PMIndiaData/PMIndiaSum huggingface dataset:
Review of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Policy – to permit FDI, up to 100 percent, under the automatic route, in White Label ATM Operations

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its approval to permit Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), up to 100 percent, under the automatic route, in the activity of White Label ATM (WLA) Operations subject to the following conditions:- (i). Any non-bank entity intending to set up WLAs should have a minimum net worth of Rs. 100 crore as per the latest financial year’s audited balance sheet, which is to be maintained at all times. (ii). In case the entity is also engaged in any other 18 Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFC) activities, then the foreign investment in the company setting up WLA, shall also have to comply with minimum capitalization norms for foreign investments in NBFC activities, as provided in Para 6.2.18.8.2 of the Consolidated FDI Policy Circular 2015. (iii). FDI in the WLAO will be subject to specific criteria and guidelines issued by RBI vide Circular No. DPSS.CO.PD. No. 2298/02.10.002/2011-2012, as amended from time to time. This decision, will ease and expedite foreign investment inflows in the activity and thus give a fillip to the Government’s effort to promote financial inclusion in the country, including the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. It is expected that consequent to ease of investing in India, adequate investments would be available in WLA Operations. This would help in the government’s objective of enhancing ATM networks in semi-urban and rural areas (mainly in Tier III to VI areas). Participation of foreign investors in the sector will contribute to furthering financial inclusion. Background:- One of the main objectives of the Government is to achieve financial inclusion in the country. In this regard, ATMs have been leveraged for delivery of a wide variety of banking services to customers such as the facility of accessing their accounts for dispensing cash and to carry out other financial and non-financial transactions without the need for actually visiting their bank branch. While, there has been year-on-year growth in the number of ATMs, yet their deployment has been predominantly in Tier I & II centres. To expand the reach of ATMs in Tier III to VI centres, non-banks entities were also allowed to set up ATMs, and such ATMs are known as White Label ATMs. Till date foreign investment in White Label ATM Operations (WLAO), was being allowed only through government approval route. This required some processing time and projects were consequently delayed, dissuading investors from investing in such critical areas.
MoU between Indian Space Research Organisation and the United Arab Emirates Space Agency

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was apprised of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the United Arab Emirates Space Agency (UAESA) for cooperation in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes. The MoU would result in setting up a Joint Working Group with members from ISRO and UAESA, which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementing this MoU. Background: Promoting space cooperation between India and UAE was highlighted during the visit of Prime Minister of India to UAE in August 2015 and also at the 11th meeting of India-UAE Joint Commission for Economic and Technical Cooperation held at New Delhi in September 2015. Subsequently, a delegation from UAESA visited ISRO technical facilities on September 16, 2015 and discussed on the avenues of building space cooperation including signing of a MoU. Accordingly, ISRO and UAESA, considering their mutual interest in expanding the applications of space technology for peaceful purposes signed a MoU in New Delhi on February 11, 2016.
PM’s message at India Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai

“Expo will go a long way in further building our deep and historical relations with UAE, and with Dubai” “This expo is also testimony to the resilience of mankind against the once-in-a-century pandemic” “India offers you maximum growth – growth in scale, growth in ambition, growth in results. Come to India and be a part of our growth story” “Our economic growth is powered by a combination of legacy industries and start-ups” “Over the last seven years, the Government of India has undertaken several reforms to boost economic growth. We will keep doing more to continue this trend” In a message to the India Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi called the expo historic and said “it is the first one to be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region. I am sure, the Expo will go a long way in further building our deep and historical relations with UAE, and with Dubai.” The Prime Minister greeted His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Al Nahyan, President of UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister and Vice President of UAE and the Ruler of Dubai. The Prime Minister also expressed best wishes to, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi by saying “he has been instrumental in the progress we have achieved in our strategic partnership. I look forward to continuing our work for the progress and prosperity of both our countries,” The Prime Minister remarked that the main theme of Expo 2020 is: ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’. “The spirit of this theme is also seen in India’s efforts as we move ahead to create a New India. This expo is also testimony to the resilience of mankind against the once in a century pandemic.” said the Prime Minister. Referring to the theme of India’s pavilion ‘Openness, Opportunity and Growth’, the Prime Minister stressed that today’s India is one of the most open countries in the world, open to learning, open to perspectives, open to innovation, open to investment. “India also offers you maximum growth. Growth in scale, growth in ambition, growth in results. Come to India and be a part of our growth story.” Said the Prime Minister inviting the investors. Talking about the vibrancy and diversity of India’ the Prime Minister said that India is a powerhouse of talent and remarked that India is making many advances in the world of technology, research and innovation “Our economic growth is powered by a combination of legacy industries and start-ups. India’s pavilion will showcase the best of India across these multiple areas”, Over the last seven years, the Government of India has undertaken several reforms to boost economic growth. “We will keep doing more to continue this trend”, he added
PM expresses grief over the loss of lives due to fire at Covid Centre in Vijayawada

