Output

12/8/2017 Commerce and Industry Minister Smt.
t. Nirmala Sitharaman has said that India should take lead in making quality products available to world at
Press Information Bureau

Government of India
Ministry of Commerce & Industry
01-May-2017 17:18 IST
Commerce and Industry Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman has said that India should take lead in making quality
products available to world at an affordable price.
Commerce and Industry Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman has said that India should take lead in
making quality products available to world at an affordable price. Inaugurating the 4th National Standards
Conclave organized by the Department of Commerce in association with CII, BIS, EIC, FSSAI, APEDA and
NABCB she emphasized while standards as signifying quality are important but they also need to be affordable
for manufacturers to comply and consumers to buy. She said Prime Ministers Zero Effect Zero Defect idea
aims at exactly this. She cited The Mangalyan launch costing and worldclass quality is a prime example of
quality with affordability.
Commerce and Industry Minister appreciated that a standards strategy document is going to be the possible
outcome of this conclave however, she emphasised that long term strategy should not lose sight of immediate
challenges. Smt. Sitharaman stated that any national strategy for standards should be able to factor in technology
to disseminate any change in import requirements in foreign countries so that our exporters are well prepared to
overcome those barriers. This dissemination has to be in regional languages. She said this has become critical as
number of notifications in WTO have increased and many deal with standards .
The Minister highlighted the issues confronting agriculture sector, where the nature of standards set in
international bodies often militate against the Indian varieties. She stressed that International standards especially
in food produce must value variety over homogeneity and India must participate actively in such Standards
setting. When Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary (SPS) controls are put on agro products, like mango or grapes
unilaterally, they hurt our farmers. Similarly, the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) of certain pesticides or
biocides are altered too quickly in the foreign markets and farmers are taken by surprise. So, efforts must be put
to create quick information system for such farmers and exporters. She hoped that the proposed strategy would
provide a guide or a kind of framework so that we avoid such crises at negotiation stage it self.
The Minister also launched the India Standards Portal a one stop portal for all information on Standards,
Technical Regulations, conformity assessment & accreditation practices, and the related bodies in India and
adivsed that portal should also help exporters to identify regulations in various countries abroad.
In his address, Mr. R V Deshpande, Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development,
Government of Karnataka, highlighted the strategy adopted by his state to put in place a robust standards eco
system. These include besides providing incentives to the industrial units adopting standards, insistience on
http://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx 1/2
12/8/2017 Commerce and Industry Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman has said that India should take lead in making quality products available to world at
procurement of products and services which conform to the standards, ensuring infrastructure is available in the
state and focus on Research and Development.
Ms. Rita Teaotia, Secretary, Department of Commerce highlighted the legislative reforms that have been
happening as a result of series of national and regional Conclaves. She stated that since the last edition of the
Conclave, the new BIS Act had been passed and the Consumer Protection Act is also proposed to include a new
chapter on Product Liability. This would help strengthen the standards ecosystem in the country. She also noted
that for the first time, standards in the services sector were getting attention. She suggested that there was a need
to develop a National Strategy for Standards as well as Vision Document for the same.
Ms. Alka Panda, Director General, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) highlighted the role that the BIS was
playing in the development of standards in the country. Mr. Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, Quality Council of India
stated that there was a need to work with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to help improve their standards.
He also spoke of the need to create a standards compliance system which was easy to comply with and
emphasized that standards should be seen as an opportunity rather than as a threat.
Mr. Rakesh Bharti Mittal, President Designate, and Mr. Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General of CII also spoke
in the inaugral affirming Industries commitment to graduate to a high Standards regieme in the country.
Mr. Sudhanshu Pandey, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry proposed
the Vote of Thanks.
****
MJPS
12/8/2017 Shri BandaruDattatreya Launches One IP- Two Dispensaries and Aadhaar Based Online Claim Submission Schemes on International Labou

Government of India
Ministry of Labour & Employment
01-May-2017 16:14 IST
Shri BandaruDattatreya Launches One IP- Two Dispensaries and Aadhaar Based Online Claim Submission
Schemes on International Labour Day
The Government is Committed for Job Security, Wage Security and Social Security of the Workers: Shri
BandaruDattatreya
Minister of State (I/C) for Labour and Employment, Shri BandaruDattatreya launched two schemes One IP-
Two Dispensaries and Aadhaar based Online Claim Submission on the occasion of International Labour Day
today.
Under One IP- Two Dispensaries schemeESIC has given an option to an Insured Person (IP) to choose two
dispensaries, one for self and another for family through an employer. This will benefit all IPs, especially migrant
workers who are working in other than home State, while their families are living in their native States. Because
of non-availability of option of second dispensary, the dependant members of family are often deprived of
medical benefits. By introducing the concept of One IP- Two Dispensaries, IP as well as their family members
would now be able to get treatment from either of the dispensaries and in case of emergency from any ESI
Institution.As of now, around 3 crores IPs are covered under ESIC and total number of beneficiaries i.e. IPsand
their family members is over 12 crores.
Under Aadhaar based Online Claim Submission scheme all EPF Members who have activated their UAN and
seeded their KYC (Aadhaar) with EPFO will be able to apply for PF final settlement (form19), Pension
withdrawal benefit (Form10-C) and PF part withdrawal (Form31) from the their UAN Interface directly. The
three forms collectively form more than 80% of EPFOs claim workload.Members can complete the whole
process online and they neither need to interact with the employer nor with the EPFO field office to submit
online claim.They are not required to give any supporting document while preferring online PF part withdrawal
case. Members applying online will be taken as his self-declaration for preferring the advance claim.
Launching the schemes Shri BandaruDattatreya said that the Government has recognised the importance of
labour and the contribution of workers and is dedicated to their welfare. It is ensuring job security, wage security
and social security to them.The Minister of State (I/C) for Labour and Employment said that the Governmentis
trying to provide social security to the workers of unorganised sector also. He said that in the recently launched
scheme SPREE by ESIC the new accounts of 77 lakh individuals and 66 thousand establishments have been
12/8/2017 Shri BandaruDattatreya Launches One IP- Two Dispensaries and Aadhaar Based Online Claim Submission Schemes on International Labou
opened and EPFO has also added around 50 lakhs new accounts in its recently launch scheme. 34 million
registrations havealready been done on National Career Service (NCS) Portal.
Earlier, Smt. M. Sathiyavathy, Secretary, Labour and Employment said that the ministry has undertaken many
steps for the welfare of workers. The Ministry is also rationalising the labour laws for the ease of business. She
said that upgradation of skill is necessary for the job opportunity.
*****
BCK/AK
12/8/2017 Department of Telecom (DoT) Launches Tarang Sanchar, a web Portal for Information sharing on Mobile Towers and EMF Emission Compliance

Government of India
Ministry of Communications
02-May-2017 18:58 IST
Department of Telecom (DoT) Launches Tarang Sanchar, a web Portal for Information sharing on Mobile Towers
and EMF Emission Compliance
The Minister of Communications Shri Manoj Sinha today launched here Tarang Sanchar, a web portal for
Information sharing on Mobile Towers and EMF Emission Compliances and said that it will go a long way in
clearing the myths and misconceptions of public on mobile towers and emissions from them. He expressed the
hope that the portal will empower common man to know at the convenience of a mouse click, about towers
working in a particular locality and whether they are compliant to the EMF emission norms defined by the
Government.
Shri Sinha said that the portal will allow users to get a tower or base station checked for radiation emission, for a
fee of Rs 4,000. He said that mobile phone today has become an essential requirement for all including the poor
in the remotest corner of the country and no one will be allowed to spread misconception about the harmful
radiation from the towers to impede the growth of the country. Shri Sinha reiterated that there are over 25,000
studies by WHO in the last 30 years on the subject and there is no proof that EMF radiation has any harmful
effect on human health. Brushing aside growing concerns over the emanating electromagnetic frequency (EMF)
radiations from mobile towers, the Telecom Minister once again reminded that Indian norms had prescribed 10
times stricter limits for radiation emission in comparison to global standards. He said that more measures are
being taken to penalise the erring entities.
Shri Sinha said that to realize the Prime Ministers vision of Digital India, it is necessary to have more and more
mobile towers in every nook and corner of the country and the Ministry has already approved installation of
towers over government buildings, 16 places in post offices and soon a decision will be taken to install the same
in Cantonment Boards, which will not only help in spreading digital connectivity, but will also solve the problem
of call drops significantly. Describing the launch of the portal a historic step, the Minister said that in future it
will help in identifying the blind spots and added that it is also environment friendly as no paper work is required
for this. He said that it has the complete collated technical details of over 14.5 lakh base stations (BTSs) spread
across the country of all technologies (2G, 3G, 4G etc.) and of all Telecom Service Providers (TSPs).
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary, DoT Shri P K Pujari said that the portal will make information available to
all concerned and he underlined that the focus of the government in the last three years has been transparency,
disclosures and citizen-centric measures, which are the hall marks of good governance. He said, though there is
no scientific evidence of any health concerns from low power mobile BTSs, a need was felt to educate the
citizens about EMF emissions from mobile towers and status of their compliances. Shri Pujari said that the portal
12/8/2017 Department of Telecom (DoT) Launches Tarang Sanchar, a web Portal for Information sharing on Mobile Towers and EMF Emission Compliance
has three elements of providing information, EMF compliance process and interface between different
departments, besides ease of doing business.
In his address, the Chairman, TRAI Shri R S Sharma said that the portal will be a mile stone for transparency,
fair play, citizen empowerment and will finally lead to a knowledge economy. He said that digital empowerment
in India is only possible when there is adequate digital infrastructure. Shri Sharma said that mobile phone in
India today is not only a talking tool, but it has become an instrument for various transactions including cashless
transaction and he lauded the collaborative effort between the government and the industry for this.
Shri G K Upadhyaya, Member (Technology) said that the EMF Portal is designed to provide a public interface
where an easy map-based search feature has been provided for viewing the mobile towers in vicinity of any
locality. He said the that any person can request for EMF emission measurement at a location by paying a
nominal fee of Rs 4000/- online. The tests will be conducted by the local Telecom Enforcement Resource and
Monitoring (TERM) filed unit of DoT and the test report will be provided to the requestor. The portal also has
EMF Overview and Learn Sections, which provide numerous articles, booklets and videos, to further educate
the citizens about EMF and coverage of telecom services. Shri R K Misra Member (Services) in Telecom
Commission in his thanks giving address said that in addition to Government to Citizen (G2C) services, portal
also facilitates Government to Business (G2B) service delivery in a transparent and eco-friendly manner.
For further details related to Tarang Sanchar, please contact: ddgcs-dot@nic.in, srddgsterm-dot@nic.in
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SNC
12/8/2017 Wall of Valour IN Educational Institutions Launched

