India’s space economy is projected to reach about $44 billion by 2033, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh said, underlining that landmark reforms and private sector participation are powering the country’s emergence as a global space player.

The summit brought together key stakeholders from government, industry, and academia to deliberate on the future of satellite communications in India’s digital growth story.

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised that satellite communication will serve as the backbone of India’s digital infrastructure and play a decisive role in connecting remote regions where terrestrial networks face geographical barriers. With more than 70 per cent of new ATMs being installed in rural areas, he said satcom would be vital for ensuring financial inclusion and expanding digital services.

The Minister highlighted that India’s space economy, valued at $8.4 billion in 2022, is on track to expand nearly fivefold over the next decade. He credited reforms such as the creation of New Space India Limited (NSIL) and the establishment of IN-SPACe for dismantling decades of state monopoly and enabling private innovation. As a result, more than 300 space startups have emerged in just five years, making India the world’s fifth-largest space startup ecosystem.

India’s achievements have also been marked by cost-effective innovation. Chandrayaan-3’s historic soft landing near the Moon’s south pole in 2023 earned India global recognition, including the World Space Award, at roughly half the cost of comparable international missions. Commercially, India has launched 433 foreign satellites, generating over $190 million and €270 million in revenue.

Looking ahead, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s long-term space roadmap. By 2035, India plans to set up its own Bharatiya Antariksh Station, while by 2040, an Indian astronaut is expected to land on the Moon and announce the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.” The roadmap also envisages launching more than 100 satellites over the next 15 years, most of them small satellites developed through government-private partnerships.

The Minister also spoke of how space technology is shaping governance. Programs like SVAMITVA have already provided land ownership rights to more than 2.4 crore rural property owners across 1.61 lakh villages through satellite mapping. Satellites are now integral to disaster management, daily forest fire monitoring, and agricultural yield assessments, in addition to powering flagship schemes like Gati Shakti for infrastructure planning and NavIC for navigation.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said India’s space diplomacy was strengthening through missions such as the upcoming Chandrayaan-5 in collaboration with Japan and the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission. Neighbouring countries, too, are increasingly dependent on Indian satellites for disaster management and communication support.

“Seventy per cent of our space technology is dedicated to development and ease of living, not just rocket launches,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said, adding that the convergence of space technology, digital infrastructure, and governance would serve as the digital nervous system of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Concluding his address, the minister said India’s cost-effective missions, expanding private partnerships, and ambitious space roadmap are positioning the country as a global leader. “India’s space sector has earned for the country an enduring space in the world arena,” he remarked.

The event featured keynote addresses by Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe, and Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space, who highlighted India’s expanding role in the global space sector. The session concluded with a vote of thanks, marking a collaborative beginning to discussions on advancing universal connectivity through satellite networks.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed gratitude to the people of India as he enters the 25th year of serving as the head of a government. Recalling his journey since taking oath as the Chief Minister of Gujarat on this day in 2001, the Prime Minister said that it has been his constant endeavour to improve the lives of people and contribute to the progress of the nation.

The Prime Minister said that he was entrusted with the responsibility of being Gujarat’s Chief Minister in very testing circumstances. The state was suffering due to a massive earthquake that year and had also faced a super cyclone, successive droughts and political instability in the preceding years. He said these challenges strengthened the resolve to serve people and rebuild Gujarat with renewed vigour and hope.

Shri Modi remembered his mother’s words when he took oath as Chief Minister, that he should always work for the poor and never take a bribe. He said he had assured people that whatever he does will be with the best intent and inspired by the vision to serve the very last person in the queue.

Reflecting on his tenure in Gujarat, the Prime Minister said that at the time, people believed the state could never rise again. Farmers complained of lack of power and water, agriculture was in the doldrums and industrial growth was stagnant. He said that through collective effort, Gujarat transformed into a powerhouse of good governance. The state, once drought-prone, became a top performer in agriculture, trading expanded into manufacturing and industrial capacities, and social as well as physical infrastructure received a boost.

The Prime Minister said that in 2013, he was given the responsibility of being the Prime Ministerial candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, when the nation was witnessing a crisis of trust and governance. He said the people of India gave a thumping majority to his alliance and an absolute majority to his Party, ushering in an era of renewed confidence and purpose.

The Prime Minister noted that over the last 11 years, India has achieved many transformations. Over 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty, and the country has emerged as a bright spot among major global economies. He said that people across India, especially Nari Shakti, Yuva Shakti and hardworking Annadatas, have been empowered through path-breaking efforts and reforms.

He added that the popular sentiment today is to make India Aatmanirbhar across all sectors, reflected in the call of ‘Garv Se Kaho, Yeh Swadeshi Hai.’

Reiterating his gratitude to the people of India for their continuous trust and affection, the Prime Minister said that to serve the nation is the highest honour. Guided by the values of the Constitution, he reaffirmed his commitment to work even harder to realise the collective dream of a Viksit Bharat.

In a series of X post, the Prime Minister said;

“On this day in 2001, I took oath as Gujarat’s Chief Minister for the first time. Thanks to the continuous blessings of my fellow Indians, I am entering my 25th year of serving as the head of a Government. My gratitude to the people of India. Through all these years, it has been my constant endeavour to improve the lives of our people and contribute to the progress of this great nation that has nurtured us all.”

“It was in very testing circumstances that my Party entrusted me with the responsibility of being Gujarat CM. The state was suffering due to a massive earthquake in the same year. The preceding years had witnessed a super cyclone, successive droughts and political instability. Those challenges strengthened the resolve to serve people and rebuild Gujarat with renewed vigour and hope.”

“When I took oath as Chief Minister, I remember my Mother telling me – I do not have much understanding of your work but I only seek two things. First, you will always work for the poor and second, you will never take a bribe. I also told people that whatever I do will be with the best intent and will be inspired by a vision to serve the very last person in the queue.”

“These 25 years have been filled with many experiences. Together, we have made remarkable strides. I still recall that when I took over as CM, it was believed that Gujarat could never rise again. Common citizens, including farmers, complained about lack of power and water. Agriculture was in the doldrums and industrial growth was stagnant. From there, we all worked collectively to make Gujarat a powerhouse of good governance.”

“Gujarat, a drought-prone state became a top performing state in agriculture. The culture of trading expanded into robust industrial and manufacturing capacities. Regular curfews became a thing of the past. Social and physical infrastructure received a boost. It was very satisfying to be able to work with the people to achieve these outcomes.”

“In 2013, I was given the responsibility of being the Prime Ministerial candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Those days, the nation was witnessing a crisis of trust and governance. The then UPA Government was synonymous with the worst form of corruption, cronyism and policy paralysis. India was seen as a weak link in the global order. But, the wisdom of the people of India gave our alliance a thumping majority and also ensured that our Party got an absolute majority, a first after 3 long decades.”

“Over the last 11 years, We The People of India have worked together and achieved many transformations. Our path breaking efforts have empowered people from all across India, especially our Nari Shakti, Yuva Shakti and hardworking Annadatas. Over 25 crore people have been removed from the clutches of poverty. India is seen as a bright spot among major global economies. We are home to one of the largest healthcare and social security schemes in the world. Our farmers are innovating and ensuring that our nation is self-reliant. We have undertaken extensive reforms and the popular sentiment is to make India Aatmanirbhar across all sectors, reflecting in the clarion call of ‘Garv Se Kaho, Yeh Swadeshi Hai.’”

“I once again thank the people of India for their continuous trust and affection. To serve our beloved nation is the highest honour, a duty that fills me with gratitude and purpose. With the values of our Constitution as my constant guide, I will work even harder in the times to come to realise our collective dream of a Viksit Bharat.”

“The battlefield has changed. The wars of tomorrow will be fought with algorithms, autonomous systems and artificial intelligence. Drones, anti-drone systems, quantum computing and directed-energy weapons will define the future. We have seen such a demo in Operation Sindoor as well,” stated Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh during ‘Raksha Navachar Samvaad: Interaction with iDEX Startups’, prior to the inauguration of the National Conference at Vigyan Bhawan on October 07, 2025. He urged innovators to think beyond existing solutions and develop technologies that redefine warfare. “We must not remain imitators or followers in technology we must become the creators and standard-setters for the world,” he added.

Highlighting the measurable progress in indigenisation, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that defence capital acquisitions from domestic sources have increased from Rs. 74,000 crore in 2021-22 to Rs. 1.2 lakh crore in 2024-25. He termed this shift as “not merely a statistical change but a change in mindset from dependence to confidence.” He also highlighted that under the Government’s Public Procurement Policy, at least 25% of annual procurement is reserved for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), and over 350 items have been earmarked exclusively for them. “India’s self-reliance in defence has moved from being a slogan to becoming a movement. From policy to practice and from innovation to impact this transformation has been made possible by our innovators, startups, and young entrepreneurs,” underscored Raksha Mantri.

