PMIndiaData/PMIndiaSum huggingface dataset:
Cabinet approves Collaboration Agreement to support the Belmont Forum Secretariat

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for signing of the Collaborative Agreement with French National Research Agency (ANR), France for supporting the Belmont Forum Secretariat from January, 2015 to December, 2017 at a total estimated expenditure of Euro 40,000. The Cabinet also approved continued financial support to Belmont Forum Secretariat beyond 2017. The Belmont Forum, created in 2009, is a high level group of the world’s major and emerging funders of global environmental change research and international science councils. It provides an opportunity to identify study and deliver international environmental research priorities, for the society, in an accelerated way through trans­national research collaboration between natural and social scientists and alignment of international resources India is a member of Belmont Forum, besides Australia, Brazil, Canada, European Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Netherland, South Africa, UK and USA etc. Ministry of Earth Science (MoES), represents India in the Belmont Forum since 2012. In order to coordinate the activities of the Belmont, a Secretariat is hosted by one of the Belmont forum member on rotational basis. ANR, France is hosting the Secretariat from January, 2015 to December, 2017. Expenditure for hosting the Secretariat will be borne by Belmont Forum member countries in kind or cash contribution. Impact: The Agreement will help to maintain a certain degree of continuity in the operations of the Forum and also help in smooth coordination of the activities of Belmont Forum. As India is already participating in 4 Collaborative Research Actions (CRAs) and Secretariat will be coordinating the activities of Belmont Forum, Indian scientific community will ultimately benefit from this agreement. Background: Since the inception of Belmont Forum in 2009, its operations were being handled by a part-time secretariat associated with the respective Chairs of the Belmont Forum. As the Co-chairs are rotational, the Secretariat also rotates and some time co-chairs are from different Continents with different time zone. In order to maintain a certain degree of continuity in the operations of the Forum, establishment of a Full-time Secretariat was agreed upon by Belmont Forum members, on rotational basis. ANR, France has agreed to host the Secretariat from January, 2015 to December, 2017.
Bilateral meeting of PM with H.E. Ms Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Prime Minister of New Zealand H.E. Ms. Jacinda Ardern on the sidelines of UNGA meetings in New York on 25th September 2019. Both leaders reviewed the state of bilateral relations and discussed steps to intensify political, economic, defence, security and people to people relations. They recalled their earlier meeting in November 2017 in Manila and noted that following the visit of former Prime Minister of New Zealand to India in October 2016, new institutional mechanisms have been instituted, which has substantially enhanced the bilateral relationship. PM Modi thanked PM Ardern for accepting his invitation to participate in the event “Relevance of Gandhi in the contemporary Times” held on the sidelines of UNGA on 24 September 2019. The New Zealand PM informed PM Modi about their New strategic paper “India 2022- Investing in the relationship”, which is a continuation of the NZ Inc. India Strategy 2011. PM Ardern noted that Indian diaspora and students in New Zealand is important bridge between the two nations and contributing to bonds of friendship between the two countries. They also discussed the global and regional issues of mutual interest, including the issue of international terrorism and appreciated the convergence of views between the two countries on this issue. Both countries have strongly condemned and extended support to each other following the Pulwama and Christchurch terror attacks. India had also supported the joint New Zealand French initiative on Christchurch Call of Action.
Minister, International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, Mr. Wang Jiarui calls on PM

Mr. Wang Jiarui, Minister, International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, called on the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today. Mr. Wang Jiarui is visiting India as part of a programme of high level political exchanges between India and China. Recalling his own visit to China under the aegis of the same programme in 2011 when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of such visits in promoting mutual understanding. Mr. Wang Jiarui conveyed President Xi Jinping’s greetings to the Prime Minister and said that the warm welcome received by President Xi Jinping during his visit to India last year had left a deep impression on him. The Prime Minister said that he is eagerly looking forward to his visit to China in May 2015.
PM expresses grief over loss of lives in Central Ammunition Depot fire

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the loss of lives caused by a fire at Central Ammunition Depot in Pulgaon, Maharashtra. “Pained by loss of lives caused by a fire at central ammunition depot in Pulgaon, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I pray that those who are injured recover quickly. Have asked Raksha Mantri Manohar Parrikar to visit the spot & take stock of the situation”, the Prime Minister tweeted.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Australia for collaboration in capacity building, research and development and making impact for sustainable groundwater management

