PMIndiaData/PMIndiaSum huggingface dataset:
PM condoles the demise of former Chancellor of Germany, Mr. Helmut Kohl

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the demise of former Chancellor of Germany, Mr. Helmut Kohl. “Our condolences at the demise of Mr. Helmut Kohl – statesman, architect of German unification and ardent believer in European integration. Mr. Helmut Kohl visited India in 1986 and 1993. We value his contribution in strengthening India-Germany ties”, the Prime Minister said.
PM congratulates those who successfully cleared the UPSC Civil Services examination

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated those who successfully cleared the UPSC Civil Services examination. In a series of tweets, the Prime Minister said; “Congratulations to those who successfully cleared the UPSC Civil Services examination. An exciting and satisfying career in public service awaits. Those who have cleared the exam will go on to have key administrative roles during an important period of our nation’s journey. To those young friends who did not clear the UPSC examination, I would like to say- you are very talented individuals. There are more attempts awaiting. At the same time, India is full of diverse opportunities waiting to be explored. Best wishes in whatever you decide to do.”
Memoranda of Understanding signed with various countries for cooperation in the field of agriculture & allied sectors

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today gave its ex-post facto approval for Memoranda of understanding (MoU) signed between India and various countries for cooperation in the field of agriculture and allied sectors. The MoU will help in the nature of capacity building, knowledge exchange through visits of scientists and technicians, exchange of genetic resources that aidin development of appropriate technologies and farm practices for enhancing agriculture productivity at farmers’ field. Expertise and technology so developed is applied all over the country as per felt needs. Expenditure incurred on implementation of such MoU is managed within the “financial allocation made for the Department. Background:- Under Transaction of Business Rules, 1961, cases involving negotiations with foreign countries on treaties, agreements and other important matters need to be brought before the Cabinet for approval. Earlier, prior approval under Rule 12 of the above rules was obtained in certain cases and subsequent Cabinet approval could not be obtained. Therefore, ex-post-facto approval in respect of MoUs signed with 13 countries namely, Netherlands, Nepal, Cyprus,Israel, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Tanzania, Surinam, Zambia, Syria, Bhutan, Chile and Mauritius is being obtained.
List of MoUs/Agreements signed during visit of Prime Minister to Palestine

S. No. Name of MoUs/Agreements Signed and exchanged by Palestinian side Signed by Indian side Exchanged by 1. MOU between India and Palestine for setting up of India-Palestine Super-specialty hospital at Beit Sahour in Bethelhem Governorate at a cost of US $30 million Dr. Jawad Aouad, Minister of Health of the State of Palestine Shri T.S. Tirumurti, Secretary (ER) Shri Vijay Gokhle, Foreign Secretary 2. MOU between India and Palestine for construction of India Palestine Centre for Empowring women, “Turathi” at a cost of US $5 million Ms. Abeer Aoudeh, Minister of National Economy Shri T.S. Tirumurti, Secretry (ER) Shri Vijay Gokhle, Foreign Secretary 3. MOU between India and Palestine for setting up of new National Printing Press at Ramallah at a cost of US $5 million Mr. Ahmad Assaf, Minister of Palestinian Public Broadcasting Corporation and Official Media on behalf of Minister of Finance Shri T.S. Tirumurti, Secretry (ER) Shri Vijay Gokhle, Foreign Secretary 4. MOU between India and Palestine Construction of school in Muthalth Al Shuhada Village at a cost of US $1 million Dr. Sabri Saidam, Minister of Education and Higher Education of the State of Palestine Shri T.S. Tirumurti, Secretry (ER) Shri Vijay Gokhle, Foreign Secretary 5. MOU between India and Palestine Construction of school in Tamoon village in Tubas Governorate in Palestine at a cost of US $1.1 million Dr. Sabri Saidam, Minister of Education and Higher Education of the State of Palestine Shri T.S. Tirumurti, Secretry (ER) Shri Vijay Gokhle, Foreign Secretary 6. MOU between India and Palestine Assistance of US $0.25 million for construction of additional floor to Jawahar Lal Nehru for Boys at Abu Dees Dr. Sabri Saidam, Minister of Education and Higher Education of the State of Palestine Shri T.S. Tirumurti, Secretry (ER) Shri Vijay Gokhle, Foreign Secretary
Cabinet approves Headquarters (Host country) Agreement between India and the International Solar Alliance

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its ex-post facto approval for entering into Headquarters (Host country) Agreement between India and the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and authorizing the Ministry of External Affairs for signing the Headquarter Agreement. The Agreement was signed on 26th March, 2018. The Headquarters Agreement will institutionalize the functional arrangements between India and ISA. It will help in smooth transition of ISA as international inter-governmental organization. Creation of ISA will lead to accelerated solar technology development and deployment in ISA member countries including India.
PM in Varanasi

