source_url,target_url,text,summary
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-apprised-of-the-mou-between-india-and-angola-for-promoting-bilateral-cooperation-in-the-field-of-electronics-and-it/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-apprised-of-the-mou-between-india-and-angola-for-promoting-bilateral-cooperation-in-the-field-of-electronics-and-it/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been apprised of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) the between India and Angola for promoting bilateral cooperation in the field of Electronics and Information Technology. The MoU intends to promote closer cooperation in the areas of e-Governance, HRD for IT education, Information Security, Electronics Hardware manufacturing, IT embedded Software industry, Telemedicine etc. Background: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has been mandated to promote international cooperation in the emerging and frontier areas of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) under bilateral and regional framework of cooperation. MeitY has entered into MoUs/Agreements with counterpart organizations/ agencies of various countries to promote close cooperation and exchange of information in the area of ICT. To further enhance cooperation with various countries, particularly in view of the new initiatives taken by Government of India like “Digital India”, “Make in India” etc., there is an increased need for exploring business opportunities in the technology sector which are of interest. MeitY negotiated a comprehensive MoU for a focussed cooperation in ICT areas such as in e-Governance, HRD for IT education, Information Security, Electronics Hardware manufacturing, IT embedded Software industry, Telemedicine etc. After negotiations the draft MoU was finalised and signed during the visit of Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs Mr. M.J. Akbar on behalf of MeitY, Government of India and Mr. Domingos Custodio Vieira Lopes, Secretary of State for International Cooperation and Angolan Communities, on behalf of Minister of Telecommunications and Information Technology, Government of Angola.",Cabinet apprised of the MoU between India and Angola for promoting bilateral cooperation in the field of Electronics and IT
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/global-trade-show-the-flagship-event-in-the-run-up-to-vibrant-gujarat-summit-inaugurated-by-pm-in-gandhinagar/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/global-trade-show-the-flagship-event-in-the-run-up-to-vibrant-gujarat-summit-inaugurated-by-pm-in-gandhinagar/,"Ahmedabad Shopping Festival – yet another major attraction, begins today Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2019 gets underway in Gandhinagar tomorrow PM to inaugurate the 9th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Summit to give a fillip to investments in Gujarat The 9th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Summit gets underway at Mahatma Mandir Exhibition cum Convention Centre in Gandhinagar tomorrow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the inaugural session of the summit aimed at giving a fillip to investments in Gujarat. In the run up to the start of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit scheduled to be held during January 18-20, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Global Trade Show at the Exhibition centre. The PM visited the various pavilions and evinced keen interest in the stalls of ISRO, DRDO, Khadi etc. among others bringing to the fore his vision of Make in dia with an apt tagline- From Charkha to Chandrayaan. He was accompanied by the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani and other dignitaries. The Global trade show is spread over an area of 200,000 sq. Mts, with more than 25 industrial and business sectors showcasing their ideas, products and designs under one umbrella here. A series of events and programs have been organized alongside the summit. One of the major attractions today is Ahmedabad Shopping Festival– 2019 which will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister later this evening. Mascot of the Vibrant Gujarat Ahmedabad Shopping Festival will be unveiled by the PM on this occasion. Ahmedabad Shopping Festival 2019 is the first event of its kind in India and provides an opportunity for the enterprises from the city to showcase their products. In addition to the flagship events organized as part of Vibrant Gujarat, the 9th edition of the Summit will also witness the launch of a completely new set of forums aimed at diversifying the nature of knowledge sharing at the Summit, and intensifying the level of networking between participants. Background: Vibrant Gujarat Summit was conceptualized in 2003 by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi who was then the Chief Minister of Gujarat, to re-establish Gujarat as a preferred investment destination. The Summit will provide a platform for brainstorming on agendas of global socio-economic development, knowledge sharing and forging effective partnerships. The Highlights of Vibrant Gujarat 2019 include among others- 1. Roundtable for Opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education & Research in India. It will be attended by eminent educationists and key policy makers to prepare the “Roadmap for opportunities in STEM Education & Research in India”. 2. International Conference on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) 3. Exhibition on Futuristic Technologies and Space Exploration which offers a vision of the future of space travel. 4. Seminar on Port Led Development & Strategies to establish India as the Trans-shipment Hub of Asia 5. Seminar on Make in India to showcase the Success Stories of Make in India program & key interventions by the Government. 6.Seminar on Opportunities for Industry in Defence & Aerospace to sensitize participants about opportunities in defence and aeronautics in Gujarat, and to deliberate on a way forward for India and Gujarat to emerge as a manufacturing hub for defence and aeronautics. Since its inception in 2003, Vibrant Gujarat Summit has played the role as a catalyst spurring several other states to come forward with such summits to promote trade and investments there.",Global Trade Show – the flagship event in the run up to Vibrant Gujarat Summit inaugurated by PM in Gandhinagar
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-inaugurate-the-delhi-end-tb-summit-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-inaugurate-the-delhi-end-tb-summit-tomorrow/,"TB Free India Campaign to be launched The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate The Delhi End TB Summit at VigyanBhawan in the capital tomorrow. The Summit, will be co-hosted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, WHO South East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and Stop TB Partnership. The Prime Minister will launch Tuberculosis Free India Campaign on this occasion. TB free India Campaign will take the activities of National Strategic Plan for TB elimination forward in Mission mode. The National Strategic Plan for TB elimination is backed by funding of over 12,000 crore rupees over the next three years to ensure every TB patient has access to quality diagnosis, treatment, and support. The new NSP adopts a multi-pronged approach which aims to ‘Detect’ all TB patients with an emphasis on reaching TB patients seeking care from private providers and undiagnosed TB in high-risk populations, The Prime Minister’s vision to end TB by 2025, five years ahead of the SDG’s has galvanized the efforts of the Revised National Tuberculosis Program, which has treated over 2 Crore patients since its inception in 1997.",PM to inaugurate The Delhi End TB Summit tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approvesa-cooperation-arrangement-between-india-and-afghanistan-for-cooperation-in-the-field-of-food-safety-and-related-areas/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approvesa-cooperation-arrangement-between-india-and-afghanistan-for-cooperation-in-the-field-of-food-safety-and-related-areas/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of a Cooperation Arrangement between Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW) and Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation & Livestock (MAIL), Afghanistan for cooperation in the field of Food Safety and related areas. The areas of cooperation include the following: Establishment of a mechanism of information exchange and communication; Facilitating technical exchange on identified topics of interestespecially about import procedures, quality control operations, sampling,testing, packaging and labeling; Facilitating/organization of joint seminars, workshops, visits, lectures,training programme, etc; Other areas of interest to the participants within their responsibilitiesas they may mutually determine. The cooperation arrangement will facilitate information sharing training and capacity building measure and learning from each others best practice to improve food safety ecosystem.",Cabinet approves a Cooperation Arrangement between India and Afghanistan for cooperation in the field of food safety and related areas
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condoles-loss-of-lives-due-to-a-bus-accident-in-pauri-uttrakhand/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condoles-loss-of-lives-due-to-a-bus-accident-in-pauri-uttrakhand/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the loss of lives due to a bus accident in Pauri, Uttrakhand. PM also wished speedy recovery of those who got injured in the accident. The Prime Minister Office tweeted; “The bus accident in Pauri, Uttarakhand is heart-rending. In this tragic hour my thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those who have been injured recover at the earliest. Rescue operations are underway. All possible assistance will be provided to those affected: PM Modi”","PM condoles loss of lives due to a bus accident in Pauri, Uttrakhand"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-continuation-and-restructuring-of-national-rural-drinking-water-programme/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-continuation-and-restructuring-of-national-rural-drinking-water-programme/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has accorded its approval for continuation and restructuring of National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) to make it outcome-based, competitive and better monitored with increased focus on sustainability (functionality) of schemes to ensure good quality service delivery to the rural population. A sum of Rs. 23,050 crore has been approved for the programme for the Fourteenth Finance Commission (FFC) period 2017-18 to 2019-20. The programme will cover all the Rural Population across the country. The restructuring will make the programme flexible, result-oriented, competitive, and will enable the Ministry towards to reach the goal of increasing coverage of sustainable Piped Water Supply. The details of the decision are as follows: 1. National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) is to be continued co-terminus with the 14th Finance Commission cycle till March 2020. 2. With the restructuring of the NRDWP, there will be 2% earmarking of funds for Japanese Encephalitis (JE) /Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) affected areas. 3. A new Sub-programme under NRDWP viz. National Water Quality Sub-Mission (NWQSM) which has been started by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation in February 2017 will address the urgent need for providing clean drinking water in about 28000 Arsenic & Fluoride affected habitations (already identified). As per estimates, about Rs. 12,500 crore as Central share will be required over 4 years i.e. up to March, 2021. This is being funded from the allocation under NRDWP. 4. Pre-financing for the agreed schemes, to the extent of half of the second instalment amount, will be made by the State Governments, which will be reimbursed later on from the central funding. If the State(s) fails to claim this amount before 30thNovember in the financial year, then, these funds will become a part of the common pool, which will be released to the high performing States, which have already pre-financed the requisite Government of India share on a first come first serve basis. 5. Other half of second instalment of funds will be released to the States based on functionality status of completed piped water supply schemes, which will be evaluated through a third party. 6. The Cabinet has approved Rs. 23,050 crore for the programme for the FFC period 2017-18 to 2019-20. The NWQSM aims to cover all rural population in Arsenic/Fluoride affected habitations with clean drinking water on a sustainable basis by March 2021. States have been given more flexibility in utilization of NRDWP funds by reducing the number of components under the programme. As per the Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) of the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, about 77% of rural habitations in India have achieved a fully covered (FC) status (40 litres per capita per day) and 56% of the rural population have access to tap water through public stand posts within which 16.7% have household connections. Background: The NRDWP was started in 2009, with a major emphasis on ensuring sustainability (source) of water availability in terms of potability, adequacy, convenience, affordability and equity. NRDWP is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with 50.50 fund sharing between the Centre and the States. Over the years, learning from the success achieved and the deficiencies felt during the implementation of NRDWP, certain modifications are needed in existing guidelines and procedure of release of funds to the States for making the programme more outcome-oriented and competitive. Keeping in view the need to make the NRDWP more result-oriented, incentivize competition amongst States and focused on sustainability, a series of discussions were held with States, various stakeholders / domain experts / international institutions and NITI Aayog, some amendments in the guidelines of the programme have been introduced. These are giving more flexibility to the states in utilization of NRDWP funds by reducing the number of components under the programme. Focus on piped water supply, increase level of service delivery, thrust on coverage of water quality affected habitations (National Water Quality Sub-Mission to tackle Arsenic & Fluoride affected habitations, JE / AES areas), coverage of Open Defecation Free (ODF) declared villages, SAGY GPs, Ganga GPs, Integrated Action Plan (IAP) districts, Border Out Posts (BOP) with piped water supply and Institutional set up for proper O&M of water supply assets etc. have been introduced.",Cabinet approves continuation and Restructuring of National Rural Drinking Water Programme
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-appointment-of-second-national-judicial-pay-commission-for-subordinate-judiciary-in-the-country/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-appointment-of-second-national-judicial-pay-commission-for-subordinate-judiciary-in-the-country/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved appointment of Second National Judicial Pay Commission (SNJPC) for Subordinate Judiciary in the country. The Commission is to be headed by Shri Justice (Retd.J P.Venkatrama Reddi, former Judge of Supreme Court of India. Shri R. Basant, a former Judge of the Kerala High Court is the Member of the Commission. The Commission will make its recommendations to the State Governments preferably within a period of 18 months. It will examine the present structure of emoluments and conditions of service of Judicial Officers in the States and UTs. The Commission aims to evolve the principles which would govern pay structure and other emoluments of Judicial Officers belonging to the Subordinate Judiciary of the country. It will examine the work methods and work environment as also the variety of allowance and benefits in kind that are available to Judicial Officers in addition to pay and to suggest rationalization and simplification thereof. The Commission will devise its own procedures and formulate modalities necessary for accomplishing the task. The Commission also aims at making the pay scales and conditions of service of Judicial Officers uniform throughout the country. The recommendations of the Commission will help in promoting efficiency in Judicial Administration, optimizing the size of judiciary etc. and to remove anomalies created in implementation of earlier recommendations.",Cabinet approves appointment of Second National Judicial Pay Commission for Subordinate Judiciary in the country
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-hold-samvad-with-beneficiaries-of-pradhan-mantri-bhartiya-janaushadhi-pariyojna-and-affordable-cardiac-stents-and-knee-implants-on-june-7/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-hold-samvad-with-beneficiaries-of-pradhan-mantri-bhartiya-janaushadhi-pariyojna-and-affordable-cardiac-stents-and-knee-implants-on-june-7/,"Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi will interact through Video Conference with beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojna (PMBJP) & affordable Cardiac Stents and Knee Implants on 7th June at 0930 hrs. The purpose of the ‘Samvad’ is to get to know as to how these initiatives have brought changes in the lives of patients, especially the poor and to elicit first hand feedback from them. The entire ‘Samvad’ will be on different social media platforms like NAMO App, Youtube, Facebook, etc.",PM to hold ‘Samvad’ with Beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojna and affordable cardiac stents and knee implants on June 7
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lauds-collective-commitment-to-strengthen-nari-shakti/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lauds-collective-commitment-to-strengthen-nari-shakti/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has lauded the collective commitments of 130 crore Indians to strengthen Nari Shakti in India. Quoting a tweet by Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt Smriti Irani on India registering decline in female infant mortality rate, the Prime Minister tweeted; “This is a great sign, reflective of the collective commitment of 130 crore Indians to strengthen our Nari Shakti.”",PM lauds collective commitment to strengthen Nari Shakti
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-statement-prior-to-his-departure-to-philippines/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-statement-prior-to-his-departure-to-philippines/,"Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s departure statement prior to his visit to Philippines. “I will be in Manila on a three-day visit starting 12th November. This will be my first bilateral visit to the Philippines where I will also participate in the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits. My participation in them symbolises India’s commitment to continue deepening relationship with ASEAN Member States, in particular, and with the Indo-Pacific region, in general, within the framework of my Government’s Act East Policy. Besides these Summits, I would also participate in Special Celebrations of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Leaders’ Meeting and ASEAN Business and Investment Summit. The ASEAN Business and Investment Summit will boost our close cooperation to further enhance our trade ties with ASEAN member-states, which constitutes a significant 10.85% of our overall trade. During my first visit to the Philippines, I look forward to have a bilateral meeting with President of the Philippines HE Mr. Rodrigo Duterte. I will also have interactions with other ASEAN and East Asia Summit Leaders. I also look forward to connecting with the Indian community in Philippines. During my stay in Manila, I shall also visit the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Mahavir Philippines Foundation Inc. (MPFI). International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) through Scientific Research and Development has developed better quality of rice seed and helped the global community in addressing food scarcity issues. A large number of Indian scientists are working in IRRI and contributing to R&D in this field. My cabinet approved on 12 July 2017 a proposal for IRRI to set up its South Asia Regional Centre at Varanasi. This will be the first Research Centre by IRRI outside its headquarters in the Philippines. The Varanasi Centre would help increase farmers’ income by enhancing and supporting rice productivity, reducing cost of production, value addition, diversification and enhancement of farmers’ skills. My visit to Mahavir Philippines Foundation Inc. (MPFI) will demonstrate India’s support for its activities in distributing free prosthesis “Jaipur Foot” among the needy amputees. Since its establishment in 1989, MPFI has fitted nearly 15,000 amputees in the Philippines with Jaipur Foot making them capable of living a new life. Government of India is making a modest contribution to the Foundation to support its noble humanitarian activities. I am confident that my visit to Manila will give a new boost to India’s bilateral relations with the Philippines and also further strengthen the politico-security, economic and socio-cultural pillars of our engagement with ASEAN.”",PM’s statement prior to his departure to Philippines
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-interacts-with-the-beneficiaries-of-ayushman-bharat-at-ranchi/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-interacts-with-the-beneficiaries-of-ayushman-bharat-at-ranchi/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited Ranchi in Jharkhand on 17 February, 2019. He interacted with select beneficiaries of Ayushman Bharat Yojana. Governor of Jharkhand Ms Draupadi Murmu and CM of Jharkhand Shri Raghuvar Das was also present on the occasion. Earlier today at Hazaribagh in Jharkhand, the PM said thatit is this land of Jharkhand that witnessed the launch of Ayushman Bharat Yojana that has benefitted lakhs of people across India including thousands from Jharkhand. Prime Minister Narendra Modi rolled out the Pradhan Mantri Jan ArogyaYojana-Ayushman Bharat from Ranchi on September 23, 2018 and termed it a “game-changer initiative to serve the poor“. Pradhan Mantri Jan ArogyaYojana (PM-JAY) aims to reduce the financial burden on poor and vulnerable groups arising out of catastrophic hospital episodes and ensure their access to quality health services. The scheme envisions health assurance of 5 lakh rupees per family per year, to benefit over 50 crore people, and is the world’s biggest health assurance scheme. The number of beneficiaries of this scheme is roughly equal to the population of the European Union, or the population of America, Canada and Mexico, taken together.",PM interacts with the beneficiaries of Ayushman Bharat at Ranchi
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-attends-dashamah-soundarya-lahari-parayanotsava-mahasamarpane-at-bengaluru/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-attends-dashamah-soundarya-lahari-parayanotsava-mahasamarpane-at-bengaluru/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today attended the Dashamah Soundarya Lahari Parayanotsava Mahasamarpane at Bengaluru. The Soundarya Lahari is a set of shlokas composed by Adi Shankaracharya. At the event, there was mass chanting of Soundarya Lahari. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said he feels a special energy in the environment from this mass chanting. The Prime Minister recalled his visit to Kedarnath a few days ago, and said he is filled with awe at the work done by Adi Shankara, in that remote location, as well as at other places across India, in his relatively short life-span. He said Adi Shankara had united India, through the Vedas and Upanishads. The Prime Minister said the common man could relate to Adi Shankara’s composition – Soundarya Lahari. He said Adi Shankaracharya removed evils from the society, and prevented them from reaching future generations. He said Adi Shankara had imbibed the best of practices from different ideologies and thought. He said Adi Shankaracharya’s penance still exists in the present form of Indian culture – a culture that accepts all, and moves forward together. This culture is the foundation of New India – and follows the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister said that in a way, India’s cultural heritage holds the answers to all global problems. He said that in India, the stress has always been on preventing the exploitation of nature. The Prime Minister said that LED bulbs which earlier cost more than 350 rupees, are now available for 40 to 45 rupees under the Ujala scheme. He said more than 27 crore LED bulbs have been distributed so far. This has resulted in savings in the electricity bill as well, he added. The Prime Minister mentioned that over 3 crore LPG connections have been distributed through the Ujjwala Yojana. This has not only made a positive difference in the lives of rural women, but also contributed to a cleaner environment, he said. The Prime Minister said that the need of the hour is that efforts be made to free India from evils such as illiteracy, ignorance, malnutrition, black money and corruption.",PM attends Dashamah Soundarya Lahari Parayanotsava Mahasamarpane at Bengaluru
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-remembers-dr-rajendra-prasad-on-his-birth-anniversary/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-remembers-dr-rajendra-prasad-on-his-birth-anniversary/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has paid tributes to Dr. Rajendra Prasad Ji on his birth anniversary. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said; “Remembering Dr. Rajendra Prasad Ji on his birth anniversary. A legendary leader, he epitomised courage and scholarly zeal. He was firmly rooted in India’s culture and also had a futuristic vision for India’s growth.”",PM remembers Dr. Rajendra Prasad on his birth anniversary
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-launch-swachhata-hi-seva-movement-on-september-15th-2018/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-launch-swachhata-hi-seva-movement-on-september-15th-2018/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will launch the Swachhata Hi Seva movement from September 15th. As part of an elaborate launch event for this fortnight long movement, the Prime Minister will interact with a cross-section of people from 18 locations across the country, via video conferencing. The people with whom PM will interact include school-children, jawans, spiritual leaders, members of milk and agricultural cooperatives, media persons, local government representatives, railway employees, Self Help Groups, and Swachhagrahis, among others. The Swachhata Hi Seva movement, which aims at generating greater public participation towards Swachhta, is being organized in the run up to the fourth anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission, on October 2nd, 2018, which will also mark the commencement of the 150th year celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi. Earlier, describing this movement as “a great way to pay tributes to Bapu,” the Prime Minister, in a video message to the people, had exhorted people to be “part of this movement and strengthen the efforts to create a Swachh Bharat.”","PM to launch Swachhata Hi Seva movement on September 15th, 2018"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-wishes-people-on-world-health-day/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-wishes-people-on-world-health-day/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has wished people on World Health Day. PM said, “Good health is the foundation of human progress. This World Health Day, I wish all of you remain in the best health and continue to scale new heights of growth. I welcome the theme ‘Universal health coverage: everyone, everywhere’ that has been chosen by WHO and others. It is the quest for Health For All that inspired us to create Ayushman Bharat, the largest healthcare programme in the world.”",PM wishes people on World Health Day
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-extension-of-scheme-of-recapitalization-of-regional-rural-banks-upto-2019-20/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-extension-of-scheme-of-recapitalization-of-regional-rural-banks-upto-2019-20/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the extension of the scheme of recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) for the next three years i.e. upto 2019-20. This will enable the RRBs to maintain the minimum prescribed Capital to Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 9 per cent. Impact: A strong capital structure and minimum required level of CRAR will ensure financial stability of RRBs which will enable them to play a greater role in financial inclusion and meeting the credit requirements of rural areas. Details: There are 56 RRBs functioning in the country. As on 31st March, 2017(Prov.), the total credit given by RRBs is Rs.2,28,599 crore, of which the credit under key categories is as under: –",Cabinet approves extension of Scheme of Recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks upto 2019-20
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-extends-his-greetings-on-army-day/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-extends-his-greetings-on-army-day/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has extended his greetings on Army Day. PM said, “On Army Day, I convey greetings to the soldiers, veterans and their families. Every citizen of India has unwavering trust and pride in our Army, which protects the nation and is also at the forefront of humanitarian efforts during times of natural disasters and other accidents. Our Army always puts the nation first. I salute all those great individuals who sacrificed their lives while serving the nation. India will never forget our valiant heroes.”",PM extends his greetings on Army Day
