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Union Cabinet decides to reimburse amount of value cut on wheat procurement price to States

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today gave its approval to reimburse amount of value cut on wheat procurement price to States. This decision has been taken in order to give relief to the farmers affected by the unprecedented rains and hailstorms.TheCentre will reimburse the amount of value cut imposed on the wheat being procured by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and State Government Agencies in Gujarat, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh under relaxed quality norms. The reimbursement of this amount will be made to the State Governments through the FCI. State Governments have decided to bear the amount of value cut imposed on the wheat being procured from farmers by the FCI and State agencies under relaxed specifications in the current Rabi marketing season, As per latest report of FCI, a total quantity of 158.61 lakh tonnes of wheat has been procured during the current season in various States as against the procurement level of 169.29 lakh tonnes achieved by this date in previous year. Background:- Due to untimely rains and hailstorms etc. in March-April this year, the quality of wheat has been badly affected and to facilitate purchase of affected wheat from the farmers at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), the Food Ministry has given relaxation in quality norms of wheat with respect to luster loss and increase in quantum of shriveled and broken grains in various States. While doing so, the Food Ministry has imposed a nominal value cut on wheat procured under relaxed specifications, so that, separate marking and stocking of such stock and its utilization on priority could be ensured. Looking at the problems of the farmers, most of the State Governments have decided to bear the amount of this value cut themselves and not to pass this on to farmers.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Belarus in the oil and gas sector

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its ex-post facto approval for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Belarus in the oil and gas sector. The MoU was signed on 12th September, 2017 during the visit of President of Belarus to India. The MoU will promote bilateral relationship between India and Belarus and it is envisaged to enhance the economic and commercial cooperation between the two sides in oil and natural gas sector. Under the MoU, both sides will work towards establishing cooperation in the areas of upstream and downstream activities, capacity building, technology transfer, enhanced oil recovery and development of mature fields in India. The MoU shall remain in force for three years for the day of its signing.
PM expresses grief over the loss of lives due to fire at Srisailam hydroelectric plant

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives due to fire at the Srisailam hydroelectric plant. The Prime Minister said, “Fire at the Srisailam hydroelectric plant is deeply unfortunate. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those injured recover at the earliest.”
Cabinet approves establishment of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog for Conservation protection and development of cows and their progeny

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the proposal for establishment of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog for Conservation protection and development of cows and their progeny. Impact: The setting up of RashtriyaKamdhenuAayogwill lead to conservation, protection and development of cattle population in the country including development and conservation of indigenous breeds. It will result in increased growth of livestock sector which is more inclusive, benefitting women, and small and marginal farmers. The RashtriyaKamdhenuAayogwill work in collaboration with Veterinary, Animal Sciences or Agriculture University or departments or organizations of the Central/State Government engaged in the task of research in the field of breeding and rearing of cow, organic manure, biogas etc. Background: The creation of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog for the conservation, protection and development of cows and their progeny will provide the policy framework and direction to the cow conservation and development programmes in the country and for ensuring proper implementation of laws with respect to the welfare of cows. It is in pursuance of the announcement of setting up of the Aayog in the Union Budget 2019-20.
PM condoles passing away of IFFCO Chairman Sardar Balvinder Singh Nakai Ji

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the passing away of Chairman IFFCO, Sardar Balvinder Singh Nakai Ji. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said; “Sardar Balvinder Singh Nakai Ji was a doyen of the agriculture and cooperatives sector. He made pioneering contributions towards empowering farmers. His passing away is saddening. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. May his soul rest in peace.”
PM condoles the passing away of Shri Praveen Rashtrapal

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the passing away of Rajya Sabha MP Shri Praveen Rashtrapal. “Pained by the demise of Rajya Sabha MP from Gujarat Shri Praveen Rashtrapal. My thoughts are with his family in this hour of grief. As a trade unionist & subsequently as a leader, Shri Rashtrapal remained sensitive to concerns & aspirations of the poor & marginalised”, the Prime Minister said.
PM congratulates Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on winning the Presidential elections in Brazil

