The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi applauded Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for Winning Digital Transformation Award 2025. RBI has been honored with the Digital Transformation Award 2025 by Central Banking, London, UK, recognizing its innovative digital initiatives—Pravaah and Sarthi—developed by its in-house developer team.

Commending the achievement, the Prime Minister wrote on X;

“A commendable accomplishment, reflecting an emphasis towards innovation and efficiency in governance.

Digital innovation continues to strengthen India’s financial ecosystem, thus empowering countless lives.”

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chaired a review meeting on the status of implementation of three New Criminal Laws in North-Eastern states in Guwahati today. The Home Minister also unveiled a book titled ‘New Criminal Laws: Standard Operating Procedures and Rules’ prepared by CID, Assam.

The meeting reviewed the implementation and present status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensics in the North-Eastern states. The meeting was attended by the Chief Ministers of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim, alongwith the Governor of Manipur. Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretaries and Director Generals of Police of North-Eastern states, the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), the Director of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), and other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the state governments also attended the meeting.

Addressing the meeting, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central Government is committed to providing the citizens with a speedy and transparent justice system. He emphasized that to strengthen law and order, it is essential to register crimes without any delay.

Shri Amit Shah said that the North-Eastern states need to put in more efforts towards the implementation of the new criminal laws. He stated that once these laws are fully enforced, there will be a significant transformation in the region’s law and order situation, ensuring that justice is delivered by the Supreme Court within three years of an FIR being registered in any case.

Union Home Minister said that there should be no political interference in registering cases related to terrorism, mob lynching, and organized crime. He said that all North-Eastern states should ensure training of 100% police personnel on the new criminal laws.

Shri Amit Shah requested the Chief Ministers of the North-Eastern states to hold a review meeting every month on the implementation of the laws. He also directed the Director Generals of Police and Chief Secretaries of the states to conduct a review meeting every 15 days.

Union Home Minister said that the administration must reach the grassroots level, and police stations should become places where people receive justice. He emphasized that this would only be possible with 100% implementation of three new laws. He congratulated the Assam government for ensuring  filing of charge sheet within the stipulated time frame of 60-90 days in 66% cases and urged other states to follow this approach. He stressed the need for continuous monitoring of progress in this regard. The Home Minister also emphasized the urgent need for the implementation of e-Sakshya. He stated that until there are sufficient scientific officers, it will not be possible to file fully satisfactory charge sheets from a forensic science perspective. He further urged use of  “Trial in Absentia” provision, which will help bring fugitive criminals back to the country.

Shri Amit Shah said that the stronger the Director of Prosecution is made, the easier it will be to ensure justice for the people. He noted that, for a long time, the police in the North-East were primarily focused on fighting insurgency. However, with insurgency now nearly eradicated in the region, the police should shift their focus toward protecting people’s lives, property, and dignity. Shri Shah further stated that the Modi government introduced three new laws after an extensive and detailed deliberation process spanning nearly 45 months.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the 57^th annual conference of All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) as the Chief Guest in Kokrajhar, Assam. On this occasion, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Shri Biswajit Daimary, the Union Home Secretary, and the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), along with several other dignitaries were present.

In his address, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) has played a significant role in establishing peace, development, and enthusiasm in the region. Without the role of ABSU, the Bodo Accord would not have been possible, and peace would not have been established in Bodoland. On this occasion, Shri Shah also paid tribute to the five thousand martyrs who fought for the peace of Bodoland.

Shri Amit Shah said that today, when entire Bodoland is following the path shown by its leader, Upendra Nath Brahma Ji, the government has decided to name a prominent road in Delhi as Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma Marg. He also mentioned that in the first week of April, a program will be held in Delhi where a bust of Upendra Nath Brahma Ji will be unveiled. He said, the Modi government and the Assam government will bring every dream of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma Ji to fruition.

Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that ABSU is advancing education, empowerment, and development. It is due to the efforts of ABSU that today, students are able to take their exams up to the 12^th grade in the Bodo language. As a result, our Bodo language has been recognized and will remain alive for many years to come. He further stated that today’s event sends a strong message of the peace established in Bodoland.

Shri Amit Shah said that when the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) peace agreement was signed on January 27, 2020, the opposition was mocking it. However, today, the central government and the Assam government have fulfilled 82 per cent of the conditions of this agreement. He further stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government of India will implement 100 per cent of this agreement in the next two years. After that, there will be lasting peace in the BTR.

Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that under the BTR peace agreement, the government removed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from the entire BTR area on April 1, 2022. He also mentioned that under the Government of India’s ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) program, today, the mushroom from Kokrajhar, known as “Mushroom From Bodoland,” is being included in the menus of hotels in Delhi. This has become possible due to the peace established in Bodoland. He further stated that because of the peace, Bodoland was able to host the ‘Durand Cup’ tournament. He appealed to the athletes of Bodoland to start preparing for the potential Olympics in India in 2036.

Shri Amit Shah said that more than a dozen products from Bodoland have received the GI (Geographical Indication) Tag. As a result, an industrial environment is gradually being created across the entire BTR area. He mentioned that there was a time when there were discussions about unrest, chaos, and separatism, but now the focus has shifted to education, development, and industry.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Government of India and the Assam Government have allocated ₹1,500 crore for the development of Bodoland, even though the population of the region is only 3.5 million. He also mentioned that during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Bodo language was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. Additionally, the BTR region was expanded by including the Sonitpur and Biswanath districts.

Shri Amit Shah said that hundreds of youths have been brought into the mainstream of society. Many weapons were surrendered, and in the last three years, ₹287 crore have been spent on the rehabilitation of 4,881 members of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) in Assam, with 90 per cent of this amount provided by the Modi government. Shri Shah further mentioned that a lot of work has been done for employment and skill development. NGOs have been involved in all sectors, including SIP&RD, KVK, KVIC, animal husbandry, fisheries, and horticulture, to work with the local people and help them progress.

Union Home Minister said that Assam Chief Minister Dr. Sarma has made a new beginning by recruiting 400 Bodo youths into the Assam Commando Battalion. He further mentioned that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Government of India has signed agreements with a total of nine insurgent groups in Assam, bringing over 10,000 youths into the mainstream of society.

Shri Amit Shah said that where once bullets were fired, today Bodo youth are waving the tricolor in their hands. This sight sends a message to the entire country. He added that when the Bodo Accord was signed, not only Bodoland and Assam but the entire country was happy. Just as the people of Bodoland love the country, the entire country loves Bodoland and its people and is committed to the development of its youth.

Union Home Minister said that the Bathou religion, followed by the people of Bodoland, holds great significance. He explained that Bathou is made up of two elements, and its meaning is “the deep mystery of the creator of the five elements.” The five elements, or panchatatva, include fire, air, earth, sky, and water, which form the foundation of your great religion. He also mentioned that he strives to spread the message of the Bathou religion.

Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the entire Northeast has been freed from issues such as insurgency, movements, blockades, strikes, and violence, and has been ushered onto the path of development. He mentioned that recently, an Investment Summit took place under the leadership of PM Modi and Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, which is bringing an investment of ₹5 lakh crore to Assam. He appealed to the Bodo youths to focus on their education and contribute to the peace process. He further stated that the goal is to build such infrastructure in Bodoland that Bodo youths can compete with youth from all around the world. He assured that the Government of India and the Assam Government will leave no stone unturned in the development of Bodoland.

The much-anticipated Fit India Carnival kicked off with a grand inauguration at the JLN Stadium in New Delhi today, setting the stage for three days of high-energy fitness and wellness activities. The event was graced by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, and adding a touch of star power, Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana joined the celebrations alongside wrestling champion Sangram Singh, renowned wellness expert Mickey Mehta, former WWE wrestler Shanky Singh and Guinness World Record holder Rohtash Chaudhary.

Inaugurating the first-of-its-kind three-day event today, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of fitness in nation-building. “This is a start to make sports a culture and amplify the message of fitness among all. We want to start this as a movement like the Sundays on Cycle. We want to have the Fit India Carnival organised in other towns and cities across India. This is not just a fitness but a wellness carnival with focus on mental health, emotional wealth, nutrition and more.”

Ayushmann Khurrana, honoured as a ‘Fit India Icon’ at the event, shared his thoughts on the significance of health and wellness. “Health is Wealth – everyone knows this and I feel a healthy nation is a wealthy nation. The Fit India Movement, launched by the Government of India, is aimed at promoting physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle among its citizens. I thank the PM of India, Shri Narendra Modi ji for his sharp vision to making India fitter and the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya for his relentless work towards this key national goal,” he said.

The evening began with electrifying performances of Kalaripayattu, Gatka and Mallakhamb, showcasing India’s rich martial arts heritage. Set to continue over the next two days, the carnival features an exciting lineup of sports and fitness challenges, including rope skipping, arm wrestling, cricket bowling, push-up and squat competitions. Additionally, experts from the Sports Authority of India’s National Centre of Sports Sciences and Research (NCSSR) are offering free health assessments, including nutrition and psychological consultations for attendees.