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-interaction-with-young-ias-officers/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-interaction-with-young-ias-officers/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today interacted with over 170 young IAS officers who have recently been appointed Assistant Secretaries in the Government of India. The Prime Minister encouraged them to share their experiences of field training. He discussed with them, some of the elements of good governance, including Jan Bhagidaari, information flows, optimal utilisation of resources, and people’s trust in governance. Recent governance initiatives such as Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, and Ayushman Bharat, also came up for discussion. Minister of State in PMO, Dr. Jitendra Singh and senior officials from the Department of Personnel and Training were present on the occasion.",PM’s interaction with young IAS officers
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-raising-of-ebr-for-swachh-bharat-mission-gramin-sbmg-amounting-up-to-rs-15000-crore-during-the-financial-year-2018-19/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-raising-of-ebr-for-swachh-bharat-mission-gramin-sbmg-amounting-up-to-rs-15000-crore-during-the-financial-year-2018-19/,"Expansion of scope of work of the erstwhile International Centre for Drinking Water Quality, to rename as National Centre for Drinking Water, Sanitation and Quality (NCDWS & Q) and to authorize it to work as a receptacle for receiving EBR for SBM(G). The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the following: Raising funds up to Rs.15,000 crore as Extra Budgetary Resources (EBR) (Gol Fully Serviced Bonds) for Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) [SBM(G)] during the financial year 2018-19 through NABARD. Expansion of the scope of work of the Society named International Centre for Drinking Water Quality to authorise it for receiving EBR funds for SBM(G), disbursement of the same to the Sates/UTs implementing agencies, and its repayment. To change the name of the Society to “National Centre for Drinking Water, Sanitation and Quality” in place of “International Centre for Drinking Water Quality”. Impact: This decision will benefit around 1.5 crore rural households eligible for incentive under Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), and also Gram Panchayats for Solid and Liquid Waste Management (SLWM) activities. The funds will be utilized to achieve and sustain Open Defecation Free (ODF) status in the villages across the country. Expenditure involved: The loan amount of Rs.15,000 crore will be repaid to NABARD as single bullet payment at the end of 10th year from the date of loan disbursement as per the agreed terms and conditions. The EBR funds will be raised through NABARD after considering (he exact requirements/expenditure of the States/UTs and released to the States/UTs implementing agencies. For receiving the funds for SBM(G), disbursement of the same to the Sates/UTs implementing agencies, and repayment of loan and interest amount, National Centre for Drinking Water, Sanitation and Quality shall work as a receptacle agency. This will help provide adequate and timely funds to the States/UTs for achieving the goal of SBM(G) within the targeted timelines. Background: SBM(G) was launched with effect from 2nd October, 2014, with the goal to achieve universal sanitation coverage in rural areas by 2nd October, 2019. For IHHLs, financial incentive of Rs. 12,000 is provided to the eligible beneficiaries for construction of individual household toilets in the prescribed funding share pattern between the Centre and the States. For SLWM activities, the financial assistance is provided with a cap of Rs.7/12/15/20 lakh to Gram Panchayats having up to 150/300/500/more than 500 households respectively. For 1EC, up to 5% of the total project cost can be spent at State/District levels and 3% at Central level. For Admin expenses, up to 2% of the total project cost can be made. The funds sharing pattern for these activities between the Centre and the States (except North. Eastern States, Jamrau & Kashmir and Special Category States) is 60:40. For North-Eastern States, Jammu & Kashmir and the Special Category States, the funding pattern is 90:10. The Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin has made rapid progress in advancing sanitation in rural India. As on 31.07.2018, sanitation coverage in India is 88.9%. Over 7.94 crore toilets have been built since 2nd October 2014, with 4.06 lakh villages, 419 districts and 19 States & UTs already being declared Open Defecation Free (ODF). The pace of progress is constantly accelerating and India is on track to achieve ODF by October 2019. The Cabinet had approved the SBM(G) on 24th September, 2014, with effect from 2nd October, 2014, with the goal to achieve universal sanitation coverage in rural areas by 2nd October, 2019. Significant progress has already been made under SBM(G), and with the mission nearing its final, accelerated progress is being seen across States and UTs. In order to meet the financial requirements for achieving the goals of SBM(G), for the year 2018-19, in the Budget announcements made by Finance Minister, an amount of Rs.30,343 crore was allocated for SBM(G). This was proposed to be met by Rs. 15,343 crore from General Budgetary support and remaining Rs. 15,000 through Extra Budgetary Resources (EBR). Thereafter, the Steering Group on EBR under the chairmanship of Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs had recommended for raising of the EBR up to Rs.15,000 crore during 2018-19 for SBM(G) through NABARD.","Cabinet approves: Raising of EBR for Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) [SBM(G)] amounting up to Rs. 15,000 crore during the financial year 2018-19"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lays-foundation-stone-of-vishva-umiyadham-complex/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lays-foundation-stone-of-vishva-umiyadham-complex/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today laid the Foundation Stone of the Vishva Umiyadham Complex at Jaspur, Ahmedabad. Addressing an enthusiastic gathering on the occasion, he said that no one can ever forget the role of Saints and Seers in strengthening our society. They have given us valuable teachings, he added. They even gave us the strength to fight evil and oppression, the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister said that our Saints and Seers taught us to absorb the best of our past and, at the same time look ahead and keep changing with the times. Speaking of initiatives that benefit the people, the Prime Minister said that doing something on a small scale is not acceptable to the Union Government. The Union Government’s work will always be at a large scale, benefiting all sections of society, he added. At the community level, the Prime Minister said that it is important to emphasise on top quality education for youngsters. The Prime Minister firmly said that those who believe in MaaUmiya can never support female foeticide. The Prime Minister appealed to the people, to help create a society where there is no discrimination based on gender.",PM lays foundation stone of Vishva Umiyadham Complex
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-umbrella-schemes-for-relief-and-rehabilitation-of-migrants-and-repatriates/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-umbrella-schemes-for-relief-and-rehabilitation-of-migrants-and-repatriates/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for continuance of the 8 existing schemes of the Ministry of Home Affairs up to March 2020 for relief and rehabilitation of migrants and repatriates under the Umbrella scheme “Relief and Rehabilitation of Migrants and Repatriates”. Financial Implication: The financial implication for this purpose is Rs. 3183 crore for the period 2017-18 to 2019-20. The year-wise phasing of the scheme will be- Rs. 911 crore in 2017-18, Rs.1372 crore in 2018-19 and Rs. 900 crore in 2019-2020. Benefits: The schemes will provide relief and rehabilitation assistance to the refugees, displaced persons, civilian victims of terrorist/communal/LWE violence and cross border firing and mine/IED blasts on Indian Territory and riot victims of various incidents etc. Details: The 8 schemes approved for continuance are already in operation, and the benefits under each will be extended to intended beneficiaries in accordance with the approved criterion. The schemes are as under: 1. Central Assistance for one-time settlement of displaced families from Pak Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Chhamb settled in the State of Jammu & Kashmir. 2. Rehabilitation Package and up-gradation of infrastructure of the Bangladeshi Enclaves and Cooch Behar District after transfer of enclaves between India and Bangladesh under Land Boundary Agreement. 3. Relief assistance to Sri Lankan refugees staying in camps in Tamil Nadu and Odisha. 4. Grant-in-Aid to Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC) for five years for administrative and social welfare expenses of Tibetan settlements. 5. Grant-in-Aid to Government of Tripura for maintenance of Brus lodged in relief camps of Tripura. 6. Rehabilitation of Bru/Reang families from Tripura to Mizoram. 7. Grant of enhanced relief of Rs. 5.00 lakh per deceased person, who died during 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots. 8. Central Scheme for Assistance to Civilian Victims/Family of Victims of Terrorist/Communal/LWE Violence and Cross Border Firing and Mine/IED blasts on Indian Territory’. Background: To enable the migrants and repatriates, who have suffered on account of displacement, to earn a reasonable income and to facilitate their inclusion in mainstream economic activities, the Government, at different points of time, started 8 schemes. These schemes provide assistance for – relief and rehabilitation of displaced families of PoJK and Chhamb; Relief assistance to Sri Lankan refugees, Relief assistance to Brus lodged in relief camps in Tripura; Rehabilitation of BRU/Reang families from Tripura to Mizoram; enhanced relief to 1984 Anti-Sikh Riot Victims; Relief to Civilian victims/family of victims of terrorists/Communal/LWE violence and Cross Border firing and Mine/IED blasts on Indian Territory and Repatriation of Indian Prisoners from abroad; Grant-in-aid to Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC). The Government is also providing Grant-in-Aid to Government of West Bengal for infrastructure development in 51 erstwhile Bangladeshi enclaves in India situated in Cooch Behar District for resettlement of 911 returnees from erstwhile Indian enclaves in Bangladesh.",Cabinet approves Umbrella Schemes for Relief and Rehabilitation of Migrants and Repatriates
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/15th-edition-of-pravasi-bharatiya-diwas-inaugurated-by-pm-in-varanasi/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/15th-edition-of-pravasi-bharatiya-diwas-inaugurated-by-pm-in-varanasi/,"Prime Minister calls upon Overseas Indians to join hands for building a New India Government has plugged the loopholes in the system to make it transparent and corruption free- PM One World, One Sun, One Grid is the mantra- PM Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana on the anvil If India is unique, Indianness is universal, says Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth Mauritius to organise First International Bhojpuri Festival The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the plenary session of the 15th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas at Deendayal Hastkala Sankul in Varanasi today. Chief Guest of PBD 2019, Prime Minister of Mauritius, PravindJugnauth, ,Governor of Uttar Pradesh Ram Naik, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj along with UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal Khattar, Chief Minister of UttarakhandTrivendra Singh Rawat, Union Minister of State for Overseas Indian Affairs Retd.General V K Singh and several other dignitaries graced the occasion. In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it is the love and affection of the diaspora for the land of their forefathers which has brought them to India. He called upon the NRI community to join hands for building a new India. PM lauded the role of Indian diaspora in keeping alive the tradition of VasudhaivaKutumbakam. He said the NRIs are not only the Brand Ambassadors of India but also represent its strength, capabilities and characteristics. He urged the diaspora to participate in building a New India specially in research and innovation. PM said that with its rapid progress, India is being seen on a high pedestal across the world and is in a position to lead the global community. International Solar Alliance is one such example. Mr. Modi added that local solution and global application is our mantra. He termed International Solar Alliance as a step in the direction of One World, One Sun, One Grid. Prime Minister said that India is on course to become a global economic powerhouse. It has one of the largest start-up ecosystems and world’s largest healthcare scheme to its credit. We have moved on with great strides in Make in India. A bumper harvest production has been our major achievement. PM lamented that due to lack of will power and proper policies of the previous Government, a large chunk of funds earmarked for them was not available for the Beneficiaries. However today, he said we have plugged the loopholes in the system with the help of technology. The loot of public money has been stopped and 85 percent of the lost money has been made available and transferred directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries. PM said that now Rs. 5,80000 crores has transferred directly into people’s accounts over the past four and a half years.PM narrated how 7 crore fake names have been struck off the list of beneficiaries, which is almost equal to the population of Britain, France and, Italy. PM said these are some of the glimpses of changes ushered in by his Government which reflect the New Confidence of a New India. PM said the diaspora is equally important in our resolve for a New India. He added that their safety is also our concern and cited how the Government took upon the challenge of evacuating more than 2 lakh Indians stranded in conflict zones. Speaking about the welfare of Indians overseas, Mr. Modi said passport and visa rules have been simplified and e visa had made it much easier for them to travel. All PravasiBharatiya are now being linked to Passport Sewa and efforts are in to issue chip based E passport. PM said that a Pravasi Teerth DarshanYojana is being taken up. He urged overseas Indian to invite 5 non Indian families to visit India. PM also requested them to spread the values of Gandhi ji and Guru Nanak Dev ji and become a part of their anniversary celebrations. He said that we feel proud that global community joined us in compilation of Bapu’s favourite bhajan, Vaishnava jan. PM complimented the role of the residents of Kashi in making PBD successful with their warmth and hospitality. PM said that ahead of upcoming School Board examinations, he will interact with the parents and students through NAMO App in ParikshapeCharcha – at 11am on 29th January, 2019. Chief Guest of PBD -2019, Mauritius PM, PravindJugnauth invoked the memories of Indian diaspora and their connect with the land of their forefathers. Speaking in Hindi and English, he said such gatherings reinforce the identity of overseas Indians as the members of one family with shared history and culture. He said, if India is unique, Indianness is universal. The Mauritian PM told that an educated and self reliant diaspora can play a major role in nation building and the Diaspora connect can help multilateralism. He enthralled the crowd with his Bhojpuri dialect and announced that Mauritius will organise the first International Bhojpuri festival. In her welcome address, External Affairs Minister said India today feels proud under the dynamic leadership of PM Modi. She thanked Indian diaspora for their linkages with the motherland. Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath said PBD and Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh are a reflection of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. Prime Minister Modi felicitated the winners of Bharat koJaniye quiz competition. This is a quiz competition on India meant for the young Indian diaspora. Closing ceremony of PBD will be held tomorrow on January 23, 2019 where President RamnathKovind will confer PravasiBharatiyaSamman to select overseas Indians for their contributions. After the Convention, on 24th January, the visiting diaspora delegates will visit Prayagraj for KumbhMela. They will then proceed to Delhi on 25th January and witness the Republic Day Parade at Rajpath, New Delhi.","15th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas inaugurated by PM, in Varanasi"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-reviews-progress-towards-holistic-development-of-islands/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-reviews-progress-towards-holistic-development-of-islands/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today reviewed the progress towards holistic development of islands. The Union Government had constituted the Islands Development Agency on June 1st, 2017. 26 islands have been listed for holistic development. NITI Aayog made a presentation on the elements of holistic development, including key infrastructure projects, digital connectivity, green energy, desalination plants, waste management, promotion of fisheries, and tourism-based projects. Reviewing the work done in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Prime Minister emphasized on the need for developing an integrated tourism-centric ecosystem, in the areas identified for tourism development. He called for expeditious pursuit of energy self-sufficiency in the islands, which could be based on solar energy. The Prime Minister was also briefed on the decision of the Ministry of Home Affairs, to dispense with the requirement of Restricted Area Permit for foreigners visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Greater connectivity of these islands with South East Asia was also discussed. During the review of development work in Lakshadweep, the Prime Minister was apprised of the steps taken to boost Tuna fishing, and the promotion of “Lakshadweep Tuna” as a brand. The Prime Minister appreciated Lakshadweep’s initiatives on cleanliness. Development of vital infrastructure in both Andaman and Nicobar islands, as well as in Lakshadweep was discussed. The Prime Minister asked the concerned officials to explore the possibility of seaweed cultivation, and other initiatives which could be of help for the agriculture sector. The meeting was attended by Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, the Lt. Governors of Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, CEO NITI Aayog, and senior officials from the Union Government.",PM reviews progress towards holistic development of islands
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-signing-an-agreement-between-india-and-armenia-on-cooperation-and-mutual-assistance-in-customs-matters/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-signing-an-agreement-between-india-and-armenia-on-cooperation-and-mutual-assistance-in-customs-matters/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for signing and ratifying an Agreement between India and Armenia on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters. The Agreement will be signed on behalf of the two countries after it is approved by the respective Governments. This Agreement shall enter into force on the first day of the second month after the Contracting Parties notify each other in through diplomatic channels, that the necessary national legal requirements for entry into force of this Agreement have been fulfilled. The Agreement will help in the availability of relevant information for the prevention and investigation of Customs offences. It is also expected to facilitate trade and ensure efficient clearance of goods traded between the countries. Background : The Agreement would provide a legal framework for sharing of information and intelligence between the Customs authorities of the two countries and help in the proper application of Customs laws, prevention and investigation of Customs offences and the facilitation of legitimate trade. The draft text of the Agreement has been finalized with the concurrence of the two Customs Administrations. The draft Agreement takes care of Indian Customs’ concerns and requirements, particularly in the area of exchange of information on the correctness of the Customs value declared and authenticity of certificates of origin of the goods traded between the two countries.",Cabinet approves signing an Agreement between India and Armenia on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-conveys-his-greetings-on-world-consumer-rights-day/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-conveys-his-greetings-on-world-consumer-rights-day/,"Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has conveyed his greetings on World Consumer Rights Day. PM said, “Greetings on World Consumer Rights Day. The consumer plays an important role in the economy. Government of India is not only focussing on consumer protection but also consumer prosperity.”",PM conveys his greetings on World Consumer Rights Day
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-expresses-grief-on-loss-of-lives-due-to-accident-in-bihar/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-expresses-grief-on-loss-of-lives-due-to-accident-in-bihar/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has expressed his grief on loss of lives in road accident in Bihar. PM said, “Saddened by the loss of lives due to a road accident in Araria, Bihar. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased. I pray for the quick recovery of those injured.”",PM expresses grief on loss of lives due to accident in Bihar
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-congratulates-p-v-sindhu-on-winning-her-first-ever-singapore-open-title/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-congratulates-p-v-sindhu-on-winning-her-first-ever-singapore-open-title/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated P V Sindhu on winning her first ever Singapore Open title. Shri Modi has also said that It is a proud moment for the country and will also give inspiration to upcoming players. In a reply to a tweet by Union Sports Minister, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, the Prime Minister said; “I congratulate @Pvsindhu1 on winning her first ever Singapore Open title. She has yet again demonstrated her exceptional sporting talent and achieved success. It is a proud moment for the country and will also give inspiration to upcoming players.”",PM congratulates P V Sindhu on winning her first ever Singapore Open title
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-salutes-the-brave-indian-soldiers-who-laid-down-their-lives-to-liberate-haifa-in-1918-2/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-salutes-the-brave-indian-soldiers-who-laid-down-their-lives-to-liberate-haifa-in-1918-2/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has saluted the brave Indian soldiers who laid down their lives to liberate Haifa in 1918. “On Haifa Day I salute the brave Indian soldiers who laid down their lives to liberate Haifa in 1918. Was pleased to visit Haifa and pay homage there in person in July”, the Prime Minister said.",PM salutes the brave Indian soldiers who laid down their lives to liberate Haifa in 1918
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-interact-with-mudra-beneficiaries-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-interact-with-mudra-beneficiaries-tomorrow/,"Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi will interact with over 100 MUDRA beneficiaries from across the country at a function in the capital tomorrow. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) has been one of the flagship initiatives of the Governmentto promote entrepreneurship spirit among the youth by providing easy loans without guarantees.As on 23rd March, 2018, 4,53,51,509 loans have been sanctioned, amounting to Rs. 2,28,144.72 Crore. The total amount disbursed under this scheme is Rs. 220596.05 Crore The scheme was launched on 8th April 2015 to promote and ensure access of financial facilities to Non –Corporate Small Business Sector (NCSBS). The loans provided are easily accessible and in three categories- Shishu, Kishore and Tarun. Under the scheme all loans upto Rs.10 lakh for income generating activities will be extended as PMMY loans. Loan of upto Rs. 50000 is given under sub-scheme ‘Shishu’ between Rs. 50,000 to 5 Lakhs under sub-scheme ‘Kishore’ and between Rs. 5 Lakhs to Rs.10 Lakhs under sub-scheme ‘Tarun’. Activities allied to Agriculture (excluding crop loans, land improvement such as canals, irrigation, wells) and services supporting these, which promote livelihood or are income generating, have also been included under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojanafrom April, 2016 onwards.",PM to interact with MUDRA Beneficiaries tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-serves-3-billionth-meal-to-underprivileged-children-in-vrindavan/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-serves-3-billionth-meal-to-underprivileged-children-in-vrindavan/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, visited Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh today. He unveiled the plaque to mark the serving of 3rd billionth meal by Akshaya Patra Foundation at Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir. PM served the 3rd billionth meal to underprivileged children from schools. He also paid floral tributes at the Vigraha of Srila Prabhupada, the Acharya of ISKCON. Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik, CM of UP Shri Yogi Adityanath, Chairman of Akshaya Patra Foundation Swami Madhu Pandit Dasa and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, PM lauded the efforts of the Akshaya Patra Foundation, and said the movement that started from serving 1500 children today serves Mid Day Meal to 17 lakh children from Schools across the country. He was happy to note that, first meal was served during the reign of Atal Behari Vajpayee jee and he has got the opportunity to serve 3rd billionth meal. He said Good Nutrition and Healthy Childhood is the foundation of New India. PM said the 3 aspects of Health-: Nutrition, Immunization and Cleanliness have been given priority by his Government and National Nutrition Mission, Mission Indradhanush and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan are major initiatives. National Nutrition Mission was launched last year reflecting its commitment to provide proper nutrition to every mother and children. “If we succeed in delivering the nutrition coverage to every mother, every child, many lives will be saved.” added PM. Talking about Mission Indradhanush Programme, he said that 5 more vaccines have been added to the national program. 3 Crore 40 lakhs Children and 90 lakh Pregnant Women have been immunized so far. PM lauded Mission Indradhanush for being selected as one of the 12 best practices globally by a leading Medical Journal. About Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Sanitation, he noted that an International Report has noted that usage of toilets can help save lives of 3 lakh People. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is an initiative in this direction. PM also highlighted other initiatives of the Government including Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana ,Ujjawala Yojana, Rashtriya Gokul Mission. Under Ujjawala Yojana, he said, Government has provided 1 Crore Free Gas connections in Uttar Pradesh alone. Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog is being set up for conservation, protection and development of cows. Highlighting Government’s efforts to help those engaged in Animal Husbandry, he said credit of Rs. 3 lakh under Kisan Credit Card has been extended to them. He said PM Kisan Yojana aimed at Farmer Welfare will benefits the Farmers of Uttar Pradesh the most, as most of the farmers of this state have landholdings less than 5 acres. PM summed up his address, saying these efforts of the foundation showcase the importance of transition of ‘I’ to ‘We’, when we rise above ourselves and think about society. Akshaya Patra Foundation works closely with the Ministry of Human Resource Development and State Governments to serve quality, hygienic, and nutritious food to millions of children under the Mid -day meal program.The Foundation has served mid-day meals to 1.76 million children in twelve states covering 14,702 schools. In 2016, Akshaya Patra commemorated the serving of 2 billion cumulative meals in the presence of the then President of India, Pranab Mukherjee. The serving of 3 billionth food for the underprivileged children from schools by Prime Minister narendra Modi is yet another step to reach out to the poor and marginalized sections of the society.",PM serves 3 billionth meal to underprivileged children in Vrindavan
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-the-agreement-between-india-and-kyrgyz-for-the-avoidance-of-double-taxation-and-the-prevention-of-fiscal-evasion-in-the-taxes-on-income/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-the-agreement-between-india-and-kyrgyz-for-the-avoidance-of-double-taxation-and-the-prevention-of-fiscal-evasion-in-the-taxes-on-income/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for the protocol amending the Agreement between India and Kyrgyz Republic for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income. The Protocol amending Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) aims to update Article 26 (Exchange of Information) of the DTAA to international standards. The updated Article provides for exchange of information to the widest possible extent. The new paragraphs 4 and 5 being inserted into the existing Article 26 of the DTAA provide that the State from which information is requested cannot deny information on the ground that it has no domestic tax interest in that information or that the information requested is held by a bank or a financial institution, etc. The Protocol further empowers India to use information received under the DTAA to be used for other law enforcement purposes on the supplying State authorizing such use. Background: The existing DTAA between India and Kyrgyz Republic was notified on 7/02/2001 and the same was in force since 10/01/2001. A Protocol amending DTAA between India and Kyrgyz Republic for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income has been agreed to be signed between the two countries.",Cabinet approves the Agreement between India and Kyrgyz for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion in the taxes on income