Shri Rajnath Singh encouraged startups to set higher benchmarks, underlining that India has more than 100 Unicorns today, but none in the defence sector, calling upon them to change that. “Let the first Defence Unicorn of India emerge from among you. It will be a matter of pride not only for you but for the entire nation,” he added. He reiterated the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi that the government will continue to stand firmly behind innovators and startups and will be with them at every step from ideation to implementation.

Raksha Mantri lauded the collective effort of innovators for contributing to record-breaking achievements in defence production worth Rs. 1.5 lakh crore and exports exceeding Rs. 23,000 crore in the last financial year. “You are the architects of a new India that believes in designing, developing and producing for itself. The energy and innovation you bring are key to realising the Prime Minister’s vision of a technologically self-reliant India,” he highlighted.

Recalling the inception of iDEX in 2018, Shri Rajnath Singh described it as a transformational initiative that has democratised defence innovation in India. He stated that when iDEX was launched, the idea was simple yet powerful to connect the talent of India’s youth with the technological needs of the Armed Forces. “Today, in just seven years, more than 650 iDEX winners have emerged, and prototype procurements worth over Rs. 3,000 crore have been ensured. This marks a revolution in India’s defence innovation landscape,” he added.

Raksha Mantri highlighted that before iDEX, Indian talent was making remarkable contributions globally particularly in IT, telecom and space but was underutilised in defence. “Through iDEX, we ensured that India’s talent works for India’s security. Today, this initiative is not just a programme but a movement that is shaping the future of Indian defence manufacturing,” he underlined.

Shri Rajnath Singh underscored that the Government has taken several landmark steps to support startups and MSMEs through reforms in defence procurement, production and testing infrastructure. Citing examples, he stated that the new Defence Procurement Manual (DPM-2025) provides assured orders for five years, extendable by another five, giving innovators much-needed stability and predictability. He further added that reforms in the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) are underway to simplify processes, accelerate trials, and ensure assured procurement for innovative solutions.

“Through iDEX, Technology Development Fund, Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme and Self-Certification provisions, we are developing a comprehensive framework where innovation is encouraged, supported, and scaled. Our aim is to make India not just a defence manufacturer but a defence innovator for the world,” underlining Shri Rajnath Singh while ensuring commitment to strengthening the defence innovation ecosystem.

Commending the achievements of iDEX winners such as Refi M. Fiber and Gravity Systems, who were honoured for their role in Operation Sindoor, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that the innovations developed by Indian startups are now earning global appreciation. “It is a matter of great pride when our soldiers salute the innovation born out of India’s own soil. Several Indian startups are now showcasing their game-changing technologies at international platforms such as the Dubai Airshow 2025. The world is taking note of India’s innovation prowess,” he added.

The Raksha Mantri highlighted that the MoD is forging strategic alliances with the Department of Science & Technology, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, and leading financial institutions to facilitate end-to-end support for startups. “Our objective is to build an ecosystem where every idea gets the opportunity to grow into a viable product, every prototype gets the chance to scale into production, and every innovation contributes to India’s defence preparedness,” he stated.

Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that defence manufacturing under Aatmanirbhar Bharat has now become one of the most promising sectors for private investment, R&D and employment generation. He underscored that a strong indigenous defence industry is not only a strategic necessity but an economic multiplier.

Raksha Mantri stated that the defence innovation journey of India is moving steadily from concept to creation and from vision to victory. He underlined the fact that the nation together will make India not only self-reliant but a global leader in defence technology. He also reaffirmed that India’s defence startup ecosystem will play a decisive role in shaping the nation’s secure and self-reliant future.

The event organised by iDEX under the aegis of Department of Defence Production (DDP), MoD also featured an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge defence innovations developed under iDEX and ADITI, where the Raksha Mantri interacted with the innovators and appreciated their technological breakthroughs. Panel discussions and experience-sharing sessions were held on themes including Scaling Defence Startups, Bridging Innovation and Production, and Accelerating Aatmanirbharta through R&D Collaboration.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Secretary of the DDR&D & Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar along with senior officials from the MoD, DDP, innovators, startups, MSMEs, industry leaders, Armed Forces representatives and officials from various defence PSUs were also present on the occasion.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; Minister of State for Earth Sciences; PMO; Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions; Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today called for “Swachhta” campaign to include technology options and ‘waste to wealth’ methodologies.

The Minister said that awareness among citizens is vital so as to make Swachhta a norm, habit and inclusion in daily day to day life. Speaking on an initiative of AIIMS, where a van collects waste from labs and converts it into inert material and subsequently recycled making use of technology. Citing another example, he said that even in Kumbh, waste treatment was adopted, whereby waste-water after treatment was used for irrigation purposes. These above initiatives have enabled Swachhta to be viewed from the prism of utilising technology for becoming ‘self-reliant’.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that e-waste reprocessing and recycling enables ‘waste to wealth’ creation using varied methodologies. In this context, Dr Jitendra Singh emphasised that self-reliance by adopting Swachhta Campaign initiatives 5.0 is bringing about metamorphosis not only in cleaner and greener environment but also enabling people to inculcate healthy lifestyle and working methodology in the work environment. Cleaning of e-waste, reprocessing of cooking oil, technology enabled solution and digital innovation including e-filing, system-based dashboard development have enabled awareness creation.

The Union Minister cited that recycling of waste cooking oil provides the double benefit of utilising the by-product ‘ethanol’ produced in the process; at the same time, it avoids its reuse which may pose adverse effects as a health hazard. Dr Jitendra Singh emphasised that such ‘self-reliant’ initiatives would help India not to be dependent on import and strengthen our indigenous home-grown products and solutions.

On the occasion, Secretary DARPG, Shri V. Srinivas said that building upon past achievements, the DARPG is fully committed to ensuring the successful and impactful implementation of Special Campaign 5.0, assuring its dedication towards cleanliness, efficiency, transparency, and improved service delivery.

Pertinently, the Government of India has launched Special Campaign 5.0, to be observed from 2nd October to 31st October 2025, with a special focus on Swachhata (cleanliness) and reducing pendency across Government Ministries and Departments.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched various youth-focused initiatives worth more than Rs.62,000 crore during Kaushal Deekshant Samaroh at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi today. Extending greetings to lakhs of students associated with ITIs across the country, as well as the students and teachers of Bihar, the Prime Minister recalled that a few years ago, the government initiated a new tradition of organizing large-scale convocation ceremonies for ITI students. He remarked that today marks another milestone in that tradition.

Prime Minister stated that today’s ceremony symbolizes the priority India accords to skill development. He announced the launch of two major initiatives for youth across the country in the fields of education and skill development. Shri Modi highlighted that under the ₹60,000 crore PM SETU scheme, ITIs will now be more robustly integrated with industries. He further informed that 1,200 skill labs have been inaugurated today across Navodaya Vidyalayas and Eklavya Model Schools nationwide.

Shri Modi shared that the initial plan for the event was to hold a convocation ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan. However, as he remarked, it turned into a grand celebration—“a case of gold adorned with embellishment”—with the proposal from Shri Nitish Kumar to elevate the occasion into a mega-festival. The Prime Minister highlighted that several schemes and projects have been dedicated to the youth of Bihar from this very platform. These include the establishment of a new Skill Training University in Bihar, expansion of facilities in other universities, the formation of a new Youth Commission, and the issuance of appointment letters for permanent government jobs to thousands of young individuals. He affirmed that these initiatives are a guarantee for a brighter future for Bihar’s youth.

Recalling the recent large-scale programme focused on employment and self-reliance for the women of Bihar, which witnessed participation from lakhs of sisters, Shri Modi remarked that today’s mega programme for youth empowerment in Bihar further reflects the priority their government accords to the youth and women of the state.

Emphasising that India is a nation of knowledge and skill, and this intellectual strength is its greatest asset, the Prime Minister remarked that when skills and knowledge align with national needs and contribute to fulfilling them, their impact multiplies manifold. He highlighted that the demand of the 21st century is to rapidly advance local talent, local resources, local skills, and local knowledge in accordance with the country’s requirements. Underscoring the significant role of thousands of ITIs in this mission, Shri Modi remarked that currently, ITIs offer training in nearly 170 trades, and over the past 11 years, more than 1.5 crore youth have been trained in these disciplines, gaining technical qualifications across diverse sectors. He noted with pride that these skills are imparted in local languages, enabling better understanding and accessibility. This year, over 10 lakh students participated in the All India Trade Test, and the Prime Minister had the opportunity to felicitate more than forty-five of them during the event.