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
02-May-2017 20:08 IST
Wall of Valour IN Educational Institutions Launched
With the inspiration of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to help create a spirit of respect for our real heroes,
Minister of Human Resource Development Shri Prakash Javadekar and Minister of State for Defence Dr.
Subhash Bhamre jointly launched a campaign to have a Wall of Valour in 1,000 educational institutions across
the country, here today. Portraits of Param Vir Chakra (PVC) decorated soldiers will be displayed at designated
places on educational campuses to instil sense of nationalism among the students. This is part of a nationwide
Vidya Veerta Abhiyan, initiated by writer and former Rajya Sabha member Shri Tarun Vijay.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Javadekar said, We feel secure just because of the continuous vigil and alertness
of our Armed Forces along the borders. He stated, Armed Forces are our real post-Independence heroes while
the freedom fighters who laid down their lives and faced atrocities for the cause of freedom are the natural
heroes.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Bhamre appreciated the initiative to display portraits of 21 PVC awardees which
will usher in spirit of patriotism among the youth of the nation.
Referring to the mutilation of two jawans at Krishna Ghati Sector in Poonch Dr. Bhamre said, The kind of
brutality inflicted on our jawans is a dastardly act, which is sad for humanity and we cannot expect decency from
the enemy across the border. He also complimented our jawans for performing tireless duty away from their
families braving the enemy bullets in difficult terrain. He assured the nation that our troops are capable of giving
a befitting reply.
Shri Javadekar and Dr Bhamre gave portraits of these gallant heroes to Vice Chancellors of Jawaharlal Nehru
University (JNU), University of Delhi (DU), Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI). In addition, VCs of different
universities, including Arunachal Pradesh and representative from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi
also received portraits from them.
On the occasion, Grenadier Yogender Singh Yadav and Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, both PVC awardees, shared
their experiences and exemplary acts of valour during Kargil conflict.
Following are the Param Vir Chakra recipients:
Major Somnath Sharma, 4 Kumaon, (Posthumous), 1947

Second Lieutenant Rama Raghoba Rane, Bombay Sappers, 1948
Company Havildar Major Piru Singh, 6 Rajputana Refiles, (Posthumous), 1948
12/8/2017 Wall of Valour IN Educational Institutions Launched
Lance Naik Karam Singh, 1 Sikh, 1948

Naik Jadunath Singh, 1 Rajput, (Posthumous), 1948
Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria, 3/1 Gorkha Rifles, (Posthumous), 1961
Major Shaitan Singh, 13 Kumaon, (Posthumous), 1962
Subedar Joginder Singh, 1 Sikh, (Posthumous), 1962
Major Dhan Singh Thapa, 1/8 Gorkha Rifles, 1962
Company Quartermaster Havildar Abdul Hamid, 4 Grenadiers, (Posthumous), 1965
Lieutenant Colonel A B Tarapore, Poona Horse, (Posthumous), 1965
Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, 18 Squadron, (Posthumous), 1971
Major Hoshiar Singh, 3 Grenadiers, 1971
Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, Poona Horse, (Posthumous), 1971
Lance Naik Albert Ekka, 14 Guards, (Posthumous), 1971
Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran, 8 Mahar, (Posthumous), 1987
Naib Subedar Bana Singh, 8 JAK LI, 1987
Grenadier Yogender Singh Yadav, 18 Grenadiers, 1999
Captain Vikram Batra, 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, (Posthumous), 1999
Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, 1999
Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, 7/11 Gorkha Rifles (Posthumous), 1999
NW/Ao/Nampi/DK/Rajib/Ranjan
12/8/2017 Prakash Javadekar Launches VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAN

Government of India
Ministry of Human Resource Development
02-May-2017 18:35 IST
Prakash Javadekar Launches VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAN
Patriotric Fervours Re Energisation in Universities and Colleges is need of the Hour- Prakash Javadekar

Union Minister of Human Resource Development Shri Prakash Javadekar today launched the VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAN here in New
Delhi. He was accompanied by Minister of State for Defence Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre, writer Shri Tarun Vijay, Senior Officers from Indian
Army, Air Force and Navy Lt. General Sarat Chandra, Air Marshal H.N.Bhagwat, Rear Admiral K.K.Pandey, Paramveer Chakra recipient Grenadier
Sanjay Kumar and Subedar Yogendra Singh Yadav on this occasion. A collage of photo portraits and book on Paramveer Chakra recipients was also
released and presented to Vice-Chancellors of universities.
Highlighting the importance of the occasion Shri Javadekar expressed his gratitude towards the most difficult service rendered by our armed
forces. He said we feel secure just because of the continuous vigil and alertness of our forces busy in securing our borders. The Minister said these
are our real post independence heroes while the freedom fighters who laid their lives and faced atrocities for the cause of freedom are the natural
heroes since the days of Satyagraha which culminated in the revolution for getting independence from the foreign rule.
Shri Javadekar said through this campaign a wall of valour will be built in colleges and universities across the country and this will be built
on contributory funding by students and teachers on voluntary basis. He said this wall will be 15X20 feet in size and will depict the portraits of all
the 21 Paramveer Chakra recipients. The Minister expressed the hope that this will help revive and re-energize the patriotic fervour in our young
minds.
The Minister said organising of such events help in changing atmosphere in our colleges and universities. It is just to revive the patriotic
feeling in our youth. He said we are not interested to teach lessons of patriotism to anyone as it is innate in every individual. But its continuous
revival is a dire need. Shri Javadekar said we do not want to force it.
The event was attended by several vice-chancellor of universities, scholars, ex-servicemen and school children. Paramveer chakra recipient
Shri Sanjay Kumar and Shri Yogendra Singh Yadav who also shared their war memories and experiences with the audience and instilled patriotic
feelings in the young ones.
The function was also addressed by Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre MoS Defence and Shri Tarun Vijay, the convener of the event.
******
12/8/2017 Prakash Javadekar Launches VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAN
GG/ST/IA/ VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAAN
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves National Steel Policy 2017

Government of India
Cabinet
03-May-2017 20:16 IST
Cabinet approves National Steel Policy 2017
New Policy - A reflect of long term Vision
Focus on enhancing domestic consumption, high quality steel production and making the sector globally competitive
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for National Steel
Policy (NSP) 2017.
The new Steel Policy enshrines the long term vision of the Government to give impetus to the steel sector. It seeks
to enhance domestic steel consumption and ensure high quality steel production and create a technologically advanced and
globally competitive steel industry.
Key features of the NSP 2017:
1. Create self-sufficiency in steel production by providing policy support & guidance to private manufacturers,
MSME steel producers, CPSEs
2. Encourage adequate capacity additions,
3. Development of globally competitive steel manufacturing capabilities,
4. Cost-efficient production
5. Domestic availability of iron ore, coking coal & natural gas,
6. Facilitating foreign investment
7. Asset acquisitions of raw materials &
8. Enhancing the domestic steel demand.
The policy projects crude steel capacity of 300 million tonnes (MT), production of 255 MT and a robust finished
steel per capita consumption of 158 Kgs by 2030 - 31, as against the current consumption of 61 Kgs. The policy also
envisages to domestically meet the entire demand of high grade automotive steel, electrical steel, special steels and alloys
for strategic applications and increase domestic availability of washed coking coal so as to reduce import dependence on
coking coal from about 85% to around 65% by 2030-31.
Some highlights of New Steel Policy
The Indian steel sector has grown rapidly over the past few years and presently it is the third largest steel producer
globally, contributing to about 2% of the country's GDP. India has also crossed 100 MT mark for production for sale
in 2016-17.
The New Steel Policy, 2017 aspires to achieve 300MT of steel-making capacity by 2030. This would translate into
additional investment of Rs. 10 lakh Crore by 2030-31.
The Policy seeks to increase consumption of steel and major segments are infrastructure, automobiles and housing.
New Steel Policy seeks to increase per capita steel consumption to the level of 160 Kgs by 2030 from existing level
of around 60 Kg.
Potential of MSME steel sector has been recognised. Policy stipulates that adoption of energy efficient technologies in
the MSME steel sector will be encouraged to improve the overall productivity & reduce energy intensity.
Steel Ministry will facilitate R&D in the sector through the establishment of Steel Research and Technology Mission
of India (SRTMI). The initiative is aimed to spearhead R&D of national importance in iron & steel sector utilizing
tripartite synergy amongst industry, national R&D laboratories and academic institutes.
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves National Steel Policy 2017
Ministry through policy measures will ensure availability of raw materials like Iron ore, Coking coal and non-coking
coal, Natural gas etc. at competitive rates.
With the roll out of the National Steel Policy-2017, it is envisaged that the industry will be steered in creating an
environment for promoting domestic steel and thereby ensuring a scenario where production meets the anticipated
pace of growth in consumption, through a technologically advanced and globally competitive steel industry. This
will be facilitated by Ministry of Steel, in coordination with relevant Ministries, as may be required.
Background:
Steel is one of the most important products in the modern world and forms the backbone to any industrial economy.
India being one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and steel finding its extensive application right from
construction, infrastructure, power, aerospace and industrial machinery to consumer products, the sector is of strategic
importance to the country. The Indian steel sector has grown exponentially over the past few years to be the third largest
producer of steel globally, contributing to about 2% of the country's GDP and employing about 5 lakh people directly and
about 20 lakh people indirectly.
Untapped potential with a strong policy support becomes the ideal platform for growth. Owing to the strategic
importance of the sector along with the need to have a robust and restructured policy in present scenario, the new NSP, 2017
became imminent. Though, National Steel Policy 2005 (NSP 2005) sought to indicate ways and means of consolidating the
gains flowing out of the then economic order and charted out a road map for sustained and efficient growth of the Indian
steel industry, it required adaptation in view of the recent developments unfolding in India and also worldwide, both on the
demand and supply sides of the steel market.
****
AKT/VBA/SH
12/8/2017 Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra to be set up by Swachh Bharat Mission at Gandhi Smriti & Darshan Samiti, Rajghat