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-receive-israel-pm-netanyahu-in-gujarat-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-receive-israel-pm-netanyahu-in-gujarat-tomorrow/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will join Israel Prime Minister, Shri Benjamin Netanyahu, and Mrs. Sara Netanyahu, on a visit to Gujarat tomorrow. The city of Ahmedabad will greet Mrs. and Mr. Netanyahu with a reception, as they proceed to Sabarmati Ashram from Ahmedabad Airport. They will pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Sabarmati Ashram. Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Netanyahu will inaugurate the iCreate Center at Deo Dholera Village in Ahmedabad. They will visit a Startup Exhibition and interact with innovators and Startup CEOs. The two Prime Ministers will dedicate a mobile water desalination van to Suigam Taluka, of Banaskantha district, through a video link. Both leaders will also address the gathering. Prime Minister Netanyahu and Prime Minister Modi will also visit the Centre of Excellence for Vegetables at Vadrad in Banaskantha district. They will be briefed on work plan of the Centre. They will inaugurate the Centre of Excellence for Date Palms at Kukama, Bhuj District, through a video link. The two Prime Ministers will also interact with farmers. Prime Minister Netanyahu will later depart for Mumbai.",PM to receive Israel PM Netanyahu in Gujarat tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-address-two-video-conferences-on-31st-december-and-1st-january/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-address-two-video-conferences-on-31st-december-and-1st-january/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will address two important video conferences on 31st December and 1st January. On 31st December, the Prime Minister will deliver the inaugural address, via video conference, for the 85th Sivagiri Pilgrimage Celebrations, at Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala, Kerala. Sivagiri is the holy abode of one of the great saints and social reformers of India, Sree Narayan Guru. On 1st January, 2018, the Prime Minister will address, via video conference, the curtain raiser ceremony of the commemoration of Prof. S.N. Bose’s 125th birth anniversary, at Kolkata. Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose was an Indian physicist, best known for his work on quantum mechanics, providing the foundation for Bose–Einstein statistics. The class of particles that obey Bose–Einstein statistics, has been named Bosons, after Prof. Bose.",PM to address two video conferences on 31st December and 1st January
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-apprised-of-two-bilateral-mous-between-india-and-cuba-and-india-and-korea-in-the-area-of-biotechnology/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-apprised-of-two-bilateral-mous-between-india-and-cuba-and-india-and-korea-in-the-area-of-biotechnology/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been apprised of two Bilateral Memorandums of Understanding signed between India and Cuba, and India and Korea in the area of Biotechnology. The MoUs were signed on 22nd June 2018 at Havana, Cuba and on 9th July 2018 at New Delhi, respectively. The MoUs signed with Cuba and Korea respectively, are in the agreed areas of collaboration and objectives in the field of Science & Technology, wherever the expertise in these areas exist in the country. Major impact The MoUs have been signed to strengthen the Indo-Cuba and Indo-Republic of Korea bilateral ties, to work out the future agenda for the collaboration for Innovation in S&T Diplomacy to evolve a concrete strategic plan in the area of biotechnology education, training and research.The proposal has the potential towards employment generation for more than 50 postgraduates and Ph.Ds in biological sciences and related areas for a period of upto five years. Background: Indo-Cuba Collaboration India and Cuba signed a bilateral MoU to deepen collaboration on biotechnology on 22nd June 2018 during the visit of Hon’ble President of India to Havana, Cuba. The Ministry of Science and Technology of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment of the Republic of Cuba, have signed the MoU on 22nd June,2018 at Havana. India-Republic of Korea Collaboration India and Korea have signed an MoUin the area ofBiotechnology and Bio-economy. The MoU aims to broaden and deepen cooperation between the two countries in Science & Technology, in the fields of Biotechnology and encouraging industrial R&D and related bilateral investment flows.","Cabinet apprised of two Bilateral MoUs between India and Cuba, and India and Korea in the area of Biotechnology"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-appreciates-cleanathon-organised-at-juhu-beach-in-mumbai/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-appreciates-cleanathon-organised-at-juhu-beach-in-mumbai/,"Sharing a tweet by Dr Jitendra Singh on cleanathon organised at Juhu beach in Mumbai, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has lauded the cause. Shri Modi has appreciated the people involved in the cleanathon and said that it is important we focus on keeping our coasts clean. The Prime Minister tweeted; “Commendable…I appreciate all those involved in this effort. India is blessed with a long and beautiful coastline and it is important we focus on keeping our coasts clean.”",PM appreciates Cleanathon organised at Juhu beach in Mumbai
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-remarks-on-the-election-of-shri-harivansh-as-deputy-chairman-of-the-rajya-sabha/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-remarks-on-the-election-of-shri-harivansh-as-deputy-chairman-of-the-rajya-sabha/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today congratulated Shri Harivansh, on his election as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. Speaking in the Upper House, shortly after the election, the Prime Minister also expressed happiness that the Leader of the House, Shri Arun Jaitley, is back in the House, after recovering from illness. The Prime Minister noted that we are marking the anniversary of the Quit India Movement today. He said that Harivansh ji hails from Ballia, a land which has been linked with the freedom struggle, right from the 1857 war of independence. The Prime Minister added that Shri Harivansh has been inspired by Loknayak Jaya Prakash Narayan. The Prime Minister recalled that Harivansh ji had also worked with former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar ji. The Prime Minister said that working closely with Chandra Shekhar ji, Harivansh ji knew in advance that Chandra Shekhar ji would resign. However, he did not let his own newspaper have access to this news, the Prime Minister observed, adding that this shows his commitment to ethics and public service. The Prime Minister said that Harivansh ji is well read and has written a lot. He added that Harivansh ji has served society for years. Shri Narendra Modi also congratulated Shri B.K. Hariprasad for being a part of the election for Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. He thanked the Chairman and all the members, for the smooth conduct of the election.",PM’s remarks on the election of Shri Harivansh as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-mou-between-india-and-russia-on-bilateral-cooperation-in-the-road-transport-and-road-industry/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-mou-between-india-and-russia-on-bilateral-cooperation-in-the-road-transport-and-road-industry/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Russia on Bilateral Cooperation in the Road Transport and Road Industry. The MoU will be signed during the upcoming visit of Russian President to India. In order to develop and establish formal platform for cooperation in the Transport and Highways sector, a Memorandum of Understanding in the field of Road Transport and Road Industry has been jointly negotiated and finalized by both countries. Both the countries will benefit by mutual cooperation in the field of Road Transport and Road Industry. Increased co-operation, exchange and collaboration with Russia will contribute to establish a long-term and effective bilateral relationship of communication and cooperation in road transportation and road industry and Intelligent Transport System (ITS). This will also help in planning and administration of road infrastructure and road network management, transport policy, technologies and standards for the construction and operation of highways in the country and will further go a long way in strengthening ties and bilateral relations between India and Russia. Background: India and Russia enjoy long-standing relationship and have maintained strong economic ties at a strategic partnership level. Russia has developed technological solutions for satellite based tolling solutions. Similarly, they have also adopted advanced intelligent traffic management systems including crash reporting/ monitoring systems. Considering Russia’s proven experience in adoption of technology in the road transport sector, it would be beneficial to learn from such best practices through close interaction. India is implementing at a rapid pace its highway infrastructure augmentation plans. To make full use of the road infrastructure it is necessary to embrace technology to enhance transport productivity and safety. This will also help in reducing overall logistic cost. India’s own plans for massive highway and expressway infrastructure development can be attractive opportunity to infrastructure development entitles in the Russia. A partnership between the two countries will provide a platform for interaction at the operational level and supplement initiatives associated with all International groupings and forums where both countries are members.",Cabinet approves MoU between India and Russia on Bilateral Cooperation in the Road Transport and Road Industry
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-moc-between-india-and-japan-in-the-field-of-environmental-cooperation/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-moc-between-india-and-japan-in-the-field-of-environmental-cooperation/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given ex-post facto approval to the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India and Japan. The MoC was signed on 29th October 2018 during the visit of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India to Japan. Benefits: The MoC will enable establishment and promotion of closer and long-term cooperation between India and Japan in the field of environment protection and management of natural resources on the basis of equity, reciprocity and mutual benefits, taking into account the applicable laws and legal provisions in each country. Further, the MoC entails exchange of information and technology between the two countries. Environmental degradation falls on the socially and economically disadvantaged, more heavily than better-off sections of the society. Any effort at thwarting environmental degradation would lead to environmental equity in the sense of availability of sound environmental resources to all sections of the society. The MoC is expected to bring in the latest technologies and best practices suited for bringing about better environment protection, better conservation, better management of climate change and bio-diversity conservation.",Cabinet approves MoC between India and Japan in the field of Environmental Cooperation
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-joint-issue-of-postage-stamp-between-india-and-south-africa/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-joint-issue-of-postage-stamp-between-india-and-south-africa/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was apprised of joint issue of Postage Stamps on India-South Africa on the theme, “20 Years of Strategic Partnership between India and South Africa”. The joint stamps were released in June 2018. The Commemorative Postage Stamps on India-South Africa: Joint Issue depicts image of DeendayalUpadhyaya and Oliver Reginald Tambo of South Africa. An MoU was signed to this effect between India and South Africa in May 2018.",Cabinet approves joint issue of postage stamp between India and South Africa
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-addresses-the-4th-international-yoga-day/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-addresses-the-4th-international-yoga-day/,"Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that Yoga has become one of the most powerful ‘Unifying Forces’ in the world. He was addressing a huge gathering on the 4th International Yoga Day held at the Forest Research Institute campus in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Prime Minister performed Yogasan, Pranayama and Dhyan with about 50,000 yoga enthusiasts and volunteers at the Forest Research Institute campus. “It’s a proud moment for everyone that today, all over the world; people are welcoming the brightness and warmth of the sun with Yoga. From Dehradun to Dublin, from Shanghai to Chicago, and from Jakarta to Johannesburg, yoga is now spread everywhere”, Prime Minister said Giving a clear-cut message to the Yoga enthusiasts all over the world, Prime Minister said that the entire world has embraced Yoga and the glimpses of this can be seen in the way International Day of Yoga is celebrated every year. He further added that Yoga Day has become one of the biggest mass movements in the quest for good health and well-being. Prime Minister said that we should not hesitate to honour our own legacy and heritage if we want the rest of the world to respect us. He said that Yoga is beautiful because it is ancient and yet modern, it is constant and yet evolving; it has the best of our past and present and provides a ray of hope for our future. Talking about the potential of Yoga, Prime Minister said that Yoga has a solution to most of the problems faced by people, as individuals as well as a society. He said that Yoga could lead to a calm, creative and content life, removing tensions and needless anxiety. “Instead of dividing, Yoga unites. Instead of further animosity, Yoga assimilates. Instead of increasing suffering, Yoga heals”, he added.",PM addresses at the 4th International Yoga Day
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-agreement-between-india-and-uzbekistan-on-cooperation-in-health-and-medical-science/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-agreement-between-india-and-uzbekistan-on-cooperation-in-health-and-medical-science/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of an Agreement between India and Uzbekistan on cooperation in health and medical science. The Agreement covers the following areas of cooperation:- 1. Expanding opportunities for the development of business cooperation in the field of medical equipment, including equipment for teaching and research laboratories of institutions of medical education, and pharmaceutical products; 2. Strengthening of primary health care and setting up of health care facilities; 3. Medical and health research development, as well as exchange of experience in these areas; 4. Exchange of experiences and technologies in the field of telemedicine and electronic-health information systems; 5. Maternal and child health protection; 6. Development and improvement of the techniques and strategies for epidemiological surveillance and communicable and non-communicable diseases control; 7. Regulation of drugs and pharmaceutical products; 8. Any other areas of cooperation of mutual interest. A Working Group will be set up to further elaborate the details of cooperation and to oversee the implementation of this Agreement.",Cabinet approves Agreement between India and Uzbekistan on cooperation in health and medical science
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-mou-between-india-and-lebanon-for-cooperation-in-the-field-of-agriculture-and-allied-sectors/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-mou-between-india-and-lebanon-for-cooperation-in-the-field-of-agriculture-and-allied-sectors/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Lebanon for cooperation in the field of agriculture and allied sectors. Bilateral cooperation in the field of agriculture will be mutually beneficial to both the countries. The MoU will promote understanding of best Agricultural practices in the two countries and will help in better productivity at farmer fields as well as improved global market. The MoU will help to increase agriculture production and productivity by getting access to best practices and market worldwide. It will lead to innovative techniques for increasing production and productivity, leading to strengthening of food security.",Cabinet approves MoU between India and Lebanon for cooperation in the field of agriculture and allied sectors
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/asha-representatives-from-across-the-country-call-on-pm/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/asha-representatives-from-across-the-country-call-on-pm/,"A group of about 90 ASHA representatives from across the country, called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi today to express their happiness, and thank him for the recent announcement of increase in incentives, and insurance cover. The Prime Minister recalled his recent interaction with the ASHA and Anganwadi workers across the country, via video conference. He appreciated the experiences and personal accounts that had been shared by ASHA representatives that day, and said that these will surely prove inspirational for many. Today, ASHA activists shared some more accounts of how they had been instrumental in saving lives of poor mothers and children through timely intervention. The Prime Minister appreciated the skill and dedication of ASHA workers, and recalled that even Bill and Melinda Gates had praised the efforts of ASHAs towards eradication of diseases such as Kala Azar. He encouraged them to devote their energies to work in coordination with other government agencies to improve the quality of life in their villages. He also explained how Government schemes and initiatives are all aimed at empowering the poor to fight poverty. Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Sh. J.P. Nadda was also present on the occasion.",ASHA representatives from across the country call on PM
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-statement-prior-to-his-departure-to-sweden-and-uk/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-statement-prior-to-his-departure-to-sweden-and-uk/,"Following is the text of Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s departure statement prior to his visit to Sweden and the United Kingdom. “I will be visiting Sweden and the United Kingdom for bilateral meetings and for the India-Nordic Summit and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting during 17-20 April 2018. On 17th April, I will be in Stockholm on the invitation of Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven. This is my first visit to Sweden. India and Sweden share warm and friendly ties. Our partnership is based on democratic values and commitment to an open, inclusive and rule-based global order. Sweden is a valuable partner in our development initiatives. PM Lofven and I will also have the opportunity to interact with top business leaders of both the countries and chart out a future roadmap of cooperation with focus on trade and investment, innovation, S&T, skill development, smart cities, clean energy, digitization and health. I would also call on His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden. India and Sweden will jointly organize the India-Nordic Summit in Stockholm on 17th April with the Prime Ministers of Finland, Norway, Denmark and Iceland. The Nordic countries have globally recognized strengths in clean technologies, environmental solutions, ports modernization, cold-chains, skill development and innovation. Nordic competencies fit well with our vision for India’s transformation. On 18th April 2018, I will be in London on the invitation of Prime Minister Theresa May. I had last visited the UK in November 2015. India and the United Kingdom share a modern partnership bound by strong historical ties. My visit to London presents another opportunity for both countries to infuse fresh momentum to this growing bilateral engagement. I will be focusing on enhancing India-UK partnership in the areas healthcare, innovation, digitization, electric mobility, clean energy, and cyber security. Under the theme of “Living Bridge”, I will also have the opportunity to meet people from various walks of life who have enriched the multi-faceted India-UK relationship. I would also call on Her Majesty The Queen, interact briefly with CEOs of the two nations who are working on a new agenda of economic partnership, launch an Ayurveda Centre of Excellence in London, and welcome the UK into the International Solar Alliance, as its newest member. On 19th and 20th April I will also participate in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting being hosted by the United Kingdom which will take over as the new Chair-in-Office of the Commonwealth from Malta. The Commonwealth is a unique multilateral grouping that not only provides useful assistance to its developing country members, particularly the small states and small-island developing states, but also has a strong international voice for development issues. I am confident that these visits to Sweden and UK will be useful in enhancing our engagement with these countries.”",PM’s statement prior to his departure to Sweden and UK
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-in-parliament-on-the-election-of-shri-harivansh-as-deputy-chairman-of-the-rajya-sabha/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-in-parliament-on-the-election-of-shri-harivansh-as-deputy-chairman-of-the-rajya-sabha/,"Hon. Mr. Chairman, First of all, I congratulate the newly elected deputy chairman Shriman HarivanshJi on behalf the entire house and myself. It is a matter of happiness for all of us that today Arun Ji is also amongst us after the recovery. Today is the 9thof August. The August Revolution was an important milestone in the freedom movement and Balia district had played an important role in that event. Balia had been at the forefront in the freedom struggle right from the war of independence of 1857 to sounding the bugle of August Revolution to sacrificing lives. Whether it was Mangal Pandey Ji or Chittu Pandey Ji or be it the tradition of Chandra ShekharJi, and HarivanshJi is also in that series. He was born in the village of Jay Prakash Ji and till date he has been attached to the village. And he has also been working as a trustee in the trust that was formed for implementing the dreams of Jay Prakash Ji. HarivanshJi belongs that tradition of Wordsmiths who have built a special recognition for themselves. And it is a matter of happiness for me that he had been a student in Banaras. He obtained education in Banaras. And he completed his M.A. in economics from Banaras only. And he was selected in the Reserve Bank. However, he did not opt for the Reserve Bank. But later he joined a nationalized bank because of the situation of his household. Mr. Chairman, You would be pleased to know that he worked in Hyderabad for two important years of his life. At times he had been to several places like Mumbai, Hyderabad and Delhi. However, he was never influenced by those glittering mega cities. He went to Calcutta to work in Ravivar newspaper. And all of us are aware that SP Singh was a stalwart, he was well known in the world of television. He worked with SP Singh. And as a trainee journalist he had worked with DharamvirBharati. He had started his life from there. He worked with DharmYug with a sense of attachment. He was a confidant of Chandra ShekharJi and every person has unique traits about the dignity and values of the office he holds. He had all the information because of the kind of office he was holding in Chandra ShekharJi’steam. He had advance information that Chandra ShekharJi was about to tender his resignation. He himself was associated with a newspaper. He was attached to the world of journalism. However, he never let his own newspaper get an idea of it that Chandra ShekharJi was about to resign. While maintaining the dignity of his office he kept that secret to himself. He did not allow the news to be published in his own newspaper so that the newspaper can win praise. HarivanshJi joined Ravivar newspaper in Bihar. At that time it was undivided Bihar, Jharkhand was formed later. He went to Ranchi to join PrabhatKhabar. And the circulation of news paper of just 400 copies when he had joined it. The person who had several opportunities in life, there were avenues if he had gone to the banking sector. However, he was a talented person and he dedicated himself to a newspaper with a circulation of just 400 copies. His four decade long journalistic career reflects powerful journalism and that journalism was attached to the society’s cause. It was not for those in power. And I believe thatthe biggest factor behind the election of HarivanshJi would be that he was associated with the journalism oriented towards the cause of the society and he stayed away from the journalism oriented towards ruling class. He had been running the newspaper as a public movement. When Param Veer gallantry award winner Albert Ekka attained martyrdom for the country then a news was published in a newspaper that his wife was leading a life of penury and deprivation. It was twenty years ago. HarivanshJi took the responsibility. He collected money from people. He collected four lakh rupees and gave it the widow of the martyr. Once,Naxals had kidnapped a respected person. HarivanshJi, whatever sources he had through his newspaper, on the basis of those sources, he courageously went to the Naxal area. He reasoned with them and secured the release of the person. He risked his life. So he is a personality who is well read and who has also written a lot of books. And I believe that it would have been easier to run a newspaper and supervise journalists. It’s a different experience when one is oriented toward the cause of the society and social work. And the experience with the ruling class is different. You have shown the example of a successful tenure as a member of parliament to everyone. However, most of the time the situation of the house is like this that umpires are in more trouble than the players. Therefore, it is a huge task, it is a challenging task to compel everyone to play by the rules. However, HarivanshJi will certainly be able to do this thing. HarivanshJi’s wife Shrimati Asha Ji, she is from Champaran. So in a way the entire family is connected to JP, connected to Gandhi Ji in some way or the other. And she herself is a M.A. in political science so heracademic knowledge will be now more helpful to you. I am confident that now this thing will become a mantra in the house that all of us members of the parliament will have the grace of God (Hari). Now everyone will be banking on Hari (HarivanshJi). And I am confident that all of us, be from this side or that side, all the MPs will have your support. It was such an election in whichthere were candidates with ‘Hari’ name on either side. One candidate has a prefix of BK before his name: BK Hari. He has no such prefix or suffix of BK or VK. However, I would also like to congratulate BK Hari Prasad Ji for fulfilling his responsibility for the dignity of democracy. And everyone was saying this thing that they knew the result but decided to participate in the process. So a lot of new people would have received the training for casting votes. And I would like to thank all the dignitaries, all the honorable members for taking forward this entire process in a very good manner and also to the deputy chairman. And I am confident that his experience, his dedication to the social cause.And it has been an unique thing about HarivanshJi, he had started a column in his news paper: ‘What kind of MP should we have?’ And at that time he did not know that one day he would become MP. But he had run a massive campaign that what kind of MPs we should have. I know that he has gotten a huge opportunity to realise his dreams and also the training that all of us MPs will receive from him. And DashrathManjhi, today, who has been discussed about a lot in India, very few people would be aware that if there was someone who had for the first time searched and published the story of DashrathManjhi then it was HarivanshBabu. So today we are going to be guided by the gentleman manwho has always been attached to the people at the bottom of the society. I heartily congratulate him and convey my best wishes.",PM’s address in Parliament on the election of Shri Harivansh as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-launches-development-projects-in-manipur-addresses-public-meeting/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-launches-development-projects-in-manipur-addresses-public-meeting/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today launched development projects worth Rs. 750 crore in Manipur. He laid the Foundation Stone of the National Sports University, 1000 Anganwadi Centres, and several other important development projects. He inaugurated the Luwangpokpa Multi Sports Complex, the Rani Gaidinliu Park, and other important development projects. He also addressed a public meeting at Luwangsangbam. Addressing the enthusiastic gathering, the Prime Minister complimented the State Government for the work done by it over the past one year. He said the projects launched today are related to the aspirations and talent of the youth, their employment, women empowerment and connectivity. He said the National Sports University is being established, keeping in mind the talent and sporting capability of the youth in the North East. He urged the youth of Manipur to take maximum advantage of the recently launched Khelo India Initiative. He also complimented Manipur for its good performance in the recently concluded Khelo India Games. He said the Multi Sports Complex would offer opportunities for training and competitions. The Prime Minister said Manipur has shown how sports can become a means of women empowerment. He appreciated famous sportspersons of the State including Mirabai Chanu and Sarita Devi. He also appreciated other initiatives for women empowerment taken by the State Government. In this context, he also mentioned the 1000 Anganwadi Centers whose foundation stone was laid today. He spoke about the recently launched National Nutrition Mission. The Prime Minister said that the Union Government’s vision for the North East has been ‘Transformation by Transportation.’ The Prime Minister said that the North-East can be the New Engine of India’s growth. He said the Government is addressing the special needs of the North East to enable growth parity with the rest of the country. He remarked that he has himself visited the North East more than 25 times in the last 4 years. The Prime Minister said that the Central Government has given a huge thrust on improving the infrastructure in the region. He spoke of initiatives taken for improving road and rail connectivity in the region. The Prime Minister appreciated the citizen-centric initiatives of the State Government, including for structured interaction and resolution of public grievances. The Prime Minister recalled that it was in April 1944, in Manipur, that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s INA gave the clarion call for freedom. He said that today Manipur has decided to play an important role in the rise of a New India.","PM launches development projects in Manipur, addresses public meeting"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-establishment-of-national-institute-of-mental-health-rehabilitation-in-sehore-district-instead-of-bhopal/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-establishment-of-national-institute-of-mental-health-rehabilitation-in-sehore-district-instead-of-bhopal/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved, in partial modification of the earlier decision taken on 16.05.2018, the establishment of National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation (NIMHR) in Sehore District (Bhopal-Sehore highway) instead of Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh. Benefits: NIMHR will be the first of its kind in the country in the area of mental health rehabilitation. It will serve as an institution of excellence for capacity building in human resource and research in the area of mental health rehabilitation, and also recommending body suggesting models/protocols for effective rehabilitation of persons with mental illness.",Cabinet approves establishment of National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation in Sehore District instead of Bhopal