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives due to fire at a Covid Centre in Vijayawada. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, “Anguished by the fire at a Covid Centre in Vijayawada. My thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover as soon as possible. Discussed the prevailing situation with AP CM @ysjagan Ji and assured all possible support.”
Cabinet approves Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project Phase II

Comprising two corridors viz. (i) Motera Stadium to Mahatma Mandir and (ii) GNLU to GIFT City The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the following proposals: Implementation of Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project Phase-II, which comprises two corridors of total length 28.254 i.e. Corridor 1 from Motera Stadioum to Mahatma mandir for a length of 22.838 km. and Corridor 2 from GNLU to GIFT City for a length of 5.416 km at a total completion cost of Rs. 5384.17 crores. The institutional arrangement and legal framework for the project. Conditions of sanction of the project. Benefits: Implementation of the project will provided the much-needed additional public transport infrastructure to Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. Salient features: To streamline the urban transportation system in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, which is stressed due to intensive developments, increase in the number of private vehicles and heavy construction in the city, putting stress on travel infrastructure and industrial activities, and by providing the people a safe, secure, reliable and comfortable public transport. The Metro Rail project itself is an innovation over the conventional system of urban transport. The project involves integration with other urban transport systems in an efficient and effective manner which is possible only by adopting innovative methods of designing, technology and institutional management.
PM addresses National Conference on “Agriculture-2022: Doubling Farmers’ Incomes”

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today attended the National Conference on the theme “Agriculture-2022: Doubling Farmers’ Incomes” organised at NASC Complex, Pusa, Delhi. Seven thematic groups made presentations on the following subjects: • Policy and Governance Reforms • Agriculture Trade Policy and Export Promotion; Market Structure and Marketing Efficiency • Value Chain and Supply Chain Management • Science and Technology and Start-ups in Agriculture • Sustainable and Equitable Development and Efficient Delivery of Services • Capital Investment and Institutional Credit for farmers • Promotion of Livestock, Dairy, Poultry and Fisheries as Engines of Growth The Prime Minister appreciated the presentations. He also complimented the farmers of India, especially for the big jump in production of pulses. He said the Government is taking a series of coordinated steps to improve the income of farmers. In this regard, he mentioned four aspects: reducing input costs; ensuring a fair price for the produce; reducing wastage; and creating alternate sources of income. The Prime Minister said that 100 per cent neem coating of urea has led to an increased efficiency of the urea itself, while also increasing productivity. He said that a study indicates that the use of soil health cards has led to a reduction in the use of chemical fertilisers, while increasing production. Shri Narendra Modi said that the Union Government is working towards completing 99 incomplete irrigation projects. He added that 50 of these are likely to be completed this year. With each completed irrigation project, he added, the input cost of farmers would come down. He said 20 lakh hectares of farmland has so far been brought under micro irrigation, through the Pradhan MantriKrishiSinchaiYojana. The Prime Minister said that ‘Operation Greens’ announced in the budget this year, would benefit farmers growing Tomato, Onion and Potato. He said 22,000 GrameenHaats would be upgraded with appropriate infrastructure, and integrated with the e-NAM platform. The farmers will have a facility within 5 to 15 kilometres of his land, to connect him with markets. The Prime Minister said that the amount sanctioned for agriculture credit has been enhanced, to ensure easy availability of credit to farmers. He said several initiatives are being undertaken to convert agriculture waste to wealth.
PM greets people on various festivals

These festivals showcase India’s diversity and the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat: PM The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has greeted people for the festivals today and over the next few days. He said that “these festivals showcase India’s diversity and the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.’”
MoU signed between India and Singapore on cooperation in the field of Urban Planning and Governance

