PMIndiaData/PMIndiaSum huggingface dataset:
Cabinet approves permission to avail external assistance by State Government entities from bilateral agencies for implementation of vital infrastructure projects

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the policy guidelines to allow financially sound State Government entities to borrow directly from bilateral ODA (Official development Assistance) partners for implementation of vital infrastructure projects. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), a State Government entity, has also been allowed to borrow directly from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan for implementation of Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) project. The estimated project cost for Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link (MTHL) is Rs.17,854 crore, out of which JICA loan portion is expected to be Rs.15,109 crore. The guidelines will facilitate the State Government entities to directly borrow from the external bilateral funding agencies subject to fulfilment of certain conditions and all repayments of loans and interests to the funding agencies will be directly remitted by the concerned borrower. The concerned State Government will furnish guarantee for the Loan. The Government of India will provide counter guarantee for the loan. External assistance today plays a supportive role in financing major infrastructure projects, social sector projects and in building up institutional capacity. The role of external assistance has gained further significance in view of the large gap in funding requirements for major infrastructure projects implemented by the State Governments in order to acquire competitive strength under the globalized economic framework. Presently, external development assistance from bilateral and multilateral sources is received by the Government of India (i) for projects/programmes in the Central sector; (ii) for projects executed by Central Public Sector Undertakings; and (ii) on behalf of the State Governments for State sector projects/programmes to be implemented by the State Governments and/or local bodies and public sector undertakings. The existing guidelines do not allow direct borrowings by the State Government entities from external agencies. Several State agencies are implementing major infrastructure projects of national importance. These projects, even if viable and sound, have huge funding requirements and borrowing by the State Governments for such projects may exhaust their respective borrowing limits. Therefore, in order to accelerate the pace of investment in major infrastructure projects in the country without compromising the need for external assistance for other sectors, an enabling provision in the existing guidelines was considered necessary to facilitate direct borrowing by the State Government entities from bilateral external agencies. This dispensation will allow the financially sound State entities to directly borrow and repay the loan required for major infrastructure projects without burdening the State exchequer. The approval of these guidelines reiterates Government’s commitment to promote inclusive growth and strengthen the economy.
PM to participate in inaugural ceremony of year long joint celebrations of 90th anniversary of Sivagiri Pilgrimage and Golden Jubilee of Brahma Vidhyalaya at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will participate in the inaugural ceremony of year long joint celebrations of 90th anniversary of Sivagiri Pilgrimage and Golden Jubilee of Brahma Vidhyalaya on 26th April, 2022 at 10:30 AM at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg. He will also launch the logo for year long joint celebrations. Both Sivagiri Pilgrimage and Brahma Vidhyalaya were started with the blessing and guidance of great social reformer Shri Narayana Guru. Sivagiri Pilgrimage is held every year for three days from December 30 to January 1 at Sivagiri, Thiruvananthapuram. According to the Shri Narayana Guru, the aim of pilgrimage should be the creation of comprehensive knowledge among the people and the pilgrimage should help in their overall development and prosperity. The pilgrimage, therefore, focuses on eight subjects viz education, cleanliness, piety, handicrafts, trade and commerce, agriculture, science & technology and organised endeavour. The pilgrimage started with a handful of devotees in 1933 but now has become one of the major events in South India. Every year, lakhs of devotees from all over the world irrespective of caste, creed, religion and language visit Sivagiri to participate in the pilgrimage. Shri Narayan Guru had also envisioned a place to teach the principles of all religions with equanimity and equal respect. The Brahma Vidyalayam of Sivagiri was set up to realise this vision. Brahma Vidyalaya offers a course of 7-years on Indian Philosophy including the works of Shri Narayan Guru and scriptures of all important religions of the world.
Delegation of British MPs calls on Prime Minister

An eight-member delegation of British Parliamentarians called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today. The Prime Minister said that the relations between India and UK have strong bipartisan support in both countries, and called for enhanced interactions between the Parliamentarians of both countries. The Prime Minister fondly recalled his own visit to UK in November 2015, and the visit of Prime Minister Theresa May to India in November 2016. The Prime Minister welcomed the celebration of 2017 as the India-UK Year of Culture. The Prime Minister also said that India and UK are natural partners in the global fight against terrorism, and urged the Parliamentarians to continue to raise their collective voice against terrorism, extremism and radicalization.
PM’s remarks at the commencement of expansion of Diesel Locomotive Works