Government of India
Ministry of Culture
03-May-2017 15:37 IST
Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra to be set up by Swachh Bharat Mission at Gandhi Smriti & Darshan Samiti,
Rajghat
M/O Culture Develops E-Guide (Audio-Visual) App to Create Awareness for Tourists
M/O Tourism Strives to Realise Mahatma Gandhis Dream of Clean India by his Sesquicentennial (150th Year) Birth
Anniversary Celebrations in 2019
Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra will be set up by Swachh Bharat Mission Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation at
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS), Rajghat by Swachh Bharat Mission Ministry of Drinking Water and
Sanitation under the vision of Prime Minister during the centenary year of Champaran Satyagraha and the Ministry of
Culture is considering to provide space for the purpose. This was announced by Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State (I/C)
for Culture and Tourism while addressing media persons on the culmination of Swachhata Pakhwada of Ministry of
Culture here today. Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Minister for Rural Development, Pachayati Raj and Drinking Water &
Sanitation was also present.
Dr. Sharma informed the media persons that Ministry of Culture dedicated a total of 275 effort hours for cleanliness and
awareness during Swachhata Pakhwada. A total of 82 activities/events were organised by the Ministry and its organizations
during the Swachhata Pakhwada. He said that to create awareness on Swachhata, Ministry of Culture has developed e-
guide (Audio-Visual) App e3.eguide.net.in to create awareness for the tourists visiting National Museum.
Addressing on the occasion, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar said that that Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) is not only the top
priority of the Government but it has become a national mission for the people of India and positive results are pouring in
from every nook and corner of the country. He said that since the launch of SBM on 2nd October, 2014, till date more than 4
crore individual household latrines have been built and one lakh, 94,000 villages and 135 districts have become Open
Defecation Free, ODF. He added that apart from Sikkim, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh which are ODF Sates, 6 to 7 more
States will soon declare them ODF as the work is going on a rapid scale.
Shri Tomar said that the total budget for Swachh Bharat Mission is now Rs 19,300 crore with a Central share of Rs 14,000
crore and Rs 5,300 crore is the budgetary provision declared by all government departments as they had been asked to make
a special mention of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in their budget proposals, besides finalising their Swachhta Action Plan.
On completion of 3rd year of Swachhata Abhiyan, Ministry of Culture and Tourism organised Swachhata Pakhwada from
16th 30th April, 2017. During the period, they initiated various Swachhata activities namely; (i) creating permanent
mechanism of cleanliness for all organisations under Ministry of Culture and Tourism ; (ii) to spread awareness through
various cultural activities by involving all their organisations: and (iii) spread of swachhata awareness through Music, Dance
and Drama by its Academies and maintaining cleanliness at all ASI Protected Monuments etc.
Major initiatives undertaken by Ministry of Culture during Swachhata Pakhwada are :-
Ministry is considering to provide space at Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS), Rajghat to host Rashtriya
Swachhata Kendra to be set up by Swachh Bharat Mission Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation under vision of
Prime Minister during the centenary year of Champaran Satyagraha.
National Archives of India organized Swachhagraha- Bapu ko Karyanjali a mission, and exhibition to
commemorate centenary year of Champaran Satyagraha.
To create awareness on Swachhata, Ministry of Culture has developed e-guide (Audio-Visual) App to create
awareness for the tourists visiting National Museum.
2 days festival Vimal Yatra was organized by Sangeet Natak Akademi through cultural and devotional
performances.
Special exhibition titled SUNO- Broom Sticks was organized by the Indian Museum to highlight importance of
broom sticks.
7 Zonal Cultural Centres of Ministry organized various competitions such as essay writing, poster making, painting,
rangoli making amongst students for Swachhta awareness.
The Archaeological Survey of India observed World Heritage Day on 18th April, 2017 through awareness campaign
Swachh Bharat Swachh Smarak in all its monuments and site museums.
Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sanghralaya organized series of activities such as painting competition, lectures
and seminars.
The National Gallery of Modern Art participated in heritage walk and cleanliness drive on World Art Day and
World Heritage Day. They also organized poster making competition for school students.
Allahabad Museum organized series of activities namely seminar on waste management, debate completion on
hygiene and cleanliness for school children etc.
Major initiatives undertaken by Ministry of Tourism during Swachhata Pakhwada are :
The Ministry of Tourism, with the aim and objectives of promoting these places of attraction, has adopted the motto
Incredible India and considers the visitors as guests and regards them as Atithi devo Bhava and works towards the
maintaince of cleanliness in the tourist destinations through various schemes/programmes, such as Campaign Clean India,
undertaking awareness campaigns, Swachhta Runs, conferring National Awards etc. One such programme is the observance
of a campaign on cleanliness and undertaking a fortnightly intensive cleanliness drive called Swachhta Pakhwada.
During the current financial year, the Ministry has undertaken a Swachhta Pakhwada from 16th-30th April, 2017, to
synchronize with the World Heritage Day celebrations by the Ministry of Culture, as per the consolidated guidelines issued
by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation. During this Pakhwada period, an intensive cleaning operation was
undertaken In-house in Transport Bhawan and C-1, Hutments by all the staff members, which yielded good results.
Ministry of Tourism has joined the celebrations of World Heritage Day by the ASI at the historic Humayuns Tomb,
a world heritage monument in Delhi. An intensive cleanliness drive undertaken jointly by the officials of MoT and ASI has
yielded good results and made the monument, its approach, its garden area, its drinking water units and toilet area neat and
clean and kept the monument in a presentable condition. Similar cleaning operation was undertaken at the historic Firoz
Shah Kotla & Purana Qila, national monuments in New Delhi which resulted in the monument and its environs in a
presentable condition. As a tribute to the Father of Nation, who dreamed a clean India, the MoT officials have undertaken an
intensive cleanliness activity at the Martyrdom Place in Tees January Marg, New Delhi.
The consolidated guidelines received from MoDW&S were sent to all State and UTs Govts., requesting them to
undertake a fortnightly intensive campaign on cleanliness at the tourist destinations in their State and UTs, during the same
period. Action taken reports from states/UTs are awaited.
Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the PSUs is implementing Swachhta activities at tourist destinations under
the CSR scheme. A review meeting of the status of the Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives by the Public Sector
Undertakings (PSU) at the Archaeological monuments already adopted by them and further adoption of more number of
monuments by the PSUs was held under the chairmanship of Secretary (Tourism), in which the progress achieved by various
PSUs was reviewed and modalities worked out for adoption of more number of Adarsh monuments and the other ASI
monuments, which are in dire need of priority action on cleanliness, based on the study conducted by the Ministry.
Thus Ministry is striving to take all actions making a Swachh Bharat, in respect of all the tourist destinations in the
country and realise Mahatma Gandhi Jis dream of a clean India by his sesquicentennial (150th year) birth anniversary
celebrations in 2019.
*****
Sanjay Kumar/jk/Culture & Tourism/03.05.2017
12/8/2017 Two Launches in a row with Precise Hit of Brahmos Block 3

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
03-May-2017 16:39 IST
Two Launches in a row with Precise Hit of Brahmos Block 3
South Western Commands Corps Strike One successfully carried out the firing of the advanced BRAHMOS Block III
land attack cruise missile system in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands on the 3rd of May 2017 for the second consecutive day.
The successive launches reinforce the formidable weapons precision strike capability. The long-range tactical weapon was
successfully tested from the same location on the 2nd of May, 2017.
These successful firings of the supersonic cruise missile were carried out in full operational land-to-land
configurations from Mobile Autonomous Launchers (MAL) at its full-range. Meeting all flight parameters in a copybook
manner while conducting high level and complex manoeuvers, the multi-role missile successfully hit the land-based target
with desired precision, in both the trials demonstrating its accuracy of less than one metre.
12/8/2017 Two Launches in a row with Precise Hit of Brahmos Block 3
This is the fifth consecutive time when the Block-III version of BRAHMOS LACM has been successfully launched
and hit the land-based target in top-attack mode, an incredible feat not achieved by any other weapon system of its genre.
Indian Army, which became the first land force in the world to deploy the BRAHMOS in 2007, has raised several regiments
of this formidable weapon. Jointly developed by Indias DRDO and Russias NPOM, the multi-platform, multi-mission
BRAHMOS is capable of being launched from land, sea, sub-sea and air against surface and sea-based targets.
****
Col Aman Anand

PRO (Army)
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves New Central Sector Scheme SAMPADA (Scheme For Agro-Marine Processing And Development Of Agro-Processing Clust

