the 5- National Seminar on “Innovation in Education Through Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) Model in Higher Education” at Cluster Innovation Centre (CIC), Delhi University, Dr Jitendra Singh said that NEP 2020 accommodates the aspirations of potential StartUps at various stages of their growth. The new avenues of StarUp initiatives should be determined based on the requirements of the Industry and the market dynamics to make them sustainable, he said.

The Minister said that the National Education Policy 2020 is something that India was waiting for several decades. The biggest change was renaming the Ministry of Human Resource and Development to Ministry of Education. Secondly, before NEP 2020 came in, we were largely following the education policy formulated by Macaulay. “The biggest harm that has been done to the country by the education policy that we followed for 65 years is that we created a new genre of population called educated unemployed”, he added.

The Minister further said that unless we correct some of the bottom- line misconceptions, we cannot move forward. This National Education Policy 2020 has given us a clue to realise where we were and to work on accordingly. He said that earlier we didn’t even have a clue. The mismatch of education with livelihood will be sought to be corrected through this. “This is where the theme of the PPP model also comes in. Delinking it with degree and linking it with sources of livelihood”, he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh also said that one of the most beautiful provisions in the National Education Policy 2020 is the exit and entry provision. He said that you can have a combination of subjects and even alter them. “You are actually given full potential to your aptitude, capacity and also to the opportunities. In the earlier policy every passing year made you more and more captive just like you have entry exit provision for students, you could have that for the teachers as well”, he added.

The Minister said that the other part is the earlier education system also gave us a kind of perverted entitlement. The New Education Policy will eliminate the nomenclature of dropouts and that gives students an opportunity to try their hand at the skill, innovation or idea that they want to try right now.

On the Science and Technology front, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted that If you have to grow on, you have to grow on in synergy. The era of silos is over. It has to be an integrated effort. After 20 years, it will all be all private public and it will all be global. Now it’s time for public and private in India to collaborate with the public and private in the other country. “We are now a part of the global world so this public private partnership is inevitable”, he added.

The Minister said that the Government has so many programmes that are not adequately availed off. “We are able to provide support to those who reach us. So how to reach those who could make the best out of it. That’s where the universities come in.”, he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh added that the other is a change of mindset needed from obsession with government jobs. Universities can play an important role here also to liberate the mindset by making people realize that there are avenues that are much more lucrative than a government job and that will draw them.

The Minister further added that the next is to liberate from the mindset that the educated should be given more entitlement. We have huge potential in this country of Agri tech start-ups. Most of their founders are not even graduates. Innovation can be independent of science, of education and degree. “We have aroma mission going on in the country, also popularly referred to as the Purple revolution. We are providing all support and they are making huge profits and most are not even graduates”, he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh also said that education does not mean literacy. You could be educated without being a graduate. You could be innovative without going to a college. That genre is gradually coming up now.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that the National education policy 2020 has liberated us from all the superfluous entitlements and then made it a tool of not only livelihood but also of ease of living. “Thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there is a new awakening that has dawned in this country regarding Start-up India and Stand-up India. The result is that from just 350 start-ups we have more than 90,000 and we have more than 100 unicorns, our economy is the fastest growing and we are rated as the 3rd best start-up ecosystem in the world. There was a lot of potential waiting to happen and the Prime Minister has given it the outlet”, he concluded.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated Indian Musical Composer, M.M Keeravani, Lyricist, Chandrabose and entire team for winning Oscar award for ‘Naatu Naatu’ song from RRR movie for Best Original Song. Shri Modi said that this is exceptional and the popularity of ‘Naatu Naatu’ is global.

In response to the tweet by the Academy, the Prime Minister tweeted;

“Exceptional!

The popularity of ‘Naatu Naatu’ is global. It will be a song that will be remembered for years to come. Congratulations to @mmkeeravaani, @boselyricist and the entire team for this prestigious honour.

India is elated and proud. #Oscars”

In an another tweet Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated documentary film maker, Kartiki Gonsalves, film producer, Guneet Monga and the entire team of ‘The Elephant Whisperers’ for winning Oscar for Best Documentary Short Film.