• Launches Integrated Power Development Scheme. • Lays Foundation Stone for road and power projects. • Dedicates Trauma Centre, BHU to the Nation. • Inaugurates Passenger Reservation Facility at Ramnagar Post Office. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today launched the Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) from Varanasi. He also laid the Foundation Stone for road and power projects and dedicated to the nation (via remote) the Trauma Centre at Banaras Hindu University. He inaugurated a Passenger Reservation Facility at Ramnagar Post Office (via remote). The Prime Minister remarked that the city of Varanasi, which had for long, given the light of knowledge (Gyaan Prakash) to India was now symbolically giving the light of energy (Urja Prakash) to India, as IPDS was being launched nationwide today from Varanasi. He said the various elements of today’s function including road, power, and health projects, were all aimed at development, and facilitating pilgrims and tourists. The Prime Minister said the antiquated electricity network of Varanasi would be completely rejuvenated through IPDS, in keeping with the stature of this heritage city. He said this issue would be resolved across urban India through the IPDS. The Prime Minister spoke of the need to fulfil the dreams of the freedom fighters by the 75th year of independence in 2022. He said one of the key elements towards fulfilling their vision of India would be to provide electricity for all, at all times, across India. He asked the people of Varanasi to bless him for this mission. The Prime Minister said the youth of Varanasi, including women, had responded to his call of Swachh Bharat, and it was beginning to reflect on the Ghats of the city. Referring to the ongoing issues of Shiksha Mitras in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the Prime Minister urged them to keep courage, and added that once the relevant court order was available, he would himself discuss the matter with the Uttar Pradesh government in his capacity as an MP. The Prime Minister said that in addition to the public sector and private sector, the ‘personal’ sector, including small and medium entrepreneurs, was an important engine of economic growth and employment, and therefore he was focusing on it through initiatives such as Mudra Bank and skill development. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh Shri Ram Naik and Union MoS (Independent Charge) for Power Shri Piyush Goyal were present on the occasion.
Virtual Summit between PM and Sweden’s PM H.E. Mr. Stefan Löfven

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will hold a Virtual Summit with Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Sweden H.E. Stefan Löfven on 5th March, 2021. This will be the fifth interaction between the two leaders since 2015. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had visited Stockholm in April, 2018 for the First India Nordic Summit. Prime Minister H.E. Stefan Löfven had visited India in February, 2016 for the special Make in India week. Earlier, the two leaders had met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in September, 2015. In April, 2020, the two Prime Ministers had a telephonic conversation to discuss the situation arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition, Their Majesties Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden had visited India in December, 2019. India and Sweden have warm and friendly relations based on shared values of democracy, freedom, pluralism and rules-based international order. Both countries have very close cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, innovation, science & technology as well as research and development. Around 250 Swedish companies are actively operating in India in various sectors such as health & life sciences, auto industry, clean technology, defence, heavy machinery & equipment. Around 75 Indian companies are also active in Sweden. During the Summit, the two leaders will hold comprehensive discussions on the entire spectrum of the bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and global issues including further strengthening of cooperation in the post COVID era.
General Ngo Xuan Lich, Defence Minister of Vietnam, calls on PM

General Ngo Xuan Lich, Defence Minister of Vietnam, called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today. The Prime Minister fondly recalled his visit to Vietnam in September 2016, during which the bilateral relationship was upgraded to the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He added that Vietnam is a key pillar of India’s “Act East” policy. General Ngo Xuan Lich briefed the Prime Minister on the progress achieved in bilateral defence cooperation. The Prime Minister noted that India and Vietnam have a longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship in the field of defence, and reiterated India’s resolve to strengthen defence ties further. The Prime Minister said that closer cooperation between India and Vietnam in all sectors will contribute to the stability, security and prosperity of the entire region.
PM addresses Indian Community in Jakarta

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today addressed the Indian community in Jakarta. He spoke of the special ties between India and Indonesia, and recalled the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi earlier this year, where leaders from 10 ASEAN nations, including Indonesia, were present. He noted that it is no coincidence that in 1950, the President of Indonesia had been the Chief Guest at the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi. He said the members of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia are proud citizens of Indonesia, but wish to remain connected with their Indian roots as well. The Prime Minister said that in the last four years, India has witnessed unparalleled transformation. In this context, he spoke of FDI, openness of the Indian economy, ease of doing business, and competitiveness of the Indian economy. He said both countries are proud of their democratic ethos and diversity. He gave examples such as the Bali-Jatra, and similarities in cuisine and language to highlight the close cultural links between the two countries. He noted that earlier today, he and President Widodo had jointly inaugurated the Kite Exhibition, which included themes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Talking about developments in India, he said that the Union Government is creating systems that are development-friendly and corruption-free. He said that going ahead from “Ease of Doing Business,” the focus is now on “Ease of Living.” Our processes are transparent and sensitive, he added. He gave an account of the dramatic developments that have taken place in a number of areas of infrastructure development. He spoke of India’s vibrant start-up ecosystem, and the International Solar Alliance. Both India and Indonesia have a sensitive outlook when it comes to helping those in need, the Prime Minister asserted. He said that India does not see the colour of anyone’s passport, and helps all fellow humans who require any assistance. He said India and Indonesia do not just rhyme in their names, but share a common rhythm in their culture, traditions, and democratic values. The Prime Minister invited the diaspora to visit India to witness first-hand, the changes taking place here.
PM’s bilateral engagements on the sidelines of Vibrant Gujarat Summit – 11.01.2015