Government of India
Ministry of Food Processing Industries
03-May-2017 20:31 IST
Cabinet approves New Central Sector Scheme SAMPADA (Scheme For Agro-Marine Processing And Development
Of Agro-Processing Clusters)
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its
approval for re-structuring the schemes of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) under new Central Sector
Scheme SAMPADA (Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing Clusters) for the period
2016-20 coterminous with the 14th Finance Commission cycle.
SAMPADA with an allocation of Rs. 6,000 crore is expected to leverage investment of Rs. 31,400 crore, handling of
334 lakh MT agro-produce valuing Rs. 1,04,125 crore, benefit 20 lakh farmers and generate 5,30,500 direct/ indirect
employment in the country by the year 2019-20.
The objective of SAMPADA is to supplement agriculture, modernize processing and decrease agri-waste.
SAMPADA is an umbrella scheme incorporating ongoing schemes of the Ministry like Mega Food Parks, Integrated
Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure, Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure, etc. and also new schemes
like Infrastructure for Agro-processing Clusters, Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages, Creation / Expansion of
Food Processing & Preservation Capacities.
The SAMPADA is a comprehensive package to give a renewed thrust to the food processing sector in the country. It
includes new schemes of Infrastructure for Agro-processing Clusters, Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages and
Creation / Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities aim at development of modern infrastructure to
encourage entrepreneurs to set up food processing units based on cluster approach, provide effective and seamless backward
and forward integration for processed food industry by plugging gaps in supply chain and creation of processing and
preservation capacities and modernization/ expansion of existing food processing units.
The implementation of SAMPADA will result in creation of modern infrastructure with efficient supply chain
management from farm gate to retail outlet. It will not only provide a big boost to the growth of food processing sector in
the country but also help in providing better prices to farmers and is a big step towards doubling of farmers income. It will
create huge employment opportunities especially in the rural areas. It will also help in reducing wastage of agricultural
produce, increasing the processing level, availability of safe and convenient processed foods at affordable price to
consumers and enhancing the export of the processed foods.
Background:
Food Processing Sector has emerged as an important segment of the Indian economy in terms of its contribution to
GDP, employment and investment. During 2015-16, the sector constituted as much as 9.1 and 8.6 per cent of GVA in
Manufacturing and Agriculture sector respectively.
The manifesto of NDA Government stresses upon incentivizing the setting up of food processing industry for
providing better income for the farmers and creating jobs.
Various measures have been taken by the government to give a boost to the food processing sector. With these
measures food processing sector has grown at 7 per cent. In order to arrest post-harvest losses of horticulture & non-
horticulture produce, the Ministry has accorded approval to 42 Mega Food Parks and 236 Integrated Cold Chains for
creation of modern infrastructure for the food processing along the value chain from the farm to the market. Out of 42 Mega
Food Parks, 8 are operational. Of this, 6 Mega Food Parks have been made operational during the last 3 years. Another 4
Mega Food Parks are targeted for operationalization in next three months. Similarly, out of 236 Cold Chains, 101 Cold
Chains have been sanctioned recently in March, 2017. 100 Cold Chains have become operational. Of which, 63 Cold Chains
have been made operational during last 3 years.
Government has taken various other measures to boost food processing sector as follows:
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves New Central Sector Scheme SAMPADA (Scheme For Agro-Marine Processing And Development Of Agro-Processing Clust
(a) To provide impetus to investment in food processing and retail sector, govt. has allowed 100% FDI in trading
including through e-commerce, in respect of food products manufactured and / or produced in India. This will
benefit farmers immensely and will create back end infrastructure and significant employment opportunities.
(b) The govt. has also set up a Special Fund of Rs. 2000 crore in NABARD to make available affordable credit at
concessional rate of interest to designated food parks and agro processing units in the designated food parks.
(c) Food and agrobased processing units and cold chain infrastructure have been brought under the ambit of
Priority Sector Lending (PSL) to provide additional credit for food processing activities and infrastructure
thereby, boosting food processing, reducing wastage, create employment and increasing farmers income.
****
AKT/VBA/SH
12/8/2017 eVIN Project of Health Ministry becomes global best practise in immunisation

Government of India
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
04-May-2017 18:44 IST
eVIN Project of Health Ministry becomes global best practise in immunisation
Five-Country International Delegation meets Health Secretary
Members of a five country international delegation called on Shri C K Mishra, Secretary Ministry of Health &
Family Welfare, here today. They interacted with the Health Secretary to learn more about the global best
practice of eVIN (electronic vaccine intelligence network) project of the Health Ministry and to understand how
it is being implemented in the country and the ways in which it be replicated in their own countries.
Representatives from Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal and Thailand are on a visit to India to study the
project. Mr. Jaco Cilliers, Country Director, UNDP and Dr Rakesh Kumar, Addl. Country Director, UNDP were
also present during the meeting.
Shri Mishra said that the Ministry is ready to provide support and collaborate with other countries to strengthen
their capacities and scale up their programs. He also stated that this is a big boost for the Digital India and Make
in India initiatives of the Government. This sets a benchmark in the field of immunisation, he said. The
delegation shared the experience from their countries of the immunisation projects, and expressed the shared
view that the India visit shall enrich them to strengthen their own country programs.
Stating that India has a lot to share in terms of best practices and new learning, Mr. Jaco Cilliers, Country
Director, UNDP stated that such visits provide an opportunity to other countries to learn from these best practices
of India in the field of immunisation and strengthen their own programs.
Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Addl. Country Director, UNDP stated that while the country is working towards enhancing
the coverage of immunisation, quality of vaccines through maintenance of the right temperature is also a critical
component to for the quality and efficacy of the vaccines. eVIN is a step towards ensuring that, he stated.
eVIN (Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network) is an indigenously developed technology system in India that
digitizes vaccine stocks and monitors the temperature of the cold chain through a smartphone application. The
innovative eVIN is presently being implemented called across twelve states in India. eVIN aims to support the
Government of Indias Universal Immunization Programme by providing real-time information on vaccine
stocks and flows, and storage temperatures across all cold chain points in these states. The technological
innovation is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
eVIN aims to strengthen the evidence base for improved policy-making in vaccine delivery, procurement and
planning for new antigens in India. eVIN provides an integrated solution to address widespread inequities in
vaccine coverage by supporting state governments in overcoming constraints of infrastructure, monitoring and
12/8/2017 eVIN Project of Health Ministry becomes global best practise in immunisation
management information systems and human resources, often resulting in overstocking and stock-outs of
vaccines in storage centres.
The integrated solution combines:
Technology: to facilitate evidence-based decision-making by making available online real-time

information on vaccine stocks and storage temperature through the eVIN application software and
temperature loggers;
Governance: to ensure efficient vaccine logistics management by systemizing record keeping through
standardizing stock and distribution registers; identifying gaps and improving clarity on vaccine cold chain
network; drawing attention to infrastructure upgrades; developing standard operating procedures; and
encouraging good practices;
Human Resources: to empower the state cold chain network by building the capacities of government cold
chain handlers; and deploying vaccine and cold chain managers in every district for constant support to
estimate vaccine requirements, supervise cold chain handlers and coordinate with cold chain technicians
across the district.
eVIN empowers the cold chain handlers by building technical capacities and providing a robust decision-making
tool for cold chain managers through a complete overview of vaccine replenishment times, supply and
consumption patterns.
By streamlining the vaccine flow network, eVIN is a powerful contribution to strengthening health systems and
ensures equity through easy and timely availability of vaccines to all children.
******
MV
12/8/2017 Faridabad Fastest Mover Big Clean City in the country; Varanasi, Vijayawada, Bhubaneswar at Zonal level

Government of India
Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs
04-May-2017 17:20 IST
Faridabad Fastest Mover Big Clean City in the country; Varanasi, Vijayawada, Bhubaneswar at Zonal level
Tirupati cleanest in medium cities category; Ambikapur in small cities group
List of Cleanest and Fastest Mover Cities at Zonal Level
Faridabad in Haryana has emerged as the Fastest Mover Big City at the national level in the Swachh Survekshan -2017,
results of which were announced here today by the Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu.
At the national level, Tirupati was ranked the Cleanest Medium City while Ambikapur, Chattisgarh bagged this honour in
Small Cities category. Rewa, Madhya Pradesh emerged as the Faster Mover in medium cities category, Khargone, Madhya
Pradesh moved the fastest by significantly improving its rank this year over that of 2014 Survey in small cities category.
Winners of Cleanest and Fastest Mover Awards at Zonal level are:

Category North Zone South Zone East Zone West Zone North-East
Cleanest Big New Delhi Tiruchirapally, Jamshedpur, Navi Mumbai, Gangtok
City Municipal Tamil Nadu Jharkhand Maharashtra (Cleanest State
Council Capital)
Fastest Moving Varanasi Vijayawada, AP Bhubaneswar Gwalior, MP Aizawal
Big City (Overall)
Cleanest Karnal, Haryana Kakinada, AP Bhilainagar, Ujjain, MP Nagaon,
Medium City Chattisgarh Assam
(Overall outside
capital cities)
Fastest Moving Jhansi, UP Ongole, AP Rourkela, Sagar, MP
Medium City Odisha
Cleanest Small Leh, J and K Suryapet, Chas, Jharkhand Navsari, Gujarat
City Telangana
Fastest Moving Ferozepur, Tadipatri, AP Rajnandgaon, Pithampur, MP
Small City Punjab Chattisgarh
AAR/KM
12/8/2017 Indore emerges as the Cleanest City of India

Government of India
04-May-2017 14:03 IST
Indore emerges as the Cleanest City of India
Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Mysuru, Tiruchirapally, NDMC, Navi Mumbai, Vadodara, Chandigarh make the Top 10
Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Cha sgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana are the Movers and Shakers, says Shri M.Venkaiah
Naidu
12 Gujarat ci es, 11 from MP, 8 from AP among the top 50 Clean Ci es