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today gave its ex-post facto approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE), an Agency of Government of Singapore on cooperation in the field of Urban Planning and Governance. The MoU was signed on 24th November, 2015. The MoU will allow the two countries to share experiences in the field of urban development, governance and capacity building.
PM congratulates Bhavina Patel for her performance at Paralympics

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated Bhavina Patel for her performance at the Paralympics and conveyed the country’s support for her success tomorrow. The Prime Minister tweeted : “Congratulations Bhavina Patel! You played excellently. The entire nation is praying for your success and will be cheering for you tomorrow. Give your best and play without any pressure. Your accomplishments inspire the entire nation. “
Kerala temple fire: PM rushing to the spot, announces ex-gratia relief to bereaved and injured

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has expressed sadness and shock over the fire tragedy which happened at a temple in Kollam district of Kerala today morning. Shri Modi will be rushing to Kerala to take stock of the situation arising due to the unfortunate incident. ” Fire at temple in Kollam is heart-rending and shocking beyond words. My thoughts are with families of the deceased and prayers with the injured. Spoke to CM Oommen Chandy about the fire at a temple in Kollam. Arranging for immediate shifting of those critically injured via helicopter. Have also asked my Cabinet colleague and Health Minister JPNadda to immediately reach the site of the fire tragedy in Kollam. I will be reaching Kerala soon to take stock of the situation arising due to the unfortunate fire tragedy in Kollam”, the Prime Minister said in a series of tweets. The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs. 2 lakh each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the fire in Kollam. The PM also announced a solatium of Rs. 50, 000 to those who are injured in the fire. The Prime Minister is constantly monitoring the situation and is in touch with officials. PM has asked airforce and navy to assist in making arrangements for immediate shifting of critically injured via helicopter. PM will be travelling to Kerala soon and has directed that no protocol formalities be observed on his arrival in Kerala and focus remains on relief and rescue operations. A team of doctors including burn specialists will accompany PM to Kerala.
PM congratulates Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami on taking oath as Uttarakhand CM

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami on taking oath as Chief Minister of Uttarakhand. He also congratulated all others who took oath today. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, “Congratulations to Shri @pushkardhami and all others who took oath today. Best wishes to this team as they work towards the progress and prosperity of Uttarakhand.”
List of MoUs/Agreements signed during the State Visit of Prime Minister of Nepal to India

1. MoU on Modalities for Utilization of India’s Housing Grant Component to support Reconstruction of 50,000 Houses Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary, Ministry of Finance Shri S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs 2. MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Education Sector in Nepal Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary, Ministry of Finance Shri S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs 3. MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Cultural Heritage Sector in Nepal Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary, Ministry of Finance Shri S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs 4. MoU on Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Health Sector in Nepal Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary, Ministry of Finance Shri S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs 5. MoU for Implementation Arrangement on Cost Sharing, Schedules and Safeguard Issues for Construction of Mechi Bridge under ADB’s SASEC Road Connectivity Programme (Tranche 2), Funded by GoI Mr. Devendra Karki, Secretary, Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport Shri Yudhvir Singh Malik, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways 6. MoU on Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Precursor Chemical and Related Matters Mr. Lok Darshan Regmi, Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs Shri Hasmukh Adhia, Revenue Secretary, Ministry of Finance 7. Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Standardization and Conformity Assessment Mr. Bishwo Babu Pudasaini, DG, Nepal Bureau of Standards & Metrology Shri Sanjay Singh, Director General, Bureau of Indian Standards 8. MoU between the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal Mr. Prakash J. Thapa, President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal Shri Nilesh S. Vikamsey, President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
PM meets Economist Nicholas Stern

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi met Lord Nicholas Stern, economics professor of London School of Economics. Both dignitaries discussed diverse issues. In response to a tweet from Lord Nicholas Stern, the Prime Minister tweeted; “Happy to have met @lordstern1 and discuss diverse issues. His passion towards the environment and nuanced understanding of policy related issues is admirable. He is also optimistic about India and believes in the skills of 130 crore Indians.”
Intervention by PM at the G20 Working Lunch: Trade and Energy