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today met UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit in Gandhinagar. Issues related to climate change, environment and clean energy came up for discussion. The Prime Minister highlighted initiatives taken by his Government in the clean and renewable energy sectors. The Prime Minister met US Secretary of State John Kerry. Discussions focused on the upcoming visit of US President Barack Obama to India. Both sides agreed that the visit would add momentum to the India-US strategic partnership. They also expressed satisfaction that issues relating to WTO Trade Facilitation had been satisfactorily resolved. Counter-terror cooperation, economic matters, and issues of regional interest also figured in the talks. Counter terror cooperation was also a key theme in the Prime Minister’s meeting with Canada’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Chris Alexander. The Prime Minister condemned the attack on Canada’s Parliament, and stressed the need for a zero-tolerance approach to terror. The Prime Minister said he looked forward to visiting Canada. The Prime Minister met Israel’s Agriculture Minister Mr. Yair Shamir. Both sides sought to further enhance cooperation in the Agriculture sector. The Prime Minister invited Israel to take advantage of the Make in India initiative and establish high-end manufacturing centres in India. The Prime Minister met Dr. Akbar Torkan, Senior Advisor to the President of Iran. Both sides reviewed progress in the implementation of the Chahbahar Port Project. Energy cooperation and regional issues also came up for discussion. The Prime Minister met the President of the World Bank Jim Yong Kim. Climate change and clean energy came up for discussion. In his meeting with the Prime Minister of Macedonia, both sides agreed on the need to enhance trade and investment ties. The Governor of Astrakhan, Russia, Alexander Zhilkin, invited investment from India during his meeting with the Prime Minister.
PM to flag off 100th Kisan Rail on 28 December

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will flag off the 100th Kisan Rail from Sangola in Maharashtra to Shalimar in West Bengal on 28th December 2020 at 4:30 PM via video conferencing. Union Ministers Shri Narendra Singh Tomar and Shri Piyush Goyal will also be present on the occasion. The multi-commodity train service will carry vegetables such as cauliflower, capsicum, cabbage, drumsticks, chillies, onion, as well as fruits like grapes, oranges, pomegranate, banana, custard apple etc. Loading and unloading of perishable commodities will be permitted at all enroute stoppages with no bar on size of consignment. The Government of India has extended a subsidy of 50% on transportation of fruits and vegetables. About Kisan Rail The first Kisan Rail was introduced from Devlali to Danapur on 7th August, 2020, which was further extended upto Muzaffarpur. As a result of good response from the farmers, its frequency was also increased from weekly to three days in a week. Kisan Rail has been a game changer in ensuring fast transportation of agriculture produce across the nation. It provides a seamless supply chain of perishable produce.
PM’s meeting with Mr. Vivek Lall, Chief Executive of General Atomics Global Corporation

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met Mr. Vivek Lall, Chief Executive of General Atomics Global Corporation today. They spoke about strengthening the defence technology sector in India. Mr. Lall appreciated the recent policy changes to accelerate defence and emerging technology manufacturing and augment capacity building in India.
PM reviews preparations by Armed Forces to assist in Covid management

The Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat today called on the Prime Minister. They reviewed the preparations and operations being undertaken by the Armed Forces to deal with the pandemic. The CDS briefed the PM that all medical personnel from armed forces who have retired or taken pre-mature retirement in the last 2 years are being recalled to work in Covid facilities within proximity of their present place of residence. Other medical officers who retired earlier have also been requested to make their services available for consultation through medical emergency help lines. PM was also informed that all medical officers on staff appointments at Command HQ, Corps HQ, Division HQ & similar HQ of Navy and Air-Force will be employed at hospitals. The CDS informed the PM that nursing personnel are being employed in large numbers to complement the doctors at the hospitals. PM was also briefed that oxygen cylinders available with armed forces in various establishments will be released for hospitals. The CDS also said that they are creating medical facilities in large numbers and where possible military medical infrastructure will be made available to civilians. PM also reviewed the operations being undertaken by IAF to transport oxygen and other essentials in India and abroad. PM also discussed with the CDS that Kendriya and Rajya Sainik Welfare Boards and Officers posted in various headquarters in veterans cells may be instructed to coordinate the services of veterans to extend the reach to maximum extent possible including in remote areas.
PM’s meeting with Prime Minister of Japan