In response to the tweet by the Academy, the Prime Minister tweeted;

“Congratulations to @EarthSpectrum, @guneetm and the entire team of ‘The Elephant Whisperers’ for this honour. Their work wonderfully highlights the importance of sustainable development and living in harmony with nature. #Oscars “

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi dedicated and laid the foundation stone of key development projects in Hubballi-Dharwad, Karnataka today. The projects include dedicating to the nation IIT Dharwad whose foundation stone was also laid by the Prime Minister in February 2019, the longest railway platform in the world at 1507m in length at Shree Siddharoodha Swamiji Hubballi Station which has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records recently, the electrification of Hosapete – Hubballi – Tinaighat section and the upgradation of Hosapete station, for boosting connectivity in the region. The Prime Minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various projects of Hubballi-Dharwad smart city. He also laid the foundation stone of the Jayadeva Hospital and Research Centre, the Dharwad Multi Village Water Supply Scheme, and Tupparihalla Flood Damage Control Project.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister recalled getting the opportunity to visit Hubbali earlier this year and highlighted the blessings showered upon him by the people who came out to welcome him. Recalling his visits to Karnataka in the past few years from Bengaluru to Belgavi, Kalburagi to Shivamoga, and Mysuru to Tumkuru, the Prime Minister said that he is indebted to the overwhelming love and affection shown by the Kannadigas and also underlined that the government will work towards fulfilling the needs of the people by making their lives easier, creating many employment opportunities for the youth, empowering the women of the region as a way of repayment. “The double-engine government of Karnataka strives for the complete development of every district, village and hamlet of the state with utmost honesty”, the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister said that for centuries, Dharwad has been a gateway between Malenadu and Bayalu Seeme regions which has welcomed everyone with open heart and enriched itself by learning from everyone. Therefore, “Dharwad did not remain just a gateway but became a reflection of the dynamism of Karnataka and India” , the Prime Minister said.  Dharwad is known as the cultural capital of Karnataka known for its literature and music. The Prime Minister paid tribute to cultural doyens from Dharwad.

The Prime Minister mentioned his Mandya visit earlier in the day. He said that the new Benguluru Mysuru expressway will pave the way to take the software hub identity of Karnataka even further. Similarly, the Prime Minister said , many development projects were either dedicated or their foundation stones were laid in Belagavi. He also mentioned Shivamogga Kuvempu Airport. He said these projects along with the projects of today are scripting a new development story of Karnataka.

“The new campus of IIT in Dharwad will facilitate quality education while nurturing young minds for a better tomorrow”, the Prime Minister said. He underlined that the new IIT campus is scripting a new chapter in the history of Karnataka’s development journey. He noted the high tech facilities of the Dharwad IIT campus and stated that it will act as a source of inspiration which will take the institution to the same heights as other leading institutions of the world. Highlighting that the IIT Dharwad campus is a prime example of the ‘Sankalp se Siddhi’ (i.e achievement by resolutions) spirit of the present government, the Prime Minister recalled laying its foundation stone in February 2019 and expressed happiness on its completion within a span of 4 years, even though many hurdles came along the way owing to the Coronavirus pandemic. “From laying foundation stones to inaugurating projects, the double-engine government works at a constant speed”, the Prime Minister continued, “We believe in the resolve of inaugurating the same projects whose foundations stones are laid by us.”

The Prime Minister lamented the thought process of yesteryears that expansion of quality education institutions will lead to dilution of their brand. This thinking led to massive loss for the young generation and new India is leaving this way of thinking behind, he said. “Good education should reach everywhere, to everyone. Larger number of quality institutions will ensure the reach of good education to more people”, he added. That is why, he continued, that the number of quality institutions is constantly increasing in India during the last 9 years. Number of AIIMS has tripled, 250 medical colleges have been opened in just the last 9 years compared to 380 medical colleges in the seven decades after Independence. Many new IIM and IIT came up during these 9 years.