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi was apprised of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga rejuvenation, India and Managing Aquifer Recharge and Sustaining Groundwater use through village-level intervention (MARVI) PARTNERS, Australia in October, 2019. The MoU has been signed to promote cooperation in surface and groundwater training, education and research to achieve water security for agricultural, urban, industrial and environmental purposes.
PM pays tributes to Nanaji Deshmukh on his birth anniversary

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has paid tributes to Nanaji Deshmukh on his birth anniversary. “Tributes to Nanaji Deshmukh on his birth anniversary. His organisation skills & efforts to serve society are a source of inspiration for us,”the Prime Minister said.
PM condoles the passing away of noted architect, Charles Correa

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has condoled the passing away of noted architect, Mr. Charles Correa. “My deepest condolences on the passing away of the noted architect, Mr. Charles Correa. May his soul rest in peace. Mr. Charles Correa’s architectural marvels are widely cherished, reflecting his brilliance, innovative zeal & wonderful aesthetic sense,” the Prime Minister said.
Hamid Karzai calls on PM

H.E. Mr. Hamid Karzai, Former President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today. The Prime Minister conveyed heartfelt greetings to the people of Afghanistan on behalf of 1.3 billion people of India and on his own behalf on 100 years of Independence of Afghanistan today. The former President thanked India for strong all-round support and expressed happiness at the extra-ordinary goodwill between the people of two countries. The Prime Minister reiterated the continued support of India for peace, security and stability of an inclusive, united, truly independent and democratic Afghanistan.
Modification of existing guidelines for the Policy on bilateral Official Development Assistance for Development Corporation with bilateral partners

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for modification of existing guidelines of the Policy on bilateral Official Development Assistance for Development Corporation with bilateral partners. The details of the proposed modification in the guidelines are as follows:- (i). Finance Minister and External Affairs Minister, with the approval of Prime Minister, may be authorised to accept bilateral assistance from any other country, in addition to the existing bilateral partners, viz. USA, UK, Japan, Germany, France, Italy, Canada, Russian Federation as well as European Commission and European Union countries outside G-8. (ii). To accept special loan for capital intensive projects and other projects of special nature subject to the following conditions:- (a) The minimum assistance from bilateral partner shall be USD 1 billion in a year, of which at least 50% shall be normal untied loans (not special loans). (b) For all contracts (including goods, services and consultancy) the anticipation may be restricted to companies of the bilateral partner country and Indian companies. While, Joint Venture 20p£rnpanies of bilateral partners and Indian companies will be eligible, Indian companies may be restricted to those where ownership by Indian nationals /companies is more than 50%. (c) There shall be a provision for removing sourcing condition and to go for International Competitive Bidding in case of lack of adequate response in the bidding process under (b) above. (d) Not more than 30% of the total value of goods and services should be insisted to be sourced from the funding country. (e) The annual rate of interest on special loans shall not exceed 0.3% (including all other applicable, charges) and the tenor shall not be less than 40 years (with 10 years of moratorium on repayment). (f) Individual projects with a minimum project cost of USD 250 million will only qualify for such special loans. (g) Any project(s) implemented by State Government (either solely or jointly) will be done with the concurrence of the concerned State Government. Under the revised guidelines, the Finance Minister has been authorised to relax or waive any of the above conditions. It is expected that by accepting offers of special loan for projects in Infrastructure sector and in sectors of strategic importance on mutually agreed basis, the extensive capital requirement in these sectors will be fulfilled. The decision is also expected to lead to capital augmentation for funding of projects in the Infrastructure sector and in sectors of strategic importance. Economic activity generated will boost employment and development of infrastructure. The scheme will promote “Make in India” and wherever possible, transfer of technology making further innovations possible.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and the UN Entity of Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (UN-Women)

Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and the United Nations Entity of Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women). The proposal seeks to provide technical support to the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in strengthening capacities of governance institutions including Panchayati Raj Institutions(PRIs) to better leverage opportunities created for gender equality through legislation, policies and programmes. Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) and UN-Women have worked in collaboration with each other to promote participation of women in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), to focus on building capacities of Elected Women Representatives to empower them and enhance their effectiveness. Given the past gains, the two parties will now work together towards participatory design of governance processes and effective implementation of laws, policies and programmes to promote gender responsive governance. The parties agree that engendering the initiatives of MoPR, including capacity development efforts, will be of mutual benefit, and will further their shared mission of good governance, gender equality and women’s empowerment. In the long run, it will enable an improvement in the status of rural women in India, as well as contribute to meeting India’s commitment to the Convention to Eliminate All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Beijing Platform for Action and the Sustainable Development Goals. The proposed MoU will facilitate the achievement of time-bound results in the implementation of specific activities identified jointly by MoPR and UN Women within the broader framework for cooperation under the United Nations Development Assistance Framework ((UNDAF). This MoU would thus facilitate operationalizing this important partnership. Activities under this MoU will be implemented at the district and sub-district level in six States i.e. Andhra Pradesh, Telengana, Odisha, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
PM congratulates our scientists on the successful test fire of Prithvi-II missile