Prime Minister expressed pride in the moment, noting that a large number of the awardees hail from rural and remote parts of India. He highlighted the presence of daughters and Divyang companions among them, and commended their hard-earned success through dedication and perseverance.

“India’s ITIs are not only premier institutions for industrial education but also serve as workshops for building an Atmanirbhar Bharat”, exclaimed the Prime Minister emphasising that the government is focused on both increasing the number of ITIs and continuously upgrading them. He noted that until 2014, there were only 10,000 ITIs in the country, but in the past decade, nearly 5,000 new ITIs have been established. Shri Modi highlighted that the ITI network is being prepared to meet current industry skill requirements and anticipate future demands over the next ten years. To strengthen this alignment, coordination between industry and ITIs is being enhanced. He announced the launch of the PM SETU scheme, which will benefit over 1,000 ITI institutions across India. Through this initiative, ITIs will be upgraded with new machinery, industry training experts, and curricula tailored to present and future skill demands. “The PM SETU scheme will also connect Indian youth with global skill requirements”, stated Shri Modi.

Noting that thousands of youth from Bihar have joined today’s programme, Shri Modi remarked that this generation may not fully grasp how the education system in Bihar was devastated two to two-and-a-half decades ago. Schools were not opened sincerely, nor were recruitments conducted. The Prime Minister emphasized that every parent wishes for their child to study and progress locally. However, due to compulsion, lakhs of children had to leave Bihar and migrate to places like Banaras, Delhi, and Mumbai. He identified this as the true beginning of migration.

Shri Modi remarked that reviving a tree whose roots have been infested is a formidable feat, and likened the condition of Bihar under opposition’s misgovernance to such a tree. He stated that fortunately, the people of Bihar entrusted Shri Nitish Kumar with the responsibility of governance, and the entire team of the coalition government worked collectively to restore the derailed systems. The Prime Minister affirmed that today’s programme offers a glimpse of that transformation.

Expressing satisfaction that Bihar has received a new Skill University during today’s Kaushal Convocation Ceremony, the PM noted that the government led by Shri Nitish Kumar has named the university after Bharat Ratna Jananayak Karpoori Thakur. Shri Modi highlighted that Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur dedicated his entire life to public service and the expansion of education, consistently advocating for the upliftment of the most disadvantaged sections of society. He affirmed that the Skill University named in his honour will serve as a powerful medium to advance that very vision.

Prime Minister stated that their governments at Center and State are consistently working to modernize Bihar’s educational institutions. He informed that infrastructure expansion has commenced at IIT Patna, and the modernization of several major educational institutions across Bihar has also begun. Shri Modi announced that the Bihta campus of NIT Patna has now been opened for talented students. Additionally, he highlighted that new academic infrastructure foundations have been laid at Patna University, Bhupendra Mandal University, Jai Prakash University in Chhapra, and Nalanda Open University.

Highlighting that alongside strengthening educational institutions, the government led by Shri Nitish Kumar is actively working to reduce the financial burden of education for Bihar’s youth, Shri Modi noted that efforts are being made to ensure students do not face difficulties in paying fees for higher education. He stated that the Bihar Government has been supporting students through the Student Credit Card scheme, and a major decision has now been taken to make the education loans under this scheme interest-free. Additionally, the Prime Minister announced that student scholarships have been increased from ₹1,800 to ₹3,600.

“India is among the world’s youngest nations, and Bihar is one of the states with the highest proportion of youth”, remarked the Prime Minister, emphasizing that when the potential of Bihar’s youth grows, the strength of the nation increases. He affirmed that their government is working with full commitment to further empower Bihar’s youth. Shri Modi further highlighted that compared to the Opposition government in the past, Bihar’s education budget has been increased manifold. Today, nearly every village and hamlet in Bihar has a school, and the number of engineering and medical colleges has also grown significantly. He informed that the Central Government has recently approved Kendriya Vidyalayas for 19 districts in Bihar. The Prime Minister recalled that there was a time when Bihar lacked international-level sports infrastructure, but today, national and international sports events are being held in the state.

Highlighting that over the past two decades, the Bihar Government has connected 50 lakh youth with employment opportunities within the state, Shri Modi noted that in recent years alone, nearly 10 lakh permanent government jobs have been provided to Bihar’s youth. He pointed to the education department as a prime example, where large-scale recruitment of teachers is underway. He informed that in the last two years, more than 2.5 lakh teachers have been appointed in Bihar, resulting in both employment for youth and a significant improvement in the quality of the education system.

Underlining that the Bihar Government is now working with new targets, Shri Modi highlighted that the state aims to create twice as many employment opportunities in the next five years as were generated over the past two decades. The Prime Minister affirmed that the resolve is clear—Bihar’s youth should find jobs and work within Bihar itself.

Prime Minister remarked that this is a time of double bonus for the youth of Bihar. He highlighted the ongoing GST Savings Festival across the country and shared that he was informed about the happiness among Bihar’s youth due to reduced GST on bikes and scooters. Many young individuals have even planned to make these purchases during Dhanteras. Shri Modi extended his congratulations to the youth of Bihar and the nation for the reduction in GST on most of their essential items.

“As skills grow, the nation becomes self-reliant, exports increase, and employment opportunities expand”, remarked the Prime Minister. He recalled that before 2014, India was labelled among the “Fragile Five” economies, marked by low growth and limited job creation. Today, India is progressing towards becoming a top-three global economy, with significant growth in manufacturing and employment. Shri Modi highlighted unprecedented growth in manufacturing and exports in sectors such as mobile phones, electronics, automobiles, and defence. He noted that this surge has led to remarkable job creation across large industries and MSMEs, greatly benefiting the youth, including those trained in ITIs. He emphasized that the Mudra Scheme has helped crores of young people start their own ventures. Additionally, the Prime Minister announced the implementation of the ₹1 lakh crore Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, which will assist approximately 3.5 crore youth in securing employment in the private sector.

Affirming that this is a time filled with opportunities for every youth in the country, the Prime Minister  emphasized that while alternatives may exist for many things, there is no substitute for skill, innovation, and hard work. The Prime Minister concluded by remarking with conviction that all these qualities reside within India’s youth, and their strength will become the strength of a Viksit Bharat and extended his heartfelt best wishes to all.

Union Minister Shri Jayant Chaudhary was present among other dignitaries at the event. Chief Minister of Bihar, Shri Nitish Kumar, Union Ministers, Shri Jual Oram, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Shri Sukanta Majumdar and other dignitaries had connected to the event through video conferencing.

Background

In a landmark initiative for youth development, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi unveiled various youth-focused initiatives worth more than Rs.62,000 crore in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, giving a decisive push to education, skilling and entrepreneurship across the country. The programme also featured the Kaushal Deekshant Samaroh, the fourth edition of the National Skill Convocation, organized in accordance with the Prime Minister’s vision, where 46 All India Toppers from Industrial Training Institutes under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship were felicitated

Prime Minister launched PM-SETU (Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs), a centrally sponsored scheme with an investment of Rs.60,000 crore. The scheme envisages the upgradation of 1,000 Government ITIs across the country in a hub-and-spoke model comprising 200 hub ITIs and 800 spoke ITIs. Each hub will be connected to four spokes on average, creating clusters equipped with advanced infrastructure, modern trades, digital learning systems and incubation facilities. Anchor Industry Partners will manage these clusters, ensuring outcome-based skilling aligned with market demand. Hubs will also house innovation centres, training-of-trainers facilities, production units and placement services, while spokes will focus on expanding access. Collectively, PM-SETU will redefine India’s ITI ecosystem, making it government-owned but industry-managed, with global co-financing support from the World Bank and Asian Development Bank. In the first phase of the scheme implementation there will be special focus on ITIs in Patna and Darbhanga.

Prime Minister inaugurated 1,200 Vocational Skill Labs established in 400 Navodaya Vidyalayas and 200 Eklavya Model Residential Schools across 34 States and Union Territories. These labs will equip students, including those in remote and tribal areas, with hands-on training in 12 high-demand sectors such as IT, automotive, agriculture, electronics, logistics and tourism. Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and CBSE curriculum, the project also involves the training of 1,200 vocational teachers to deliver industry-relevant learning and create an early foundation for employability.

A special emphasis of the programme will be on transformative projects in Bihar, reflecting the state’s rich legacy and youthful demographic. Prime Minister launched Bihar’s revamped Mukhyamantri Nishchay Svyam Sahayata Bhatta Yojana, under which nearly five lakh graduate youth every year will receive a monthly allowance of Rs.1,000 for two years, along with free skill training. He will also launch the redesigned Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme, which will provide completely interest-free education loans of up to Rs.4 lakh, significantly easing the financial burden of higher education. More than 3.92 lakh students have already availed loans worth more than Rs.7,880 crore under the scheme. Further strengthening youth empowerment in the state, Bihar Yuva Ayog, a statutory commission for people between the ages of 18 and 45, was formally inaugurated by the Prime Minister to channelise and harness the energies of the state’s young population.