The Prime Minister said that 21st century India  is moving ahead  by modernizing its cities. He said Hubballi-Dharwad was included in the smart city project and many smart projects have been dedicated today. “Technology, infrastructure and smart governance will take the Hubballi-Dharwad region to new heights”, he said.

The Prime Minister underlined the trust that the people of Karnataka have on Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research which is serving in Benguluru, Mysuru and Kalburgi. Now a third branch’s foundation stone was laid in Hubballi  today.

Highlighting that the central and state governments are working together to provide clean drinking water to Dharwad and its surrounding areas, the Prime Minister informed that the foundation stone for a scheme worth more than 1,000 crore rupees has been laid under the Jal Jeevan Mission where water from Renuka Sagar reservoir and Malaprabha river will be brought to more than 1.25 lakh houses through taps. He also informed that the people of the entire district will avail the benefits when the new water treatment plant will be ready in Dharwad. The Prime Minister also touched upon the Tuparihalla Flood Damage Control Project whose foundation stone has also been laid today and stated that it will reduce the damage caused by floods in the region.

The Prime Minister expressed delight that Karnataka has reached another milestone in terms of connectivity as the Siddharoodha Swamiji Station now has the largest platform in the world. He underlined that it is not just any record or extension of a platform but it is forwarding the thinking which gives priority to infrastructure development. He also noted that the electrification of Hosapete – Hubbali – Tinaighat section and the upgradation of Hosapete station reinforce this vision. The Prime Minister informed that coal is transported for industries on a large scale through this route and after the electrification of this line, the dependence on diesel will reduce thereby protecting the environment in the process. The Prime Minister underlined that these efforts will speed up the economic development of the region and promote tourism at the same time.

“Better and advanced infrastructure is not only good to look at but also makes the lives of people easier”, the Prime Minister remarked. Highlighting the difficulties faced by people of all communities and ages due to lack of better roads and hospitals, the Prime Minister noted that every citizen of the country is reaping the benefits of advanced infrastructure being developed across the nation. He gave examples of students, farmers and the middle class who are making use of better connectivity to reach their destinations. Throwing light on the work done towards modernizing infrastructure in the last 9 years, the Prime Minister informed that the network of roads in villages has more than doubled through the PM Sadak Yojana, and the National Highway network has increased by more than 55%. He also informed that the number of airports in the country has more than doubled in the last 9 years.

The Prime Minister said that before India was not that prominent in the world of Internet.  Today India is among the most powerful digital economies. This happened because the government made the cheap Internet available and took it to villages. “On an average, 2.5 lakh broadband connections were given every day in the last 9 years”, he informed. “This speed is coming in the development of infra because today, infrastructure is being built according to the needs of the country. Earlier, rail and road projects were announced after weighing the political profit and loss. We have come up with the PM Gatishakti National Master Plan for the entire country. So that wherever there is a need in the country, infrastructure can be built at a fast pace”, he added.

Referring to the unprecedented focus on social infrastructure, the Prime Minister remembered the days of scarcity in the critical areas of housing,toilets, cooking gas, hospitals and drinking  etc. He elaborated how these areas have been addressed and all these facilities are being made available. “Today we are giving all the resources to the youth to realize their resolutions in the next 25 years”, he said.

Highlighting the contributions of Lord Basaveshwara, the Prime Minister mentioned the establishment of Anubhav Mandapam as most important among many contributions and noted that this democratic system is studied all over the world. He recalled inaugurating the statue of Lord Basaveshwara in London. However, the Prime Minister said, it is unfortunate that India’s democracy was questioned in London itself. “The roots of India’s democracy are drawn from our centuries-old history. No power in the world can harm India’s democratic traditions”, the Prime Minister remarked. “Despite this”, the Prime Minister continued, “some people are constantly putting India’s democracy in the dock. Such people are insulting Lord Basaveshwara and the people of Karnataka and the country. He warned the people of Karnataka to stay alert from such people.

Concluding the address, the Prime Minister emphasized taking Karnataka’s identity tech-future of India further. “Karnataka is the engine of hitech India’, the Prime Minister said as he stressed the need for a double-engine government to power this hitech engine of the state.

Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri Basvara Bommai, Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Pralhad Joshi, and Ministers from Karnataka Government were present on the occasion among others.

Background 

The Prime Minister dedicated IIT Dharwad to the nation. The foundation stone for the institute was also laid by the Prime Minister in February 2019. Developed at a cost of over Rs. 850 crores, the institute currently offers a 4-year B.Tech. programs, inter-disciplinary 5-year BS-MS program, M.Tech. and PhD programs.

The Prime Minister also dedicated to the nation the longest railway platform in the world at Shree Siddharoodha Swamiji Hubballi Station. The record has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records recently. The 1507 m long platform has been built at a cost of about Rs. 20 crores.

The Prime Minister dedicated the electrification of the Hosapete – Hubballi – Tinaighat section and the upgradation of the Hosapete station to boosting connectivity in the region. Developed at a cost of over Rs 530 crores, the electrification project establishes seamless train operation on electric traction. The redeveloped Hosapete station will provide convenient and modern facilities to travellers. It has been designed to resemble the Hampi monuments.

The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various projects of Hubballi-Dharwad smart city. The total estimated cost of these projects is about Rs. 520 crores. These efforts will enhance the quality of life by creating hygienic, safe and functional public spaces and transforming the town into a futuristic urban centre.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of the Jayadeva Hospital and Research Centre. The hospital will be developed at a cost of about Rs. 250 crores and will provide tertiary cardiac care to the people of the region. In order to further augment water supply in the region, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the Dharwad Multi Village Water Supply Scheme, which will be developed at a cost of over Rs. 1040 crores. He will also lay the foundation stone for the Tupparihalla Flood Damage Control Project, which will be developed at a cost of about Rs. 150 crores. The project aims to mitigate damage caused by floods and involves the construction of retaining walls and embankments.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi dedicated and laid the foundation stone of key development projects in Mandya, Karnataka today. The projects include the dedication of the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway to the nation and laying the foundation stone for the Mysuru-Kushalnagar 4-lane highway.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister began by paying obeisance to goddess  Bhuvneshvari and the Gurus of Adichunchanagiri and Melukote. The Prime Minister expressed happiness in getting the opportunity to be present among the people of Karnataka in various parts of the state and thanked everyone for showering their blessings upon him. The Prime Minister especially remarked on the reception by the people of Mandya and said that their blessings are soaked in sweetness. Highlighting the love and affection of the people of the state, the Prime Minister emphasized that the double-engine government strives to fulfill the demands of every citizen with fast-paced development. He highlighted that today’s infrastructure projects worth thousands of crores are a part of such efforts by the double-engine government towards the people of Karnataka.

Noting the national buzz around the Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway, the Prime Minister said that the youth of the country are feeling proud of such modern and high-quality expressways. He informed that this expressway has reduced the travel time between Mysuru and Bengaluru by half. He also highlighted laying the foundation stone for the Mysuru-Kushalnagar 4-lane highway and said that these projects will further the spirit of ‘Sabka Vikas’ and open the gates of prosperity. The Prime Minister congratulated the people of Karnataka for these projects.

The Prime Minister remembered two great personalities in the context of infrastructure development in India. “Krishnaraja Wadiyar and Sir M Visvesvaraya, the great sons of Karnataka, gave a new vision and strength to the country. These dignitaries turned calamity into opportunity and understood the importance of infrastructure and the current generation is fortunate to reap the benefits of their efforts”, the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister underlined that the development of advanced infrastructure projects in the country is taking place while following in their footsteps. “Bharatmala and Sagarmala Yojna is transforming the landscape of India and Karnataka today”, the Prime Minister said. He underlined that the infrastructure budget in the country was increased manifold even when the entire world was struggling with the Corona pandemic. He informed that more than 10 lakh crores have been allocated for infrastructure development in the country in this year’s budget. Apart from ease, the Prime Minister continued, infrastructure brings along jobs, investment and earning opportunities. He informed that in Karnataka alone, the government has invested more than 1 lakh crore in highway-related projects in recent years.