Varanasi ranked 32 this year as against 418 in 2018 ; Faridabad fastest mover among big ci es
Swachh Survekshan-2017 Results announced; its Ci zens Verdict, says Shri Naidu
Mysuru slipped to h rank this year but no decline in sanita on standards, says Minister
Indore has emerged as the Indias Cleanest City in the Swachh Survekshan-2017 conducted in 434 ci es and towns, the
results of which were announced here today by the Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venakaiah Naidu.
Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Mysuru, Tiruchirapally, New Delhi Municipal Council, Navi Mumbai, Vadodara and Chandigarh
are among the Top 10 clean ci es in that order.
10 towns that came at the bo om of the 434 surveyed are; Gonda (UP) ranked 434 followed by Bhusawal (Maharashtra),
Bagaha (Bihar)- 433, Hardoi (UP)-432, Ka har (Bihar)-431, Bahraich (UP)-429, Muktsar (Punjab)-427, Muktsar (Punjab)-426 and Khurja
(UP)-425.
Announcing the Survey Results, Shri Naidu described Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand and Cha sgarh followed by
Andhra Pradesh and Telangana as the Movers and Shakers for having signicantly improved their rankings from that of the Survey
conducted in 2014 before the launch of Swachh Bharat Mission in October, 2014. Swachh Survekshan conducted in 2016 covered 73
ci es with over million popula on each besides capital ci es.
The Minister further informed that in Swachh Surekshan-2017, all the ci es surveyed in Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand have
substan ally improved their rankings over that of 2016 and 2014. Gujarat did so in respect of all ci es excep ng Rajkot and similar
being the case in respect of Cha sgarh except Bilaspur. In Telangana, only two ci es have dropped in rankings this year while it
happened in respect of four ci es in Andhra Pradesh.
Shri Naidu stated that a total of 14 States were represented in the Top 50 clean ci es with Gujarat accoun ng for 12, followed
Madhya Pradesh-11, Andhra Pradesh-8 and one each from Chandigarh, Cha sgarh, Delhi, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Sikkim and U ar
Pradesh.
25 towns from U ar Pradesh are ranked among the bo om 50 ci es with followed by Rajasthan and Punjab with ve each,
two in Maharashtra and one each from Haryana, Karnataka and Lashadweep.
Varanasi has however, improved its rank from 418 in 2014 to 32 this year to become the Fastest Big City Mover in the North
Zone.
The Minister said that UP, Bihar, Rajasthan, Punjab and Kerala need to substan ally step up eorts to improve sanita on
standards in urban areas.
Faridabad in Haryana has improved its rank from 379 in 2014 to 88 this year and has been awarded for being the Fastest
Mover among ci es with a popula on of above one million each.
Shri Venkaiah Naidu stressed that this years survey results are Ci zens Verdict on cleanliness in urban areas of the country
with 37 lakh ci zens enthusias cally providing feedback on cleanliness in 434 ci es and towns accoun ng for about 60% of the total
urban popula on in the country. He stated that such survey will be commissioned in all the 4,041 statutory towns and ci es.
Shri Naidu further referred to India improving its posi on by 12 places in the global Travel and Tourism Compe ve Index and
feedback from media persons as further conrma on of improving sanita on in urban areas.
Referring to Mysuru in Karnataka which topped the ranks in 2016 and 2014 and ranked ve in this years survey, Shri Naidu
asserted that in no way it meant that cleanliness has declined in the city or the city government scaled down its eorts. He explained
that Mysuru scored over 87% out of the total score of 2,000 in both 2017 and 2016 indica ng that sanita on level has not come down
12/8/2017 Indore emerges as the Cleanest City of India
this year while other ci es have scored over Mysuru. This spirit of compe on is sought to be promoted through such surveys to help
ci es know where they stand in absolute terms and in rela on to other ci es as well said the Minister.
38 ci es were awarded including the Top ve clean ci es at the na onal level, cleanest ci es and fastest movers in dierent
zones in 5-10 lakh and 2-5 lakh popula on categories.
Swachh Survekshan-2017 aimed at capturing the outcomes on ground of the ongoing eorts to make urban areas Open
Defeca on Free and to improve door-to-door collec on, processing and disposal of Municipal Solid Waste. Of the total score of 2,000,
900 marks were assigned for performance in respect of ODF and solid waste management, 600 marks for Ci zen Feedbak and 500
marks for Independent Observa on.
Quality Council of India that conducted the survey during January-February this year deployed 421 assessors for on the site
inspec on of cleanliness in 434 ci es and towns and another 55 for real me monitoring of progress of survey and eld inspec ons.
Field inspectors used geo-tagged devices for collec ng evidence in real me of their inspec on at 17,500 loca ons.
(Sanitation rankings in order of rank, State and City-wise, improvements in ranks of MP, Gujarat, Jharkhand and Chattisgarh available on PIB
website)
AAR/KM
May 4, 2017
12/8/2017 Swachh Survekshan-2017 : Criteria and Methodology

Government of India
04-May-2017 12:14 IST
Swachh Survekshan-2017 : Criteria and Methodology
Swachh Survekshan-2017 commissioned by the Ministry of Urban Development during January February,
2017 aimed at capturing the improvement in sanitation scenario, primarily based on making cities and towns
Open Defecation Free and improvement in processing of municipal solid waste. Accordingly, it is outcome
oriented.
Criteria and weightages for different components of sanitation related aspects used for the Survey are:
A: Solid Waste Management including Door-to-Door collection, Processing and Disposal,

ODF status etc: 45% of total 2,000 marks i.e 900 marks
B: Citizen feedback : 30% i.e 600 of total marks
C: Independent observation : 25% i.e 500 marks
Quality Council of India which conducted the survey deployed 421 assessors for on the spot assessment of
17,500 locations in 434 cities and towns. Another 55 persons regularly monitored the survey process in real time.
Filed inspection resulted in evidence based reports on the cleanliness situation with assessors using geo-tagged
devices.
AAR/KM
12/8/2017 Swachh Survekshan 2017: Sanitation Rankings of Cities/Towns State/UT-wise

Government of India
04-May-2017 12:18 IST
Swachh Survekshan 2017: Sanitation Rankings of Cities/Towns State/UT-wise
S.No State/UT and no.of ci es Ci es/Towns with rankings