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-opening-statement-at-15th-asean-india-summit-manila/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-opening-statement-at-15th-asean-india-summit-manila/,"Your Excellency President Duterte, Excellencies, Mr. President, I am delighted to be on my first visit to Manila in this landmark 50th year of ASEAN’s establishment. We are also celebrating 25 years of ASEAN – India dialogue partnership. I compliment the Philippines for its able stewardship of ASEAN during this significant year and thank you, Mr. President, for the excellent arrangements made for this Summit. I also thank the honourable Prime Minister of Vietnam for Vietnam’s contribution as Country Coordinator to further strengthen the ASEAN-India partnership. Excellencies, ASEAN’s remarkable journey is indeed worthy of reflection as much as it is of celebration. On this historic occasion, I am confident that ASEAN will further resolve to work together with one vision, one identity and as one independent community. India’s Act East Policy is shaped around the ASEAN, and its centrality in the regional security architecture of the Indo-Pacific region is evident. Our wide-ranging agenda of cooperation under the 3rd ASEAN-India Plan of Action has progressed well covering the three crucial pillars of politico-security, economic and cultural partnership. Excellencies, Maritime links established thousands of years ago between India and ASEAN countries have enabled our trade relations in the past and we have to work closely to further strengthen them. India assures the ASEAN of its steady support towards achieving a rules-based regional security architecture that best attests to the region’s interests and its peaceful development. We have individually strived very hard to fight terrorism and violent extremism. It is time that we jointly address this challenge by intensifying cooperation in this crucial area. Excellencies, The befitting theme of ‘Shared Values, Common Destiny’ for our 25th anniversary celebrations has been jointly celebrated with a number of commemorative activities. I look forward to a befitting culmination of the commemorative year and receiving you at the India-ASEAN Special Commemorative Summit on 25 January 2018 in New Delhi. The 1.25 billion people of India are keen to welcome the ASEAN Leaders as our Chief Guests at India’s 69th Republic Day Celebrations. I am committed to working with you to realize our common destiny. Thank you.","PM’s Opening Statement at 15th ASEAN-India Summit, Manila"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-interactions-with-directors-and-deputy-secretaries/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-interactions-with-directors-and-deputy-secretaries/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, interacted with around 380 Directors and Deputy Secretaries working in various departments and Ministries in the Government of India, in four groups. The interactions happened on various days in the month of October 2017. The last of these interactions was on October 17, 2017. Each interaction lasted around two hours. Subjects such as Governance, Corruption, Public Enterprises, Government e-Marketplace, Health, Education, Skill Development, Agriculture, Transportation, National Integration, Water Resources, Swachh Bharat, Culture, Communication, and Tourism came up for discussion during the interactions. The Prime Minister exhorted the officers to work with full dedication towards creation of New India by 2022. He said that silos are a big bottleneck in the functioning of the Union Government. He urged the officers to adopt innovative ways to break silos, which will result in the speeding up of various processes of governance. In the same vein, he said officers at the level of Director and Deputy Secretary must create teams, to achieve better results. MoS, PMO Dr Jitendra Singh, and senior officers from PMO and Cabinet Secretariat were present during the interactions.",PM’s interactions with Directors and Deputy Secretaries
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-praises-the-beauty-of-northeast/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-praises-the-beauty-of-northeast/,"Urges People To Share Their Photos Of Northeast Visits The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi praised the spectacular beauty of the Northeast. He asked, “Do you have pictures of your own Northeast visits or glimpses of the spectacular natural beauty of the region?” He requested the people to share them on Instagram using #MagnificentNortheast. “I will share some of the posts on my page too!”, he added.",PM praises the beauty of the Northeast
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-setting-up-of-the-national-commission-for-homoeopathy-nch-bill-2018/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-setting-up-of-the-national-commission-for-homoeopathy-nch-bill-2018/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the draft National Commission for Homoeopathy, Bill, 2018, which seeks to replace the existing regulator Central Council for Homoeopathy (CCH) with a new body to ensure transparency. The draft bill provides for the constitution of a National Commission with three autonomous boards entrusted with conducting overall education of Homoeopathy by Homoeopathy Education Board. The Board of assessment and rating to assess and grant permission to educational institutions of Homoeopathy and Board of ethics and registration of practitioners of Homoeopathy to maintain National Register and ethical issues relating to practice are under the National Commission forHomoeopathy. It also proposes a common entrance exam and an exit exam which all graduates will have to clear to get practicing licenses. Further, a teacher’s eligibility test has been proposed to assess the standard of teachers before appointment and promotions. It further aims at bringing reforms in the medical education of Homoeopathy in lines with the National Medical Commission proposed for setting up for Allopathy system of medicine. The CCH had been earlier superseded by Board of Governors through an Ordinance and subsequent amendment of Act.","Cabinet approves setting up of the National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH) Bill, 2018"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condoles-the-passing-away-of-former-mp-and-speaker-shri-somnath-chatterjee/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condoles-the-passing-away-of-former-mp-and-speaker-shri-somnath-chatterjee/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the passing away of former Member of Parliament and Speaker of the Lok Sabha Shri Somnath Chatterjee. “Former MP and Speaker Shri Somnath Chatterjee was a stalwart of Indian politics. He made our Parliamentary democracy richer and was a strong voice for the well-being of the poor and vulnerable. Anguished by his demise. My thoughts are with his family and supporters’’, the Prime Minister said.",PM condoles the passing away of former MP and Speaker Shri Somnath Chatterjee
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-mou-between-india-and-indonesia-on-health-cooperation/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-mou-between-india-and-indonesia-on-health-cooperation/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Indonesia on health cooperation. The MoU covers the following areas of cooperation:- Research and development, active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and IT-based medical equipment; Human Resource Development; Health services; and Any other area as may be mutually agreed upon. A Working Group will be set up to further elaborate the details of cooperation and to oversee the implementation of this MoU.",Cabinet approves MoU between India and Indonesia on Health cooperation
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-israeli-pm-netanyahu-visit-centre-of-excellence-for-vegetables-at-vadrad/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-israeli-pm-netanyahu-visit-centre-of-excellence-for-vegetables-at-vadrad/,"Prime Minister Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu today visited the Centre of Excellence for Vegetables in Vadrad in Sabarkantha District of Gujarat. They were briefed on various achievements of the Centre. They also inaugurated through video link, the Centre of Excellence for date palms at Kukama in Kutch district. They interacted with farmers from Kutch district. Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Modi said that Israel has shown the way on how to transform a nation with the agriculture sector at the core. He said it is important to use technology in the agriculture sector. He outlined how India is working towards doubling farmers’ incomes by 2022. He said it is important to devote attention to irrigation and innovative methods of farming.","PM, Israeli PM Netanyahu visit Centre of Excellence for Vegetables at Vadrad"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-exhorts-people-to-pledge-for-leading-healthier-lifestyle-to-overcome-diabetes-on-the-world-diabetes-day/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-exhorts-people-to-pledge-for-leading-healthier-lifestyle-to-overcome-diabetes-on-the-world-diabetes-day/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi had exhorted people to pledge for leading healthier lifestyle to overcome diabetes, on the World Diabetes Day. “Today, on World Diabetes Day, let us pledge to lead healthier lives so that we can overcome diabetes. Spoke about the rising occurrence of diabetes among youth during Mann Ki Baat last month”, the Prime Minister said.","PM exhorts people to pledge for leading healthier lifestyle to overcome diabetes, on the World Diabetes Day"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-felicitates-medal-winners-of-2018-summer-youth-olympics/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-felicitates-medal-winners-of-2018-summer-youth-olympics/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today met and felicitated the medal winners of the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics, held in Argentina. Prime minister urged them to remain focussed and work harder to achieve their goal of reaching the podium in the coming Olympics. Prime Minister assured the athletes that Government would provide them adequate support and facilities. Shri Modi said that the young athletes should inspire youngsters in their schools and villages to take up sports. The Prime Minister complimented the coaches of the medal winners for their contribution in raising India’s profile on the global stage.",PM felicitates medal winners of 2018 Summer Youth Olympics
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-opening-remarks-at-fourth-meeting-of-governing-council-of-niti-aayog/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-opening-remarks-at-fourth-meeting-of-governing-council-of-niti-aayog/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today delivered the opening remarks at the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog, in Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre in New Delhi. Welcoming the Chief Ministers and other delegates, the Prime Minister reiterated that the Governing Council is a platform that can bring about “historic change.” He assured the Chief Ministers from flood-affected States that the Union Government would provide all assistance to them, to deal with the flood situation currently affecting parts of the country. He said that the Governing Council has approached complex issues of governance as “Team India”, in the spirit of cooperative, competitive federalism. He described the smooth rollout and implementation of GST as a prime example of this. The Prime Minister said that Chief Ministers of States had played a key role in policy formulation, through sub-groups and committees on issues such as Swachh Bharat Mission, Digital Transactions, and Skill Development. The recommendations of these sub-groups have been incorporated by various Ministries of the Union Government, he added. The Prime Minister said that the Indian Economy has grown at a healthy rate of 7.7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2017-18. He added that the challenge now is to take this growth rate to double digits, for which many more important steps have to be taken. He said that the vision of a New India by 2022, is now a resolve of the people of our country. In this context, he mentioned the issues on the agenda today, including doubling of farmers income, development of aspirational districts, Ayushman Bharat, Mission Indradhanush, Nutrition Mission and celebrations of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The Prime Minister said that 1.5 lakh Health and Wellness Centres are being constructed under Ayushman Bharat. He said about 10 crore families will be provided health assurance worth Rs. 5 lakhs every year. He said a comprehensive approach is being adopted for education, under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. The Prime Minister said that schemes such as Mudra Yojana, Jan Dhan Yojana and Stand Up India, are helping in greater financial inclusion. He emphasized the need for tackling economic imbalances on priority. He said that all aspects and parameters of human development need to be addressed and improved upon in the 115 aspirational districts. Shri Narendra Modi said that the Gram Swaraj Abhiyan has emerged as a new model for implementation of schemes. He said that this has so far been extended to 45,000 villages in the Aspirational Districts. He said that the target is universal coverage in seven important welfare schemes: Ujjwala, Saubhagya, Ujala, Jan Dhan, Jeevan Jyoti Yojana, Suraksha Bima Yojana, and Mission Indradhanush. He said this target was recently accomplished in about 17,000 villages. The Prime Minister said that India has no shortage of capabilities, capacities and resources. He said that in the current financial year, States are receiving over 11 lakh crore rupees from the Centre, which represents an increase of about 6 lakh crore rupees, from the last year of the previous government. The Prime Minister said that this gathering today represents the hopes and aspirations of the people of India. He said it is also the responsibility of this gathering to make all efforts to fulfil them. Earlier, the Chief Ministers and other delegates were welcomed to the meeting by Vice Chairman of the NITI Aayog, Shri Rajiv Kumar. The discussions are being moderated by Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh.",PM’s opening remarks at fourth meeting of Governing Council of NITI Aayog
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-attend-commencement-of-work-function-for-rajasthan-refinery-in-barmer-rajasthan/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-attend-commencement-of-work-function-for-rajasthan-refinery-in-barmer-rajasthan/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will attend a function to mark the commencement of work for the Rajasthan Refinery at Pachpadra, in Barmer district in Rajasthan on 16th January, 2018. He will also address a public meeting. Rajasthan has significant reserves of oil and gas. The Rajasthan Refinery will be the State’s first. It is envisaged as a 9 MMTPA Refinery cum Petrochemical Complex. The product output from the refinery will conform to the advanced BS-VI emission norms. The estimated cost of the project is over Rs. 43,000 crore. The project is a Joint Venture of HPCL and Government of Rajasthan. The Governor and Chief Minister of Rajasthan, and several Union Ministers are expected to attend the event.","PM to attend commencement of work function for Rajasthan Refinery in Barmer, Rajasthan"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-congratulates-h-e-tun-dr-mahathir-mohamad-prime-minister-of-malaysia/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-congratulates-h-e-tun-dr-mahathir-mohamad-prime-minister-of-malaysia/,"Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a telephone call today to H. E. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad to congratulate him on assuming office as the Prime Minister of Malaysia. Prime Minister Modi conveyed his good wishes for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Malaysia. He stated that the close and mutually beneficial India-Malaysia ties are based on the strong foundation of shared values, interests and vibrant people-to-people relations. The Prime Minister said that he looked forward to working with Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad to further strengthen India-Malaysia strategic partnership.","PM congratulates H. E. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Prime Minister of Malaysia"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-visit-dadra-and-nagar-haveli-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-visit-dadra-and-nagar-haveli-tomorrow/,"Several development projects on the anvil The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi will visit Silvassa the capital of Dadra & Nagar Haveli tomorrow on 19 January 2019. During the visit, he will lay the foundation stone of Medical College in Sayli, Dadra & Nagar Haveli. Prime Minister will also unveil plaque to inaugurate various development projects in Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. He will also launch the m-Arogya app and door to door waste collection, segregation and processing of Solid Waste in Dadra & Nagar Haveli digitally. The Prime Minister will also release the IT policy of the Union Territory. He will also distribute Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana certificates and Forest Rights certificates to few beneficiaries. The Setting up of Medical College in Sayli in Silvassa will improve tertiary care facilities in both Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, and adjoining areas. It will benefit the students, especially those of tribal and rural areas of the two UTs. It will increase the availability of doctors and enhance medical education opportunities to students. Rs 210 crore has been earmarked for the construction of the medical college and hostels for medical and para-medical college and residential buildings.",PM to visit Dadra and Nagar Haveli tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-pays-tributes-to-pt-madan-mohan-malaviya-on-his-jayanti-2/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-pays-tributes-to-pt-madan-mohan-malaviya-on-his-jayanti-2/,"The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has paid his tributes to Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya on his Jayanti. “Remembering Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya on his Jayanti. His impact on India’s history is strong and unforgettable. His efforts to further education and a spirit of patriotism will always be remembered”, the Prime Minister said.",PM pays tributes to Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya on his Jayanti
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-strengthening-of-teaching-patient-clinical-care-and-public-health-programme-implementation-shifting-of-more-experienced-doctors-belonging-to-central-government-and-central-governme/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-strengthening-of-teaching-patient-clinical-care-and-public-health-programme-implementation-shifting-of-more-experienced-doctors-belonging-to-central-government-and-central-governme/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the Strengthening of teaching, patient / clinical care and public health programme implementation – Shifting of more experienced doctors belonging to Central Government and Central government entities to teaching/ clinical / Public Health Programme implementation activities. The approval seeks to ensure that the doctors belonging to Central Health Service (CHS) and of other Ministries / Departments / entities of the Central Government, after attaining the age of 62 years, work exclusively in their respective fields of clinical expertise. This would be done by amending the decision of the Union Cabinet taken in its meeting held on 15.06.2016 for removal of difficulties experienced in effective implementation of this decision. Major Impact: This will result in capacity building and leadership development of more Central Government doctors besides availability of more experienced doctors for medical education, clinical / patient care services and for implementation of national health programmes. Beneficiaries: The decision will make available more experienced doctors for patient / clinical care, medical teaching activities and implementation of National Health Programmes etc., which is likely to benefit society at large. The benefits of this proposal will percolate down the line throughout the country. Background: In order to tackle the problem of shortage of doctors, low joining and high attrition rate in Central Health Service, Union Cabinet in its meeting held on 15.06.2016, approved increase in age of superannuation of doctors of the Central Health Service to 65 years. Subsequently, in its meeting held on 27.09.2017, the Union Cabinet increased age of superannuation of doctors working in various other Ministries/Departments including those of Indian Railways, AYUSH, Central Universities and NTs, etc. to 65 years. It is, however, felt that there is a need to make available the services of senior doctors above the age of 62 years for core medical profession, such as, clinical / patient care/ teaching in medical colleges / implementation of health programmes, Public Health programmes & functions, etc.","Cabinet approves Strengthening of teaching, patient/clinical care and public health programme implementation – Shifting of more experienced doctors belonging to Central Government and Central government entities to teaching/clinical/Public Health Programme implementation activities"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lays-foundation-stone-of-shikshan-bhavan-and-vidhyarthi-bhavan/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lays-foundation-stone-of-shikshan-bhavan-and-vidhyarthi-bhavan/,"The Prime Minister. Shri Narendra Modi, today, laid the foundation stone of Shikshan Bhavan and Vidhyarthi Bhavan at Annapurna Dham Trust in Adalaj, Gujarat. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Prime Minister said that India had the rich tradition of communities taking lead, to solve the challenges faced by an era. He mentioned about communities coming together to improve education and irrigation.Such community efforts have greatly benefitted people, PM added. Remembering SardarVallabhbhai Patel, Prime Minister said that the efforts of Sardar Patel towards cooperative sector should never be forgotten. The Prime Minister urged the people of Gujarat to work on food processing. He added that such value addition would benefit both farmers and industries. Paying homage to Maa Annapurna, Prime Minister said that the Annapurna Dham Trust should give society the strength to ensure gender equality and prosperity for everyone.",PM lays Foundation Stone of Shikshan Bhavan and Vidhyarthi Bhavan
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-dedicates-statue-of-unity-to-the-nation/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-dedicates-statue-of-unity-to-the-nation/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today dedicated the world’s tallest statue, the ‘Statue of Unity’, to the nation. The 182 metre statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, was dedicated to the nation on his birth anniversary, at Kevadiya in Narmada District of Gujarat. At the launch ceremony, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries’ poured soil and Narmada water into a Kalash to mark the dedication of the ‘Statue of Unity’ to the nation. The Prime Minister pressed a lever to commence a Virtual Abhishek of the statue. He inaugurated the Wall of Unity. At the feet of the Statue of Unity, the Prime Minister performed a special prayer. He visited the Museum and Exhibition, and the Viewers’ Gallery. This gallery, at 153 metres height, can accommodate upto 200 visitors at one time. It offers a spectacular view of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, its reservoir, and the Satpura and Vindhya mountain ranges. The dedication ceremony was punctuated by flypast of IAF aircraft, and performances of cultural troupes. Greeting the people of India on this occasion, the Prime Minister said that the entire country is celebrating Rashtriya Ekta Divas today. He said today marks a special moment in the history of India. He said that with the Statue of Unity, India has given itself today, a towering inspiration for the future. He said the Statue will continue to remind future generations of the courage, capability and resolve of Sardar Patel. He said that the integration of India by Sardar Patel, has resulted today in India’s march towards becoming a big economic and strategic power. The Prime Minister also recalled Sardar Patel’s vision of the administrative services as a steel frame. He described the Statue of Unity as a symbol of the self-respect of the farmers who gave soil from their land, and iron from their farming implements for the Statue. He said the aspirations of the youth of India can be achieved only through the mantra of “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat.” He congratulated everyone associated with the construction of this Statue. He said the Statue would generate considerable tourism opportunities for the region. The Prime Minister mentioned that several memorials have been made to recall the contributions of freedom fighters and great leaders, in recent years. Besides the Statue of Unity, he mentioned the museum dedicated to Sardar Patel in Delhi, Mahatma Mandir and Dandi Kutir in Gandhinagar, the Panchtirth dedicated to Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar, the Statue of Sri Chhotu Ram in Haryana, and the memorials of Shyamji Krishna Varma and Veer Nayak Govind Guru in Kutch. He said work is in progress for the museum dedicated to Subhash Chandra Bose in Delhi, the Shivaji statue in Mumbai, and tribal museums across the country. The Prime Minister spoke of Sardar Patel’s vision of a strong and inclusive India, and said the Union Government is working towards making this dream a reality. He mentioned the efforts to provide a home to all, to provide electricity to all, and towards road connectivity and digital connectivity. He also mentioned the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. He said that efforts such as GST, e-NAM, and “One-Nation, One-Grid” have also contributed to integrating the nation in various ways. The Prime Minister spoke of our collective responsibility to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation, and to counter all divisive forces.",PM dedicates Statue of Unity to the Nation