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated our scientists on the successful test fire of Prithvi-II missile. “I congratulate the hardwork of our scientists that has been instrumental in the successful test fire of Prithvi-II missile”, the Prime Minister said.
PM to visit Odisha and West Bengal on 28 May to review impact of Cyclone Yaas

PM to undertake aerial survey of the areas affected by Cyclone Yaas Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Odisha and West Bengal on 28th May, 2021. He will chair review meetings in the two states to assess the impact of cyclone Yaas. Prime Minister will also undertake an aerial survey of the areas affected by the cyclone in two states.
PM releases commemorative stamp and coin on Paika Rebellion; dedicates IIT Bhubaneswar campus to the nation

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, visited Odisha on 24th December, 2018. At the IIT Bhubaneswar campus, the Prime Minister released a commemorative stamp and coin on the Paika Rebellion. The Paika Rebellion (Paika Bidroha) was fought against British rule, in Odisha in 1817. The setting up of a Chair on the Paika Rebellion, in Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, was announced. The Prime Minister inaugurated the Lalitgiri Museum. Lalitgiri in Odisha is a famous Buddhist centre of archaeological importance, comprising Stupa, Viharas (monasteries) and images of Lord Buddha. Shri Narendra Modi dedicated the IIT Bhubaneswar campus, to the nation. He also inaugurated the new ESIC Hospital at Bhubaneswar. He laid the Foundation Stone for pipeline and road projects. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that the total worth of projects which were either inaugurated, or for which the Foundation Stone was laid today, is over Rs. 14,000 crore. He said the Union Government aims to develop eastern India as the gateway to South-East Asia. The Prime Minister said that IIT Bhubaneswar would spur the industrial development of Odisha, and work towards technology to improve the lives of the people. The Prime Minister mentioned the plans to expand the healthcare infrastructure, road network, and oil and gas pipeline infrastructure in the State. The Prime Minister reiterated the Union Government’s commitment towards the all-round development of Odisha.
President Putin speaks to PM Modi

The President of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. Vladimir V. Putin called Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on phone today. President Putin expressed his deep condolences on the Pulwama terrorist attack. He also conveyed solidarity of the people of the Russian Federation with the people of India in the fight against terrorism. The Prime Minister thanked President Putin for Russia’s steadfast support for India’s efforts to protect its interests against cross-border terror attacks, and renewed India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in countering terrorism as a pillar of privileged and special strategic partnership. Both leaders agreed that the concerned should stop all support to terrorism. Both the leaders also agreed that the growing cooperation between the two countries will take their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership from strength to strength. President Putin reiterated the invitation to the Prime Minister to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok later this year. The Prime Minister welcomed the invitation and underscored the significance of growing economic cooperation, including in the Russian Far East, between the two countries.
PM reviews Covid related initiatives by the Indian Navy

Naval Hospitals being opened for use of civilians in various cities Navy is boosting oxygen availability in Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar islands. Navy transporting Oxygen Containers as well as other supplies from abroad to India Medical personnel in the Navy have been redeployed at various locations in the country to manage Covid duties Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh called on PM Modi today. He briefed the PM about various initiatives being taken by the Indian Navy to assist the countrymen in the pandemic. He informed the PM that the Indian Navy has reached out to all state administrations and have offered help in terms of hospital beds, transportation and other such things. He apprised the PM about Naval hospitals being opened for use of civilians in various cities. He also informed the PM that medical personnel in the Navy have been redeployed at various locations in the country to manage Covid duties. Naval Personnel as being provided Battle Field Nursing Assistant Training to be deployed in Covid duties. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh briefed the PM that the Navy is helping increase oxygen availability in Lakshadweep as well as Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He also apprised PM that the Indian Navy is transporting Oxygen Containers as well as other supplies from Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait & Singapore to India.
PM launches National Rurban Mission