Underlining the importance of Bengaluru and Mysuru as the key cities of Karnataka, the Prime Minister said connectivity between these two hubs of technology and tradition is important from many angles. He said that people often complained about heavy traffic while traveling between the two cities and informed that the Expressway will reduce the time between the two cities to one and a half hours and will give a fillip to the economic activity in the region.

Noting that the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway crosses through the heritage towns of Ramnagar and Mandya, the Prime Minister remarked that the potential for tourism will not only get a boost but accessibility to the birthplace of Maa Kaveri will also be made possible. The Prime Minister pointed out that the Bengaluru-Mangaluru highway which had always been affected by landslides during the monsoons impacting the port connectivity in the region will be addressed by the widening of the Bengaluru-Mangaluru highway. He said that the industries in the region will also start to flourish with the increased connectivity.

The Prime Minister criticized the callous approach of the previous governments and said that much of the money allocated for the development of the poor got pilfered. In 2014, he said, a sensitive government of the poor which understood the pain of the poor sections came into power. The Government worked continuously to serve the poor and ensured priority to housing, piped water, Ujjwala gas connection, electricity, roads, hospitals and reduction in medical treatment worries for the poor. He said that in the last 9 years, the Government ensured ease of living for the poor by going to their doorsteps and saturation is being achieved in a mission mode.

Dwelling on the Government’s approach of providing permanent solutions to the long-standing problems, the Prime Minister informed that more than 3 crore houses have been constructed in the last 9 years out of which lakhs of the houses were built in Karnataka and 40 Lakh new households got piped water under Jal Jeevan Mission. The Prime Minister underlined that 5,300 crores rupees have been allocated for the Upper Bhadra Project in this year’s Budget while the irrigation projects that were stuck for decades are also being completed at a fast pace. He highlighted that the irrigational issues faced by the people of this region will be solved with this. Apart from providing solutions to the small issues faced by the farmers of Karnataka, the Prime Minister informed that the government has directly transferred 12,000 crore rupees into the bank accounts of the farmers of Karnataka via PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna where more than 2.75 lakh farmers belonging to the Mandya region have been provided 600 crores by the central government alone. The Prime Minister praised the Karnataka Government for adding 4000 rupees to the 6000 rupees installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. “In the double-engine government, Kisan is getting double benefits”, he said.

The Prime Minister said that uncertainties of crops led to long pending arrears of sugarcane farmers with the sugar mills. The Prime Minister said that introduction of ethanol will address the problem to a great extent. In the case of a bumper crop, excess sugarcane will produce ethanol which will ensure a steady income for the farmers. He informed that last year, the country’s sugar mills have sold ethanol worth 20 thousand crores to oil companies which have helped in timely payment to the sugarcane farmers. He added that since 2013-14 ethanol worth 70 thousand crores has been purchased from the sugar mills and that money has reached the farmers. In this year’s Budget too, he said, many provisions have been provided for the sugarcane farmers such as a 10 thousand crore rupees assistance for sugar cooperatives and a rebate in tax will benefit these farmers.

The Prime Minister remarked that India is a land of opportunities and people from across the world are showing their interest in the nation. He informed that India received record foreign investments in 2022 and Karnataka being the biggest beneficiary received investments of more than 4 lakh crores. “This record investment highlights the efforts of the double-engine government”, the Prime Minister remarked. Apart from IT, the Prime Minister said that industries such as biotechnology, defence manufacturing and EV manufacturing are expanding at a great pace while industries like aerospace and space are witnessing unprecedented investments.

While unprecedented developments are taking place with the efforts of the double-engine government, the Prime Minister pointed out the actions of some political parties who are busy dreaming of digging Modi’s grave while Modi is occupied by development works of the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway and making the lives of poor easier. He warned his detractors that the crores of mothers, sisters and daughters and the blessings of the people of India act as his protective shield. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister congratulated the people of Karnataka for today’s projects and said, “The double-engine government is imperative for the fast-paced development of Karnataka.”

Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri Basvara Bommai, Union Minister for Road, Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari and Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Pralhad Joshi, Member of Parliament from Mandya, Smt Sumalatha Ambareesh and a Minister from Government of Karnataka were present on the occasion.