surveyed
1 A and N Islands (1) Port Blair-221
2 Andhra Pradesh (32) Visakhapatnam-3, Tirupa -9, Vijayawada-19, Tadipatri-31, Narasaraopeta-40,
Kakninada-43, Tenali-44, Rajahmundry-46, Ongole-70, Chi ore-71, Nandyal-
80, Machilipatnam-83,Eluru-86, Bhimavaram-87, Guntakal-93,
Tadepallegudem-97, Chilakaluripeta-107, Guntur-118, Srikakulam-119,
Vizianagaram-126, Proddatur-133, Dharmavaram-149, Kadapa-154,
Gudivada-156, Kavali-159, Hindupur-160, Nellore-165, Kurnool-176,
Anantapuram-213, Srikalahas -214, Adoni-224, Madanapalle-281
3 Arunachal Pradesh (1) Itanagar-216
4 Assam (4) Guwahaty-134, Nagaon-161, Silchar-280, Dibrugarh-297
5 Bihar (27) Biharsharif-147, Kishanganj-257, Patna-262, Be ah-270, Hajipur-272,
Bhagalpur-275, Sasaram-278, Bodh Gaya-293, Muzaarpur-304, Jehanabad-
307, Buxar-327, Dehri-334, Purnea-342, Mo hari-348, Darbhanga-356,
Aurangabad-357, Gaya-362, Siwan-376, Arrah-390, Danapur-391, Saharsa-
396, Begusarai-404, Jamalpur-414, Munger-415, Chapra-422, Ka har-430,
Bagaha-432
6 Chandigarh (1) Chandigarh-11
7 Cha sgarh(8) Ambikapur-15, Bhilai Nagar-54, Durg-85, Raigarh-104, Raipur-129,
Rajnandgaon-164, Bilaspur-179, Jagdalpur-232
8 Dadra & Nagar Haveli (1) Silvassa-264
9 Daman & Diu (2) Diu-340, Daman-350
10 NCT of Delhi (5) NDMC-7, Delhi Cantonment-172, East MCD-196, South MCD-202, North
MCD-279
11 Gujarat (31) Surat-4, Vadodara-10, Ahmedabad-14, Rajkot-18, Gandhinagar-20, Navsari-
25, Vapi-26, Bhavnagar-33, Kalol-34, Jamnagar-35, Jetpur Navagadh-39,
Godhra-49, Junagadh-52, Bharuch-60, Dwaraka-66, Gandhidham-67, Nadiad-
69, Botad-79, Palanpur-95, Morbi-96, Bhuj-98, Mehsana-99, Veraval-101,
Anand-103, Patan-111, Deesa-120, Amreli-123, Valsad-142, Surendranagar
Dudhrej-150, Gondal-153, Porbandar-184
12 Goa (1) Panaji-90
13 Haryana (18) Karnal-65, Faridabad-88, Gurugram-112, Panchkula-211, Sonepat-243,
Thanesar-253, Jind-265, Sirsa-274, Kaithal-282, Hissar-291, Rohtak-295,
Rewari-303, Ambala Sadar-308, Panipat-335, Bhiwani-345, Yamunanagar-
346, Bahadurgarh-353, Palwal-397
14 Himachal Pradesh (2) Shimla-47, Kullu-259
15 Jammu & Kashmir (4) Leh-100, Anantnag-197, Srinagar-241, Jammu-251
16 Jharkhand (9) Chas-41, Jamshedpur-64, Giridh-81, Hazaribagh-91, Deogarh-102, Dhanbad-
109, Ranchi-117, Mango-131, Adityapur-144
17 Karnataka (27) Mysuru-5, Mangaluru-63, Udupi-143, Shivmoggar-147, Mandya-148,
Tumkuru-152, Gadag Betagiri-167, Hubbali-Dharwad-199, Bagalkot-203,
Bengaluru-210, Bhadrava -217, Ranebennur-220, Chikmagalur-225, Hasan-
227, Belgavi-248, Bellary-283, Davanagere-288, Kalaburgai-294, Vijayapura-
312, Bidar-315, Hospet-317, Raichur-328, Chitradurga-337, Robertsonpet-
347, Kolar-373, Gangava -381, Badami-388
18 Kerala (9) Kozhikode (Calicut)-254, Kochi (Cochin)-271, Palakkad-286, Guruvayoor-306,
Thrissur-324, Kollam-365, Kannur-366, Thiruvananthapuram-372, Alappuza
-380
19 Lakshadweep (1) Kavara -416
20 Madhya Pradesh (35) Indore-1, Bhopal-2, Ujjain-12, Khargone-17, Jabalpur-21, Sagar-23, Katni-24,
Gwalior-27, Omkareshwar-36, Rewa-38, Ratlam-48, Singrauli-51, Chindwara-
53, Sehore-55, Dewas-58, Hoshangabad-59, Pithampur-61, Khandwa-73,
Mandsaur-74, Satna-75, Korba-77, Betul-78, Cha arpur-92, Nagda-114,
Bhind-128, Neemuch-136, Burhanpur-138, Seoni-163, Vidisha-173, Morena-
205, Shivpuru-228, Damoh-242, Dabra-260, Guna-266, Da a-289
2 Maharashtra (44) Navi Mumbai-8, Pune-13, Greater Mumbai-29, Shirdi-56, Pimpri Chindwad-
72, Chandrapur-76, Ambarnath-89, Solapur-115, Thane-116, Dhule-124, Mira
Bhayander-130, Nagpur-137, Vasai Virar-139, Ichalkaranj-141, Nashik-151,
Satara-157, Kulgaon Badlapur-158, Jalgaon-162, Panvel-170, Kolhapur-177,
Nandurbar-181, Ahmadnagar-183, Nanded Waghala-192, Ulhasnagar-207,
Osmanabad-219, Parbhani-229, Yavatmal-230, Amarava -231, Kalyan-
Dombivili-234, Sangli Miraj Kupwad-237, Malegaon-239, Udgir-240, Barshi-
287, Akola-296, Aurangabad-299, Beed-302, Achalpur-311, Wardha-313,
Latur-318, Gondia-343, Hinganghat-355, Jalna-368, Bhiwandi Nizampur-392,
Bhushawal-433
22 Manipur (1) Imphal-122
23 Meghalaya (1) Shillong-276
24 Mizoram (1) Aizawl-105
25 Nagaland (2) Kohima-208, Dimapur-277
26 Odisha (9) Bhubaneswar-94, Rourkela-168, Berhampur-187, Balasore-190, Puri-194,
Cu ack-204, Baripada-261, Sambalpur-322, Bhadrak-349
27 Puducherry (2) Puducherry city-189, Ozukarai-206
28 Punjab (16) SAS Nagar-121, Bha nda-132, Ludhiana-140, Pathankot-188, Firozepur-222,
Jalandhar-233, Amritsar-258, Barnala-284, Hoshiarpur-323, Malerkotal-363,
Moga-369, Khanna-400, Pa ala-411, Batala-418, Abohar-427, Muktsar-428
29 Rajasthan (29) Bundi-171, Sikar-180, Pali-186, Jodhpur-209, Bhilwara-212, Jaipur-215,
Ajmer-226, Gangapur City-255, Beawar-285, Jhunjhuni-292, Sujangarh-300,
Chi orgarh-301, Udaipur-310, Bikaner-319, Tonk-329, Hanumangarh-332,
Kota-341, Baran-354, Sawai Madhopur-358, Ganganagar-359, Alwar-364,
Hindaun-367, Bhaaratpur-371, Nagaur-384, Dhaulpur-387, Jhalawar-402,
Bhiwadi-403, Churu-405, Kishangarh-419
30 Sikkim (1) Gangtok-50
31 Tamil Nadu (28) Tiruchirapally-6, Coikba ore-16, Kumbakonam-37, Erode-42, Madurai-57,
Tambaram-62, Tiruppur-68, Hosur-82, Vellankini-84, Dindigul-106, Vellore-
108, Karaikkudi-110, Puthuko ai-113, Rajapalayam-125, Kanchipuram-127,
Salem-135, Pallavarm-155, Avadi-169, Nagercoil-174, Nagapa nam-185,
Thirunelveli-193, Thanjavur-198, Thuthukkudi-223, Greater Chennai-235,
Thiruvannamalai-238, Cudalore-250, Ambur-267, Rameswaram-268
32 Telangana (12) Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corpora on-22, Warangal-28, Suryapet-30,
Siddipeta-45, Nizamabad-178, Miryalaguda-182, Ramagundam-191,
Adilabad-195, Nalgonda-200, Karimnagar-201, Khammam-236,
Mahboobnagar-249
33 Tripura (1) Agartala-290
34 U arakhand (6) Rourkee-218, Haridwar-244, Kashipur-256, Dehradun-316, Nainital-330,
Haldwani-Kotgodam-395
35 U ar Pradesh (62) Varanasi-32, Aligarh-145, Jhansi-166, Kanpur-175, Sahranpur-245, Jaunpur-
246, Allahabad-247, Ayodhya-252, Agra-263, Lucknow-269, Orai-273,
Bareilly-298, Chandausi-305, Sultanpur-309, Gorakhpur-314, Lalitpur-320,
Moradabad-321, Rudrapur-325, Shamli-326, Loni-331, Akbarpur-333,
Etawah-336, Deoria-338, Meerut-339, Muzaarnagar-344, Ghaziabad-351,
Mathura-352, Modinagar-360, Ballia-361, Maunath Bhanjan-370, Pilibhit-
374, Firozabad-375, Farukhabad-377,Sambhal-378, Mainpuri-379,
Mughalsarai-382, Faizabad-383, Banda-385, Bas -386, Mirzaput-389,
Amroha-393, Raibareily-394, Azamgarh-398, Rampur-399, Sikohabad-401,
Etah-406, Sitapur-407, Hathras-408, Kasganj-409, Lakhimpur-410, Fatehpur-
412, Ghazipur-413, Unnao-417, Badaun-420, Baraut-421, Bulandshahr-423,
Hapur-424, Khurja-425, Shahjahanpur-426, Bahraich-429, Hardoi-431 and
Gonda-434.
AAR/KM
May 4, 2017
Results and conclusions of Swachh Suvekshan-2017:

-Top 10 clean ci es of India in 2017 are : Indore -1, Bhopa-2, Visakhapatnam-3, Surat-4, Mysuru-5, Tiruchirapally-6, New Delhi
Municipal Council-7, Navi Mumbai-8, Tirupa -9 and Vadodara-10
Performance of these top 10 clean ci es of India in sanita on surveys of 2016 and 2014:
S.No City Rank in 2017 Rank in 2016 Rank in 2014

(434 AMRUT (73 Million plus (476 ci es/towns
Ci es/Towns popula on ci es and Surveyed)
surveyed) Capitals
Surveyed)
1 Indore 1 25 149
2 Bhopal 2 21 105
3 Visakhapatnam 3 5 205
4 Surat 4 6 63
5 Mysuru 5 1 1
6 Tiruchirapally 6 3 2
7 NDMC 7 4 15
8 Navi Mumbai 8 12 3
9 Tirupa 9 Not surveyed 137
10 Vadodara 10 13 214
-From the above, it reveals that 6 of the top 10 clean ci es of 2017 viz., Indore, Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Tirupa and
Vadodara have improved their sanita on rankings in 2017 over the 2016 and 2014 rankings.
-Bo om 10 clean ci es/towns of India in 2017 are: Gonda (UP)-434, Bhusawal (Maharashtra)-433, Bagaha (Bihar)-432, Hardoi
(U arakhand)-431, Ka har (Bihar)-430, Bahraich (UP)-429, Muktsar (Punjab)-428, Abohar (Punjab)-427, Shahjahanpur (UP)- 426
and Khurja (UP)-425.
Four of the bo om 10 clean ci es are from UP, two each from Bihar and Punjab and one each from U arakhand and Maharashtra.
These bo om 10 ci es were not surveyed in 2016.
Comparison of rankings of bo om 10 ci es of 2017 with that of 2014:
S.No City/Town 2017 ranking 2014 ranking

1 Gonda (UP) 434 151
2 Bhusawal (Maharashtra) 432 267
3 Bagaha (Bihar) 431 453
4 Hardoi (U arakhand) 430 235
5 Ka har (Bihar) 429 385
6 Bahraich (UP) 428 449
7 Muktsar (Punjab) 427 384
8 Abohar (Punjab) 426 420
9 Shahjahanpur (UP) 425 425
10 Khurja (UP) 424 366
While Bagaha and Bahraich have improved their rankings from 2014, Shajahanpur remained stay put while the other 7 have slipped
from 2014.
Composi on of top and bo om 50 rankings:

-Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh account for 31 of the top 50 clean ci es with 12 in Gujarat, 11 in MP and 8 in AP.
Telangana and Tamil Nadu account for 4 ci es each in top 50, followed by Maharashtra with 3.
Chandigarh, Cha sgarh, Delhi, HP, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Sikkim and UP account for one city each in top 50 clean ci es of the country.
While 14 States/UTs nd a place among the top 50 clean ci es, compe on is not so much for a place in bo om 50, with UP alone
accoun ng for 25 of the bo om 50 towns.
Rajasthan and Punjab have 5 towns each in the bo om 50, followed by Maharashtra-2 and one each from Haryana, Karnataka and
Lakshadweep.
Out of the 62 ci es and towns surveyed in UP in 2017, 41 of them gure among the bo om 100 ci es/towns.
Surprises of 2017 Sanita on Survey:
Jharkhand and Cha sgarh have emerged as the major success stories in Swachh Survekshan -2017.
While all the 9 ci es/towns of Jharkhand surveyed in 2017 have substan ally improved their rankings over that of 2016 and 2014, 7 of
8 in Cha sgarh have achieved this feat.
Comparison of swachh rankings of ci es/towns in Jharkhand:
City/Town 2017 Ranking 2017 Ranking 2016 Rankings of 2014 Rankings of