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condoles-the-passing-away-of-kalaignar-karunanidhi/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condoles-the-passing-away-of-kalaignar-karunanidhi/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. “Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised. Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu’s voice was effectively heard. I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered. My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace”, the Prime Minister said.",PM condoles the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-statement-prior-to-departure-for-republic-of-korea/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-statement-prior-to-departure-for-republic-of-korea/,"I am visiting the Republic of Korea at the invitation of President Moon Jae-in. This will be my second visit to the Republic of Korea and my second Summit meeting with President Moon. We had the pleasure of receiving President Moon Jae-in and First Lady Mrs. Kim Jung-sook in India in July last year. My visit to the Republic of Korea is reflective of the importance we both attach to our relationship. We regard the Republic of Korea as a valued friend, a nation with which we have a Special Strategic Partnership. As fellow democracies, India and the ROK have shared values and a shared vision for regional and global peace. As fellow market economies, our needs and strengths are complementary. ROK is an important partner for our ‘Make in India’ initiative as well as in our ‘Start Up India’ and ‘Clean India’ initiatives. Our collaboration in the field of science and technology is encouraging, with our joint research ranging from basic to advanced sciences. Our people to people ties and exchanges, as always, provide the bedrock of our ties of friendship. We were touched by President Moon’s decision to send the First Lady as his special representative at the ‘Deepotsav’ Festival held in Ayodhya last November. The growing depth and variety in our relationship has been accentuated by the harmony between our Act East Policy and ROK’s New Southern Policy. Working together, we are determined to take our relationship forward as a ‘future oriented partnership for People, Prosperity and Peace’. During this visit, apart from my discussions with President Moon, I will meet with business leaders, members of the Indian community as well as eminent persons from all walks of life. I am confident that this visit will help us to further strengthen this important partnership.",PM’s statement prior to departure for Republic of Korea
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condoles-the-passing-away-of-kuldip-nayar/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condoles-the-passing-away-of-kuldip-nayar/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the passing away of veteran journalist and former Rajya Sabha member, Kuldip Nayar. “Kuldip Nayar was an intellectual giant of our times. Frank and fearless in his views, his work spanned across many decades. His strong stand against the Emergency, public service and commitment to a better India will always be remembered. Saddened by his demise. My condolences”, the Prime Minister said.",PM condoles the passing away of Kuldip Nayar
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-congratulates-aanchal-thakur-on-winning-indias-first-international-medal-in-skiing/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-congratulates-aanchal-thakur-on-winning-indias-first-international-medal-in-skiing/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated Aanchal Thakur on winning India’s first international medal in skiing at FIS International Skiing Competition in Turkey. “Well done Aanchal Thakur for winning an international medal in skiing! The entire nation is ecstatic on your historic accomplishment at the FIS International Skiing Competition in Turkey. Wishing you the very best for your future endeavours”, the Prime Minister said.",PM congratulates Aanchal Thakur on winning India’s first international medal in skiing
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-submission-of-indias-second-biennial-update-report-bur-to-united-nations-framework-convention-on-climate-change-unfccc/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-submission-of-indias-second-biennial-update-report-bur-to-united-nations-framework-convention-on-climate-change-unfccc/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved Submission of India’s second Biennial Update Report (BUR) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change towards fulfilment of the reporting obligation under the Convention. Salient Features: The scope of BUR is to provide an update to India’s first BUR to UNFCCC. The BUR contains five major components — National Circumstances; National Greenhouse Gas Inventory; Mitigation Actions; Finance, Technology and Capacity Building Needs and Support Received and Domestic Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) arrangements. BUR has been prepared based on a range of studies conducted at the national level. The BUR has undergone multitier review process, through peer review, review by Technical Advisory Committee of Experts chaired by Additional Secretary (Climate Change) and by National Steering Committee chaired by Secretary (EF&CC). The National Steering Committee is an inter-ministerial body comprising NITI Aayog, Agricultural Research and Education, Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers Welfare, Economic Affairs, External Affairs, New and Renewable Energy, Science & Technology, Coal, Power, Railway Board, Road Transport & Highways, Shipping, Petroleum & Natural Gas, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Health & Family Welfare, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Rural Development, Housing and Urban Affairs, Industrial Policy & Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Steel, Civil Aviation, Statistics and Programme Implementation and India Meteorological Department. The BUR has been finalized after addressing all the relevant comments and modifications as per the multi-tier review process. In 2014, a total of 26,07,488 Gigagram (Gg) CC-2 equivalent* (around 2.607 billion tonnes of CC-2 equivalent) of GHGs were emitted from all activities (excluding LULUCF) in India. The net national GHG emissions after including LULUCF were 23,06,295 Gg COa equivalent (around 2.306 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent). Out of the total emissions, energy sector accounted for 73%, IPPU 8%, agriculture 16% and waste sector 3%. About 12% of emissions were offset by the carbon sink action of forestland, cropland and settlements. A summary of India’s national GHG inventory of 2014 is provided in the table below: Category CO2 equivalent (Gg) Energy 19,09,765.74 Industrial Process and Product Use 2,02,277.69 Agriculture 4,17,217.54 Waste 78,227.15 Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF)** -3,01,192.69 TOTAL without LULUCF 26,07,488.12 TOTAL with LULUCF 23,06,295.43 **negative emission value implies sink action i.e. net carbon removal from the atmosphere * 1 Gigagram (Gg) = 109 grams; Greenhouse gases are converted to CO2 equivalents (CO2e or CO2eq) using their respective Global Warming Potentials. Major impact: Submission of India’s Second BUR will fulfil the obligation of India to furnish information regarding implementation of the Convention, being a Party. Background: India is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The Convention, in accordance with its Article 4.1 and 12.1, enjoins upon all Parties, both developed country Parties and developing country Parties to furnish information, in the form of a National Communication regarding implementation of the Convention. Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC in its sixteenth session decided vide paragraph 60 (c) of decision 1 that developing countries, consistent with their capabilities and the level of support provided for reporting, should also submit biennial update reports containing updates of national greenhouse gas inventories and information on mitigation actions, needs and support received. Decision 2 of COP17, in paragraph 41 (f) states that Biennial Update Reports shall be submitted every two years.",Cabinet approves Submission of India’s Second Biennial Update Report (BUR) to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-national-digital-communications-policy-2018/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-national-digital-communications-policy-2018/,"To connect, propel and secure India Universal broadband connectivity at 50 Mbps to every citizen Provide 1 Gbps connectivity to all Gram Panchayats Ensure connectivity to all uncovered areas Attract investments of USD 100 Billion in the Digital Communications Sector The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the National Digital Communications Policy-2018 (NDCP-2018) and re-designation of the Telecom Commission as the “Digital Communications Commission”. Impact: The NDCP-2018 envisions supporting India’s transition to a digitally empowered economy and society by fulfilling the information and communications needs of citizens and enterprises by establishment of a ubiquitous, resilient and affordable digital communications infrastructure and services. The ‘Customer focused’ and ‘application driven’ NDCP-2018 shall lead to new ideas and innovations, after the launch of advanced technology such as 5G, IOT, M2M, etc. which shall govern the telecom sector of India. Objectives: The key objectives of the policy are: • Broadband for all; • Creating four million additional jobs in the Digital Communications sector; • Enhancing the contribution of the Digital Communications sector to 8% of India’s GDP from ~ 6% in 2017; • Propelling India to the Top 50 Nations in the ICT Development Index of ITU from 134 in 2017; • Enhancing India’s contribution to Global Value Chains; and • Ensuring Digital Sovereignty. These objectives are to be achieved by 2022. Features: The policy aims to • Provide universal broadband connectivity at 50 Mbps to every citizen; • Provide 1 Gbps connectivity to all Gram Panchayats by 2020 and 10 Gbps by 2022; • Ensure connectivity to all uncovered areas; • Attract investments of USD 100 billion in the Digital Communications Sector; • Train one million manpower for building New Age Skill; • Expand IoT ecosystem to 5 billion connected devices; • Establish a comprehensive data protection regime for digital communications that safeguards the privacy, autonomy and choice of individuals • Facilitate India’s effective participation in the global digital economy; • Enforce accountability through appropriate institutional mechanisms to assure citizens of safe and • Secure digital communications infrastructure and services. Strategy: The policy advocates:- • Establishment of a National Digital Grid by creating a National Fibre Authority; • Establishing Common Service Ducts and utility corridors in all new city and highway road projects; • Creating a collaborative institutional mechanism between Centre, States and Local Bodies for Common Rights of Way, standardization of costs and timelines; • Removal of barriers to approvals; and • Facilitating development of Open Access Next Generation Networks. Background: As the present world has entered the era of modern technological advancements in the Telecom Sector such as 5G, loT, M2M etc., a need was being felt to introduce a ‘customer focused’ and ‘application driven’ policy for the Indian Telecom Sector, which can form the main pillar of Digital India by addressing emerging opportunities for expanding not only the availability of telecom services but also telecom based services. Accordingly, the new National Digital Communications Policy – 2018 has been formulated, in place of the existing National Telecom Policy-2012, to cater to the modern needs of the digital communications sector of India.",Cabinet approves National Digital Communications Policy-2018
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-at-world-food-india-2017/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-at-world-food-india-2017/,"Excellencies, Captains of Business and Industry, Ladies & Gentlemen, I am happy to be a part of this august gathering of global leaders and decision makers of the food processing sector. I welcome you all to World Food India 2017. This event will provide you a glimpse of the opportunities that await you, in India. It will showcase our potential in the food processing value chain. It will provide a platform to connect with various stakeholders, and collaborate for mutual prosperity. And, it will present to you, some of our most delightful cuisine, which has stimulated taste buds across the world. Ladies and gentlemen. India’s strengths in agriculture, are many and diverse. The second largest arable land area, and as many as 127 diverse agro-climatic zones, give us global leadership in a number of crops like bananas, mangoes, guavas, papayas, and okra. We are second, globally, in terms of production of rice, wheat, fish, fruits and vegetables. India is also the world’s biggest milk producer. Our horticulture sector has shown an average growth rate of 5.5 per cent annually over the last ten years. For centuries, India has welcomed traders from distant lands, who came in search of our distinctive spices. Their travels to India, often shaped the course of history. Our trade synergies with Europe and South East Asia through the Spice Route are well known. Even Christopher Columbus was attracted to Indian spices, and reached America, as he searched for an alternate sea route to India. Food processing is a way of life in India. It has been practiced for ages, even in the humblest of households. Simple, home-based techniques, such as fermentation, have resulted in the creation of our famous pickles, papads, chutneys and murabbas that now excite both the elite and the masses, across the world. Ladies and gentlemen. Let us turn, for a while, to the big picture. India is today one of the fastest growing economies of the world. The Goods and Services Tax, or GST, has eliminated the multiplicity of taxes. India has jumped thirty ranks this year, in the World Bank Doing Business rankings. This is the highest ever improvement for India, and the highest jump for any country this year. From a rank of 142 in 2014, we have now reached the top 100. India was ranked number one in the world in 2016 in greenfield investment. India is also rapidly progressing on the Global Innovation Index, Global Logistics Index and Global Competitiveness Index. Starting a new business in India is now easier than ever before. Procedures for obtaining clearances from various agencies have been simplified. Archaic laws have been repealed, and the burden of compliances has been reduced. I now turn specifically, to food processing. The Government has undertaken a range of transformational initiatives. India is now the most preferred investment destination in this sector. It is a priority sector in our “Make in India” programme. 100% FDI, is now permitted, for trading, including through e-commerce, of food products manufactured or produced in India. A single-window facilitation cell provides handholding for foreign investors. There are attractive fiscal incentives from the Union and State Governments. Loans to food and agro-based processing units, and cold chains, are classified under priority sector lending, making them easier and cheaper to obtain. The unique portal – Nivesh Bandhu – or “investor’s friend” – that we have just launched, brings together information on central and state government policies, and incentives provided for the food-processing sector. It maps resources upto the local level, with processing requirements. It is also a platform for business networking, for farmers, processors, traders, and logistics operators. Friends. Private sector participation has been increasing in many segments of the value chain. However, more investment is required in contract farming, raw material sourcing and creating agri linkages. Many international companies in India have taken a lead in contract farming initiatives. This is a clear opportunity for global super-market chains considering India as a major outsourcing hub. On one hand, there are opportunities in post-harvest management, like primary processing and storage, preservation infrastructure, cold chain, and refrigerated transportation. On the other hand, there is immense potential for food processing and value addition, especially in niche areas such as organic and fortified foods. Increasing urbanization, and a growing middle class, are resulting in an ever-growing demand for wholesome, processed food. Let me share just one statistic. Over a million passengers have a meal on a train in India, every single day. Each one of them, is a potential customer for the food processing industry. Such is the scale of opportunity that is waiting to be tapped. Ladies and Gentlemen. Lifestyle disease is raising consciousness globally, about the nature and quality of food consumption. There is a growing aversion to the use of artificial colours, chemicals and preservatives. India can provide solutions, and offer a win-win partnership. The combination of traditional Indian food, with modern technology, processing and packaging, can help the world rediscover the health benefits, and refreshing taste of Indian food ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, and tulsi, to name just a few. The perfect blend of hygienic, nutritious and tasty processed food, with the added benefits of preventive healthcare, can be produced economically, here in India. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has been engaged in ensuring that processed food made in India, matches global quality standards. The harmonization of the food additives standards with Codex, and the building of robust testing and laboratory infrastructure, will go a long way in creating an enabling environment for food businesses. Ladies and gentlemen. The farmers, whom we respectfully call our “Annadaata” or the providers of food are central to our efforts in food processing. We have a stated target of doubling farm incomes within five years. Recently, we launched a national level programme, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, to create world-class food processing infrastructure. This is expected to leverage investment of five billion US dollars, benefit two million farmers and generate more than half a million jobs over the next three years. The creation of Mega Food Parks is a key component of this scheme. Through these food parks, we aim to link agro-processing clusters with key production centres. This will offer immense value proposition in crops such as potato, pineapple, oranges and apples. Farmer groups are being encouraged to set up units in these parks, thereby reducing wastage and transportation costs, and creating new jobs. Nine such parks are already operational, and more than thirty others are in the process of coming up across the country. To improve last mile delivery, we are improving governance, by increasing access to digital technology. We plan to link our villages through broadband connectivity, within a clear timeframe. We are digitising land records, and providing various services to the people on mobile platforms. These steps are building momentum towards real-time transfer of information, knowledge and skills to farmers. The e-NAM, our national agricultural e-Market, is connecting our agricultural markets nationwide, thereby giving our farmers the benefit of competitive pricing, and freedom of choice. In the true spirit of cooperative and competitive federalism, our State Governments have also aligned with the efforts of the Union Government to simplify processes and procedures. Many States have come up with attractive food processing policies to attract investment. I urge each State of India to identify at least one food product for specialisation. Similarly, each district can also select some food items for production, and one item for specialisation. Ladies and Gentlemen. Today, our strong agricultural base provides us a solid launch pad to create a vibrant food processing sector. Our vast consumer base, rising incomes, favourable investment climate and a Government dedicated to ease of doing business, all make India ‘the place to be’ for the global food processing fraternity. Each sub sector of the food industry in India offers immense opportunity. Let me give you some illustrations. The dairy sector has emerged as a vital area for the rural economy. We now aim to take this to the next level by increasing production levels of multiple products based on milk. Honey is nature’s gift to mankind. It offers several valuable by-products, such as bee wax. It has the potential to increase farm incomes. Currently, we rank sixth in the production and export of honey. India is now ripe, for a sweet revolution. India contributes over six per cent of global fish production. We are the world’s second largest exporter of shrimps. India exports fish and fisheries products to about 95 countries. We aim to make a big leap in the ocean economy through the blue revolution. Our focus is on development of untapped areas, such as ornamental fisheries and trout farming. We also wish to explore new areas, like pearl farming. Our commitment to sustainable development, is at the heart of our thrust for organic farming. Sikkim, in north-eastern India, has become India’s first fully organic state. The entire north-east offers opportunities to create functional infrastructure for organic produce. Friends. In order to be successful in Indian markets, understanding Indian food habits and tastes is a key requirement. To give you just one example, milk based products and fruit-juice based drinks are an intrinsic part of Indian food habits. That is why, I have been suggesting to manufacturers of aerated drinks, the potential of blending five per cent fruit juice in their products. Food processing also holds solutions to nutrition security. For example, our coarse grains and millets have high nutritional value. They can also withstand adverse agro-climatic conditions. They can be called “nutrition rich and climate smart” crops. Can we take up a venture based on these? This will raise incomes of some of the poorest of our farmers, and also enhance our nutrition levels. Such products, shall, of course, find resonance across the world. Can we link our potential, to the world’s requirements? Can we link Indian traditions with the future of mankind? Can we connect India’s farmers with markets around the world? These are some questions that I wish to leave you with. I am confident that World Food India will help us take some concrete steps in this direction. It will also provide valuable insights into our rich culinary landscape, and highlight our ancient wisdom of food processing. I am also happy to note that the Department of Post has released a set of twenty four commemorative postage stamps on this occasion, to illustrate the diversity of Indian cuisine. Ladies and Gentlemen, I invite each one of you to become a part of the exciting growth journey of India’s food processing sector. I assure you of my whole-hearted support, whenever required. Come. Invest in India. The place with unlimited opportunity from farm to fork. The place to produce, process, and prosper. For India, and for the world. Thank You.",PM’s address at World Food India 2017
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-witnesses-collective-e-gruhpravesh-of-beneficiaries-of-pradhan-mantri-awaas-yojana-lays-foundation-stone-of-astole-water-supply-scheme-at-jujwa-village-valsad/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-witnesses-collective-e-gruhpravesh-of-beneficiaries-of-pradhan-mantri-awaas-yojana-lays-foundation-stone-of-astole-water-supply-scheme-at-jujwa-village-valsad/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today joined thousands of people in witnessing the collective e-Gruhpravesh of beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (Gramin) at a large public meeting in Jujwa village of Valsad district in Gujarat. More than one lakh houses were handed over to beneficiaries, across 26 districts of the State. Beneficiaries in several districts were connected through a video link to the main event, and the Prime Minister interacted with some of them. At the same event, the Prime Minister distributed certificates and employment letters etc to select beneficiaries under various development schemes, including Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushal Vikas Yojana, Mukhya Mantri Gramodaya Yojana and National Rural Livelihood Mission. He distributed appointment letters and mini-ATMs to women bank correspondents. The Prime Minister also laid the Foundation Stone for the Astole Water Supply Scheme. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister noted that the festival of Raksha Bandhan is approaching. He said he is satisfied that over a lakh women have got a house in their name, on this occasion, as a gift on Raksha Bandhan. He said a new house brings with it, new dreams; and a new collective enthusiasm in the family to work hard to achieve those dreams. Observing that the houses that were visible today during the e-Gruhpravesh seemed to be of excellent quality, he said this became possible only because there are no middlemen involved. He reiterated the Union Government’s vision to ensure “Housing for All” by 2022. The Prime Minister said that the discourse had long been about politicians getting fancy homes built. He said now this discourse has changed to the poor getting their own homes. Describing the Astole Water Supply Scheme, for which the Foundation Stone was laid today, as an engineering marvel in the making, the Prime Minister said that clean drinking water saves people from diseases. The Prime Minister explained how the Government is seeking to transform the lives of the poor by providing them access to their own house, to electricity, to clean drinking water, and to clean cooking fuel.","PM witnesses collective e-Gruhpravesh of beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana; lays foundation stone of Astole Water Supply Scheme at Jujwa village, Valsad"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-confer-awards-for-excellence-in-public-administration-and-address-civil-servants-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-confer-awards-for-excellence-in-public-administration-and-address-civil-servants-tomorrow/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will confer the Awards for Excellence in Public Administration for effective implementation of identified Priority Programs and Innovation to districts/implementing units and other Central/State organisations at Vigyan Bhawan in the capital tomorrow on April 21. He will address Civil Servants on this occasion. PM Awards for Excellence in Public Administration have been instituted with a view to acknowledge, recognize and reward the exemplary work for citizen’s welfare by Districts & Organisations of the Central and State Governments. Four priority programs identified for the award: i) Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, ii) Promoting Digital Payments, iii) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban & Rural, and iv) Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana. In addition, there are awards for Innovation for Central, State organisations including Districts. 11 awards for 4 identified Priority Programmes will be given this year while two awards shall be given to organizations of Central/State Government/Districts for innovations out of which one award will be given to an Aspirational district. Prime minister will release two books on this occasion. ‘New Pathways’ is a compilation of Success stories on implementation of identified Priority Programmes & Innovations while ‘Aspirational Districts: Unlocking Potentials’ is an account of evolving strategies for transforming Aspirational Districts.",PM to confer Awards for Excellence in Public Administration and address Civil Servants tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-wishes-shri-atal-bihari-vajpayee-on-his-birthday-2/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-wishes-shri-atal-bihari-vajpayee-on-his-birthday-2/,"The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has wished Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birthday. “Birthday greetings to our beloved Atal Ji. His phenomenal as well as visionary leadership made India more developed and further raised our prestige at the world stage. I pray for his good health”, the Prime Minister said.",PM wishes Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birthday
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-meets-president-of-uzbekistan-on-sidelines-of-the-vibrant-gujarat-global-summit-2019-in-ahmedabad/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-meets-president-of-uzbekistan-on-sidelines-of-the-vibrant-gujarat-global-summit-2019-in-ahmedabad/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President of Uzbekistan H.E. Mr. Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the “Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit-2019” on 18 January. Earlier, President Mirziyoyev, leading a large and high powered delegation arrived in Gandhinagar on 17 January received by Shri O. P. Kohli, Governor of Gujarat. During their meeting, Prime Minister extended a warm welcome to President Mirziyoyev and his delegation to Gujarat. Recalling their last meeting during the State Visit of President Mirziyoyev to India held on 30 September-1 October, 2018, Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction on progress and implementation of various decisions taken during the State Visit. Referring to the MoU on cooperation between Gujarat and the Andijan region of Uzbekistan signed during the State Visit, Prime Minister noted the presence of the Governor of Andijan region in the Uzbek delegation and expressed hope that as a result of President Mirziyoyev’s visit, relationship between Uzbekistan and India and region-to-region cooperation between Andijan and Gujarat would be further strengthened. Prime Minister thanked President Mirziyoyev for his support for the First India-Central Asia Dialogue held at the level of Foreign Ministers in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on 12-13 January 2019 where important discussions also took place on support to peace and development in Afghanistan. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev thanked Prime Minister for the invitation to participate in the Vibrant Gujarat Summit.He informed Prime Minister that Uzbekistan attaches high priority to attracting investments from India and mentioned sectors of IT, education, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agri-business and tourism as some of the priority areas for Uzbekistan’s prospective cooperation with India. President Mirziyoyev congratulated Prime Minister on the successful outcome of the First India-Central Asia Dialogue which demonstrated India’s positive impact on the Central Asia region and the joint quest of the participant countries for peace in Afghanistan. Both leaders witnessed the exchange of the contract between the Department of Atomic Energy of India and the Novoi Minerals and Metallurgical Company of the Republic of Uzbekistan on long-term supply of Uranium Ore Concentrate for India’s energy requirements. Both leaders also welcomed the signing of the agreement between the Export-Import Bank of India and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on a Line of Credit of USD 200 million supported by the Government of India for financing housing and social infrastructure projects in Uzbekistan.The Line of Credit of USD 200 million to Uzbekistan had been announced earlier by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the State Visit of President Mirziyoyev.",PM meets President of Uzbekistan on sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit-2019 in Ahmedabad