Prime Minister also inaugurated the Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Skill University in Bihar, envisioned to impart industry-oriented courses and vocational education to create a globally competitive workforce.

Taking forward the National Education Policy 2020 with the vision to make higher education avenues better, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for new academic and research facilities in four universities of Bihar namely Patna University, Bhupendra Narayan Mandal University in Madhepura, Jai Prakash Vishwavidyalaya in Chapra and Nalanda Open University in Patna, under the PM-USHA (Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan). Together, these projects, with a total allocation of Rs. 160 crore, will benefit more than 27,000 students by enabling modern academic infrastructure, advanced laboratories, hostels and multidisciplinary learning.

Prime Minister dedicated to the nation the Bihta campus of NIT Patna. With the capacity to host 6,500 students, the campus houses advanced facilities including a 5G use case lab, a Regional Academic Centre for Space established in collaboration with ISRO, and an Innovation and Incubation Centre that has already supported nine start-ups.

Prime Minister also distributed appointment letters to more than 4,000 newly recruited candidates in the Government of Bihar and released Rs. 450 crore in scholarships through Direct Benefit Transfer to 25 lakh students of Class 9 and 10 under the Mukhyamantri Balak/Balika Scholarship Scheme.

The initiatives launched are expected to create significant opportunities for India’s youth. By integrating education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and improved infrastructure, they aim to support a solid foundation for the country’s progress. With a special focus on Bihar, the state is likely to develop as a centre for skilled manpower, contributing to growth both regionally and nationally.

The Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman launched the nationwide awareness campaign “आपकी पूँजी, आपका अधिकार” in Gandhinagar, Gujarat today. The campaign was launched in the presence of the State Finance Minister, Shri Kanubhai Desai.

Secretary, DFS, Shri M. Nagaraju, Executive Director of the Reserve Bank of India, whole-time members of IRDAI, SEBI, PFRDA, along with senior officials from the Government of India, the State Government, and representatives of leading financial institutions were also present in the event.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted that the campaign carries a simple but powerful message that every rupee saved by citizens must return to them or their families.

“Unclaimed deposits, insurance proceeds, dividends, mutual fund balances, and pensions are not mere entries on paper; they represent the hard-earned savings of ordinary families — savings that can support education, healthcare, and financial security”, the Finance Minister added.

Further, the Union Finance Minister underlined the importance of the “3 A’s” — Awareness, Accessibility and Action — as the guiding principles of this campaign. Awareness aims to ensure that every citizen and community are informed about how to trace unclaimed assets. Accessibility focuses on providing simplified digital tools and district-level outreach. Action emphasizes time-bound and transparent claim settlements.

“Together, these three pillars will help bridge the gap between citizens and financial institutions, promoting community awareness and ensuring that every individual can reclaim their rightful savings with dignity and ease”, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman said.

The Finance Minister also acknowledged the proactive role of regional rural banks, particularly, Gujarat Gramin Bank, and other financial institutions, in the recent KYC and re-KYC campaigns, noting that these efforts have strengthened the link between citizens and the formal financial system. “Undertaken across villages and towns, such initiatives have ensured that beneficiaries remain connected to their savings and entitlements, laying a strong foundation for the success of the current campaign”, the Union Minister said.

Smt. Sitharaman urged all institutions to carry forward the same dedication and outreach in this nationwide initiative on unclaimed financial assets, so that no citizen remains separated from their rightful money.

Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman also handed over certificates to beneficiaries who successfully reclaimed their unclaimed deposits from various institutions.

Speaking on the occasion, the  State Finance Minister of Gujarat, Shri Kanubhai Desai stated that the launch of this nationwide campaign from Gujarat is a matter of pride for the State and assured full support for its successful execution through active participation and outreach. “The unclaimed deposits are very useful for the education, empowerment and other financial needs of the beneficiaries”,  Sh. Kanubhai Desai stated.

The programme also included a message from the  Union Home Minister and Lok Sabha Member of Parliament from Gandhinagar, Shri Amit Shah. The Union Home Minister extended his greetings and encouraged citizens to actively participate in the campaign. The message underscored that the initiative goes beyond the return of unclaimed financial assets and embodies a collective effort towards strengthening public trust, dignity, and empowerment.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary, DFS, Shri M. Nagaraju noted that as of August 2025, more than ₹75,000 crore of unclaimed deposits have been transferred to the RBI’s Depositor Education and Awareness Fund. Further, Sh. Nagaraju added that unclaimed insurance proceeds stand at over ₹13,800 crore, unclaimed balances in mutual funds amount to about ₹3,000 crore, and unpaid dividends worth more than ₹9,000 crore.

“Claims must be processed quickly, fairly and without unnecessary hurdles to citizens, so that they walk away with clarity and confidence”, Secretary, DFS added. Sh. Nagaraju said that the campaign aims to achieve the department’s long standing goal of financial empowerment of every citizen.

Nearly 172 crore shares have been transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund so far. The launch builds on India’s broader achievements in financial inclusion — from Jan Dhan Yojana and UPI to Direct Benefit Transfers – by ensuring that citizens not only gain access to financial services but also reclaim what rightfully belongs to them.

With the launch of “आपकी पूँजी, आपका अधिकार” Campaign from Gujarat, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to making financial inclusion meaningful, transparent, and accessible for every household.

To ensure wide participation, the campaign will be conducted across all States and Union Territories during October—December 2025. Digital demonstrations and helpdesks will assist citizens in tracing and claiming their unclaimed financial assets with ease, reflecting the Government’s commitment to citizen-centric governance and its broader vision of enhancing ease of living.

The campaign, coordinated by the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, brings together the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), and the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), alongside banks, insurance companies, mutual funds, and pension institutions on a common platform.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, participated in the Bastar Dussehra festival being organized in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh today. Prior to his address, Shri Shah visited and offered prayers at the renowned Danteshwari Temple. The Bastar Dussehra Festival was attended by several dignitaries, including Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Vijay Sharma.

In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the 75-day-long Bastar Dussehra, the largest and most unique festival in the world, is not only a cultural event for the tribal community, Bastar, Chhattisgarh, or India but also for the entire world. Shri Shah mentioned that during his prayers at the Danteshwari Temple, he sought blessings for the security forces to gain the strength to make the Bastar region free from Naxalite violence by March 31, 2026. He debunked the misconception propagated by some in Delhi that Naxalism arose from a struggle for development, asserting that Naxalism itself is the primary reason for Bastar’s deprivation from progress. He highlighted that while every village in the country now has access to electricity, drinking water, roads, toilets, health insurance up to ₹5 lakh, and free grain distribution, with rice procurement at ₹3,100 per quintal, Bastar has lagged behind in this race for progress.

The Home Minister assured, on behalf of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, that after March 31, 2026, Naxalites will no longer be able to hinder Bastar’s development or the rights of its people. Shri Shah said that the youth from Bastar who have misled into Naxalism belong to local villages. He appealed to the people of Bastar to convince these misguided youth to lay down their arms and join the mainstream to contribute to the region’s development.

Union Home Minister praised the Chhattisgarh government for formulating the country’s most effective surrender policy, noting that over 500 individuals have surrendered in the past month alone. He urged Naxalites to surrender and announced that every village which will be completely free of Naxalism would receive ₹1 crore from the Chhattisgarh government for development. Shri Shah emphasized that Naxalism has brought no benefits and has significantly reduced as a menace.

Shri Shah stated that both the Central and Chhattisgarh governments are fully committed to the development of Bastar and other Naxal-affected areas, with attractive policies in place. Over the past 10 years, Prime Minister Modi has provided approximately ₹4.40 lakh crore for Chhattisgarh’s development. The state is progressing at an unprecedented pace, with industries being established, educational institutions being built, healthcare facilities expanding, and small-scale industries being promoted.

Union Home Minister reiterated the appeal for Naxalites to surrender under the attractive surrender policy. However, he also warned that any attempt to disturb Bastar’s peace through violence would be met with a strong response from the armed forces, CRPF, and Chhattisgarh Police. He firmly stated that March 31, 2026, is the set date by which Naxalism will be completely eradicated from the country.

Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that this year, tribals from across the country will participate in the Bastar Olympics. He stated that Bastar’s Pandum festival, cuisine, attire, art, and musical instruments have become a center of attraction not only in Bastar but worldwide. He emphasized that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s resolve is to preserve our culture, language, food, clothing, and musical instruments for centuries, not just for India but for the entire world. The Chhattisgarh government and the Government of India are fully committed to fulfilling this resolve.

Shri Amit Shah highlighted that the Muria Darbar, with its active participation, judicial system, preservation of tribal culture, and tradition of public dialogue since 1874, is no less than a global heritage. He said that the Muria Darbar is a source of inspiration and knowledge for the entire country.

Referring to the Swadeshi Mela organized by the Swadeshi Jagran Manch, Union Home Minister said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has long emphasized the importance of Swadeshi (indigenous products). The Swadeshi Jagran Manch has been promoting Swadeshi as a mass movement for many years. Now, PM Modi has called upon every household to pledge to use only Indian-made products. He urged every trader to ensure that their shops or shopping malls do not stock foreign goods. Shri Shah stated that if India’s 140 crore population embraces the Swadeshi pledge, no one can stop India from becoming the world’s top economic power.

Union Home Minister added that Prime Minister Modi has recently provided significant relief to mothers and sisters across the country, including Chhattisgarh, by granting substantial GST exemptions on 395 items. Almost all food and beverage items have been made tax-free, and daily-use items are taxed at only five percent. He said that such extensive tax reductions have never been seen before in the country. By adopting Swadeshi values, the nation’s economy will gain unprecedented momentum. Shri Shah mentioned that over 300 Swadeshi companies are participating in the Bastar Dussehra Festival. He added that the Swadeshi Walkathon has become an effective medium to give a new identity to the Swadeshi spirit, and Swadeshi fairs organized nationwide are further accelerating this movement.

Shri Amit Shah said that the 75-day Bastar Dussehra is a matter of pride, identity, and honor for all. He said that the chariot procession, which began in the 14th century, sparked cultural awakening in the region. Shri Shah mentioned that Bastar Dussehra and Muria Darbar work to unite tribal communities and bind the entire Bastar region together.

Union Home Minister said that the Modi government has launched several schemes to honor tribals. For the first time, Prime Minister Modi elevated a daughter of the tribal community, Smt. Draupadi Murmu, to the highest office of the country as President, a matter of great pride. He said that when Her Excellency Draupadi Murmu meets world leaders, it fills not only the tribal community but all Indians with pride. The elevation of a daughter from a poor family in Odisha to the highest democratic office is a matter of pride for all. Shri Shah added that PM Modi decided to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda as Tribal Pride Year, establishing his birth anniversary as Tribal Pride Day. Prime Minister Modi has also approved over 15,000 PM Awas houses for those who surrendered after leaving Naxalism and for the families of those killed in Naxal violence in the seven districts of Bastar division.

Shri Amit Shah mentioned that Shri Pundi Ram Mandavi and Shri Hemchand Manjhi from Narayanpur district, and Shri Ajay Kumar Mandavi from Kanker, have been honored with Padma Awards. On the occasion of the Bastar Dussehra Festival, the 20th installment of the ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana’ was distributed, providing ₹607 crore to 70 lakh mothers in Chhattisgarh. The Chief Minister Rural Bus Scheme was also launched, covering Bastar and Surguja divisions and including 250 villages.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurated the Sabar Dairy Plant in Rohtak, Haryana today. On this occasion, Chief Minister of Haryana Shri Nayab Singh Saini, Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar, Union Minister Shri Rao Inderjit Singh, along with several other dignitaries were present.

In his address Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has fulfilled the decades-old demand of the farmers of the country to establish a separate Ministry of Cooperation, and the entire nation is grateful to him for this. He said that in the past four years, the Ministry of Cooperation, along with all the state governments of the country, has worked to strengthen the foundation of cooperatives. Union Minister of Cooperation Minister expressed confidence that by 2029, every panchayat in the country will have a cooperative society.

Shri Amit Shah said that today, through Sabar Dairy, the country’s largest plant for producing curd, buttermilk, and yogurt, built at a cost of about ₹350 crore, has been completed for the welfare of milk producers. He said that from Haryana itself, the entire demand for dairy products in the Delhi–National Capital Region (Delhi-NCR) will be fulfilled. Shri Shah further stated that Sabar Dairy, which began in Gujarat’s Sabarkantha district, has created vast opportunities for milk producers across 9 states. In Gujarat, Tribhuvan Bhai, Bhura Bhai, and Galba Bhai laid the foundation of dairies, and today, through cooperative dairies, 35 lakh women in Gujarat are carrying out annual business worth ₹85,000 crore.

Union Minister of Cooperation said that at the Sabar Plant, production will include 150 metric tonnes of curd, 10 metric tonnes of yogurt, 3 lakh liters of buttermilk, and 10,000 kilograms of sweets per day, which will pave the way for farmers’ prosperity. He added that today Sabar Dairy is serving farmers in Rajasthan, Haryana, Maharashtra, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. He further said that under Amul’s leadership, extensive scientific work has been carried out in Gujarat on modern breeding technologies such as embryo transfer and sex-determination. These technologies should also be made available to livestock farmers in Haryana. Along with this, there is a need to promote beekeeping and organic farming in the state. He also mentioned that several successful experiments on biogas have been carried out in Gujarat, and such initiatives should also be implemented in Haryana.

Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India’s dairy sector has grown by 70 per cent in the last 11 years. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India’s dairy sector has become the fastest-growing dairy sector in the world. He stated that in 2014–15, the number of milching animals in India was 86 million, which has now increased to 112 million. Similarly, milk production has risen from 146 million tonnes to 239 million tonnes. The production of milk from indigenous cow breeds has increased from 29 million tonnes to 50 million tonnes. Shri Shah said that today about 8 crore farmers in India are connected with the dairy sector. He further added that farmers in our country have raised per capita milk availability in India from 124 grams to 471 grams. Union Minister of Cooperation said that in the last 11 years, many changes have taken place in India’s dairy sector, which have brought prosperity to our farmers.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that in terms of per capita milk availability, Haryana consistently ranks between first and third place every year. He added that due to the consistent policies during Prime Minister Modi’s tenure, today India stands proudly before the world as the largest milk producer. Shri Shah said that under White Revolution 2.0, more than 75,000 dairy societies will be established across the country in the coming days, and the government will also strengthen 46,000 dairy cooperative societies. He stated that our current milk processing capacity is 660 lakh liters per day, and our target is to increase this to 100 million liters by 2028–29. Once this goal is achieved, all the profits will directly benefit our farmer mothers and sisters engaged in milk production.

Shri Amit Shah said that recently, the Modi government has established three national cooperative societies for animal feed production, manure management, and the use of dead animal remains in the circular economy. He added that the Modi government has launched the National Gokul Mission, the National Artificial Insemination Program, the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund, and the National Animal Disease Control Program. Shri Shah stated that in the coming days, India also aims to become self-reliant in the construction of dairy plants, and for this purpose, the Modi government is moving towards self-reliance in the dairy sector by accelerating dairy plant construction and related research and development by three times.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while speaking at an event organised by Jain International Trade Community (JITO) in Hyderabad today, on October 03, 2025, recalled the 2016 Surgical Strikes, the 2019 Balakot Air Strikes, and Operation Sindoor in 2025 as strong demonstrations of India’s unwavering resolve to safeguard its citizens and territorial integrity. “Whenever India’s pride and dignity has been at stake, we have always made no compromises. When we responded to the Pahalgam terror attack, we did not ask the dharma of the terrorists -we targeted terror, not civilians or military establishments,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh emphasised that India’s growing military and economic strength is not meant to assert dominance over others, but to protect its cultural values, spiritual traditions, and the humane ideals taught by Lord Mahavira.

Highlighting the rapid strides made in the defence sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Raksha Mantri said that India’s defence exports, which stood at approx. Rs 600 crore in 2014, have surged to over Rs 24,000 crore today. He expressed the confidence that defence exports would cross Rs 50,000 Crore by 2029. “From Tejas fighter jets to Akash missiles and Arjun tanks, our armed forces are increasingly being equipped with Made-in-India platforms,” he said.

Calling it a testimony of India’s journey towards Aatmanirbharta, Raksha Mantri spoke about the recent agreement to procure 97 Light Combat Aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, with more than 64% indigenous content. “Today, India manufactures everything from toys to tanks. India is rapidly progressing towards becoming the world’s manufacturing hub. And the day is not far when India will emerge as the Factory of the World. And all this will be possible because the government’s intentions are clear and its policies are in the national interest,” he added.

In his address, Raksha Mantri also talked about the economic growth of India as the nation is currently the world’s fourth-largest economy. With an estimated GDP of $7.3 trillion by 2030, it is on track to become the third-largest economy. Citing the International Monetary Fund reports, he stated that, based on average growth rates, India is on track to become the world’s second-largest economy by Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) by 2038.