PM: Indian Railways will not be privatized; private investment will be used to facilitate modernization. Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today declared categorically that the Indian Railways would not be privatized. He was addressing a gathering in Varanasi after the commencement of expansion of the Diesel Locomotive Works. He asserted that his aim was to ensure that the modernization and growth of railways is facilitated through private investment, and not through public funds which are the property of the poor, and should be used to fulfil their basic needs including health and education. He said private investment would be used to modernize Railways and make it service-oriented, so that it could become an engine of growth for the Nation. Shri Narendra Modi said 4 rail universities would be established to ensure proper and well-trained human resource for the Railways. He said the Railways should not be seen as just a means of transport, but should become the backbone of economic development. He exhorted Railway workers to ensure that the best service in India is provided by the Indian Railways. The Prime Minister, who earlier flagged off the new high horsepower diesel locomotive, described this as an example of India’s indigenous capabilities, and an illustration of his vision of Make in India. He recalled former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” and said the slogan had inspired farmers to make India self-reliant in food production. He expressed hope that “Make in India” would inspire us to become self reliant in all our needs. The Prime Minister also said the postal and railway networks of India could be leveraged to become drivers of rural development. The Union Minister for Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhu, was present on the occasion.
Narendra Modi shares press release stating the new Ministry Formation as a step towards Smart Governance

Prime Minister designate Shri Narendra Modi shared a press release on Twitter which stated that the PM-designate had made a historic change in the formation of Ministries. The Press Release stated: The Prime Minister-designate Shri Narendra Modi has made a historic change in the formation of Ministries. For the first time, he adopted guiding principle of “Minimum Government and Maximum Governance” and also rationalization with a commitment to bring a change in the work culture and style of governance. It is a good beginning in transforming entity of assembled ministries to Organic Ministries. It will bring more coordination between different departments, will be more effective and bring a speed in process. The focus is on convergence in the activities of various Ministries where one cabinet Minister will be heading a cluster of Ministries who are working in complimentary sectors. Mr. Modi is eventually aiming at Smart Governance where the top layers of Government will be downsized and there would be expansion at the grass root level. Shri Narendra Modi is aware of the high expectations of the people. For whole four days, he was busy with the formation of Ministry and discussing various alternatives to effective governance, convergence and coordination between various ministries. Earlier, there was political instability and multi-party governments, the ministry formation was almost done in a bifurcated manner. Shri Narendra Modi tried in a rational manner to club like-minded departments in the ministry formation in such way to convert entity of assembled ministry to organic entity. He formed ministry using as an instrument to deal with challenges and expectation of people. Integrated and inter-connected nature of Governance is being focused in this positive change. He emphasized that the ministry can deliver, can govern and can bring change in style of functioning. In the ministry formation, the process of development will be more inclusive than it has been.
Cabinet approves setting up of a Central University in Andhra Pradesh

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its in-principle approval for establishing a Central University by the name of “Central University of Andhra Pradesh” in Janthaluru Village of Ananthapur District, Andhra Pradesh. A provision of funds worth Rs. 450 crore has been approved for meeting the first phase expenditure towards establishment of the said University. The Cabinet also approved the proposal for operationalization of the Central University in the transit campus, initially by forming a society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 in order to give a legal status to it till the amendment to the Central Universities Act, 2009 is enacted and to enable commencement of academic activities from the Academic Year 2018-19. The Central University would be mentored by an existing Central University till its governing structure is in place. The approval would increase access and quality of higher education and help in minimizing the regional imbalances in education facilities, and give effect to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014.
Delegation of Muslim Ulemas, intellectuals and academicians calls on PM

PM says Indian youth has successfully resisted radicalization A delegation comprising Muslim Ulemas, intellectuals, academicians and other eminent people called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi today. The delegation congratulated the Prime Minister on the steps taken by the Union Government for inclusive growth, socio-economic and educational empowerment of all sections of the society including Minorities. The delegation was appreciative of the Saudi Government’s decision to increase the number of Haj pilgrims from India, and thanked the Prime Minister for having successfully pursued the same. The delegation, in one voice, supported wholeheartedly the campaign launched by the Prime Minister against corruption and black money. The delegation agreed that the fight against corruption will benefit the poor people including the Minorities the most. The delegation congratulated the Prime Minister for his efforts to strengthen relations with the countries across the world and said that today every Indian in every corner of the world is instilled with a sense of pride. Members of the delegation also praised the Prime Minister for his efforts towards Swachh Bharat. The Prime Minister said that youth in India has successfully resisted radicalization, which has affected several parts of the world today. He said that the credit for this must go to the long, shared heritage of our people; and added that it is now our collective responsibility to take this heritage forward. The Prime Minister said that the culture, traditions and social fabric of India will never allow the nefarious designs of the terrorists, or their sponsors, to succeed. The Prime Minister stressed on the importance of education and skill development, which is the key to gainful employment, and upliftment from poverty. Appreciating the Government of Saudi Arabia for its decision to increase the number of Haj pilgrims for India, the Prime Minister asserted that there is a positive image of Indian Muslims abroad. Members of the delegation included Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi (Chief Imam of India, All India Organisation of Imams of Mosques); Lt Gen (Retd) Zameeruddin Shah (Vice-Chancellor Aligarh Muslim University); MY Eqbal (Former Judge, Supreme Court of India); Talat Ahmed (Vice Chancellor, Jamia Millia Islamia), and Shahid Siddiqui (Urdu journalist). Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs (Independent Charge) & Parliamentary Affairs Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi and Union Minister of State for External Affairs Shri M.J. Akbar were also present on the occasion.
PM interacts with American CEOs