A special highlight of the evening was the launch of the book, “Benefits of Cycling”, curated by the NCSSR team to underscore the importance of incorporating cycling into daily routines for a healthier lifestyle. Union Minister also led a thought-provoking Q&A session with the fitness icons, further reinforcing the importance of an active lifestyle.

The fitness-packed evening also saw a thrilling cultural segment, ‘Fitness through Dance,’ captivating the audience with energetic performances. The event’s interactive session also witnessed Ayushmann Khurrana, Sangram Singh, and Mickey Mehta engaging in a fun fitness challenge, inspiring attendees to push their limits.

The event concluded with Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya visiting various stalls showcasing the health and wellness initiatives.

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today paid homage to all those who participated in the historic Dandi March, a defining chapter in India’s freedom struggle. Shri Modi stated that led by Mahatma Gandhi, this March ignited a nationwide movement for self-reliance and independence. “The courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to truth and non-violence of all those who took part in the Dandi March continues to inspire generations”, Shri Modi added.

The Prime Minister posted on X:

“Today, we pay homage to all those who participated in the historic Dandi March, a defining chapter in India’s freedom struggle. Led by Mahatma Gandhi, this March ignited a nationwide movement for self-reliance and independence. The courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to truth and non-violence of all those who took part in the Dandi March continues to inspire generations.”

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, along with the Prime Minister of Mauritius, H.E. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, today addressed a gathering of the Indian community and friends of India in Mauritius at a special event held at the Trianon Convention Centre. The event saw enthusiastic participation from the Indian diaspora, including students, professionals, socio-cultural organizations, and business leaders. It was also attended by several Ministers, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries from Mauritius.

Welcoming Prime Minister Modi at the event, Prime Minister Ramgoolam announced that Mauritius would be conferring its highest civilian award ‘Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean [G.C.S.K]’ on Prime Minister of India during the National Day celebrations. Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to him for this exceptional honour.

In his address, Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister of Mauritius for his warmth and friendship and for his contribution to strengthening the vibrant and special ties between the two countries. In a special gesture, he handed over OCI cards to PM Ramgoolam and his spouse, Mrs Veena Ramgoolam. Conveying greetings to the Mauritian people on the occasion of their National Day, Prime Minister recalled the shared historical journey of the two countries. He paid tributes to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, Sir Anerood Jugnauth, Manilal Doctor and others who fought for Mauritius’s independence and noted that it was an honour for him to attend the National Day celebrations of Mauritius as Chief Guest. Highlighting the shared heritage and familial connections that form the bedrock of the close people-to-people ties between the two countries, Prime Minister appreciated how the Indian origin community in Mauritius had preserved and nurtured their cultural roots. To further strengthen these bonds, a special carve out for Mauritius has been made whereby OCI cards can be made available to the seventh generation of the people of Indian origin in Mauritius. Prime Minister underscored that India would be supporting several initiatives to nurture the Girmitiya legacy.

Prime Minister noted that India was privileged to be a close development partner of Mauritius. He further elaborated that India-Mauritius special ties played a key role in India’s SAGAR Vision and its engagement with the Global South. Speaking about tackling the shared challenge of climate change, he appreciated Mauritius’s partnership in the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuels Alliance initiatives. In this context, PM also highlighted the Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam ( Plant4Mother) initiative under which he planted a sapling at the historic Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden earlier in the day. Full address of Prime Minister may be seen here.

The event featured a captivating cultural programme, with performances by artistes from Indira Gandhi Centre for Indian Culture (IGCIC), Mahatma Gandhi Institute (MGI) and Anna Medical College.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today called on H.E. Mr. Dharambeer Gokhool, President of the Republic of Mauritius, at the State House.

The two leaders exchanged views on deepening the special and close bilateral ties between India and Mauritius. In this context, they recalled the shared history between the two countries and the existence of strong people-to-people linkages. Prime Minister noted that it was an honour for him to attend the National Day celebrations of Mauritius as Chief Guest for the second time. In a special gesture Prime Minister handed over OCI cards to President Gokhool and First Lady Vrinda Gokhool. Prime Minister also visited the Ayurveda Garden in the State House, established in collaboration with the Government of India. Prime Minister noted that Mauritius is an important partner for India in advancing the benefits of traditional medicine including Ayurveda.