Raksha Mantri lauded the legacy of great Jain personalities such as Dr Vikram Sarabhai, Dr Dr. D.S. Kothari, Dr. Jagdish Chandra Jain, and Dr. Meenakshi Jain, whose work continues to inspire the nation. He also commended the government’s efforts to preserve India’s Jain heritage, including the repatriation of over 20 stolen idols of Tirthankaras from abroad, and the recognition of the Prakrit language – used in Jain scriptures – as a Classical Language of India. He urged the citizens to draw inspiration from the teachings of Lord Mahavira and the principles of Jain Dharma – especially non-violence, truth, and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) – as India marches towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda presided as the Chief Guest at the 3^rd Foundation Day event of AIIMS Bilaspur, in Himachal Pradesh today. He was joined by Shri Anurag Thakur, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha; Shri Harsh Mahajan, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha; Shri Jai Ram Thakur, Ex-Chief Minister & Leader of Opposition, Himachal Pradesh and Col. Dr. Dhani Ram Shandil, Health Minister, Himachal Pradesh.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Nadda stated, “With state-of-the-art facilities such as advanced MRI, CT scanner, PET-CT, endoscopy suites, and bronchoscopy suites now in place, AIIMS Bilaspur has made remarkable progress within just three years of its establishment.” He added, “The fact that people from nearby states are also seeking treatment at AIIMS Bilaspur highlights the growing trust and confidence in this institute.”

Shri Nadda reiterated the government’s commitment to providing quality medical services. He noted significant achievements in nuclear medicine, cancer care, and renal transplants. “A major milestone for Himachal Pradesh has been the reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure. Whereas earlier people had to travel to PGI Chandigarh, today AIIMS Bilaspur meets the high-end tertiary medical needs of the region,” he stated.

On medical education, the Union Health Minister informed that 127 posts have recently been sanctioned for AIIMS Bilaspur, including 29 faculty and 98 non-faculty positions. He added that the Selection Committee will remain active for one year and is mandated to conduct at least four interview rounds to ensure these posts are filled promptly.

Shri Nadda announced plans for a 500-bed Vishram Sadan at AIIMS Bilaspur to accommodate patients traveling from distant areas. Additionally, Rs 165 crore has been sanctioned for the construction of Type III, IV, and V quarters, as well as UG student hostels, and Rs 5 crore for an indoor stadium.

Emphasizing the importance of upholding the AIIMS brand’s reputation, Shri Nadda called for replicating the successes of other AIIMS institutions by maintaining quality care and fostering innovation. He highlighted the recent initiative to organize short-term exchange programs between AIIMS centers across the country.

He also mentioned the formation of a team, in collaboration with NITI Aayog and the Indian Institute of Public Administration, to visit all AIIMS institutes and develop a future roadmap for departmental growth and sustainability.

Shri Nadda further highlighted the substantial increase in medical education over the past 11 years. “There are now 808 medical colleges in the country. Annual UG medical seats have grown from around 35,000 to 1.25 lakh. In the last Cabinet, the Hon’ble Prime Minister sanctioned 5,000 new UG and PG seats in government medical colleges,” he stated. He added that in the next five years, an additional 75,000 medical seats will be introduced in government medical institutions.

During the event, the institute’s Kulgeet was officially released, symbolizing the spirit and ethos of AIIMS Bilaspur. The proceedings also included a special award distribution ceremony, where meritorious students in recognition of their outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements were felicitated by the Union Health Minister.

Background:

AIIMS Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, established under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), is a premier tertiary healthcare institute serving not only Himachal Pradesh but also the neighboring states. The foundation stone of AIIMS Bilaspur was laid by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi On October 3, 2017, and the institute was dedicated to the nation by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on October 5, 2022. Today, the institute is functioning with more than 734 operational beds, providing comprehensive healthcare, advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge cancer care, and life-saving transplant services.

Guided by the motto “Sarve Santu Niramaya” – may all be free from disease – AIIMS Bilaspur has rapidly evolved into a center of excellence for healthcare delivery, education, and research.

Dedicated to advancing healthcare excellence, AIIMS Bilaspur stands at the forefront of patient care, medical education, and research. With a focus on state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies, specialized treatment facilities and holistic patient support, the center continues to set new benchmarks in delivering quality health services for the community and beyond. Every department, from advanced diagnostics to critical care and research, reflects a commitment to patient wellbeing, clinical innovation, and sustainable growth.

Advanced Diagnostics: Equipped with state-of-the-art imaging services including a new 1.5 tesla MRI, 128-SLICE CT Scanner, and Nuclear Medicine Facilities (PET-CT, SPECT-CT, And Radionuclide Therapy).

Specialized Care: Comprehensive cancer treatment with modern Radiotherapy, Oncology Units, And Functional Cath Lab.

Critical & Emergency Services: 64 ICU beds across Cardiac, Medical, NICU, And PICU Wards, along with a dedicated Bronchoscopy suite and uninterrupted oxygen supply through an LMO plant.

Transplants and surgeries: 8 successful kidney transplants completed and eye bank with corneal transplant unit to be commissioned soon.

Research & laboratories: Establishment Of Endocrinology and Immunology Labs, And A Regional Viral Research And Diagnostic Laboratory Costing ₹19.83 Crore, Enhancing Disease Surveillance Capabilities.

Patient support: with three Amrit/Jan Aushadhi Pharmacies, affordable medicine access has expanded. A 250-bed Vishram Sadan (₹26.75 crore) is also under construction to provide accommodation for patient attendants.

Education & Training: Modern lecture hall complex, Simulation, and Skill Labs Strengthening Medical and Nursing training.

Infrastructure Development: residential quarters, hostels with 540+ capacity, rooftop solar power plant, and an indoor stadium under the khelo india initiative are under progress, ensuring sustainable growth of the institute.

AIIMS Bilaspur aims to further its role as a medical hub in North India with upcoming projects including a bone marrow transplant & therapy block (₹18.52 crore), advanced autopsy block (₹34.61 crore), a new trauma & critical care centre, a robotic surgery unit and drone-based logistics system for remote healthcare support. A multilevel car parking facility (624 vehicles, ₹72.97 crore) and a school for staff and students’ families are also on the anvil.

With these milestones and ambitious expansion projects, AIIMS Bilaspur will continue to redefine healthcare accessibility and excellence in the region.

Smt. Ankita Mishra Bundela, Joint Secretary (PMSSY), Union Health Ministry; Prof. (Dr.) Narendra Kumar Arora, President, AIIMS Bilaspur; Prof. (Dr.) Dayanand Sharma, Executive Director, AIIMS Bilaspur; Lt. Col. Paranjape, Registrar and other eminent dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, on Friday hailed the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) Thiruvananthapuram for producing high-quality medical devices at affordable prices and called for scaling up production and expanding awareness of these indigenous innovations.

The Minister said, India holds the promise of emerging as a global destination for cost-effective quality healthcare.

Inaugurating the exhibition on “Innovation for Self-Reliance – Accelerating Healthcare with Indigenous Medical Device Development – The Sree Chitra Contributions”, Dr Jitendra Singh said that while SCTIMST has developed life-saving technologies, more needs to be done to ensure wider use and public awareness. He suggested that the institute showcase its devices in central locations such as Delhi, involving civil society and stakeholders, so that the benefits of its work are better known.

The Minister highlighted that SCTIMST’s contributions align with the Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by reducing reliance on imports, Vishwabandhu Bharat by exporting devices like heart valves and MRI-compatible shunts and Viksit Bharat 2047 through revenue generation and industry partnerships in the private sector.

Citing examples, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the institute has already provided heart valves to over two lakh patients and advanced shunts to about 2,000 patients, while innovations like the Hemostasis Patch have proved critical in trauma and battlefield care. He noted that such achievements are often under-recognized even within leading hospitals and called for scaling up production to make them more widely available.

He further stressed that SCTIMST represents a unique model in India by combining the “Four Ts” — Teaching, Training, Treatment and Trade — a concept common in some Western countries but relatively new domestically. The institute, he said, not only educates and treats but also generates economic value through manufacturing.

Pointing to the larger context, the Minister said India’s medical technology sector is valued at around USD 12 billion in 2025 and is growing at nearly 20 percent annually, with projections to touch USD 50 billion by 2030. Institutions like SCTIMST, with recognition from WHO and collaborations with national agencies such as ICMR, DBT, CSIR, DRDO and INSA, are positioned to play a critical role in this growth.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also underlined the importance of partnerships with industry, stating that affordability must remain central even as production expands. He added that the institute can contribute to India’s emergence as a global hub for cost-effective healthcare and medical tourism by 2047.