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today met and interacted with 20 top American CEOs at a roundtable meeting in Washington DC. Welcoming the CEOs, the Prime Minister said that the world is focused on India’s economy. He said a young population and a rising middle class are among factors which generate global interest in the Indian economy, especially in areas such as manufacturing, trade and commerce, and people to people contacts. He said that in the last three years, the Union Government in India has focused on improvement in quality of life of the people. The Prime Minister said this requires global partnership. And therefore, he added, the Union Government in India is working on principles such as Minimum Government, Maximum Governance. The Prime Minister spoke of the recent reforms, and noted that the Union Government alone has initiated 7000 reforms. He said this indicates India’s quest for global benchmarks. He mentioned the Government’s emphasis on efficiency, transparency, growth and benefit for all. On GST, the Prime Minister said that this is becoming a reality after years of effort. He added that its implementation is a complex task that may well be the subject of future case-studies. He added that this shows India can take big decisions and implement them swiftly. CEOs appreciated the Prime Minister for his policy initiatives and the work done in recent times towards ease of doing business. Initiatives such as Digital India, Make in India, Skill Development, Demonetization and the thrust towards renewable energy came in for much appreciation from a number of CEOs. Several CEOs showed their willingness to be partners in skill development and education initiatives. They also mentioned social initiatives being undertaken by their companies in India, in spheres such as women empowerment, digital technology, education and food processing. Themes such as infrastructure, defence manufacturing and energy security also came up for discussion. In conclusion, the Prime Minister thanked the CEOs for their observations. Looking forward to his meeting with President Trump tomorrow, he said India and the US have shared values. He said if America becomes stronger, India will be a natural beneficiary. He also added that India believes that a strong America is good for the world. He sought enhanced attention from the CEOs in areas such as women empowerment, renewable energy, startups and innovation. He suggested linking sanitary practices, products and technologies with the requirements of school going girls. He reiterated that his primary interest is improving the quality of life in India.
PM’s bilateral engagements on the sidelines of the SAARC Summit

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today had five bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the SAARC Summit in Kathmandu. These were with the Prime Minister of Bhutan Mr. Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Ms. Sheikh Hasina, the President of Afghanistan Dr. Ashraf Ghani, the President of Sri Lanka Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa and the President of Maldives Mr. Abdulla Yameen. A large part of the discussions centred around the statements made and events at the SAARC Summit. During the bilateral meetings, various heads of Government complimented the Prime Minister for his statement at the SAARC Summit and his forward looking vision. The Prime Minister was also complimented for his initiative of the SAARC satellite. Some countries also shared what they look forward to from such a satellite. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on solar energy was also greeted with enthusiasm during these meetings. Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Maldives reiterated their invitations to the Prime Minister, and the Prime Minister emphasized that engagement with SAARC Nations is a priority for him. The Prime Minister invited Mr. Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister of Bhutan to visit India in January, and also be part of the Vibrant Gujarat summit. The Prime Minister also invited the President of Afghanistan Dr. Ashraf Ghani to visit India. The National Security Advisor will travel to Sri Lanka and Maldives next month. Maritime security shall be on the agenda during these visits. The Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh had a detailed exchange of views on matters relating to security and terrorism which impact both countries.
Cabinet approves Cadre Review of Group ‘A’ Executive Officers of Border Security Force