Excellencies, Slowdown in global trade is a major concern. Prospects for increase in trade momentum remain bleak in the prevailing global economic environment. Efforts to accelerate global economic growth will help trade. A transparent, equitable, non-discriminatory and rule-based global trading system, is essential for the global economy. It is absolutely vital that the Doha Development Round achieves its goals. All elements of the Bali package should be implemented fully. We look forward to a successful outcome at the Nairobi Meeting in December. Regional Trade Agreements should not lead to fragmentation of the global trading system and should support a more liberalised multilateral trade regime. Increasing the role of small and medium enterprises in the global value chain will help expand global employment. Balanced and sustainedglobal economic growth also needs increase in labour mobility and skill portability. With respect to energy, there are three basic challenges: energy to power growth in developing countries; meeting the needs of the hundreds of millions without access to energy; and, increasing the use of clean and renewable energy. Energy, ecology and economy are deeply integrated. That is why India intends to meet its vast and growing energy needs in as sustainable manner as possible. We have targeted additional 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022; cut back on subsidies on fossil fuel and imposed carbon cess on coal. We are working on clean coal technology. We have an ambitious expansion plan for nuclear energy. By 2030, we have targeted 40% of our energy through non-fossil fuel. International support and cooperation will enable us to achieve our goals. As G20, we need to promote a number of measures:- • Increase research and development in clean and renewable energy; and, reduce cost and make it affordable and accessible for all. • Increase financial support and technology transfer to increase access and transition to clean energy. • Focus research efforts on clean coal technology and coal gasification. • Develop proliferation-resistant nuclear energy technology. • Increase energy efficiency and moderate energy use. • Promote an integrated global gas market. • Give greater voice to major emerging economies in the global governance structure for energy. These will meet our energy needs, combat climate change, and create huge economic opportunities.
PM expresses grief over loss of lives in stampede at Rajghat Bridge near Varanasi

PM sanctions Rs. 2 lakh ex-gratia to next of kin of the deceased The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the loss of lives and injuries sustained by the persons in the stampede of 15-10-2016 at Rajghat bridge between Varanasi and Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh. “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the stampede in Varanasi. Condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers with those injured. I have spoken to officials and asked them to ensure all possible help to those affected due to the stampede in Varanasi”, the Prime Minister said. Prime Minister has sanctioned an ex-gratia @ Rs.2 lakh each to the next of kin of the persons deceased and @ Rs.50,000/- each to the persons who got seriously injured, from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
Cabinet approves signing of MoU between India and United Arab Emirates on cooperation in the field of Education

The Union Cabinet chaired by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education, Government of India and the Ministry of Education of the Government of United Arab Emirates on cooperation in the field of Education. The objective of the MoU is to further strengthen our ongoing educational collaboration between India and UAE and widen the scope of our engagements. An MoU was signed in 2015 with UAE in the field of Education which expired in 2018. In 2019, at a meeting between Education Ministers of the two countries, UAE side proposed to sign a new MoU. The new MoU incorporates changes brought in by the National Education Policy 2020 in India’s education ecosystem. This MoU aims to promote Exchange of Information Education, Capacity Development of Technical and vocational Education and Training (TVET) teaching staff, Facilitation of academic collaboration between Higher Education Institutions in both the countries for offering Twinning, Joint Degree and Dual Degree Programmes and any such other areas agreed upon. This MoU will rejuvenate educational cooperation and increase academic mobility between India and UAE besides facilitating exchange information in order to promote mutual recognition of these qualifications. It also covers cooperation in TVET as UAE is a major work destination for Indians. The MoU will be valid for a period of five years from the date of signing and will be automatically renewable with the consent of both parties. Once signed, this MoU shall supersede the earlier MoU signed with UAE in 2015, which will then cease to have effect.
Women’s Hockey team played with grit and showcased great skill: PM

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has said that today and through the Games, our Women’s Hockey team played with grit and showcased great skill at Tokyo Olympics 2020. He also said that he is proud of the team and wished the team Best of luck for the game ahead and for future endeavours. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said; “One of the things we will remember #Tokyo2020 for is the stupendous performance by our Hockey teams. Today and through the Games, our Women’s Hockey team played with grit and showcased great skill. Proud of the team. Best of luck for the game ahead and for future endeavours.”