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today launched the National Rurban Mission from Kurubhat, in Rajnandgaon district of Chhattisgarh. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister described the Rurban Mission as one which would enable cluster based development – with a “rural soul and urban amenities.” He said this scheme would complement the Smart Cities initiative by creating Smart Villages. The Prime Minister described Rurban clusters as centres of economic activity, which would spur growth, and improve the quality of life in nearby villages. The Prime Minister said the country is taking a new direction of development. He said one example of this was that the important Rurban mission was being launched not from New Delhi, but from Kurubhat, in Rajnandgaon district of Chhattisgarh. He said that Government was now being brought to the doorstep of the villages and the tribal communities. The Prime Minister congratulated villages and communities of nearby areas for achieving Open Defecation Free status. Earlier, the Prime Minister visited an exhibition at the venue, which showcased the implementation of development schemes, and handicrafts.
US Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter calls on the Prime Minister

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today received the US Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter. Prime Minister expressed satisfaction at the progress in bilateral defence cooperation between the two countries, and expressed hope that discussions with the framework of the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative between the two countries would progress along his vision of ‘Make in India’ in the defence sector. Secretary Carter conveyed that the US viewed India a close strategic ally and an enduring partner and that both sides were moving from the buyer-seller relationship towards a manufacturing partnership. Both of them also exchanged views on the regional situation, including in the South Asia and the Asia Pacific region. Secretary Carter conveyed that the US policy of ‘Rebalance’ and India’s “Act East’ policy complimented each other.
PM’s intervention during 12th BRICS virtual Summit

Excellencies, Thanks to this briefing organized by various BRICS institutions. I thank Mr. Patrushev for the review of the 10th meeting of the BRICS National Security Advisors. As I said earlier, the finalization of the BRICS Counter Terrorism Strategy is an important achievement. My suggestion is that our NSAs discuss on a Counter-Terrorism Action Plan. I would also like to thank Mr. Sergei Katyrin, the interim chairman of the BRICS Business Council. The main task of economic integration amongst us will be in the hands of the private sector. My suggestion is that the BRICS Business Council draw a concrete plan to take our bilateral trade to the $500 billion target. I congratulate Mr. Marcos Troyjo for taking over as president of the New Development Bank. NDB’s financing support will be even more useful in the context of COVID. I am happy that NDB has opened office in Russia. And I hope you will also start your regional office in India next year. I congratulate Mr. Igor Shuvalov for his work on the BRICS Inter-Bank Cooperation Mechanism. It is heartening to note that our development banks have agreed on ‘Principles for Responsible Financing’. The convening of BRICS Women’s Alliance was a special priority for President Putin, and his vision has now been realized. I thank the Alliance’s Chairperson, Ms Anna Nesterova, for her report. We are making several efforts to promote women entrepreneurship in India. It is expected that the Alliance will enhance intra-BRICS cooperation in this field. Once again, I extend warm thanks to all of you, especially our host, Mr. Putin.
PM to participate in inaugural function of Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav in Ahmedabad on 14th December

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will participate in the inaugural function of Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav on 14th December, 2022 at 5:30 PM in Ahmedabad. His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a guide and guru who touched countless lives across India and the world. He was widely respected and admired as a great spiritual leader. His life was dedicated to the service of spirituality and humanity. As the leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, he inspired countless cultural, social and spiritual initiatives, providing comfort and care to millions. In the birth centenary year of HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, people from across the world are celebrating his life and work. The year long worldwide celebrations will culminate in the ‘Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav’ that will be hosted by BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Shahibaug, which is the worldwide headquarters of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. It will be a month-long celebration which will take place from 15th December 2022 to 15th January 2023 in Ahmedabad, featuring daily events, thematic exhibitions and thought provoking pavilions. BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha was established in 1907 by Shastriji Maharaj. Based on the teachings of the Vedas and founded on pillars of practical spirituality, BAPS reaches out far and wide to address the spiritual, moral and social challenges of today. BAPS aims to preserve values of faith, unity, and selfless service, and provides for the spiritual, cultural, physical, and emotional needs of people from all walks of life. It performs humanitarian activities through global outreach efforts.
PM greets the people on Akshay Tritiya

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has greeted the people of country on the occasion of Akshay Tritiya. “Greetings on Akshay Tritiya. My prayers for a rich harvest to the farmers and a happy and prosperous life to the fellow citizens”, the Prime Minister said.
PM wishes Shri L K Advani on his birthday

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has wished Shri L K Advani on his birthday. “Warmest birthday greetings to our guide and inspiration, the respected Shri LK Advani ji. I wish Advani ji a long life filled with best health. Advani ji’s contribution to the country is invaluable. He has always been respected as a person of immense knowledge and integrity. Personally, I have learnt so much from Advani ji. For Karyakartas like us, he is the best teacher and the epitome of selfless service,” the Prime Minister said.