Background 

The rapid pace of development of infrastructure projects has been a testament to the vision of the Prime Minister to ensure world-class connectivity across the country. In this endeavor, the Prime Minister dedicated the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway to the nation. The project involves 6-laning of the Bengaluru-Nidaghatta-Mysuru section of NH-275. The 118 Km long project has been developed at a total cost of around Rs 8480 crores. It will reduce the travel time between Bengaluru and Mysuru from around 3 hours to about 75 minutes. It will act as a catalyst for socioeconomic development in the region.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for Mysuru-Kushalnagar 4-lane highway. Spread over 92 Km, the project will be developed at the cost of around Rs 4130 crores and will play a key role in boosting the connectivity of Kushalnagar with Bengaluru. Travel time will be reduced from about 5 hours to only 2.5 hours.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attended the 54th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as the Chief Guest in Hyderabad today. During the event, Union Home Minister took the salute of the parade and released CISF’s magazine Sentinel-2023 and Coffee Table book. Telangana Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Union Culture Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, DG CISF, several other dignitaries and CISF personnel and their families also were present on the occasion.

In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that CISF’s 53 years of the history showcases that it has immensely contributed in the economic progress of the nation. He said that a country can advance only when the security of its industrial institutions, airports, and ports is ensured. He added that every single personnel of CISF have rendered invaluable service to the nation during the past 53 years by dedicating their lives for fulfilling the objectives of the CISF.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has set a target of $5 trillion economy for the country and to achieve it, the security of our airports, seaports and institutions of national importance is of utmost importance. Shri Shah expressed confidence that CISF will continue to serve the nation by preparing itself to meet all the future challenges.

Shri Amit Shah said that the day also holds historical significance as it was on this day in 1930 that Mahatma Gandhi initiated the Salt Satyagraha and commenced on the 240 miles Dandi March. He said that the Salt Satyagraha chronicled a new chapter in the history of the Indian freedom struggle by showcasing how a huge empire could be defeated through non-cooperation and non-violence.

Union Home Minister said that in 1969, CISF had a strength of about 3,000 personnel, which in 53 years has increased to 1.70 lakh. He said that in the next 10 years, many opportunities would be available to CISF for the development. He added that in the contemporary digital age, CISF has provided state-of-the-art security to its stakeholders. He said that the security protocol has been made impenetrable by equipping it with state-of-the-art technologies like robotics, artificial intelligence. Shri Shah said that the Union Home Ministry will make all provisions to equip CISF with all the latest technologies to meet the future challenges by adopting state-of-the-art technologies for the security of ports, airports and industrial units. He said that the Home Ministry has already prepared an action plan in this regard.

Shri Amit Shah said that currently CISF is providing security to 66 sensitive and major airports, 14 major seaports, nuclear and space institutions, Delhi Metro, Statue of Unity and many industrial units and mines. He said that among CAPFs, CISF is the only force, which has an effective fire fighting force, and it has achieved accolades in the field of fire protection. Shri Shah said that while dealing with about 50 lakh commuters on Delhi Metro and Airport every day, CISF remains committed to the security of the nation’s assets with righteous but firm conduct.

The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the CISF has adopted a hybrid model and this is going to enhance its role in the times to come. He said this model would pave the way to use this model in advisory and many other roles in private companies as well. He said that in the coming two decades, this force would be able to protect even the private companies from security threats related to drones and modern technology.

Shri Amit Shah said that CISF has shown its awareness and dedication towards the environment by planting more than 3 crore trees in the last 4 years under the tree plantation drive. Apart from this, the force has conducted more than 1200 cleanliness campaigns and by making the cleanliness campaign popular, it has tried to take the culture of hygiene to the public. He said that even during ‘Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan’, CISF contributed immensely in making it a success by hoisting more than 5 lakh tricolors. In addition, the force also paid tribute to Iron Man of India Sardar Patel by participating in the Run for Unity at the National Stadium.