among 434 among 72 million 73 million plus 476 ci es/towns
ci es/towns plus Ci es/capitals
popula on Surveyed
ci es/towns
Chas 41 Not applicable Not applicable 371
Jamshedpur 64 26 66 109
Giridh 81 NA Not applicable 298
Hazaribagh 91 NA Not applicable 325
Deogarh 102 NA Not applicable Not surveyed
Dhanbad 109 33 72 343
Ranchi 117 36 62 223
Mango 131 NA Not applicable 284
Adityapur 144 NA Not surveyed 404
Comparison of swachh rankings of ci es/towns in Cha sgarh:
City/Town 2017 Ranking 2017 ranking among 2016 Ranking among 2014 Ranking among
72 million plus ci es 73 million plus ci es 476 ci es/towns
surveyed surveyed
Ambikapur 15 Not applicable Not applicable 464
Bhilainagar 54 379
Durg 85 28 46 170
Raigarh 104 Not applicable Not applicable 294
Raipur 129 38 68 293
Rajnandgaon 164 Not applicable Not applicable 399
Bilaspur 179 95
Jagdalpur 232 394
So, while Gujarat, MP, Andhra Pradesh con nued their good work scoring well in Sanita on Rankings of 2017, Jharkhand and
Cha sgarh emerge as the major success stories given sanita on levels in 2016 and 2014 with substan al improvement.
How did Delhi fare over the years?
Urban Local Body 2017 Ranking among 2017 Ranking among 2016 Rankings of 73 2014 Rankings of 476
434 ci es/towns 72 million plus ci es million plus ci es/towns
popula on ci es surveyed
surveyed
NDMC 7 7 4 15
Delhi Cant 172 Not applicable Not applicable 14
East MCD 196 45 52 397
South MCD 202 47 39 397
North MCD 279 65 53 397
-NDMC and the three Municipal Corpora ons of East, South and North have signicantly improved over 2014 Sanita on Rankings,
Delhi Cantonment have reported substan al decline.
While East and South MCDs have improved over 2016 rankings, NDMC has slipped marginally.
Ma ers of concern:
UP: 50 of the 62 ci es/towns surveyed in 2017 are ranked 305 and below among the 434 ci es/towns surveyed. 41 ci es and towns
are among the bo om 100 ci es. Varanasi is the only saving grace with a rank of 32.
Bihar: 19 of 27 ci es and towns surveyed in 2017 are ranked beyond 300 with best rank in the State being 147 for Biharsharif. 15 of
these 27 ci es are among the bo om 100.
Rajasthan : 18 of 29 ci es/towns surveyed in 2017 are ranked beyond 300 and 13 are among the bo om 100. Best Rank for the
State being 171 for Bundi.
Kerala : Of the 9 ci es surveyed in 2017, best rank for the State is 254 for Kozhikode (Calicut) and four are among the bo om 100.
Punjab: Of the 16 ci es/towns surveyed in 2017, best rank for the State is 121 for SAS Nagar and 7 among the bo om 100 ranks.
May 3, 2017
12/8/2017 MoAs signed for first wind auction Scheme ; Another wind auction Scheme for 1000 MW announced

Government of India
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
04-May-2017 15:43 IST
MoAs signed for first wind auction Scheme ; Another wind auction Scheme for 1000 MW announced
The Memorandum of Agreements (MoAs) for purchase of 1000 MW wind power under MNREs first wind
auction Scheme were signed here today between PTC India, the trading company, and Discoms of Uttar Pradesh,
Bihar, Jharkhand, Delhi, Odisha and Assam. The signing ceremony took place during the two days Conference of
Power, New & Renewable Energy & Mines Ministers of States and UTs.
As per MoAs the Discoms of UP to buy 449.9 MW, Bihar- 200 MW, Jharkhand 200 MW, Delhi 100
MW, Assam 50 MW and Odisha 50MW of wind power for meeting their non-solar RPO.
The Letter of Award (LoA) to the successful wind power developers under the first wind auction scheme have
been issued by Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) on 5 April 2017 and the projects are to be
commissioned within 18 months from the date of issue of LoA.
This was the first time such auction process was done in the country for wind power through e-reverse auction
and its success can be seen from the fact that a record low tariffs of Rs. 3.46 per kWh was obtained.
With the success of first wind auction scheme, MNRE today launched Scheme for another round of wind
auction for 1000 MW capacity wind power projects.
The Scheme is open for all obligated entities purchasing wind power for compliance of their non-solar RPO. The
differentiation between windy and non-windy States has been done away with. The SECI will sign Power
Purchase Agreements with selected wind developers and back-to-back Power Sale Agreements with buying
utilities.
Further, provision of 10% additional capacity for Central Public Sector Entities (CPSEs) has been kept under the
Scheme without participation in the bidding, however, they have to supply wind power at lowest discovered tariff
through bidding process.
BACKGROUND
Ministry sanctioned a Scheme for setting up of 1000 MW ISTS connected Wind Power Project on 14 June 2016
with the objective to encourage competitiveness through scaling up of project sizes and introduction of efficient
and transparent e-bidding and e-auctioning processes.
12/8/2017 MoAs signed for first wind auction Scheme ; Another wind auction Scheme for 1000 MW announced
RM/VM/PS
12/8/2017 The South Asian Satellite Some highlights

Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
05-May-2017 19:45 IST
The South Asian Satellite Some highlights
Space diplomacy has touched new heights with Prime Minister Narendra Modis unique gift in the sky to South Asian
neighbours.
The gift of a communications satellite for use by neighbours at no cost has perhaps no precedent worldwide.
The satellite, which weighs over 2 tonnes, has been fabricated in three years at a cost of over Rs. 230 crore.
Its footprint that extends all over South Asia.
The South Asia Satellite has 12 Ku band transponders which India's neighbours can utilise to increase
communications.
Each country will get access to at least one transponder through which they could beam their own programming.
The satellite will facilitate DTH television, VSAT links, tele-education, telemedicine and disaster management
support. It will provide critical communication links in times of disasters such as earthquakes, cyclones, floods, and
tsunamis.
Heads of Government from all the seven South Asian nations who are benefiting from the satellite, connected via
video conference, in a unique celebration of the successful launch.
****
AKT/SH
12/8/2017 GSLV Successfully Launches South Asia Satellite

Government of India
Department of Space
05-May-2017 20:24 IST
GSLV Successfully Launches South Asia Satellite
India's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F09) successfully launched the 2230 kg South |Asia
Satellite (GSAT-9) into its planned Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) today (May 05, 2017). Todays launch
of GSLV was its eleventh and took place from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR
(SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota, the spaceport of India. This is the fourth consecutive success achieved by GSLV
carrying indigenously developed Cryogenic Upper Stage. In its oval shaped GTO, the South Asia Satellite is now
orbiting the Earth with a perigee (nearest point to Earth) of 169 km and an apogee (farthest point to Earth) of
36,105 km with an orbital inclination of 20.65 deg with respect to the equator.
Few seconds before the launch countdown reached zero, the four liquid propellant strap-on motors of GSLV-F09,
each carrying 42 tons of liquid propellants, were ignited. At count zero and after confirming the normal
performance of all the four strap-on motors, the 139 ton solid propellant first stage core motor was ignited and
GSLV lifted off at 16:57 IST. The major phases of the flight occurred as scheduled. About seventeen minutes
after lift-off, South Asia Satellite was successfully placed in GTO.
. Soon after separation from GSLV, the two solar arrays of the satellite were automatically deployed in quick
succession and the Master Control Facility (MCF) at Hassan in Karnataka assumed control of the satellite.
South Asia Satellite is a communication satellite built by ISRO to provide a variety of communication services
over the South Asian region. For this, it is equipped with Ku-band transponders.
Following the successful launch, the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi addressed along
with the South Asian leaders. He congratulated ISRO and remarked that today was a historic day for South Asia
and a day without precedence. The Prime Minister recalled that two years ago India made a promise to extend
the advanced space technology for the cause of growth and prosperity of the people of South Asia and felt that
the successful launch of South Asia Satellite today marks a fulfillment of that.
In the coming days, the satellite orbit will be raised from its present GTO to the final circular Geostationary Orbit
(GSO) by firing the satellite's Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) in stages. The South Asia Satellite will be
commissioned into service after the completion of orbit raising operations and the satellites positioning in its
designated slot in the GSO following in-orbit testing of its payloads.
*****
12/8/2017 GSLV Successfully Launches South Asia Satellite
KSD/NK
12/8/2017 Ministry of Civil Aviation Issues Draft CAR on Handling of unruly and disruptive passengers

Government of India
Ministry of Civil Aviation
05-May-2017 17:02 IST
Ministry of Civil Aviation Issues Draft CAR on Handling of unruly and disruptive passengers
The Minister for Civil Aviation Shri Ashok Gajapathi Raju and MoS Shri Jayant Singh briefed media today with regard to
handling of unruly passengers. They informed that the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) on Handling of
unruly/disruptive passengers is being revised to enhance the safety and security of passengers, crew as well as airlines.
During the press conference the Secretary for Civil Aviation Shri R.N. Choubey gave details of the draft CAR.
Main features of the proposed CAR are as follows:
a) Three levels of unruly behaviors defined viz. Level 1 disruptive behavior, Level 2 physically abusive behavior
and Level 3 Life- threatening behavior.
b) The Airlines will maintain a database of such passengers which will form a National No-fly List of
unruly/disruptive passengers. Individuals identified by MHA as national security threats will also form part of the
National No-Fly List. Such names will be forwarded to the individuals by the airlines indicating the reasons for
inclusion of their names in the National NO-Fly List.
c) For passengers indicated in the National No-Fly List, airlines will have option to bar the unruly passenger from
taking flights to/form/within India for a period ranging from 03 months to a maximum of two years depending upon
level of unruly behavior. For every subsequent offence, the person will be banned for twice the period of previous
ban.
d) Provides for two tiers of complaint handling mechanism in such cases, viz. initial inquiry at airlines level by an
internal committee headed by a retired District & Sessions Judge and an appeal at Govt. headed by Retired Judge of
a High Court of India
The Secretary informed that other Airlines as well as International Airlines were free to take cognizance of No Fly
List and extend ban to the concerned individual or group of individuals. However individuals in No Fly List
identified by security agencies would have no right to appeal.
The Secretary informed the media that after placing the draft on public domain and getting responses and
suggestions, the Ministry is confident that the matter would be finalized by the end of June, 2017.
The draft CAR is available on the following link:
UM
12/8/2017 Indian Warships visit Alexandria, Egypt