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-the-mra-signed-in-2010-and-approves-fresh-mra-between-the-icai-and-the-institute-of-certified-public-accountants-ireland/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-the-mra-signed-in-2010-and-approves-fresh-mra-between-the-icai-and-the-institute-of-certified-public-accountants-ireland/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today has given its ex-post facto approval of the “Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA)” signed in 2010 and Approval for fresh MRA between the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants (CPA), Ireland for promotion of mutual co-operation framework for the advancement of accounting knowledge, professional and intellectual development, advancing the interests of their respective members and positively contributing to the development of the accounting profession in Ireland and India. Impact: The MRA will provide opportunities to members of both the parties to be exposed to best practices of either country and thus expand their scalability to cater to demand of newer markets. Background: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is a statutory body established by an Act of Parliament of India, The Chartered Accountants Act, 1949′, to regulate the profession of Chartered Accountancy in India. The Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA Ireland) is one of the main Irish accountancy bodies with 5,000 members and students.","Cabinet approves the MRA signed in 2010 and approves fresh MRA between the ICAI and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Ireland"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-interact-directly-with-farmers-across-the-country-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-interact-directly-with-farmers-across-the-country-tomorrow/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will interact directly with farmers across the country through video bridge at 9.30am tomorrow. The interaction will provide an opportunity to hear directly from the farmers. Initiatives related to doubling the farmer’s income will also be discussed. It will be broadcast directly by Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s, Common Service Centers (CSC), Doordarshan, DD Kissan and Aakashvaani from all over the country. People will also be able to interact with the Prime Minister through “Narendra Modi App”.",PM to interact directly with farmers across the country tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-creation-of-one-post-each-of-vice-chairperson-and-member-in-the-national-commission-for-safai-karamcharis/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-creation-of-one-post-each-of-vice-chairperson-and-member-in-the-national-commission-for-safai-karamcharis/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the creation of one post each of Vice-Chairperson and Member in the National Commission for Safai Karmacharis. The decision is intended to optimize functioning of the Commission and for fulfilling desired objectives of welfare and development of the target group. Background: The National Commission for Safai Karmacharis is working for the welfare of both Safai Karamcharis and Manual Scavengers. It is mandated to work towards elimination of inequalities in status facilities and opportunities for Safai Karamcharis and has an important role to ensure rehabilitation of all the identified manual scavengers on a time-bound basis. Under Section 31 of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act 2013, the Commission is to perform functions namely: a. To monitor the implementation of the Act; b. To enquire into complaints regarding contravention of provisions of the Act; and c. To advice Central and State Governments for effective implementation of the Act.",Cabinet approves creation of one post each of Vice-Chairperson and Member in the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-visits-kerala-dedicates-kollam-bypass-on-nh-66-to-the-nation/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-visits-kerala-dedicates-kollam-bypass-on-nh-66-to-the-nation/,"Infrastructure development a priority of Government, says PM The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi visited Kollam in Kerala today. He dedicated the 13 km, 2-lane Kollam bypass on NH-66 to the nation. The Governor of Kerala Shri Justice P. Sathasivam, CM of Kerala Shri PinarayiVijayan, Union Minister of Tourism Shri K J Alphons along with other dignitaries were present on this occasion. Addressing a gathering at the Asramam ground in Kollam, Prime Minister Modisaid that infrastructure development has been the priority of his Government and the Kollam bypass is an example. He underlined the fact that the project got final sanction in January 2015 and now it has seen the light of the day. The Prime Minister told that his Government believes in sabkasaath, sabkavikas for ease of living to the common man and appreciated the contribution and co-operation of Kerala government in completion of the project. Kollam Bypass will reduce ravel time between Alappuzha and Thiruvananthapuram and decongest the traffic in Kollam town. Talking about the projects in Kerala, the PM said under Bharatmala, a detailed project report for the Mumbai-Kanyakumari corridor is under preparation. . The Prime Minister said that the government is committed to ensure timely completion of all the projects. He said that through PRAGATI,more than 250 projects worth Rs.12 lakh crores have been reviewed at his end. Highlighting the progress in road connectivity, the PM Modi said that compared to the previous Government, the pace of construction in national highways, rural roads has almost doubled. More than 90% of rural habitations have been connected today compared to only 56% in the previous government. He expressed hope that the government will reach the target of 100% rural road connectivity soon. Regional air connectivity and expansion of railway lines have shown marked improvement resulting in creation of job opportunities.The Prime Minister said, “When we construct roads and bridges, we do not only connect towns and villages. We also connect aspirations with achievements, optimism with opportunities and hope with happiness.” About Ayushman Bharat, he said that 8 lakh patients have been benefitted under this scheme while the government has sanctioned more than 1100 crores rupees till date for the scheme. He urged the Government of Kerala to expedite the implementation of Ayushman Bharat scheme, so that the people of Kerala can be benefitted. The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said that tourism is the hallmark of Kerala’s economic development and a principal contributor to the State’s economy. He added that recognizing the tourism potential of Kerala, the government has sanctioned 7 projects in the State under the SwadeshDarshan and PRASAD schemes with funds worth Rs. 550 crore. Speaking on the importance of Tourism Sector, PM highlighted the remarkable growth in this sector. India posted a growth of 14% over 2016 in the tourism sector while the world grew at an average of 7%. He added that India now stands at 3rd place in Power Ranking in the 2018 report of the World Travel & Tourism Council. Foreign tourist arrivals in India increased by 42% from around 70 lakh in 2013 to about 1 crore in 2017. While the Foreign exchange earned by India due to tourism witnessed a jump of 50%, up from $ 18 billionin 2013 to $ 27 billion in 2017. He described the introduction of the e-Visa as a game changer for Indian Tourism which is now available to nationals of 166 countries.",PM visits Kerala; dedicates Kollam Bypass on NH-66 to the nation
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-issues-statement-before-his-departure-to-china/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-issues-statement-before-his-departure-to-china/,"The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will be visiting Wuhan, China on 27th April-28th April 2018. Before his departure to China PM has issued the following statement: ” I will be visiting Wuhan, China on 27-28 April 2018 for an Informal Summit with H. E. Mr. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China. President Xi and I will exchange views on a range of issues of bilateral and global importance. We will discuss our respective visions and priorities for national development, particularly in the context of current and future international situation. We will also review the developments in the India-China relations from a strategic and long-term perspective.”",PM issues statement before his departure to China
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-greets-nation-on-christmas/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-greets-nation-on-christmas/,"The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has conveyed his greetings to the Nation on Christmas. “Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. We remember the noble teachings of Lord Christ. May this festive season enhance the spirit of happiness and harmony in our society”, the Prime Minister said.",PM greets to the Nation on Christmas
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lays-foundation-stone-to-mark-the-commencement-of-work-for-9th-round-of-city-gas-distribution/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-lays-foundation-stone-to-mark-the-commencement-of-work-for-9th-round-of-city-gas-distribution/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today, laid the foundation stone through video conferencing, to mark the commencement of work for City Gas Distribution(CGD), awarded under the 9th CGD bidding round, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. He also launched the 10th CGD bidding round. Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister said that the work for setting up City Gas Distribution network has started in 129 districts, under the 9th round of CGD bidding. He added that after the 10th round of bidding of CGD, more than 400 districts would be covered under the City Gas Distribution network, covering around seventy percent of the population. Stressing that the nation is now moving towards Gas Based Economy, Prime Minister said the Union Government is paying attention towards all dimensions of Gas Based Economy. Shri Modi pointed out the various steps taken by the Union Government to strengthen the Gas infrastructure in the country,especially increasing the number of LNG terminals, creating nation-wide Gas Grid and creation of City Gas Distribution Network. Explaining the role of Gas Based Economy in moving towards Clean Energy, Prime Minister said that CGD network will play a major role in achieving Clean Energy solutions. He further added that the Union Government’s efforts towards Clean Energy are broad based. In this context, he mentioned various Clean Energy initiatives of the Union Government like Ethanol Blending, Compressed Bio Gas plants, increased LPG coverage and introduction of BS-6 fuels for automobiles. The Prime Minister said that more than twelve crore LPG connections were provided in the last four years. He mentioned that Gas networks in cities create a new ecosystem, one that enables gas based industries, generates employment to youth and provides ease of living to citizens. The Prime Minister said that the Government would strive to fulfil the targetsfor Clean Energy and Gas Based Economy.He added that such targets need to be fulfilled not just for ourselves, but for the whole of humanity and the future generations.",PM lays foundation stone to mark the commencement of work for 9th round of City Gas Distribution
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-attend-event-to-mark-world-biofuel-day-2018/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-attend-event-to-mark-world-biofuel-day-2018/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will attend an event to mark World Biofuel Day, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on August 10, 2018. He will address a diverse gathering, consisting of farmers, scientists, entrepreneurs, students, government officials, and legislators. Biofuels can help reduce import dependency on crude oil. They can contribute to a cleaner environment, generate additional income for farmers, and generate employment in rural areas. Therefore, biofuels have synergies with various Government initiatives, including enhancing farmers’ incomes, and Swachh Bharat. As a result of the efforts of the Union Government, ethanol blending in petrol has increased from 38 crore litres in the ethanol supply year 2013-14, to an estimated 141 crore litres in the ethanol supply year 2017-18. The Government also approved the National Policy on Biofuels in June 2018.",PM to attend event to mark World Biofuel Day 2018
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-interacts-with-students-teachers-and-parents-at-pariksha-pe-charcha-2-0/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-interacts-with-students-teachers-and-parents-at-pariksha-pe-charcha-2-0/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today, interacted with students, teachers and parents, as part of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2.0 at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi. The interaction, which lasted for over ninety minutes, saw students, teachers and parents relax, laugh, and repeatedly applaud the Prime Minister’s observations, which included a touch of humour and wit. This year, students from across the country, and also Indian students residing abroad, participated in the event. Setting the tone for the interaction, he described the Pariksha Pe Charcha Townhall as a mini-India. He said it also symbolizes the future of India. He expressed happiness that parents and teachers too are part of this programme. A teacher asked the Prime Minister about what teachers should tell parents who are stressed about the exams of their children, and have unrealistic expectations. A student preparing for the UPSC examination also asked a similar question. In response, the Prime Minister said that while he would not advise anyone to stay completely unaffected by an examination, it is important to understand the context of the examination. Is an examination, an exam for life, or is it an exam for a particular grade like Class 10 or 12, he asked the gathering. He said that once this context is understood, the stress will reduce. The Prime Minister emphasized that parents should not expect their children to fulfil their own unfulfilled dreams. Every child has his or her own potential and strengths, and it is important to understand these positives of every child, he noted. The Prime Minister also said that expectations are essential. We cannot live in an atmosphere of despair and unhappiness, he asserted. Answering a set of questions on stress of parents, and parental pressure, the Prime Minister said that the performance of children cannot become a calling card for the parents. He said that if that becomes the aim, then expectations become unrealistic. He said that some people have the view that Modi has raised expectations as Prime Minister. He added that he is of the view that 1.25 billion Indians should have 1.25 billion aspirations. Those aspirations should also be expressed, and we should collectively raise our abilities to meet those aspirations, he added. A parent expressed an apprehension that her son was once good in studies, but is now distracted by online games. In response, the Prime Minister said that he does not believe that exposure to technology is, per se, bad for students. He believes that is good that students are getting acquainted with new technology. However, he added that technology should lead to an expansion of the mind. It should be a means to innovate. The PlayStation is good, but one must not forget the playing field, he added. In response to a question on time management and exhaustion, the Prime Minister said that 1.25 billion Indians are all his family. He said that when one thinks and works for his family, how can he feel tired? He said that each new day, he resumes his work with a new energy. Students asked the Prime Minister how studies could be made more fun, and how exams could improve one’s personality. The Prime Minister said that it is important to take tests and exams in the right spirit. He said tests make a person stronger, and one should not abhor them. Students sought the Prime Minister’s advice on subject and career choices. They also said that every student has different strengths, so how can each student be expected to be good in maths and science. In response, the Prime Minister said that clarity of thought and conviction are essential. Yes, science and maths are essential but there are other subjects too worth exploring, he added. There are opportunities in so many areas now, the Prime Minister said. A student recalled last year’s town hall interaction on the same subject, and said that her parents have become a lot more relaxed when it comes to subjects like exams and career.He said that positive attitude of the parents can contribute in a big way to the lives of children. Students spoke to the Prime Minister about the need to encourage children. In response, he said that competition should not be with others, but with one’s own record. He said that when one competes with one’s own past record, then pessimism and negativity can easily be defeated. Students also mentioned the need to further improve education systems and ensure that exams are not only reduced to rote learning but also showcase what students have learnt. In response, the Prime Minister said that our learning cannot be reduced to exams only. Our education must equip us to face various challenges of life as well, he added. Speaking on the subject of depression, the Prime Minister said that in a nation like ours, this issue is worrying. He said Indian culture has mechanisms to deal with this. The more we talk openly about aspects relating to depression and mental health, the better it is, he added. He said that a person does not get depressed all of a sudden. There are signs that show a person is heading into depression. Ignoring these signs is not a good idea. On the contrary, we must talk about this, the Prime Minister said. He said that counselling can be helpful because it helps one talk about one’s problems.","PM interacts with students, teachers and parents at “Pariksha Pe Charcha 2.0”"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-bows-to-bhagwan-birsa-munda-on-his-jayanti/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-bows-to-bhagwan-birsa-munda-on-his-jayanti/,"Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has bowed to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his Jayanti. “I bow to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his Jayanti. His indomitable courage is a source of motivation. Inspired by the life of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, we are working towards empowerment of our tribal communities, who are India’s pride”, the Prime Minister said.",PM bows to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his Jayanti
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-extends-his-condolences-on-loss-of-lives-in-an-accident-in-gujarat/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-extends-his-condolences-on-loss-of-lives-in-an-accident-in-gujarat/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has expressed his grief and extended his condolences on loss of lives due to an accident in Gujarat. PM said, “My condolences to all those who lost their loved ones due to an accident near Ranghola in Gujarat. The accident was extremely unfortunate and anguishing. May those who have been injured recover at the earliest.”",PM extends his condolences on loss of lives in an accident in Gujarat
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-hails-indias-historic-jump-in-ease-of-doing-business-rankings/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-hails-indias-historic-jump-in-ease-of-doing-business-rankings/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has hailed India’s historic jump of 30 ranks in the World Bank’s Doing Business Report, 2018 released today. India’s rank has risen to 100 in the latest report compared to 130 in the Doing Business Report, 2017. While terming the improvement in the rankings as historic, the Prime Minister in a series of tweets, said that the jump is the outcome of the all-round and multi-sectoral reform push of Team India. “Historic jump in ‘Ease of Doing Business’ rankings is the outcome of the all-round & multi-sectoral reform push of Team India. Easier business environment is leading to historic opportunities for our entrepreneurs, particularly MSME sector & bringing more prosperity. Over the last 3 years we have seen a spirit of positive competition among states towards making business easier. This has been beneficial. It has never been easier to do business in India. India welcomes the world to explore economic opportunities our nation has to offer! Guided by the Mantra of ‘Reform, Perform & Transform’ we are determined to further improve our rankings & scale greater economic growth.”, the Prime Minister said.",PM hails India’s historic jump in ‘Ease of Doing Business’ rankings
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-pays-tributes-to-mahatma-phule-on-his-birth-anniversary-4/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-pays-tributes-to-mahatma-phule-on-his-birth-anniversary-4/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has paid tributes to Mahatma Phule on his birth anniversary. “Tributes to Mahatma Phule on his Jayanti. His pioneering and relentless emphasis on social reform greatly helped the marginalised. He was unwavering in his commitment towards improving the condition of women and furthering education among the youth”, the Prime Minister said.",PM pays tributes to Mahatma Phule on his birth anniversary
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-interacts-with-the-awardees-of-national-teachers-awards/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-interacts-with-the-awardees-of-national-teachers-awards/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today interacted with the awardees of National Teachers’ Awards, 2017 at Lok Kalyan Marg, on the eve of Teachers’ Day. The Union Minister for Human Resource Development Shri Prakash Javadekar, was also present on the occasion. Prime Minister congratulated the awardees for their efforts towards improving the quality of education in the country. He commended their dedication towards education and for making it their life mantra. He said that a teacher remains a teacher throughout life. During the interaction, Prime Minister urged the awardees to mobilize the community and to make them an integral part of school development. He also exhorted the teachers to work towards bringing out the inherent strength of students, especially those from poor and rural background. Prime Minister said that the educators should work towards removing the disconnect between the teachers and the students, so that teachers are remembered by the students throughout their life. He also encouraged the teachers to digitally transform their schools and its neighbourhood. Interacting with the Prime Minister, the awardees narrated their inspirational stories in transforming their schools into centres of learning and excellence. They also thanked the Prime Minister for the new online nomination process and for schemes like Digital India, which is bringing a big qualitative change in school education throughout the country. This year, the Ministry of Human Resource Development had revised the guidelines for the selection of Teachers for National Awards. The new scheme envisages self-nomination and was inspired by recent innovations in major national awards. The scheme is transparent, fair, and rewards demonstrated excellence and performance.",PM interacts with the awardees of National Teachers’ Awards
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-attends-event-to-mark-the-presentation-of-gandhi-peace-prize/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-attends-event-to-mark-the-presentation-of-gandhi-peace-prize/,"President Ram Nath Kovind presented the Gandhi Peace Prize for the years 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018, at a function in Rashtrapati Bhawan today. The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister congratulated all those who have been conferred the prestigious Gandhi Peace Prize. He noted that the prize is being conferred at a time when India marks the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The Prime Minister expressed happiness that on this occasion, the devotional hymn Vaishnav Jan To, which was so dear to Bapu, had been rendered by artistes in about 150 countries across the world. He said this is an indication that the world accepts the relevance of Gandhi’s ideals, even today. The Prime Minister spoke of Mahatma Gandhi’s commitment to Swachhta. The Prime Minister noted that the freedom struggle became a mass movement due to the visionary efforts of Mahatma Gandhi. He added that Mahatma Gandhi had merged the streams of Jan Bhagidari (public participation) and Jan Andolan (mass movement). The Prime Minister said that Mahatma Gandhi instilled a spirit in every person that they are contributing to India’s freedom.",PM attends event to mark the presentation of Gandhi Peace Prize
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-apprised-of-the-mou-between-india-and-italy-on-cooperation-in-the-field-of-renewable-energy/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-apprised-of-the-mou-between-india-and-italy-on-cooperation-in-the-field-of-renewable-energy/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been apprised of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on India-Italy Cooperation in Renewable Energy between India and Italy. The MoU was signed on 30th October, 2017 at New Delhi. The MoU was signed by Shri Anand Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of the Republic of India and H.E. Mr. Lorenzo ANGELONI, Italian Ambassador to India. India and Italy aim to establish the basis for a cooperative institutional relationship to encourage and promote technical bilateral cooperation on new and renewable issues on the basis of mutual benefit equality and reciprocity. The MoU envisages establishing a Joint Working Committee to review, monitor and discuss matters relation to areas of cooperation. It aims for exchange of expertise and networking of information and helps in strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.",Cabinet apprised of the MoU between India and Italy on cooperation in the field of renewable energy
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-visit-bihar-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-visit-bihar-tomorrow/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will visit Bihar on October 14, 2017. The Prime Minister will address the Centenary Celebrations of Patna University. At Mokama, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for four sewerage projects under the Namami Gange programme; and four National Highway projects. The total outlay of these projects will be over Rs. 3700 crore. He will also address a public meeting. The four sewerage projects include Sewage Treatment Plant at Beur, Sewerage System with Sewer Network at Beur, Sewage Treatment Plant at Karmalichak and STP and Sewer Network at Saidpur. These projects together will create new STP capacity of 120 MLD and upgrade the existing 20 MLD for Beur. The four National Highway projects for which foundation stone will be laid include: • 4-laning of Aunta–Simariya section of NH-31 and construction of 6-lane Ganga Setu • 4 laning of Bakhtiyarpur-Mokama section of NH-31 • 2-lane construction of Maheshkhunt-Saharsa-Purnea section of NH 107 • 2-lane construction of Biharsharif-Barbigha-Mokama section of NH-82",PM to visit Bihar tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-mou-between-india-and-uk-on-cooperation-in-the-sphere-of-law-justice-and-establishing-a-joint-consultative-committee/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-mou-between-india-and-uk-on-cooperation-in-the-sphere-of-law-justice-and-establishing-a-joint-consultative-committee/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and United Kingdom regarding cooperation between both countries in the sphere of Law & Justice and to set up a Joint Consultative Committee. The MoU takes care of concerns and requirements in the field of exchange of experience by legal professionals, government functionaries and their training and effective legal aid mechanism for resolution of disputes before various Courts, Tribunals, etc. and proposes establishment of Joint Consultative Committees.",Cabinet approves MoU between India and UK on cooperation in the sphere of Law & Justice and establishing a Joint Consultative Committee
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-meets-leaders-of-global-automotive-companies/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-meets-leaders-of-global-automotive-companies/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today, held one on one meeting, with the leaders of various automotive and transportation companies from all over the world, in New Delhi. Top level delegation from various companies like Toyota, SAIC Motor Corporation Shanghai, Bosch, ABB Ltd, Hyundai Motor Company, Ford Smart Mobility LLC and Uber Aviation met the Prime Minister. These companies are participating in the Global Mobility Summit- MOVE, being held in New Delhi.",PM meets leaders of global automotive companies