“By building on its achievements, Sree Chitra can serve both national health priorities and global demand, reinforcing India’s role as a trusted contributor to world healthcare,” he said.

The event was attended by Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, Former Secretary, DST; Dr. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, DST; Prof. Kris Gopalakrishnan, President, SCTIMST; Dr. Sanjay Behari, Director, SCTIMST; and senior faculty, scientists, and industry partners.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as the Chief Guest at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi today. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Modi extended greetings to all citizens on the occasion of Navratri, noting that today marks Maha Navami and the day of Goddess Siddhidhatri. He remarked that tomorrow is the grand festival of Vijayadashami, which signifies the timeless proclamation of Indian culture—victory of justice over injustice, truth over falsehood, and light over darkness. The Prime Minister highlighted that on such a sacred occasion, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh was founded a hundred years ago, emphasizing that this was no coincidence. He stated that it was a restoration of an ancient tradition spanning thousands of years, wherein national consciousness manifests in new forms to meet the challenges of each era. In this age, he affirmed, the Sangh is a virtuous incarnation of that eternal national consciousness.

Highlighting that it is a privilege for the current generation of swayamsevaks to witness the centenary year of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Shri Modi extended his best wishes to the countless swayamsevaks dedicated to the resolve of national service. The Prime Minister paid tribute at the feet of the Sangh’s founder and revered ideal, Dr. Hedgewar. He announced that, to commemorate the Sangh’s glorious 100-year journey, the Government of India has released a special postage stamp and commemorative coin. The ₹100 coin features the national emblem on one side and a majestic image of Bharat Mata in Varad Mudra with a lion, being saluted by swayamsevaks, on the other. Shri Modi highlighted that this is possibly the first time in independent India’s history that Bharat Mata’s image has appeared on Indian currency. He added that the coin also bears the Sangh’s guiding motto: “Rashtraya Swaha, Idam Rashtraya, Idam Na Mama.”

Underscoring the significance of the commemorative postage stamp released today, noting its deep historical relevance, the Prime Minister recalled the importance of the Republic Day parade on 26th January and highlighted that in 1963, RSS swayamsevaks had participated in the parade with great pride, marching in rhythm to patriotic tunes. He remarked that the stamp captures the memory of that historic moment.

“The commemorative postage stamp also reflects the unwavering dedication of RSS swayamsevaks who continue to serve the nation and empower society”, underlined Shri Modi extending heartfelt congratulations to the citizens of India on the release of these commemorative coins and postage stamp.

Prime Minister remarked that just as great rivers nurture human civilizations along their banks, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has similarly nourished and enriched countless lives. Drawing a parallel between a river that blesses the land, villages, and regions it flows through, and the Sangh, which has touched every domain of Indian society and every region of the nation, Shri Modi emphasized that this is the result of uninterrupted dedication and a powerful national current.

Drawing a parallel between the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and a river that branches into multiple streams, each nourishing different regions, the Prime Minister remarked that the Sangh’s journey mirrors this, with its various affiliated organizations engaging in national service across all facets of life—education, agriculture, social welfare, tribal upliftment, women empowerment, arts and sciences, and the labour sector. Shri Modi highlighted that despite the Sangh’s expansion into multiple streams, there has never been division among them. “Each stream, each organization working in diverse fields, shares a singular purpose and sentiment: Nation First”, stressed the Prime Minister.

“Since its inception, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has pursued a grand objective—nation building”, said Shri Modi, emphasising that to fulfill this purpose, the Sangh chose the path of individual development as the foundation for national development. To consistently advance on this path, the Sangh adopted a disciplined working method: the daily and regular conduct of shakhas.

“Revered Dr. Hedgewar understood that the nation would be truly strong only when every citizen awakened to their responsibility towards it; India would rise only when every citizen learns to live for the nation”, remarked the Prime Minister. He said that is why Dr. Hedgewar remained committed to individual development, adopting a unique approach. Shri Modi quoted Dr. Hedgewar’s guiding principle: “Take people as they are, shape them into what they should be.” He likened Dr. Hedgewar’s method of public engagement to that of a potter—starting with ordinary clay, working on it diligently, shaping and firing it, and ultimately using the bricks to build a grand structure. In the same way, Dr. Hedgewar selected ordinary individuals, trained them, gave them vision, and shaped them into dedicated swayamsevaks for the nation. The Prime Minister remarked that this is why it is said about the Sangh that ordinary people come together to accomplish extraordinary and unprecedented tasks.

Highlighting that the noble process of individual development continues to thrive in the shakhas of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Shri Modi described the shakha ground as a sacred space of inspiration, where a swayamsevak begins his journey from “me” to “we” representing the collective spirit. He remarked that these shakhas are the sacrificial altars of character-building, fostering physical, mental, and social growth. The Prime Minister further elaborated that within the Shakhas, the spirit and courage for national service take root, sacrifice and dedication become natural, the urge for personal credit fades, and swayamsevaks imbibe the values of collective decision-making and teamwork.

Emphasising that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s hundred-year journey has been anchored in three foundational pillars—a grand vision of nation building, a clear path of individual development, and a simple yet dynamic working method in the form of shakhas, Shri Modi stated that standing on these pillars, the Sangh has shaped lakhs of swayamsevaks who are advancing the nation across diverse fields through dedication, service, and a committed pursuit of national excellence.

Affirming that since its inception, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has aligned its priorities with those of the nation, Shri Modi stated that in every era, the Sangh has confronted the major challenges facing the country. Recalling the freedom struggle, he noted that revered Dr. Hedgewar and many other karyakartas actively participated in the independence movement, with Dr. Hedgewar even facing imprisonment multiple times. The Prime Minister highlighted that the Sangh supported numerous freedom fighters, working shoulder to shoulder with them. He cited the 1942 movement in Chimur, where many swayamsevaks endured severe British atrocities. Post-independence, he remarked, the Sangh continued its sacrifices—from resisting the Nizam’s oppression in Hyderabad to contributing to the liberation of Goa and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. Throughout, the guiding sentiment remained “Nation First,” and the unwavering goal was “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”

Acknowledging that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has faced attacks and conspiracies throughout its journey of national service, Shri Modi recalled how, even after independence, attempts were made to suppress the Sangh and prevent its integration into the mainstream. He highlighted that revered Guruji was falsely implicated and sent to jail. Yet, upon his release, Guruji responded with profound composure, stating, “Sometimes the tongue gets caught under the teeth and is crushed. But we do not break the teeth, because both the teeth and the tongue are ours.” The Prime Minister emphasized that despite enduring severe torture and various forms of oppression, Guruji harbored no resentment or ill will. He described Guruji’s sage-like personality and ideological clarity as a guiding light for every swayamsevak, strengthening the values of unity and empathy towards society. He affirmed that whether faced with bans, conspiracies, or false cases, swayamsevaks never gave space to bitterness, because they understood that they are not separate from society—society is made of them. What is good belongs to them, and what is less good also belongs to them.

Highlighting that one of the key reasons the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has never harbored bitterness is the unwavering faith of every swayamsevak in democracy and constitutional institutions, the Prime Minister recalled that during the Emergency, this very belief empowered swayamsevaks and gave them the strength to resist. He emphasized that these two core values—oneness with society and faith in constitutional institutions—have kept swayamsevaks composed in every crisis and sensitive towards societal needs. Despite facing numerous challenges over time, the Sangh stands firm like a mighty banyan tree, continuously serving the nation and society.

Shri Modi stated that from its inception, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been synonymous with patriotism and service. He recalled that during the painful period of Partition, when millions of families were displaced, swayamsevaks stood at the forefront with limited resources to serve the refugees. He emphasized that this was not merely relief work—it was an act of strengthening the soul of the nation.

The Prime Minister further highlighted the devastating earthquake that struck Anjar in Gujarat in 1956, describing the widespread destruction. Even then, swayamsevaks were actively engaged in relief and rescue operations. He mentioned that revered Guruji had written a letter to Vakil Saheb, the then head of the Sangh in Gujarat, stating that to selflessly endure hardship for alleviating another’s suffering is the mark of a noble heart.

“The enduring hardship to alleviate the suffering of others is the hallmark of every swayamsevak”, described Shri Modi, recalling the 1962 war, when RSS swayamsevaks stood tirelessly to support the armed forces, boosted their morale, and extended aid to villages near the border. The PM further highlighted the 1971 crisis, when millions of refugees from East Pakistan arrived in India without shelter or resources. During that difficult time, swayamsevaks mobilized food, provided shelter, delivered healthcare services, wiped their tears, and shared in their pain. Shri Modi added that the swayamsevaks also gave shelter to many Sikhs during the 1984 riots.