After the talks, President Gokhool hosted a State lunch in honour of Prime Minister.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, attended the North-East Students’ & Youth Parliament in New Delhi today as the Chief Guest. The event was organized by the Student Experience in Inter-State Living (SEIL).

Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah described the North-East as a priceless jewel of Indian culture, rich in heritage that enhances the cultural fabric of India. He highlighted the region’s immense potential to attract global attention, especially from a tourism perspective. He also praised the youth of the North-East for having the highest IQ in India and noted that the region is home to some of the most hard-working tribes. Shri Shah emphasized that the North-East is a land of diversity, with over 220 tribal groups, 160 tribes, 200 dialects and languages, 50 unique festivals, and more than 30 world-renowned dance forms.

Shri Amit Shah acknowledged that despite its many unique qualities, the North-East fell behind in development due to a time when insurgency and separatism were fuelled by creating various illusions and disputes. He pointed out that violence, bandhs, drugs, blockades, and regionalism fragmented the region, causing a divide not only between the North-East and the rest of the country but also among the states within the region. As a result, the North-East faced a 40-year delay in development, with terrorism and separatist groups being the primary obstacles during this period.

Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that whenever his party came to power, it always prioritized the North-East. He mentioned that previously, there was no separate ministry for such a large and underdeveloped region, but it was established during the government led by Atal ji. Under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the North-East has become a focus in every program of the Central Government. Shri Shah emphasized that the greatest achievement of the Modi government is reducing the distance between the North-East and the rest of India. He announced that by 2027, all state capitals in the North-East will be connected by rail, air, and road networks. He added that Prime Minister Modi not only enhanced physical connectivity between the North-East and the rest of India but also worked to bridge the emotional divide. Shri Shah highlighted that the Modi government kept the North-East at the heart of every plan, engaging in discussions with insurgent groups one by one, understanding their concerns, and working to bring them into the mainstream through agreements.

Shri Amit Shah stated that the North-East is now experiencing peace. Between 2004 and 2014, there were 11,000 incidents of violence in the region, whereas from 2014 to 2024, this number decreased by nearly 70%, dropping to 3,428. He said that there is a 70% reduction in the deaths of security forces and an 89% reduction in civilian deaths. Shri Shah mentioned that the Modi government signed agreements with all insurgent groups, leading to over 10,500 rebels surrendering their weapons and reintegrating into the mainstream. He emphasized that in the past 10 years, 12 significant agreements had been signed with insurgent groups. Under the Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat initiative, the government has respected and preserved the languages, dialects, cultures, costumes, traditional dances, and arts of the North-East, while fostering an atmosphere of peace across the region by encouraging the surrender of weapons by more than 10,000 individuals.

Shri Amit Shah stated that the development of any region is not possible without peace, as peace is a fundamental precondition for progress. He emphasized that the Modi Government has focused on establishing peace in the North-East. Shri Shah highlighted the significant benefits the North-East has gained from space technology under the Modi Government, with around 110 schemes being implemented through the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC). He further mentioned that for flood management in the North-East, satellite mapping and topography have been used to plan the construction of more than 300 lakes in the region, which will ensure permanent flood management in the coming days.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that during the tenure of the Modi government, several efforts have been made for the development of the North-East region over the past 10 years. The govt. has increased the budgetary provisions for the region. He stated that, compared to the year 2014-15, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has increased the budget by 153 per cent for the year 2024-25. He also mentioned that for better connectivity, ₹41,000 crores have been spent on roads, and ₹47,000 crores have been spent separately on rural roads. He said that, in a way, the Modi government has spent ₹90,000 crores in the North-East specifically for roads. Shri Shah mentioned that 64 new air routes were started for air connectivity, ₹4,800 crores were spent on the Vibrant Village program, while ₹18,000 crores were allocated for Railways.

Shri Amit Shah said that today, India’s largest Rail-cum-Road bridge has been constructed over the Brahmaputra River. He mentioned that PM Modi built the Bhupen Hazarika Setu, provided Arunachal Pradesh with a green field airport, achieved 100 per cent electrification of the Railway network, and that a new railway line is being constructed from Assam to Bhutan. Shri Shah added that by 2027, the capitals of all the states in the North-East will be connected by train, air, and road. Under the Modi government, not only the physical distance of the North East has been reduced, but also the distance between hearts has been shortened. He also noted that the goal of 100 per cent organic farming in Sikkim has been accomplished during the tenure of our government. He said that today, a ₹27,000 crore semiconductor plant is coming to Assam, which will provide job opportunities for the youth. Shri Shah mentioned that an investment of ₹2.5 lakh crore is coming to the North-East. He stated that the foundation for this development was laid during last 10 years under the Modi government, and in the next 10 years, no child from the North-East will have to go to another part of the country for work; they will find employment right there.