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on winning the Presidential elections in Brazil. The Prime Minister’s office tweeted; “Congratulations to @LulaOficial on winning the Presidential elections in Brazil. I look forward to working closely together to further deepen and widen our bilateral relations, as also our cooperation on global issues: PM”
Release of additional installment of Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to Pensioners, due from 1.1.2015

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today gave its approval to release an additional installment of Dearness Allowance (DA) to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners with effect from 01.01.2015 at the rate of six percent increase over the existing rate of 107 percent. Hence, Central Government employees as well as pensioners are entitled for DA/DR at the rate of 113 percent of the basic pay with effect from 01.01.2015. The increase is in accordance with the accepted formula based on the recommendations of the 6th Central Pay Commission. The combined impact on the exchequer on account of both DA and DR would be of the order of Rs. 6762.24 crore per annum and Rs. 7889.34 crore in the Financial Year 2015-16 (i.e. for a period of 14 months from January 2015 to February 2016). This will benefit 48 lakh government employees and 55 lakh pensioners.
PM condoles demise of mathematician and Padma Shri Awardee, Shri RL Kashyap

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the demise of mathematician and Padma Shri Awardee, Shri RL Kashyap. The Prime Minister tweeted; “Shri RL Kashyap was a multifaceted personality and great scholar. He was blessed with rich mathematical and scientific knowledge. He was very proud of India’s cultural roots and distinguished himself in Vedic studies. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti.”
Officers and staff of Lok Sabha Secretariat donate a day’s salary to PMNRF

The Speaker, Lok Sabha, Smt. Sumitra Mahajan, today called on the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, and handed over a cheque for Rs. 14 lakhs on behalf of the officers and staff of the Lok Sabha Secretariat, who have donated a day`s salary for the Prime Minister`s National Relief Fund.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Oman on Cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was apprised of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India represented by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and Oman represented by the Ministry of Transport and Communications on Cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space, in February, 2018 at Muscat. Details: • This MoU shall enable the following areas of cooperation such as, space science, technology and applications including remote sensing of the earth; satellite based navigation; Space science and planetary exploration; use of spacecraft and space systems and ground system; and application of space technology. • The MoU would lead to set up a Joint Working Group, drawing members from DOS/ISRO, and the Ministry of Transport and Communication (MTC), which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementing this MoU. • It will provide impetus to explore newer research activities and application possibilities in the field of remote sensing of the earth; satellite navigation; space science and exploration of outer space. Implementation Strategy and Targets: The signed MoU would lead to setting up of a Joint Working Group, which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementing the provisions of this MoU. Benefits: MoU would lead to develop a joint activity in the field of application of space technologies for the benefit of humanity. Thus all sections and regions of the country will get benefited. Impact: • Cooperation with the Sultanate of Oman through this MoU would lead to develop a joint activity in the field of application of space technologies for the benefit of humanity. Background: • The Sultanate of Oman expressed interest to cooperate with Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for building its space programme. A 4-member delegation from the Oman’s Department of Communication visited ISRO in March 2011 and interacted with ISRO officials and also visited ISRO’s technical facilities. The Sultanate of Oman conveyed interest to pursue cooperation on Space Applications with ISRO to the Ambassador of India to Oman in May 2016. • Accordingly, both sides arrived at mutually agreed version of MoU for in the peaceful uses of outer space and the same was signed between the Government of the Republic of India represented by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the Government of the Sultanate of Oman represented by the Ministry of Transport and Communications on February 11, 2018 at Muscat.
PM congratulates Pramod Bhagat for winning Gold medal in Badminton at Paralympics Games

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated Pramod Bhagat for winning Gold medal in Badminton at the Paralympics Games in Tokyo. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said; “Pramod Bhagat has won the hearts of the entire nation. He is a Champion, whose success will motivate millions. He showed remarkable resilience & determination. Congratulations to him for winning the Gold in Badminton. Best wishes to him for his future endeavours. @PramodBhagat83”
35 MLAs from Maharashtra call on PM