The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that in the last 9 years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has successfully faced all the challenges in the field of internal security by involving all the CAPFs and State Police. He said that in all the three sectors of concern for us, Kashmir, Northeast and Left Wing Extremism affected areas, there has been a significant reduction in violence, people’s confidence is increasing and those spreading separatism and terrorism are surrendering and coming into the mainstream. Shri Shah said that all the CAPFs of the country have made a huge contribution in dealing with the perpetrators of violence. He said that Union Government under the leadership of Shri Narendra Modi will continue its policy of zero tolerance against terrorism in the coming times as well. He said separatism, terrorism and anti-national activities in any area of the country will be dealt with firmly, in this CAPFs and state police have very important.

Shri Amit Shah said that today India has become a fast growing economy and it is our responsibility to keep the country’s industrial institutions, mines, ports, airports safe. He said the protection and security has to be increased in the days to come. Shri Shah said that under the Ayushman CAPF scheme, the Union Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has distributed more than 35 lakh Ayushman CAPF cards and has also made arrangements for cashless medical treatment for jawans and their families in about 24,000 hospitals across the country. He said that under the housing scheme also, we have set a target to increase the housing satisfaction ratio. In 2015, construction of 13,000 houses and 113 barracks was started at a cost of Rs 3,100 crore, out of which 11,000 houses have been completed by 2022. He said that apart from these 11,000 houses, by building 28,500 more houses by 2026, the union government under the leadership of Shri Narendra Modi will ensure the arrangements of living for the families of jawans. The CAPF e-Awas web portal was launched in September, 2022 and on the basis of it, 2 lakh 17 thousand personnel have been registered in 6 months and there has been a big jump in the satisfaction ratio. The provision of allowing the personnel of any force to reside in the vacant houses has greatly increased the usefulness of the constructed houses. He said that the housing satisfaction ratio would be 73 per cent in November, 2024, which would be the highest since independence.

The Union Home Minister said that a country, whose airports and ports are not secure, can never be secure. He said that there are many challenges before us today, such as counterfeit currency trade, infiltration and narcotics, and with a bright history, CISF has secured the country.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; Minister of State (Independent Charge) Earth Sciences; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh has said the Civil Services Officers are now being trained and equipped with latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and Data Analytics to enable them with skills that are vital to the effective performance in the administrative context of today. Under the Mission Karmayogi, the course has been so structured that domain, functional and behavioural inputs are woven into the course design, he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh was addressing the participants of the 124th Induction Training Programme (ITP) here today.

The 124th ITP for officers promoted from the State Civil Services to the Indian Administrative Service is designed in response to the Prime Minister’s call for a shared national vision. 124th ITP has 131 participants from batches 2008 to 2020. The objective of the ITP is to enable participants who have been promoted from State Civil Services into the IAS to understand the all-India nature of the Indian Administrative Service and develop a national perspective on the working of public administration and the macro-economy of the country.

Dr Jitendra Singh said the six months long ITP helps officers gain a wider national perspective that enables them to contextualise and understand the canvas of governance. The course featured a 2-week long Bharat Darshan tour including the North Eastern Region (NER) besides stints with the three Armed Forces to underscore the dimension of national security. Further, there are attachments with large public/private sector undertakings, municipal corporations and SPVs delivering key public services.

In view of the success of Mission Karmayogi programme in improving Good Governance and reaching out public services and Central Government’s welfare schemes to the public at large, Dr Jitendra Singh said the Government may consider designing such a training module on the lines of the ITP for other Central & State Government employees as well. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is of the firm belief that the Civil Services is an important pivot in implementing the Government’s welfare schemes and providing the benefits to the common man, he said.

The 124th ITP featured, for the first time, a day-long deconstruction module where experienced officers, who were inducted into the IAS from states across the country, interacted with participants and shared their experiences of having implemented important projects or having played key roles in framing / executing key policies. This was to bring to focus the need for a clear role change and hence, to adopt a systemic perspective to decision making.

The 131 participants of the 124th ITP come from 18 States and 6 UTs. 20% of these are female participants. The average age of participants is 52 years. The group has served an average of 23 years in the state governments in different administrative capacities.