Union Home Minister said that during the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, we made a pledge that by 2047, India will be a fully developed nation and will be a global leader in every field. He stated that by 2047, Mother India will stand before the world with her full strength and energy. He added that in every field, India should lead the world; this dream of Maharshi Aurobindo and Swami Vivekananda is now beginning to be realized. Shri Shah mentioned that to involve the youth in this process, our government has made several efforts. He said that PM Modi was the first to introduce the New Education Policy, in which we emphasized preserving our languages and giving importance to mother tongues. He added that through the New Education Policy, our education system will be both local and global, creating many opportunities for the youth.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the North-East is very close to the heart of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the Government of India. He stated that the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister PM Modi, is fully committed not only to budget allocation but also to the development, unity, and peace of the North-East.

Shri Amit Shah remarked that while the Student Parliament is a commendable event, it should not be an isolated occurrence. Instead, a system should be established to bridge the Student Parliament with other organizations and Vidyarthi Prishad, ensuring that all youth organizations contribute to the nation’s strength. He emphasized that the Vidyarthi Prishad not only guides youth in the right direction but also plays a vital role in shaping their character. He further praised the world’s largest student organization for consistently prioritizing the nation in every endeavor, whether it be cooperating in times of disaster or assisting during national crises.

Union Home Minister also lauded the Students’ Experience in Inter-State Living (SEIL) for its role in emotionally connecting the North-East with the rest of the country. He highlighted that today, over 4,000 families across the country are hosting children from the North-East, engaging with them through SEIL, which he described as having unmatched strength. Shri Shah credited the Vidyarthi Prishad for creating a sense of organizational dedication, which has allowed initiatives like SEIL to continue successfully for so many years.

A childless widow can remarry and yet claim her deceased husband’s Pension or Family Pension. Family Pension is now available also for the divorced or separated  daughters without waiting for the outcome of a Divorce suit in the court and she can claim Family Pension through her deceased parent if her divorce proceedings have been constituted during the lifetime of her parent. A woman pensioner can now nominate her children for Family Pension, in precedence to her husband in the event of a marital discord leading to filing of Divorce suit or filing of case under Protection of Domestic Violation Act or Dowry Prohibition Act.

These are some of the revolutionary reforms which the 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 said, had been brought in the recent few years.

Addressing the 34th meeting of the Standing Committee of Voluntary Agencies (SCOVA) here today, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, it is gratifying to note that we have been able to introduce several reforms in the Service Rules pertaining to women, which was called for with the changing norms of the society but the earlier government continued to follow a status quoist approach and hence avoided doing so. He said, we could carry forward these pathbreaking reforms with courage and conviction because we have the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Elaborating on this, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, Family Pension to a childless widow will now continue even after remarriage, provided her income from other sources is less than the minimum Family Pension that she is receiving.

In another progressive decision, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, Family Pension is now available also for the divorced or separated daughters without waiting for the outcome of a Divorce suit in the court and she can claim Family Pension through her deceased parent if her divorce proceedings have been constituted during the lifetime of her parent. Citing another woman-centric reform, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, rules have been changed and a woman pensioner can now nominate her children for Family Pension, in precedence to her husband in the event of a marital discord leading to filing of Divorce suit or filing of case under Protection of Domestic Violation Act or Dowry Prohibition Act.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the lives of pensioners by streamlining processes and introducing technology-driven solutions. The meeting saw deliberations on key policy reforms and digital initiatives aimed at enhancing pensioners’ welfare, ensuring ease of living, and resolving long-pending grievances.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that in the past decade, several steps have been taken to simplify pension procedures. Notably, the Jeevan Pramaan Digital Life Certificate, launched in 2014, has now expanded to include face authentication technology, making it easier for pensioners to submit life certificates remotely. A nationwide campaign in November 2024 saw 1.5 crore life certificates generated, with 8 lakh submitted by senior citizens aged 80 and above.

Another major reform discussed was the Bhavishya portal, which integrates pension processing with government health schemes like CGHS. This will ensure that retirees receive their CGHS cards at the time of retirement, eliminating delays. The Integrated Pensioners’ Portal has also been linked with major banks such as SBI, PNB, and Canara Bank to ensure seamless pension disbursals.

Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the success of the Pension Adalat initiative, which has resolved over 70% of grievances across 12 editions since its inception in 2017. The most recent adalat, held in February 2025, saw 490 out of 531 cases settled on the spot. Similarly, the CPENGRAMS grievance redressal system has achieved record efficiency, addressing over one lakh pension-related complaints, with a special focus on Defence pensioners.

The meeting also reviewed the National Anubhav Awards, which now recognize contributions from Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) and Public Sector Banks. The Pre-Retirement Counseling Workshops were another focal point, having guided over 10,000 retiring personnel on financial security and post-retirement opportunities.

Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated that the government remains committed to doing away with outdated rules and ensuring pensioners’ concerns are addressed with urgency. “If any rule is causing inconvenience, we are open to revising it. The focus is on reducing bureaucratic hurdles and improving senior citizens’ quality of life,” he assured.

The meeting saw the participation of Secretary, DoPPW, Sri V. Srinivas, along with senior officials from various ministries and representatives of pensioners’ associations, who actively participated in the discussions on key policy matters and welfare initiatives.

At the invitation of my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, I am embarking on a two-day State Visit to Mauritius to participate in the celebrations of the 57^th National Day of Mauritius.

Mauritius is a close maritime neighbour, a key partner in the Indian Ocean, and a gateway to the African Continent. We are connected by history, geography and culture. Deep mutual trust, a shared belief in the values of democracy, and celebration of our diversity are our strengths. The close and historical people-to-people connect is a source of shared pride. We have made significant strides in the past ten years with people centric initiatives.

I look forward to the opportunity to engage with the Mauritius leadership to elevate our partnership in all its facets and strengthen our enduring friendship for the progress and prosperity of our peoples, as well as for security and development in the Indian Ocean Region, as part of our Vision SAGAR.

I am confident that this visit will build on the foundations of the past and open a new and bright chapter in the India and Mauritius relationship.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi wished all personnel of CISF on their Raising Day, today. Shri Modi stated that CISF force is admired for its professionalism, dedication, and courage. “They play a key role in our security system by protecting essential infrastructure and ensuring the safety of countless people every day. Their unwavering commitment to duty is truly commendable”, the Prime Minister added.

Prime Minister posted on X :

“Raising Day wishes to all personnel of CISF! This force is admired for its professionalism, dedication, and courage. They play a key role in our security system by protecting essential infrastructure and ensuring the safety of countless people every day. Their unwavering commitment to duty is truly commendable.”

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 today discussed India’s Pandemic preparedness for future.

On the occasion, Member NITI Aayog, Dr Vinod Paul  presented to the Minister, a Report on the subject prepared by the NITI Aayog and titled “Future Pandemic Preparedness and Emergency Response: A Framework for Action”.

The report prepared by an Expert Group constituted by NITI Aayog covers recommendations on future pandemic preparedness with special focus on developing medical countermeasures, specifically, diagnostics, vaccines and therapeutics. It outlines the action pathways to deploy medical countermeasures within 100 days of any future pandemic outbreak.  This would require scaling manufacturing capacities, creating forward and backward linkages, enabling regulatory systems and demonstrating capabilities.

The Minister discussed how to mobilize the Research & Development team and Infrastructure along with the Industry to work on potential pathogens and prototype vaccines in a strategic, scientific and proactive way across departments and other stake holders. India’s inter-sectoral One Health Mission has already revamped the pandemic surveillance systems for potential outbreaks.

It was noted that in the course of COVID-19 pandemic, India administered more than 220 crore doses of made-in-India vaccines to its citizens, and shared vaccines with more than 100 countries. Indian vaccines utilized practically all the platforms including mRNA, DNA, Adeno-viral and inactivated virus systems. Drugs made in India were exported across the world. Nearly 250 made-in-India COVID-19 diagnostic tests were approved.  All this demonstrates our strong Scientific-Industrial potential.

Much of the success during the COVID time, including the Vaccine success story, said Dr  Jitendra Singh, was attributable to the coordinated and collective effort across the departments with a “whole of government” approach in the true sense and, personal intervention and patronage of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who launched a dedicated research and trial programme called “Mission Suraksha” and then personally followed it up on day to day basis.

The Minister underlined the nation’s resolve that India’s deep R&D capacities, and the industrial ecosystem will be further strengthened to be ready to respond to any future pandemic.

The Report has been showcased by the International Pandemic Preparedness Secretariat in its recent “100 Days Mission: Implementation Report 2024”.