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-wage-policy-for-the-8th-round-of-wage-negotiations-for-workmen-in-central-public-sector-enterprises/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-wage-policy-for-the-8th-round-of-wage-negotiations-for-workmen-in-central-public-sector-enterprises/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Wage Policy for the 8th Round of Wage Negotiations for workmen in Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). Highlights:- i.Management of the CPSEs would be free to negotiate wage revision for workmen where the periodicity of wage settlement of five years or ten years has expired generally on 31.12.2016 keeping in view the affordability and financial sustainability of such wage revision for the CPSEs concerned. ii.No budgetary support for any wage increase shall be provided by the Government. The entire financial implication would be borne by the respective CPSEs from their internal resources. iii.In those CPSEs for which the Government has approved restructuring/ revival plan, the wage revision will be done as per the provisions of the approved restructuring / revival plan only. iv.The management of the concerned CPSEs have to ensure that negotiated scales of pay do not exceed the existing scales of pay of executives/officers and non-unionized supervisors of respective CPSEs. v.The Management of CPSEs where the five year periodicity is followed have to ensure that negotiated scales of pay for two successive wages negotiations do not exceed the existing scales of pay of executives/officers and non-unionized supervisors of respective CPSEs for whom ten years periodicity is being followed. vi.To avoid conflict of pay scales of executives/non-unionised supervisors with that of their workmen, CPSEs may consider adoption of graded DA neutralization and/or graded fitment during the wage negotiations. vii. CPSEs must ensure that any increase in wages after negotiations does not result in increase in administered prices of their goods and services. viii.The wage revision shall be subject to the condition that there shall be no increase in labour cost per physical unit of output. In exceptional cases where CPSEs are already working at optimum capacity, the administrative Ministry / Department may consult DPE considering industry norms. ix.The validity period of wage settlement would be for a minimum period of five years for those who opted for a five year periodicity and for a maximum period of ten years for those who have opted for a ten year periodicity of wage negotiation w.e.f. 01.01.2017. x.The CPSEs would implement negotiated wages after confirming with their Administrative Ministry/Department that the wage settlement is in conformity with approved parameters. Background:- There are about 12.34 lakh employees in 320 CPSEs in the country. Out of these, about 2.99 lakh employees are Board level and below Board level executives and non-unionized Supervisors. The remaining about 9.35 lakh employees belong to the unionized workmen category. Wage revision in respect of unionized workmen is decided by trade unions and managements of CPSEs in terms of guidelines issued by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) for wage negotiations.",Cabinet approves Wage Policy for the 8th Round of Wage Negotiations for workmen in Central Public Sector Enterprises
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-statement-prior-to-his-departure-to-qingdao-in-china/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-statement-prior-to-his-departure-to-qingdao-in-china/,"Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s departure statement prior to his visit to Qingdao in China. “I will be visiting Qingdao in China for the annual meeting of the Council of Heads of States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). I am excited to lead the Indian delegation for our first-ever meeting of the Council as a full member. The SCO has a rich agenda for cooperation, ranging from fighting terrorism, separatism and extremism to promoting cooperation in connectivity, commerce, customs, law, health and agriculture; protecting the environment and mitigating disaster risk; and fostering people-to-people relations. In the last one year since India became a full member of the SCO, our interaction with the Organization and its member States has grown considerably in these areas. I believe that the Qingdao Summit will further enrich the SCO agenda, while heralding a new beginning for India’s engagement with the SCO. India enjoys deep friendship and multi-dimensional ties with the Member States of the SCO. On the sidelines of the SCO Summit, I will have the opportunity of meeting and sharing views with several other leaders, including the Heads of States of many SCO Member States.”",PM’s statement prior to his departure to Qingdao in China
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-wishes-people-of-karnataka-on-sankranti/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-wishes-people-of-karnataka-on-sankranti/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has greeted people of Karnataka on Sankranti festival. PM said, ” Sankranti wishes to my sisters and brothers of Karnataka. My Sankranti greetings to all Kannadigas. May this auspicious festival brings happiness, harmony and well being to all.”",PM wishes people of Karnataka on Sankranti
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-visit-madhya-pradesh-on-23rd-june-2018/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-visit-madhya-pradesh-on-23rd-june-2018/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will visit Madhya Pradesh on 23rd June, 2018. The Prime Minister will attend the Madhya Pradesh Shehari Vikas Mahotsav in Indore. The Prime Minister will remotely inaugurate various urban development projects worth over 4000 crore rupees, at various locations across the State. These include houses under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana, urban drinking water supply schemes, urban solid waste management, urban sanitation, urban transportation and urban landscape projects. He will also distribute the Swachh Survekshan-2018 Awards, and launch the Swachh Survekshan-2018 results dashboard. Cleanest cities, and best performing States will receive awards from the Prime Minister. One Swachh Innovation, one Swachh Best Practice, and one Swachh Entrepreneur will also receive awards from the Prime Minister. Earlier, at Rajgarh, the Prime Minister will dedicate the Mohanpura Project to the nation. This project will facilitate irrigation of agricultural land in Rajgarh district. It will also provide drinking water to villages in the area. The Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of various drinking water schemes.",PM to visit Madhya Pradesh on 23rd June 2018
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/prime-minister-to-chair-the-4th-meeting-of-the-governing-council-of-niti-aayog-on-june-17-2018/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/prime-minister-to-chair-the-4th-meeting-of-the-governing-council-of-niti-aayog-on-june-17-2018/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will chair the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Sunday, the 17th June. The day-long meeting will be attended by Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from the States, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories and senior officials from the Government of India. The Governing Council of NITI Aayog is the premier body tasked with evolving a shared vision of national development priorities, sectors and strategies with the active involvement of States in shaping the development narrative. The Governing Council reviews the work done during the previous year and deliberates upon the future developmental priorities. The Council is expected to discuss important subjects including measures taken to double farmers’ income; progress of flagship schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, National Nutrition Mission and Mission Indradhanush; development of aspirational districts; and celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.","Prime Minister to Chair the 4th meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog on June 17, 2018"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-telephonic-conversation-with-world-bank-president/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-telephonic-conversation-with-world-bank-president/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, received a telephone call today from the President of the World Bank, Mr. Jim Yong Kim. Mr. Kim congratulated the Prime Minister for India’s historic rise in the Ease of Doing Business rankings. He said that it is remarkable that a nation of over 1.25 billion people has achieved a rise of 65 ranks in a short period of 4 years. Mr. Kim added that this has been made possible, in large measure, due to the unwavering commitment and leadership of Prime Minister Modi. He described this as a historic, and unprecedented achievement. Mr. Kim also recalled the recent honours received by the Prime Minister, including the UNEP Champions of the Earth Award, and the Seoul Peace Prize, and congratulated him for the same. Mr. Kim promised the World Bank’s unflinching and continued support to India’s initiatives on ease of doing business. The Prime Minister thanked the World Bank President, for the Bank’s continued guidance and support in India’s efforts to improve ease of doing business. He added that the World Bank’s rankings are a source of inspiration for India, in its quest to improve ease of doing business.",PM’s telephonic conversation with World Bank President
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approvesmou-between-india-and-iran-on-the-establishment-of-an-expert-group-on-trade-remedy-measures/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approvesmou-between-india-and-iran-on-the-establishment-of-an-expert-group-on-trade-remedy-measures/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its ex post facto approval to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Iran on the establishment of an expert group on trade remedy measures to promote cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The MoU was signed on 17thFebruary, 2018 during the visit of the President of Iran. The MoU will promote cooperation between the two countries in area of trade remedies such as exchange of information, capacity building activities, cooperation in investigations related to anti-dumping and countervailing duty, etc.",Cabinet approves MoU between India and Iran on the establishment of an expert group on trade remedy measures
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-expresses-condolences-on-the-passing-away-of-union-minister-shri-ananth-kumar/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-expresses-condolences-on-the-passing-away-of-union-minister-shri-ananth-kumar/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has expressed condolences on the passing away of Union Minister Shri Ananth Kumar. The Prime Minister said, “Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work. I spoke to his wife, Dr. Tejaswini Ji and expressed condolences on the passing away of Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. My thoughts are with his entire family, friends and supporters in this hour of grief and sadness. Om Shanti.”",PM expresses condolences on the passing away of Union Minister Shri Ananth Kumar
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condemns-the-terror-attacks-in-afghanistan/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-condemns-the-terror-attacks-in-afghanistan/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has strongly condemned the terror attacks in Afghanistan yesterday. “We strongly condemn the terror attacks in Afghanistan yesterday. They are an attack on Afghanistan’s multicultural fabric. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I pray that the injured recover soon. India stands ready to assist the Afghanistan government in this sad hour”, the Prime Minister said.",PM condemns the terror attacks in Afghanistan
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/prime-minister-receives-dr-mohamed-asim-minister-of-foreign-affairs-special-envoy-of-the-president-of-the-republic-of-maldives/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/prime-minister-receives-dr-mohamed-asim-minister-of-foreign-affairs-special-envoy-of-the-president-of-the-republic-of-maldives/,"Dr. Mohamed Asim, Minister of Foreign Affairs & Special Envoy of the President of Maldives called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today afternoon. They discussed the ties between India and Maldives as close neighbours bound by shared history, culture and maritime interests in the Indian Ocean. Special Envoy Asim reiterated the commitment of Maldives to maintain close relations with India under Maldives’ “India First” policy. Prime Minister affirmed that India would always be a reliable and close neighbour of Maldives supporting it in its progress and security. Special Envoy Asim also reiterated President Yameen’s invitation to Prime Minister to visit Maldives. Prime Minister conveyed his gratitude for the invitation and agreed to the visit at a suitable time. Special Envoy conveyed the greetings of President Abdulla Yameen to Prime Minister, which was warmly reciprocated by Prime Minister.","Prime Minister receives Dr. Mohamed Asim, Minister of Foreign Affairs & Special Envoy of the President of the Republic of Maldives"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-at-the-inauguration-of-9th-vibrant-gujarat-summit-2019/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-at-the-inauguration-of-9th-vibrant-gujarat-summit-2019/,"Honourable Ministers and Excellencies from various countries, representatives and delegates from partner countries, corporate leaders, invitees, participants and delegates, dignitaries on the dais, young friends, Ladies & Gentlemen! I am delighted to welcome you to the 9th Chapter of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. As you can see,this has now become a truly global event. One that has space for everyone.It has dignityof the presence of senior political leadership.It has the energyof CEOs and Corporate Leaders. It has the gravitas of Institutions and opinion makers, andit has the vitality of young enterprise and start-ups. Vibrant Gujarat has contributed to the confidence building of our enterprises. It has also helped in capacity building and adoption of global best practices, by government agencies. I wish you all, a productive, fruitful, and enjoyable Summit.In Gujarat, this is the season of the kite festivalor Uttarayan. Amid the busy schedule of this Summit, I hope you shall be able to take some time out to enjoy the sights and sounds of the festivities, and the State. I particularly welcome and thank the 15 Partner Countriesof this edition of Vibrant Gujarat. I also thank the 11 Partner Organisations,and all those Countries, Organisations and Institutions who are holding their Seminars at this Forum.It is also a matter of satisfaction, that eight Indian States have come forward to make use of this Forum to high-light their respective investment opportunities. I hope you shall find time to visit the Global Trade Show, which is remarkable in its scale, and range of world-class products, processes and technologies.In fact,Gujarat represents the best of business spirit, which exists in India. This eventhas further sharpenedthe edge which Gujarat had since several decades.The Vibrant Gujarat Summit has had a transformational journeyof eight successful editions. A number of conventions and seminarshave been organised on various topics. These issues are of importanceto Indian Society and Economyas well as, the entire Global Community.By way of examplelet me mention the celebration of Africa Day tomorrowand the Global Conclave of International Chambers on 20th January. Friends, Assembled here today, is a truly augustgathering.We are honoured bythe presence of many Heads of State and Government andseveral other distinguished delegates. This shows that international bilateral cooperation is no longer limited to national capitals, but now extends to our State capitals as well. In India,as in most emerging economies, our challenge is to grow horizontally as well as vertically. Horizontally,we have to spread the benefits of development to regions and communities that have lagged behind. Vertically,we have to meet enhanced expectations in terms of quality of life, quality of services and quality of infrastructure.We are well awarethat our achievements, here in India, will directly impact one sixth of humanity. Friends, Those who visit India regularlywould have felt a change in the air.The change is both in terms of direction and intensity.Over the last four years,the focus of my Government has been to reduce Government and enhance Governance. The mantra of my Government has been Reform, Perform, Transform andfurther Perform. We have taken a number of drasticsteps. We have also undertaken deeper structural reforms which have added strengthto our economy and nation. As we have done so, we continued to remain one of the fastest growing major Economies in the world. Major international Financial Institutionslike the World Bank and the IMFas well as agencies like Moody’s have expressed confidence in India’s economic journey. We have focused on removing the barrierswhich were preventing us from achieving our full potential. We will continue the pace and process of reforms and de-regulation. Friends, India is now ready for business as never before. We have made Doing Business Easier. In the last four years, we have jumped 65places in the Global Ranking of World Bank’s Doing Business Report. From 142 in 2014 to 77 now, butwe are still not satisfied. I have asked my team to work harder so that India is in the top 50 next year.I want our regulations and processes to compare with the best in the world.We have also made Doing Business cheaper. The historic implementation of Goods and Services Tax and other measures of simplification and consolidation of taxes havereduced transaction costs andmade processes efficient. We have also made Doing Business Faster through digital processes, online transactions and single point inter-faces. In FDI Foreign Direct Investment, we are one of the most open countries now. Most of the sectors of our economy are now only open for FDI. More than 90 percent approvals have been put on automatic route. Such measures have propelled our economy into a high growth path. In the last four years, we have received FDI worth 263 billion Dollars. This is 45 percent of the FDI received in last 18 years. And Friends, We have also made Doing Business Smarter. We are insisting on IT based transactions in procurement and purchases of Government. Digital payments including direct transfer of government benefits is now under full implementation. We are among the largest eco-systems in the world for start-ups and a number of them have come up in the field of technology. I can therefore safely say that doing business with us is a great opportunity. This is also because we are among the top 10 FDI destinations listed by UNCTAD. Ours is a globally cost competitive manufacturing environment.We have a vast pool of skilled professionals with knowledge and energy. We have a world class engineering education base and strong Research and Development facilities. Rise in GDP, a rising middle class and their purchasing power is creating further growth in our huge domestic market. In the last two years,we have moved towards a low tax regimeon the corporate side. We have lowered the tax from 30 % to 25 % for new investments as well as small and-medium ventures.On IPR issues, we have evolved benchmarking policies. Now, we are one of the fastest trademark regimes.The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code nowgives businesses an exit window without the burden of long legal and financial battles. Thus, from the start of business to its operation and closure, we have paid attention in building new institutions, processesand procedures. All this is important, not just for doing business but also for ease of life of our people. We also understand that being a young nation, we need to create job opportunities and better infrastructure. Both are linked with investments. Therefore, in recent years, there has been unprecedented focus on manufacturing and infrastructure. We have worked hard to promote manufacturing to create jobs for our youth. Investments through our “Make in India” initiative, have been well supported by programmes like ‘Digital India’ and ‘Skill India’. Our focus also includes bringing our industrial infrastructure, policies and practices to best global standards and to convert India into a global manufacturing hub. Cleaner energy and greener development. Zero defect and Zero effect manufacturing.These are also our commitments. We have committed to the world to work towards reducing the effects of climate change. On the energy front, we are now the fifth largest producer of renewable energy in the world. We are fourth largest in Wind Energyand fifth largest producer of Solar Energy. We are keen to scale up investments in next generation infrastructureincluding roads, ports, railways, airports, telecom, digital networks and energy. We are also investing heavily in our social, industrial and agri-infrastructure to give better income and quality of life to our people. To give some examples,in four years there has been maximum capacity addition & generation of electricity.For the first time, India has become a net exporter of electricity. We have distributed LED Bulbs on a massive scale. This has resulted in huge energy savings.We have installed transmission lines at an unprecedented pace. Our speed in road construction has almost doubled. We have done unprecedented capacity addition in major ports. Rural road connectivity is now 90 %. The speed of setting up new rail lines, gauge conversion, doubling and electrification of railway tracks has also doubled. We are debottlenecking execution of major projectson a regular basis through an online process.Our Public Private Partnership regime for infrastructure has been made more investor friendly.At 7.3%,the average GDP growth, over the entire term of our Governmenthas been the highest of any Indian Government since 1991.At the same time,the rate of inflation at4.6 % is the lowest for any Indian Government since 1991, when India began its process of liberalization. We believe that fruits of development must reach people with ease and efficiency. To give you a few examples, now we have a bank account for every family. We are giving loans to small enterprises without collateral. We now have electricity in every village. We also have electricityin almost all households now. We have given cooking gas to large numbers of people who were not able to afford it so far. We have ensured that there is proper sanitation in all areas – both urban and rural. We are working towards full coverage of toilets for householdsand their proper use. Ladies and Gentlemen, We were among the highest growing tourist destinationsin the world in 2017. India had a growth of 14 percent over 2016,while the world grew at an average of 7 percent in the same year.We have also been the fastest growing aviation market in the world, with double-digit growth in passenger ticketing terms,for over four years. Thusa New India is emergingwhich will be modern and competitiveand yet caring and compassionate. An example of this compassionis our Medical Assurance Scheme called Ayushman Bharat.This will benefit about 500 million people – which is more than the population of United States, Canada and Mexico combined. Ayushman Bharat will provide immense investment opportunitiesin the areas of health infrastructure, medical equipment manufacturing, and healthcare services. Let me list some more examples.50 cities in India are ready to build Metro Rail Systems. We have to build 50 million houses. The requirement of road, rail and waterways is enormous. We want world-classtechnologies to achieve our goal in a faster and cleaner way. Friends, India is thus, a land of immense opportunities. It is the only place, which offers you Democracy, Demography and Demand.To those who are already present in India,I would like to assure you that our democratic system, human values andstrongjudicial system will ensure the safety and security of your investments. We are continuously workingto improve the investment climate further and make ourselves more and more competitive. For those who are not yet present in India,I extend an invitation and encourage you to explore the opportunities. This is the best time to be here.We have set up dedicated ways to help investors on a one to one basis.Above allI assure you that I will be always available to hold your hands in your journey. Thank You! Thank you very much. Thanks a lot.",PM’s address at the inauguration of 9th Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2019
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-state-of-the-world-address-at-world-economic-forums-davos-summit/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-state-of-the-world-address-at-world-economic-forums-davos-summit/,"Namsakar! On behalf of 130 crore Indians, I convey my greetings to the dignitaries from all over the world gathered at the World Economic Forum. Today when I am talking to you, India is tackling another Corona wave with caution and alertness. Parallelly, India is also moving ahead in the economic field with many promising results. Today, India is filled with the excitement of the celebrations of 75 years of its independence and also with the confidence of having administered 160 crore corona vaccine doses in just one year. Friends, A strong democracy like India has gifted the whole world a beautiful gift, a bouquet of hope. In this bouquet, we Indians have an unwavering trust on democracy; this bouquet has the technology that will empower the 21st century; and it also has temperament and the talent of us Indians. The Multi-Lingual, Multi-Cultural environment in which we Indians live is a great power not only of India but of the whole world.This strength teaches not only to think for oneself in times of crisis, but also to work for the humanity. During the Corona time, we have seen how India, following the vision of ‘One Earth, One Health’, is saving crores of lives by providing necessary medicines and vaccines to many countries. Today India is the world’s third largest pharma producer; it’s a pharmacy to the world. Today, India is among those countries of the world whose health professionals and doctors are winning everyone’s trust through their sensitivity and expertise. Friends, Sensitivity is tested in times of crisis, but India’s strength is an example for the whole world at the moment. During this crisis, India’s IT sector has saved all the countries of the world by working round the clock.Today India is sending record software engineers to the world. More than 50 lakh software developers are working in India. Today India has the third largest number of Unicorns in the world. More than 10 thousand start-ups have been registered in the last 6 months. Today India has a huge, secure and successful digital payments platform. Last month alone, 4.4 billion transactions have been done through Unified Payments Interface in India. Friends, The digital infrastructure that India has developed and adopted over the years has become a huge strength of India today. Technological solutions like Arogya-Setu App for tracking Corona Infections and CoWin Portal for Vaccination are a matter of pride for India. The online facilities offered by India’s CoWin portal – from slot booking to certificate generation, has caught the attention of people from bigger countries as well. Friends, There was a time when India was identified with the license raj and majority of the things were controlled by the government. I understand the challenges that have been there for doing business in India in those days. We are constantly trying to overcome all the challenges. Today India is promoting Ease of Doing Business, minimizing government interference. India has made its corporate tax the most competitive in the world by simplifying and reducing it. Last year alone, we have eliminated more than 25 thousand compliances. India has regained the confidence of the business community by reforming measures like retrospective taxes. India has also deregulated many sectors like Drones, Space, Geo-spatial mapping. India has made major reforms in the outdated telecom regulations related to IT sector and BPO. Friends, India is committed to becoming a trusted partner in the world in global supply-chains. We are making way for free-trade agreement with many countries. The ability of Indians to adopt Innovation, new technology; the spirit of entrepreneurship of Indians; can give new energy to every global partner of ours. So this is the best time to invest in India. Entrepreneurship among Indian youth is at a new height today. In 2014 where there were few hundred registered startups in India, their numbers have crossed 60 thousand today. It also has more than 80 unicorns, of which more than 40 formed in 2021 itself. Just as expat Indians are showing their skills on the global stage, in the same way Indian youth are fully ready, geared up to give new heights to the all your businesses in India. Friends, India’s commitment to deep economic reforms is another major reason that is making India the most attractive destination for investment today. During the Corona period, when the world was focusing on interventions like Quantitative Easing Program, India paved the way for reforms. The biggest projects to modernize digital and physical infrastructure got unprecedented momentum in the Corona times itself. More than 6 lakh villages in the country are being connected with optical fibre. An investment of $1.3 trillion is being made, especially on connectivity infrastructure. Through Innovative financing tools like Asset monetization a target to generate $80 billion has been set. India has also launched the Gati Shakti National Master Plan to bring every stakeholder on the same platform for promoting development. Under this National Master Plan, work will be done on infrastructure planning, development and implementation in an integrated manner. This will give a new impetus to seamless connectivity and movement of Goods, People and Services. Friends, While following the path of self-reliance, India’s focus is not only on easing the processes, but also on incentivizing investment and production. With this approach, today, Production Linked Incentive schemes worth $26 billion have been implemented in 14 sectors.The $10 billion incentive plan to roll out the fab, chip and display industry is a testament to our commitment to making the global supply chain smooth. We are moving ahead with the spirit of Make in India, Make for the world. Along with telecom, insurance, defence, aerospace, now there are limitless possibilities offered by India in the field of semiconductors as well. Friends, Today India is drafting policies, taking decisions with regard to the present as well as the goals of the next 25 years. For this period, India has set the targets of high growth and saturation of welfare and wellness. This period of growth will also be green, it will also be clean, it will also be sustainable, it will also be reliable. Continuing the tradition of making big commitments and living up to them for the global good, we have also set a target of net zero by 2070. India, with 17 per cent of the world’s population, may contribute 5 per cent, only 5 percent in Global Carbon Emission, but our commitment to tackle Climate Challenge is 100 percent. Initiatives like International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure for Climate Adaptation are proof of this. As a result of the efforts of the past years, today 40% of our Energy Mix is coming from non-fossil fuel sources. We have already achieved the commitments made by India in Paris, 9 years before their target. Friends, In the midst of these efforts, we also have to recognize that our lifestyle is also a big challenge for the climate. ‘Throw away’ culture and consumerism have made the climate challenge more serious. It is very important to rapidly shift today’s ‘take-make-use-dispose’, economy towards circular economy.The same spirit is at the core of the idea of Mission LIFE that I discussed at COP-26. LIFE – means Lifestyle for Environment, a vision of such a Resilient and Sustainable Lifestyle which will be useful in not only dealing with Climate Crisis but also with futuristic unpredictable challenges. Therefore, it is important to transform Mission LIFE into a global mass movement. A public participation campaign like LIFE can be made into a big base for, P-3 ‘Pro Planet People’. Friends, Today, at the beginning of 2022, when we are brainstorming over these issues in Davos, India also considers its responsibility to make everybody aware of few more challenges. Today, with the change in the global order, the challenges we have been facing as a global family are also increasing. To combat these, there is a need for collective and synchronized action by every country, every global agency. Supply chain disruptions, inflation and climate change are few examples of these challenges. Another example is cryptocurrency. The kind of technology that is associated with it, the decisions taken by a single country will be inadequate to deal with its challenges. We have to have a common mindset. But looking at the global scenario today, the question is whether multilateral organizations are ready to deal with the new world order and new challenges; is that strength left in them? When these institutions were formed, the situation was different. Today the circumstances are different. Therefore, it is the responsibility of every democratic country to emphasize reforms in these institutions so that they can come up to the task of tackling the challenges of present and future. I am sure there will be a positive dialogue in this direction during the discussions in Davos. Friends, In the midst of new challenges, the world today needs new avenues, new resolutions. Today, every country in the world needs cooperation with each other more than ever before. This is the way to a better future. I am sure this discussion in Davos will expand this spirit. Once again, I got a chance to meet you all virtually. Many thanks to you all.",PM’s ‘State of the World’ address at World Economic Forum’s Davos Summit