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister of Japan H.E. Mr. Fumio Kishida. Prime Minister conveyed his deepest condolences for the demise of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Prime Minister noted the contributions of late Prime Minister Abe in strengthening India-Japan partnership as well in conceptualizing the vision of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The two leaders had a productive exchange of views on further deepening bilateral relations. They also discussed a number of regional and global issues. The leaders renewed their commitment towards further strengthening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, and in working together in the region and in various international groupings and institutions.
PM’s farewell remarks to retiring Rajya Sabha Members

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today commended the contributions of all the retiring Members of the Rajya Sabha, and wished them well for the future. In his remarks in the Rajya Sabha, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the Members retiring from the House, would now play an even stronger role in social service. He said all of them have a unique importance, and have contributed in their own way. He added that they have worked to the best of their ability for the brighter future of the nation. The Nation can never forget their contribution, he said. The Prime Minister said that the Upper House, with senior Members, has a unique significance. It plays a key role in policy formulation, he added. The Prime Minister made a special mention of many retiring MPs and their contributions. The Prime Minister said that it is unfortunate that the retiring Members will not be a part of Parliament, when the long due decision on Triple Talaq is taken. He assured the retiring members that the doors of Parliament and PMO are always open for them, and urged them to continue sharing their thoughts on vital issues of the day.
PM speaks to the Emir of Qatar

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today spoke to the Emir of the State of Qatar, H. H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who had called and invited PM to pay a visit to Qatar. Prime Minister recalled the State visit of the Emir of Qatar to India in March 2015 that has provided new vigour and momentum to bilateral relations. He emphasized that India attached high importance to its relations with Qatar. He appreciated the steps taken by the Emir and the Government of Qatar for protecting the interests and ensuring continued well-being and safety of Indian community staying there. The two leaders also discussed measures to further deepen bilateral cooperation, including in the areas of trade, investment, energy, security, defence, culture and people to people contacts. The Emir of the State of Qatar reiterated Qatar’s interest in partnering in India’s economic growth. PM appreciated the role being played by Qatar for regional peace and stability. Prime Minister accepted the invitation to visit Qatar at mutually convenient dates.
Site for construction of National War Memorial and National War Museum

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, was apprised of the decision taken by the Empowered Apex Steering Committee (EASC) that Princess Park Complex would be the suitable site for construction of the National War Museum. As regards the National War Memorial the same would be constructed at ‘C’ Hexagon of India Gate as approved by the Cabinet in its meeting held in October, 2015.
PM’s address at the foundation stone laying ceremony of Vanijya Bhawan

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today laid the foundation stone for Vanijya Bhawan, a new office complex for the Union Government’s Department of Commerce, at New Delhi. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the building will be completed well within the stipulated time. He emphasized that this would be in keeping with the spirit of New India, and moving away from old practices, under which important building projects, even in the Capital, had been inordinately delayed. In this context, he mentioned the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, the Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial, the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra and the new office building for the Central Information Commission. He said that this is also the result of breaking silos within the working of the Government. He hoped that the new office building – Vanijya Bhawan – would further facilitate elimination of silos in India’s commerce sector. Speaking about the country’s demographic dividend, the Prime Minister said that it is our collective responsibility to fulfil the aspirations of our youth. Talking of adoption of digital technology, the Prime Minister remarked that the land on which the new building is being constructed, was earlier occupied by the Directorate General of Supplies and Disposal. This has now been replaced by the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), which has seen transactions worth Rs. 8700 crore in a short time, he added. He urged the Department of Commerce to work towards further expansion of GeM, and leverage it for the benefit of the country’s MSME sector. He also spoke of the benefits of GST, and said the Union Government is making constant efforts to create a people-friendly, development-friendly and investment-friendly environment. The Prime Minister mentioned various macro-economic parameters, and other indicators to explain how the India is now playing an important role in the global economy. He said India is now among the top five fin-tech countries, globally. He said subjects such as “Ease of Trading,” and “Ease of Doing Business,” are all related to “Ease of Living” in an interconnected world. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for an increase in exports, and said that States must be made active partners in this effort. He said the Department of Commerce must resolve to raise India’s share in total global exports to at least 3.4 percent, from the current 1.6 percent. Similarly he said, efforts must be made to raise domestic manufacturing output, to reduce imports. In this context, he gave the example of electronics manufacturing. He said the Union Government has taken a number of steps to boost domestic manufacturing.