35 first-time MLAs from Maharashtra called on Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, in Parliament House today. They were accompanied by the Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Shri Haribhau Bagde. Highlighting the Union Government’s initiatives towards Cooperative Federalism, the Prime Minister said, States have been allocated 62 per cent of the total resources in the Union Budget, while only 38 per cent have been left for use by the Centre. He also spoke about the Union Government’s acceptance of the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission regarding devolution of 42 per cent of the divisible pool of taxes to States. He said that the States would also benefit from the proceeds from the coal auctions and the enhanced mineral royalties. The Prime Minister suggested that these additional funds and resources at the disposal of the States should be primarily directed towards infrastructure building.
Cabinet approves extension of last date of Registration under Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana (ABRY) from 30th June 2021 to 31st March 2022

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for extending the terminal date for registration of beneficiaries for availing the benefit under Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana (ABRY) for another nine months i.e. from 30th June, 2021 to 31st March, 2022. Consequent upon this extension, it is expected that 71.8 lakh employment will be generated in the formal sector as against the earlier projection of 58.5 lakh. As on 18.06.2021, benefit amounting to Rs.902 crore has been given to 21.42 Lakh beneficiaries through 79,577 establishments under ABRY. Estimated expenditure of the scheme including the expenditure for the proposed extended period of registration upto 31.03.2020 will be Rs.22,098 crore. This scheme is being implemented through Employees Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) to reduce financial burden of the employers of various sectors/industries and to encourage them to hire more workers. Under ABRY, establishments registered with EPFO and their new employees drawing monthly wage of less than Rs. 15,000/- are being benefited if the establishment recruits new employees or those who lost their job between 01.03.2020 to 30.09.2020. Under ABRY, Government of India is crediting for a period of two years both the employees’ and employers share’ (24% of wages) or only the employees’ share (12% of wages), depending on the strength of EPFO registered establishments. Detailed scheme guidelines can be seen on the website of Ministry of Labour & Employment and EPFO. ABRY was announced as one of the measures under Aatmanirbhar Bharat 3.0 package to boost the economy and increase employment generation in formal sector during post Covid recovery phase. This scheme will minimize the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the country’s economy and will ameliorate the hardship faced by low paid workers, provide incentive to employers for restarting and expanding business activities.
PM Speaks to the UK PM Mr Boris Johnson

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi spoke on phone today with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, His Excellency Mr. Boris Johnson. The two leaders exchanged thoughts about the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and reviewed the promising cooperation between India and UK in the area of vaccine development and manufacturing. The leaders reiterated their shared desire to impart a quantum jump to the India-UK partnership in the post-COVID, post-BREXIT era, and agreed that there was tremendous potential for enhancing collaboration in trade and investment, scientific research, mobility of professionals and students, and defence and security. They laid particular emphasis on India and UK joining hands in the fight against Climate Change, and appreciated their collaboration under platforms like the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. The leaders agreed that officials from both sides would continue their work to quickly finalise an ambitious long-term roadmap for the India-UK partnership.
UP CM donates Rs. Five Crore towards PMNRF

Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath called on the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today in New Delhi. He handed over a cheque worth Rs. Five Crore to the Prime Minister from Chief Minister Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF) towards Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), for the Cyclone affected people in Lakshadweep and other States.
PM praises golfer Aditi Ashok for her show of skill and resolve

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has lauded golfer Aditi Ashok for her skills and resolve during her steller performance at the Olympics. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said : “Well played @aditigolf! You have shown tremendous skill and resolve during #Tokyo2020 . A medal was narrowly missed but you’ve gone farther than any Indian and blazed a trail. Best wishes for your future endeavours”
PM reviews drought and water scarcity situation at high level meeting with Maharashtra CM