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the Cadre Review of Group ‘A’ Executive officers of BSF with net creation of 74 posts of various ranks from Assistant Commandant to Additional DG ranks to enhance the operational and administrative capabilities of BSF. Increase of existing structure of Group ‘A’ posts from 4109 to 4183 posts are as follows: 1. Increase of one post of Additional DG (HAG level). 2. Net increase of 19 posts of Inspector General (SAG level). 3. Net increase of 370 posts of DIG/Commandant/2 1C (JAG level). 4. Net increase of 14 posts of Assistant Commandant (JTS level). 5. Net reduction of 330 posts of Deputy Commandant (STS level). Background: The BSF is the largest border guarding force established in 1965. The present sanctioned strength of the Force is 2,57,025 having 186 Battalions (including 03 NDRF Battalions). Of these the Executive Group ‘A’ cadre has sanctioned strength of 4065 officers (4109 including the IPS quota). About 90% of the troops are deployed in Indo-Pakistan Border, Indo-Bangladesh Border (including North East) and Left Wing Extremism (LWE) States. The last cadre review of the service was done in 1990.
PM condoles the passing away of Rajya Sabha MP Shri Kalpataru Das

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the passing away of Rajya Sabha MP Shri Kalpataru Das. “Pained to hear about the passing away of Rajya Sabha MP Shri Kalpataru Das. My condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace. Shri Kalpataru Das was actively involved in social work and was extremely passionate about Odisha’s progress”, the Prime Minister said.
PM’s address at Goa Rozgar Mela

Namaskar! Today the Government of Goa has taken a vital step towards providing employment to the youth. Several youngsters will be given appointment letters today in various departments of the Government of Goa. My heartiest congratulations to all the youth and their parents for receiving these appointment letters. I have been told that in the coming few months there will be recruitment in other departments including Goa Police. This will further strengthen the Goa Police force and this will ensure better security of citizens, especially the tourists. Friends, For the last few weeks, ‘Rozgar Melas’ are being organized one after another in different states of the country. The Central Government is also providing jobs to thousands of youngsters every month in the central government departments through the ‘Rozgar Melas’. I am glad that the states where the BJP-ruled governments, that is, the double engine governments are there, are organizing such ‘Rozgar Melas’. Friends, In the last 8 years, the Central Government has invested thousands of crores of rupees for the development of Goa. The new airport built at Mopa at a cost of about Rs 3000 crore is also going to be inaugurated soon. Thousands of people of Goa have got jobs in the fields related to the construction of this airport. Similarly, the connectivity projects and infrastructure projects that are going on in Goa today have also provided employment opportunities to the youth of Goa. The vision of ‘Swayampurna Goa’ is to improve the basic amenities in Goa as well as improve the infrastructure in the state. Through the Goa Tourism Master Plan and Policy, the state government has also formulated a new blueprint for the development of Goa. As a result, new possibilities have been created for investment in the tourism sector and for increasing employment opportunities substantially. Friends, Steps are also being taken to strengthen the rural economy of Goa and to increase employment opportunities in traditional farming. Farmers producing paddy, coconut, jute, spices and engaged in fruit processing, are being connected to the Self-Help Groups. All these efforts are creating many new opportunities for employment and self-employment in Goa. Friends, Today, I would like to say one more thing to the youth who have got appointment letters in Goa. The most crucial 25 years of your lives are going to begin now. So, along with the development of Goa, you also have the target of a ‘New India-2047’. You have to work for the development of both Goa as well as the country. I am sure that all of you will continue to follow the path of your duty with full dedication and enthusiasm. Once again my heartiest congratulations and best wishes to all of you! Thank you.
Cabinet approves Amendment to the Central Universities Act, 2009 for setting up of Central Tribal University in Andhra Pradesh

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved setting up of a Central Tribal University in Andhra Pradesh. The “Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh” will be set up in Relli village of Vizianagaram District as provided under the Thirteenth Schedule to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 (No. 6 of 2014). Cabinet has also approved the provision of funds of Rs. 420 crore for the first phase expenditure towards establishment of the Central Tribal University.
PM congratulates NSIL, IN-SPACe and ISRO on the successful launch of heaviest vehicle LVM3

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated Indian space agencies/organizations viz, NSIL, IN-SPACe and ISRO on the successful launch of heaviest vehicle LVM3. The Prime Minister tweeted; “Congratulations @NSIL_India @INSPACeIND @ISRO on the successful launch of our heaviest launch vehicle LVM3 with 36 OneWeb satellites meant for global connectivity. LVM3 exemplifies Atmanirbharta & enhances India’s competitive edge in the global commercial launch service market.”
PM offers last respects to Shri Gopinath Munde

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today offered his last respects and heartfelt tribute to his Cabinet colleague Shri Gopinath Munde. He placed a wreath on the mortal remains of the departed leader at the Bharatiya Janata Party Headquarters in New Delhi, in the presence of a large number of Union Ministers, party colleagues, workers, and family members of Shri Munde. The Prime Minister also met the family members of Shri Gopinath Munde, and offered his condolences on the untimely passing away of Shri Munde.