Recalling that former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was deeply astonished by the service activities he witnessed at Nanaji Deshmukh’s ashram in Chitrakoot, Shri Modi also mentioned that former President Pranab Mukherjee was greatly impressed by the discipline and simplicity of the Sangh during his visit to Nagpur.

The Prime Minister highlighted that even today, in calamities such as the floods in Punjab, disasters in Himachal and Uttarakhand, and the tragedy in Wayanad, Kerala, swayamsevaks are among the first responders. He affirmed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the entire world witnessed the Sangh’s courage and spirit of service firsthand.

Emphasising that one of the most significant contributions of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh over its 100-year journey has been awakening self-awareness and pride among diverse sections of society, the Prime Minister noted that the Sangh has consistently worked in the most remote and inaccessible regions of the country, especially among India’s nearly ten crore tribal brothers and sisters. While successive governments often overlooked these communities, the Sangh prioritized their culture, festivals, languages, and traditions. Organizations like Seva Bharati, Vidya Bharati, and Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram have emerged as pillars of tribal empowerment. Shri Modi affirmed that the growing self-confidence among tribal communities today is transforming their lives.

Expressing deep appreciation for the lakhs of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh volunteers working tirelessly to improve the lives of tribal communities in India’s remotest corners, Shri Modi affirmed that their dedication has played a vital role in preserving the nation’s cultural identity. The PM acknowledged the challenges and exploitative campaigns that have historically targeted tribal regions, and emphasized that the Sangh has silently and steadfastly offered its sacrifice and fulfilled its duty for decades to protect the nation from such crises.

Prime Minister remarked that deep-rooted social ailments such as caste-based discrimination and regressive practices have long posed a serious challenge to Hindu society. He highlighted that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has consistently worked to address this concern. Recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to a Sangh camp in Wardha, the Prime Minister noted that Gandhiji openly praised the Sangh’s spirit of equality, compassion, and harmony. He stated that from Dr. Hedgewar to the present day, every eminent figure and Sarsanghchalak of the Sangh has fought against discrimination and untouchability. Shri Modi emphasized that revered Guruji continuously advanced the sentiment of “Na Hindu Patito Bhavet,” meaning every Hindu is part of one family and none is inferior or fallen. He quoted Pujya Balasaheb Deoras, who said, “If untouchability is not a sin, then nothing in the world is.” He added that during their tenure as Sarsanghchalak, Pujya Rajju Bhaiya and Pujya Sudarshan Ji also carried forward this sentiment. The Prime Minister stated that the current Sarsanghchalak, Shri Mohan Bhagwat Ji, has set a clear goal before society for social harmony, encapsulated in the vision of “one well, one temple, and one cremation ground.” He affirmed that the Sangh has taken this message to every corner of the country, promoting a society free of discrimination, division, and discord. This, he said, is the foundation of harmony and the resolve for an inclusive society, which the Sangh continues to strengthen with renewed vigour.

Shri Modi remarked that when the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh was founded a century ago, the needs and struggles of the time were different. India was striving to break free from centuries of political subjugation and to safeguard its cultural values. He stated that today, as India moves towards becoming a developed nation and is poised to become the world’s third-largest economy, the challenges have evolved. A large section of the population is overcoming poverty, new sectors are creating opportunities for youth, and India is asserting its voice globally—from diplomacy to climate policies. He highlighted that today’s challenges include economic dependence on other nations, conspiracies to disrupt national unity, and demographic manipulation. As Prime Minister, he expressed satisfaction that the government is swiftly addressing these issues. As a swayamsevak, he also expressed pride that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has not only identified these challenges but has also formulated a concrete roadmap to confront them.

Highlighting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s five transformative resolutions—self-awareness, social harmony, family enlightenment, civic discipline, and environmental consciousness—as powerful inspirations for swayamsevaks to confront the challenges facing the nation, Shri Modi elaborated that self-awareness means liberation from the mindset of servitude and taking pride in one’s heritage and native language. He emphasized that self-awareness also signifies embracing swadeshi. He asserted that self-reliance is no longer an option but a necessity. The Prime Minister called upon society to adopt the mantra of swadeshi as a collective resolve and urged everyone to dedicate their full energy towards making the “Vocal for Local” campaign a resounding success.

“The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has consistently prioritized social harmony”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, defining social harmony as establishing social justice by giving precedence to the marginalized and strengthening national unity. Shri Modi highlighted that the nation today faces challenges that directly target its unity, culture, and security—ranging from separatist ideologies and regionalism to disputes over caste and language, and divisive tendencies incited by external forces. The PM affirmed that India’s soul has always been rooted in “unity in diversity,” and warned that if this principle is broken, India’s strength will be diminished. Therefore, he stressed the need to continuously reinforce this foundational ethos.

Prime Minister stated that social harmony today faces a grave challenge from demographic manipulation and infiltration, which directly impacts internal security and future peace. He emphasized that this concern led him to announce the Demography Mission from the Red Fort. He called for vigilance and resolute action to confront this threat.

Shri Modi further highlighted that family enlightenment is the need of the hour. He defined it as nurturing the family culture that forms the foundation of Indian civilization and is inspired by Indian values. He stressed the importance of upholding family principles, respecting elders, empowering women, instilling values in youth, and fulfilling responsibilities towards one’s family. He underscored the urgent need to raise awareness in both families and society on this front.

Highlighting that in every era, nations that progressed did so with a strong foundation of civic discipline, the Prime Minister emphasized that civic discipline means cultivating a sense of duty and ensuring that every citizen is aware of their responsibilities. He called for promoting cleanliness, respecting national assets, and upholding laws and regulations. Shri Modi affirmed that it is the spirit of the Constitution that citizens fulfill their duties, and this constitutional ethos must be continuously strengthened.

The Prime Minister further highlighted that protecting the environment is essential for both present and future generations, and is directly linked to the future of humanity. He stressed the need to focus not only on the economy but also on ecology. Campaigns such as water conservation, green energy, and clean energy are vital steps in this direction.

“The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s five transformative resolutions—self-awareness, social harmony, family enlightenment, civic discipline, and environmental consciousness—are vital instruments that will enhance the nation’s strength, help India confront diverse challenges, and serve as foundational pillars for building a developed India by 2047”, exclaimed the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister stated that India in 2047 will be a glorious nation shaped by philosophy and science, service and social harmony. He affirmed that this is the vision of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the collective pursuit of all swayamsevaks, and their solemn resolve. He reminded the nation that the Sangh was built on unwavering faith in the nation, driven by a deep spirit of service, forged in the fire of sacrifice and penance, refined through values and discipline, and stands firm by considering national duty as the supreme duty of life. He added that the Sangh is intrinsically linked to the grand dream of serving Bharat Mata.

“The Sangh’s ideal is to deepen and strengthen the roots of Indian culture. Its effort is to instill self-confidence and pride in society. Its goal is to ignite the flame of public service in every heart. Its vision is for Indian society to become a symbol of social justice. Its mission is to amplify India’s voice on the global stage. Its resolve is to ensure a secure and radiant future for the nation”, remarked Shri Modi and concluded by extending his congratulations to all on this historic occasion.

Union Minister of Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekawat, Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt Rekha Gupta, Sarkaryavah(General Secretary) of RSS, Shri Dattatreya Hosabale were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

As part of the centenary celebrations of RSS, Prime Minister released a specially designed commemorative postage stamp and coin highlighting the RSS’ contributions to the nation.

Founded in 1925 in Nagpur, Maharashtra, by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the RSS was established as a volunteer-based organization with the goal of fostering cultural awareness, discipline, service, and social responsibility among citizens.

RSS is a unique people-nurtured movement for national reconstruction. Its rise has been seen as a response to centuries of foreign rule, with its continuing growth attributed to the emotional resonance of its vision of India’s national glory, rooted in Dharma.

A core emphasis of the Sangh is on patriotism and national character formation. It seeks to instil devotion to the motherland, discipline, self-restraint, courage, and heroism. The Sangh’s ultimate goal is the “Sarvangeena Unnati” (all-round development) of India, to which every Swayamsevak dedicates himself.

Over the past century, RSS has played a significant role in education, health, social welfare, and disaster relief. RSS volunteers have actively participated in relief and rehabilitation efforts during natural disasters, including floods, earthquakes, and cyclones. In addition, various affiliated organizations of the RSS have contributed to empowering youth, women, and farmers, promoting public participation, and strengthening local communities.

The centenary celebrations not only honour the historical achievements of the RSS, but also highlight its enduring contributions to India’s cultural journey and its message of national unity.