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today chaired a high level meeting on the drought and water scarcity situation in parts of Maharashtra. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, was present in the meeting. Senior officials from the Government of India, and the State of Maharahtra, were also present. Initiating the discussion, the Prime Minister stated that the Centre, States, Local Bodies, NGOs and citizens have to work together to resolve the problems posed by drought. He also called for focus on medium and long term solutions for drought-proofing. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of increasing water use efficiency through drip and sprinkler, stating that drip irrigation in sugarcane increases the quality of sugar. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra said that the State Government is working on a plan to ensure that 100 per cent of the sugarcane growing area in Maharashtra comes under drip irrigation in three years. The Prime Minister also stressed the need to adopt a judicious mix of traditional and modern water conservation and storage mechanisms. He said that a lot can be learnt from the water management practices and measures adopted by Chhatrapati Shivaji. The Chief Minister stated that the State is working to rejuvenate the water-bodies of that era. The Chief Minister informed that good progress has been made in preparatory works for Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. The Prime Minister also called for modern solid and liquid waste management practices in urban areas, which could yield enhanced water and organic fertilizer availability in adjoining rural areas. The Chief Minister informed the Prime Minister that the State is focusing on Climate Resilient Agriculture; and has proposed a Climate Resistant Agriculture Modernization Project for a World Bank loan, to ensure water security at the farm level. He thanked the Government of India for expeditiously recommending this project to the World Bank. The Chief Minister apprised the Prime Minister about the progress of the Jal Yukt Shivar Abhiyan for water conservation and storage. He said the State has set a target of 51,500 farm ponds for Financial Year 2016-17, which may be scaled up further, in view of the enthusiastic response of farmers. The Chief Minister also explained the State’s efforts to complete critical irrigation projects in the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions in a time-bound manner. He also spoke of the work done to bring more farmers under the umbrella of institutional credit. The Chief Minister also informed about the efforts towards “doubling farm incomes and drought-free Maharashtra.” Appreciating the efforts of the State Government, the Prime Minister emphasized crop diversification, value-addition, and broadbasing the sources of income for farmers, by connecting dairying, fishery, poultry, bee-keeping etc. He also underlined the natural hedging from vagaries of nature because of broadbasing of income.
PM to interact with Beneficiaries and Vaccinators of Covid vaccination drive in Varanasi on 22nd January

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will interact with beneficiaries and vaccinators of Covid vaccination drive in Varanasi on 22nd January, 2021 at 1:15 PM via video conferencing. The participants in the interaction will share their first hand experience of vaccination. The interaction follows continuous dialogue and discussion by the Prime Minister with scientists, political leaders, officials and other stakeholders to proactively ensure smooth conduct of the world’s largest vaccination drive.
Cabinet approves raising Extra Budgetary Resources to augment infrastructure spending

The Union Cabinet under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for raising a total of Rs. 31,300 crore in the financial year 2016-17 and to service the principal and interest against the Extra Budgetary Resources (EBR) of Rs. 16,300 crore by Government of India to augment infrastructure spending. Out of the EBR of Rs.31,300 crore, it is proposed to finance the funds to be raised by Power Finance Corporation (PFC), Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), and National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) by Government of India. This implies that the principal and the interest in respect of the EBR of Rs.16,300 crore to be raised by PFC, IREDA, IWAI, and NABARD shall be financed by Government of India by making suitable budget provisions in the Demand of respective Ministries/Departments. The move is intended to supplement the efforts of the Government to improve infrastructure spending and to improve the revenue-capital mix of the expenditure for a more sustainable growth. Background: Infrastructure spending is one of the key parameters to judge the sustainability of growth in a country. The proportion of Capital expenditure to the total expenditure is the yardstick to measure this. In line with this approach, an announcement was made in the Budget Speech 2016-17 that in order to augment infrastructure spending further, Government will permit mobilisation of additional finances to the extent of 31,300 crore by NHAI, PFC, REC, IREDA, NABARD and Inland Water Authority through raising of Bonds during 2016-17.
PM applauds as Capt Shiva Chauhan becomes the first woman officer to be operationally deployed in Kumar Post

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has applauded as Capt Shiva Chauhan of Fire and Fury Sappers became the first woman officer to be operationally deployed in Kumar Post, post completion of arduous training, at the highest battlefield of the world Siachen. The Prime Minister tweeted in reply to a post by Fire and Fury Sappers corps: “This will make every Indian proud, illustrating the spirit of India’s Nari Shakti.”