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-salutes-the-teaching-community-on-teachers-day-pays-tributes-to-former-president-dr-sarvepalli-radhakrishnan-on-his-birth-anniversary/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-salutes-the-teaching-community-on-teachers-day-pays-tributes-to-former-president-dr-sarvepalli-radhakrishnan-on-his-birth-anniversary/,"PM salutes the teaching community, on Teachers’ Day; pays tributes to Former President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, on his birth anniversary The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has saluted the teaching community, on Teachers’ Day. Prime Minister has also paid tributes to Former President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, on his birth anniversary. “On Teachers’ Day, I salute the teaching community that is devoted to nurturing minds and spreading the joys of education in society. My tributes to Dr. S Radhakrishnan, an outstanding teacher and statesman on his birth anniversary. Teachers have a central role in realising our dream of a ‘New India’ that is driven by cutting edge research and innovation. Let us make the next 5 years about ‘teach to transform, educate to empower and learn to lead'”, the Prime Minister said.","PM salutes the teaching community, on Teachers’ Day; pays tributes to Former President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, on his birth anniversary"
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-greets-the-people-on-the-occasion-of-various-festivals-across-india-3/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-greets-the-people-on-the-occasion-of-various-festivals-across-india-3/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has greeted the people on the occasion of various festivals across India. “Happy Makar Sankranti to everyone! Best wishes on Pongal! Greetings on the special occasion of Magh Bihu. Happy Uttarayan. May you all scale new heights of progress in the times to come”, the Prime Minister said.",PM greets the people on the occasion of various festivals across India
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-inaugurates-various-projects-in-junagadh-district/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-inaugurates-various-projects-in-junagadh-district/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today inaugurated various projects in Junagadh district. These included the Government Civil Hospital, a milk processing plant and some buildings of the Junagadh Agriculture University. Addressing a public meeting on the occasion, he said that there are nine initiatives, worth over Rs 500 crore, which are either being dedicated today, or their foundation stones are being laid. He said that there is a new energy and vibrancy in India’s development journey. He said that in Gujarat, there is a constant effort to ensure that adequate water reaches every part of the state. We are also working towards water conservation, he added. The Prime Minister said that medical colleges and hospitals are coming up across Gujarat. He said that these are not only helping patients, but also those who want to study medicine. He mentioned the Jan Aushadhi Yojana, under which Jan Aushadhi stores are being opened, which is reducing the prices of medicines. It is important that the poor and the middle class gets access to affordable medicines, he added. The Prime Minister said that the Government’s emphasis on cleanliness is being universally appreciated. The emphasis on cleanliness is important because a Clean India ensures people do not suffer from diseases, he added. The Prime Minister said that the health sector requires good doctors, and paramedical staff. We also want medical instruments to be made in India, he added, saying that the sector must also keep pace with the technological advancements globally. The Prime Minister asserted that the coming of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana- Ayushman Bharat will transform the health sector and ensure that the poor get top class healthcare at affordable prices.",PM inaugurates various projects in Junagadh district
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-addresses-inaugural-session-of-pio-parliamentarian-conference/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-addresses-inaugural-session-of-pio-parliamentarian-conference/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today addressed the inaugural session of the PIO-Parliamentarian Conference in New Delhi. Welcoming the delegates to the Conference, the Prime Minister said that while many people may have left India over the course of hundreds of years, India continues to have a place in their minds and hearts. He said it is not surprising that people of Indian origin have integrated themselves fully with their adopted lands. He added that while they kept the Indian-ness alive in themselves, they also imbibed the language, food, and dress of those countries. The Prime Minister said that it appears as if a Mini World Parliament of Indian origin is gathered in Delhi today. He noted that persons of Indian origin are today Prime Ministers of Mauritius, Portugal and Ireland. He added that persons of Indian origin have also been Heads of State and Heads of Government in many other countries. The Prime Minister said that the global impression about India has changed over the last three to four years. He said the reason for this is that India is transforming itself. He said the hopes and aspirations of India are at an all time high. He said signs of irreversible change are visible in every sector. The Prime Minister said that PIOs are like permanent ambassadors of India, wherever they reside, and he always attempts to meet them when he is travelling abroad. The Prime Minister praised External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for continuously keeping an eye on issues being faced by Indian citizens abroad. In this context, he mentioned the “MADAD” portal for real time monitoring and response of consular grievances. The Prime Minister said that the Government believes that NRIs are partners for India’s development. He said that NRIs have an important position in the Action Agenda till 2020, drafted by the NITI Aayog. The Prime Minister said that the values of Indian civilization and culture can provide guidance to the entire world, in an era of instability. The Prime Minister said that India has very close ties with ASEAN countries, which will be showcased during Republic Day, a few days from now.",PM addresses inaugural session of PIO-Parliamentarian Conference
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-inaugurate-dr-ambedkar-national-memorial-at-alipur-road-in-delhi-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-inaugurate-dr-ambedkar-national-memorial-at-alipur-road-in-delhi-tomorrow/,"On the eve of the birth anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial at 26, Alipur Road in Delhi on April 13th. This is the place where Dr. Ambedkar attained Mahaparinirvana on 6th December 1956. Dr. Ambedkar Mahaparinirvana Sthal at 26, Alipur Road, was dedicated to the Nation by Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the then Prime Minister of India, in December 2003. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid the foundation stone of the memorial on March 21, 2016. The memorial of Babasaheb Ambedkar, the creator of the Constitution of India has been given the shape of a book. The museum at the memorial intends to create an immersive experience into the life of Dr. Ambedkar, and his contribution to India, through extensive use of static media, dynamic media, audio-visual content, and multimedia technologies. A meditation hall has also been created. Toran Dwars, a Bodhi Tree, a musical fountain, and facade lighting are other important elements of the memorial.",PM to inaugurate Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial at Alipur Road in Delhi tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-on-the-occasion-of-the-platinum-jubilee-of-the-daily-thanthi-in-chennai/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pms-address-on-the-occasion-of-the-platinum-jubilee-of-the-daily-thanthi-in-chennai/,"At the outset, I express my condolences and sympathies to the families of all those, who have lost their loved ones, or faced immense hardship in the recent incidents of heavy rain and floods in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu. I have assured the State Government of all possible support. I also express grief at the passing away of senior journalist, Thiru R. Mohan. The Dina Thanthi has completed seventy five glorious years. I commend the contributions of Thiru S.P. Adithanar, Thiru S.T. Adithanar, and Thiru Balasubramanian ji, for the successful journey so far. Their stellar efforts over the last seven and a half decades, have made Thanthi one of the biggest media brands. Not just in the State of Tamil Nadu, but in the entire country. I also compliment the management and staff of the Thanthi group for this success. 24 hour news channels are now available to millions of Indians. Yet, for many, the day still begins with a cup of tea or coffee in one hand, and a newspaper in the other. I am told that the Dina Thanthi offers this option today, through seventeen editions, not only in Tamil Nadu but also in Bengaluru, Mumbai and even in Dubai. This remarkable expansion over seventy five years, is a tribute to the visionary leadership of Thiru S.P. Adithanar, who began this newspaper in 1942. Newsprint was a rare commodity in those days. But he began the newspaper by printing on paper made by hand, from straw. The font size, simple language and easy to understand narrative made Dina Thanthi popular among the people. In those times, it brought them political awareness and information. People used to throng the tea-shops to read this newspaper. Thus began the voyage, that continues till today, when its balanced coverage makes the Dina Thanthi popular, from a daily wage earner, to the highest political functionary in the State. I came to know that Thanthi means telegram. Dina Thanthi means “daily telegram”. Over the last seventy five years, the traditional telegram, delivered by the postal department, has become obsolete, and gone out of existence. But this telegram, continues to grow every day. Such is the power of a noble idea, backed by hard work and commitment. I am happy to learn that the Thanthi group has instituted awards for promoting Tamil Literature in the name of its founder Thiru Adithanar. I whole-heartedly congratulate the awardees: Thiru. Tamilanban, Dr. Irai Anbu and Thiru. V.G. Santhosham. I am sure, this recognition will be a motivating factor for those who have taken to writing as a noble profession. Ladies and Gentlemen. Mankind’s quest for knowledge is as old as our history itself. Journalism helps quench this thirst. Today, newspapers do not just give news. They can also mould our thinking and open a window to the world. In a broader context, media is a means of transforming society. That is why, we refer to the media, as the fourth pillar of democracy. I am fortunate today, to be among those who demonstrate the power of the pen, and show how it can be the vital life-force and conscience of society. During the dark days of colonialism, publications such as the Sambad Kaumudi of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, the Kesari of Lokmanya Tilak, and the Navjeevan of Mahatma Gandhi, lit a beacon, and inspired the freedom struggle. Across the country, there were pioneers in journalism, who often gave up a life of comfort. They helped create a mass consciousness and awakening, through their newspapers. Perhaps it is because of the high ideals of those founding pioneers, that so many newspapers established in the days of the British Raj, continue to flourish today. Friends, We must never forget that successive generations performed the duties required of them, towards society, and the nation. That is how we achieved freedom. After independence, the rights of citizens gained importance in public discourse. Unfortunately, over time we seem to have neglected our individual and collective sense of duty. This has in some way contributed to several ills that plague our society today. The need of the hour is to create a mass awakening towards “engaged, responsible, and aware citizens.” The civic sense of “entitlement” must be suitably balanced by a civic sense of “responsible engagement.” This should happen, of course, through our education system, and the conduct of our political leaders. But the media too, has a key role to play here. Ladies and Gentlemen. Many of the newspapers that shaped the discourse for freedom, were vernacular newspapers. In fact, the then British Government was fearful of the Indian Vernacular Press. It was to muzzle vernacular newspapers, that the Vernacular Press Act was enacted in 1878. In our diverse nation, the role of vernacular newspapers – newspapers published in regional languages – remains as important today, as it was then. They carry content in a language that is easily understood by people. Very often, they cater to vulnerable and socially disadvantaged groups. Their strength, their impact, and thus, their responsibility, can never be under-estimated. They are the messengers of the intent and policies of the Government, in far-flung areas. Equally, they are the torch-bearers of the thoughts, feelings and emotions of our people. In this context, it is indeed heartening to note that today, among our vibrant print media, some of the largest selling newspapers, are published in the regional languages. The Dina Thanthi, is of course, one among them. Friends. I have often heard people wonder, as to how the amount of news that happens in the world every day always just exactly fits the newspaper. On a serious note, we are all aware, that there is just too much that happens in the world everyday. It is the editors who select and decide what is important. They decide what should be given space on the first page, what should be given more space and what should be ignored. This, of course, casts upon them, a great responsibility. Editorial freedom must be used wisely, in public interest. Equally so, the freedom to write, and to decide what is to be written, does not include the freedom to be “less than accurate,” or “factually incorrect.” As Mahatma Gandhi himself told us: “The press is called the Fourth Estate. It is definitely a power, but, to misuse that power is criminal.” Even though media may be owned by private individuals, it serves a public purpose. As scholars say, it is an instrument to produce reform through peace, rather than by force. Hence, it has as much social accountability as the elected government or the judiciary. And its conduct must be equally, above board. To recall the words of the great saint Thiruvalluvar, “There is nothing in this world except ethics, which would bring both reputation and wealth together”. Friends. Technology has brought about great change in the media. There was a time, when the headlines of the day, written on a village blackboard, carried immense credibility. Today, our media spans the entire range, from that village blackboard, to online bulletin boards. Just as education now focuses a lot more on learning outcomes, our attitude towards consumption of content has changed. Today, every citizen analyses, discusses, and attempts to cross-check and verify the news that comes to him, through multiple sources. Media, therefore, must make an extra effort, to maintain credibility. Healthy competition among credible media platforms is also good for the health of our democracy. Renewed emphasis on credibility, brings us to the subject of introspection. I firmly believe that reform in the media, whenever required, can only come from within, through introspection. Indeed, we have seen this process of introspection happen on some occasions, such as the analysis of the reportage of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. Perhaps, it should happen more often. Friends. I recall a quote our beloved former President, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: “We are such a great nation. We have so many amazing success stories but we refuse to acknowledge them. Why?” I observe, that a lot of the media discourse today revolves around politics. It is only fair that politics be discussed at length, in a democracy. However, India is more than just us politicians. It is the 125 crore Indians, which make India what it is. I would be happy to see media focus a lot more, on their stories, and their achievements. In this endeavour, every citizen with a mobile phone is your ally. Citizen reporting can be an important tool in the sharing and dissemination of success stories of individuals. It can also be of immense help in directing relief and rescue efforts in times of crisis, or natural disasters. Let me also add, that during times of natural disasters, media usually does its best to cover various aspects of the incident. Natural calamities seem to be occurring with increasing frequency and intensity across the world. Climate change is a challenge for each one of us. Can media take a lead in the battle against it? Can media devote just a little space, or a fixed time daily, to report, discuss, or increase awareness about what we can do to combat climate change? I take this opportunity, to appreciate the media’s response to the Swachh Bharat Mission. As we strive to achieve Swachh Bharat by 2019, the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, I am touched by the constructive role that media has played, both in generating awareness and mass consciousness towards cleanliness. They have also pointed out the work that remains to be done, before we can claim to have achieved our goal. Ladies and Gentlemen. There is another key area, where media can play an important role. This is the initiative of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. Let me explain this with one example. Can a newspaper, devote just a few column inches of space, each day for one year, to this cause? Every day, they can write one simple sentence in their language of publication, along with its translation, and trans-literation, in all major Indian languages. At the end of the year, the readers of the newspaper will have been exposed to 365 such simple sentences, in all major Indian languages. Imagine the positive impact this simple step can create. Further, schools can be encouraged to discuss this in their classrooms daily for a few minutes, so that children too, are exposed to the strength and richness of our diversity. Hence, this step will not only serve a noble cause, but will also increase the strength of the publication itself. Ladies and Gentlemen. Seventy five years may be a considerable amount of time in a human life-span. But for a nation, or an institution, it marks just a significant milestone. About three months ago, we celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Quit India Movement. In a way, the journey of the Dina Thanthi, has mirrored the rise of India as a young, vibrant nation. Speaking in Parliament on that day, I gave a call for creating a New India by 2022. An India that is free from the evils of corruption, casteism, communalism, poverty, illiteracy, and disease. The next five years must be about Sankalp se Siddhi – accomplishment through resolve. Only then can we create the India of the dreams of our freedom fighters. As a newspaper that was born when the nation embraced the Quit India Movement, may I suggest that the Dina Thanthi has a special responsibility in this regard. I hope that you will use this opportunity, to reflect upon what you can do for your readers, or for the people of India, over the next five years. Even beyond the immediate target of five years, perhaps on the occasion of its platinum jubilee, the Thanthi must think of what the next seventy five years will be like. What is the best way to continue to remain relevant, and serve the people and the nation in the age of instant news at the fingertips. And in doing so, continue to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and objectivity. In conclusion, I once again appreciate the efforts of the publishers of Dina Thanthi in the service of the people of Tamil Nadu. I am sure, they will continue to constructively help in shaping the destiny of our great nation. Thank you.",PM’s address on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of the Daily Thanthi in Chennai
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/members-of-the-parliament-of-sri-lanka-calls-on-pm/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/members-of-the-parliament-of-sri-lanka-calls-on-pm/,"A delegation of Members of the Parliament of Sri Lanka called on the Prime Minister today.H.E. Mr. Karu Jayasurya, Speaker of the Sri Lankan Parliament, led the multi-party delegation. The Parliamentarians noted the historical ties and shared spiritual & cultural heritage of India and Sri Lanka and expressed appreciation for the deepening of relations between the two countries in recent years. They also noted the benefits from a number of people-centric development cooperation projects being carried out with India’s assistance in Sri Lanka. They agreed that speedy implementation of joint economic projects will bring benefits to the economies and the people of both the countries. The Prime Minister welcomed the delegation and stressed the importance of such linkages. He stated that the new initiatives for enhancing relations between provincial assembliesand local bodies of the two countries would further deepen significantly the close people-to-people ties and trust between the two countries.",Members of the Parliament of Sri Lanka calls on PM
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-lead-4th-international-yoga-day-celebrations-in-dehradun/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-lead-4th-international-yoga-day-celebrations-in-dehradun/,"Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will lead the 4th International Yoga Day Celebrations in Dehradun on June 21, 2018. The Prime Minister will join thousands of volunteers, performing Yoga asanas in the lawns of Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, located in the lap of the Himalayas. A series of Yoga related events are being organized across the world to mark the occasion. The Prime Minister had earlier participated in Yoga celebrations at Rajpath in New Delhi in 2015, the Capitol Complex in Chandigarh in 2016, and the Ramabai Ambedkar Sabha Sthal in Lucknow in 2017. Greeting Yoga enthusiasts across the world on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that Yoga is one of the most precious gifts given by the ancient Indian sages to humankind. “Yoga is not just a set of exercises that keeps the body fit. It is a passport to health assurance, a key to fitness and wellness. Nor is Yoga only what you practice in the morning. Doing your day-to-day activities with diligence and complete awareness is a form of Yoga as well,” the Prime Minister said. “In a world of excess, Yoga promises restraint and balance. In a world suffering from mental stress, Yoga promises calm. In a distracted world, Yoga helps focus. In a world of fear, Yoga promises hope, strength and courage,” the Prime Minister added. In the run-up to International Yoga Day, the Prime Minister has also taken to social media to share the intricacies of various Yoga Asanas. He has also shared pictures of people performing Yoga, at various locations across the world.",PM to lead 4th International Yoga Day Celebrations in Dehradun
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-dedicate-naval-submarine-ins-kalvari-to-the-nation-tomorrow/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-to-dedicate-naval-submarine-ins-kalvari-to-the-nation-tomorrow/,"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will dedicate to the nation, the naval submarine INS Kalvari, at Mumbai on Thursday. The INS Kalvari is a diesel-electric attack submarine that has been built for the Indian Navy by the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. It is the first of six such submarines that will be inducted into the Indian Navy, and represents a significant success for the “Make in India” initiative. The project has been undertaken with French collaboration. The Prime Minister will dedicate the submarine at the Naval Dockyard, in the presence of the Defence Minister, important dignitaries of the Maharashtra Government, and senior Naval Officers. He will address the gathering, and undertake a visit of the submarine.",PM to dedicate naval submarine INS Kalvari to the nation tomorrow
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-proposal-for-allotment-of-land-to-pasteur-institute-of-india-for-establishment-of-new-viral-vaccine-manufacturing-unit-at-coonoor-tn/,https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/cabinet-approves-proposal-for-allotment-of-land-to-pasteur-institute-of-india-for-establishment-of-new-viral-vaccine-manufacturing-unit-at-coonoor-tn/,"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Proposal for allotment of land measuring30 acres to Pasteur Institute of India (PII) for establishmentof New Viral Vaccine Manufacturing Unit at Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. The project entails production of Viral Vaccines (like TCA anti-Measles Vaccine, JE Vaccine etc.) and Anti Sera (like Anti Snake Venom and Anti Rabies Sera) at the PII, Coonoor. Land for the project will be transferred free of cost. Land used for the project will also be got changed by the Ministry of Health & FW from ‘Industrial’ to ‘Institutional’. Benefits: The allotment of land will encourage the production of life-saving vaccines for children, to strengthen the vaccine security of the country, and would reduce the cost, besides providing import substitution as presently these are being imported.","Cabinet approves proposal for allotment of land to Pasteur Institute of India for establishment of New Viral Vaccine Manufacturing Unit at Coonoor, TN"