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
05-May-2017 15:52 IST
Indian Warships visit Alexandria, Egypt
As part of the Indian Navys overseas deployment (OSD) to the Mediterranean Sea and the West Coast of Africa, two Indian
warships, INS Mumbai and INS Aditya, arrived at Alexandria on 05 May 17 for a three-day visit. The warships will engage
extensively with the Egyptian Navy during their stay in harbour. Apart from professional interactions, a number of sports
and social engagements are also planned, which would go a long way in enhancing co-operation and understanding between
these two important and capable navies.
India and Egypt are two of the worlds most ancient civilizations with a rich history of close contact. Building upon the rich
and longstanding relations that have existed between India and Egypt, both nations have developed warm relations in several
spheres. Training co-operation between the two militaries exist at the highest levels. One such significant milestone in
defence cooperation was the training of Egyptian pilots by Indian Air Force pilots and the joint venture to manufacture the
famous Helwan 300 fighter jet. The setting up of the Indo-Egypt Joint Defence Committee (JDC) in 2006 was another
significant step in strengthening the relations between the two nations. A number of such bilateral agreements for defence
co-operation and cultural exchanges exist between the two nations, many of which were signed during the Presidential visit
to India in 2013. Trade between India and Egypt remains vibrant with many Indian corporate houses having strong interests
in Egypt.
With governments of both countries keen on sustaining strong diplomatic ties, the current visit seeks to underscore Indias
peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly countries and, in particular, to strengthen the existing bonds of friendship
between India and Egypt.
Indian Naval assets have been increasingly deployed in recent times to address the main maritime concerns of the region,
including piracy off the coast of Somalia. In addition, the Indian Navy has also been involved in assisting countries in the
Indian Ocean Region with Hydrographic Survey, Search and Rescue and other such capacity-building and capability-
enhancement activities. The current deployment into the Mediterranean will contribute towards the Indian Navys efforts to
consolidate Inter Operability and forge strong bonds of friendship across the seas.
Over the last few decades India has made substantial advances in terms of designing and building warships indigenously and
the visiting ships bear testimony to these capabilities. INS Mumbai and Aditya have been designed by the design bureau of
the Indian Navy and constructed at Indian shipyards, namely, the Mazagon Dockyard Limited (in Mumbai), and, the Garden
Reach Ship Builders and Engineers Limited (in Kolkata). The destroyer Mumbai is equipped with state-of-the-art weapons
and sensors.
The visiting ships are part of the Indian Navys Western Naval Command and are based in Mumbai. The Task Group is
headed by Rear Admiral RB Pandit, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, who is flying his flag on the guided
missile destroyer, INS Mumbai.
12/8/2017 Indian Warships visit Alexandria, Egypt
DKS/AC
12/8/2017 Centre of Excellence (CoE) on IT for Industry 4.0

Government of India
05-May-2017 16:23 IST
Centre of Excellence (CoE) on IT for Industry 4.0
National Productivity Council had submitted a proposal to Asian Productivity Organization (APO) for
establishment of Centre of Excellence on IT for Industry 4.0(CoE: IT for I4.0).
In this context, in the Governing Body Meeting of APO in Tehran on 10th April, 2017, one of the agenda items
was to grant approval of the proposal submitted by NPC on CoE on IT for I4.0. As a part of recognition of IT
capacity of India, NPC proposal has been approved by GB of APO.
In this scenario, the Centre of Excellence (CoE) can be very effective in coordination with various stakeholders,
collection of information, development of knowledge & dissemination of knowledge/information, facilitation in
capacity building of industries, support start-ups etc. linking design to customer. The result is the smart factory,
which is characterized by versatility, resource efficiency and ergonomic design as well as its direct integration
with business partners.
This will ensure a number of benefits such as; Creation of roadmap for implementation of Industry 4.0 especially
for MSMEs, transfer of knowledge and expertise from other 19 Member countries, one stop destination on IT for
Industry 4.0 for Indian industries especially for MSMEs, capacity building, support to start-ups, etc. The total
cost component of CoE will be around Rs. 4.15 Crore for a period of five years. NPCs share in the total cost will
be around Rs.1.05 Crore and that of APO will be Rs. 3.10 Crore.
As part of taking the agenda forward, NPC has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with National
Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), under Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Govt. of
India on 20th April 2017, to carry forward the demonstration activities of CoE with various technologies such as
artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing, sensors etc.
The approved CoE is proposed to be launched formally in the second week of June 2017. There will be
participation from the various Industries, Industry Associations, and Experts. A detailed roadmap will be
prepared to take forward the activities of CoE.
****
MJPS
12/8/2017 The promulgation of Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 will lead to effective resolution of stressed assets, particularly in consor

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
05-May-2017 17:40 IST
The promulgation of Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 will lead to effective resolution of stressed
assets, particularly in consortium or multiple banking arrangements
The Ordinance enables the Union Government to authorize the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to direct banking
companies to resolve specific stressed assets
The promulgation of the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 inserting two new Sections (viz.
35AA and 35AB) after Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 enables the Union Government to
authorize the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to direct banking companies to resolve specific stressed assets by
initiating insolvency resolution process, where required. The RBI has also been empowered to issue other
directions for resolution, and appoint or approve for appointment, authorities or committees to advise banking
companies for stressed asset resolution.
This action of the Union Government will have a direct impact on effective resolution of stressed assets,
particularly in consortium or multiple banking arrangements, as the RBI will be empowered to intervene in
specific cases of resolution of non-performing assets, to bring them to a definite conclusion.
The Government is committed to expeditious resolution of stressed assets in the banking system. The recent
enactment of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 has opened up new possibilities for time bound
resolution of stressed assets. The SARFAESI and Debt Recovery Acts have been amended to facilitate
recoveries. A comprehensive approach is being adopted for effective implementation of various schemes for
timely resolution of stressed assets.
****
DSM/VKS
12/8/2017 GI Tag is beneficial not only to weavers and artisans, but consumers too: Textiles Minister

Government of India
Ministry of Textiles
05-May-2017 17:47 IST
GI Tag is beneficial not only to weavers and artisans, but consumers too: Textiles Minister
GI help-desk to be set up in every office of handicrafts and handlooms: Textiles Minister
Textiles Minister launches Helpline for Handicraft Artisans
Textiles Minister inaugurates National Workshop on Promotion of Unique Textiles and Handicrafts
The Union Textiles Minister Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani

has said that the Geographical Indication tag helps
not only weavers and artisans, but also the
consumers. The Minister said that the GI tag is an
assurance of getting the right product at the right
price, directly from the weaver/artisan. Smt. Irani
highlighted the importance of building consumer
awareness on this matter, while addressing the
inaugural session of the two-day National
Workshop on Promotion of Unique Textiles and
Handicrafts for GI and Post-GI Initiatives, being
held under the aegis of the Ministry of Textiles, in
Constitution Club of India, New Delhi.
Noting that many of the challenges in GI are faced

after obtaining GI registration, the Minister called
for the need to build a wider appreciation of the
value of GI among all stakeholders, in order for better implementation of the legal provisions.
Smt. Irani announced that a GI help-desk would soon be set up in every Service Centre run by the Government
for weavers and artisans. She said this would help bridge the information gap between Centre and the field,
and would assist weavers and artisans in availing the benefits of Geographical Indications. The Minister said
that this is being done to maximize governance, in line with the Governments developmental philosophy of
Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas.
The Minister also launched a helpline for handicraft artisans today; the helpline number is 1800-2084-800.
Recalling that the problems of 6,707 weavers have been resolved so far through the Bunkar Mitra helpline for
handloom weavers, the Minister said that the Handloom Census has started, and that weavers will be given
identity cards at the next National Handloom Day. The Minister also observed that the Government has
decided to give 75% fee subsidy to the children of weavers and artisans of BPL families, for pursuing school
education under NIOS and university education from IGNOU.
Smt. Irani assured the audience that the points raised during the workshop will be taken up by the Textiles
Committee for the consideration of the Government. She also said that the Ministry of Textiles would take up
issues requiring changes to the legal framework with the Ministry of Law & Justice.
The Minister also released a Compendium of Indian Handicrafts & Handlooms covered under Geographical
Indications (GI), which has been compiled by NCDPD, on behalf of Ministry of Textiles. The compendium
contains list and details of all 149 Indian Handicrafts & Handlooms covered under GI, till April 2017. The
compendium also consists of the list of awardees of GI-tagged handicraft and handloom products. This is a
unique & first-of-its-kind compilation.
The Minister also released two reports of the Textiles Committee, on traditional hand-wovens of i) Andhra
Pradesh and Telangana, and ii) Karnataka.
She also handed over GI certificates to three registered proprietors, who are producers of Jamnagari Bandhani,
Jamnagar, Gujarat; Kuthampully Dhoties and Set Mundu, Kerala; Karvath Kati Sarees & Fabrics,
Maharashtra.
Minister of State, Textiles, Shri Ajay Tamta said that

the more widespread adoption of Geographical
Indications would be highly beneficial to the
handicraft and handloom sectors, especially in
protecting and preserving the rich cultural heritage
associated with them. Shri Tamta said that the
workshop is a step in this direction, which would
contribute to the social and economic empowerment
of handloom weavers and handicraft artisans. The
Minister said that the artisan helpline launched today
would enable empowerment of the last person on the
street, through provision of required information.
Besides Secretary, Textiles, Smt. Rashmi Verma;

Chairperson, Craft Revival Trust, Ms. Ritu Sethi;
Ms. Delphine Marie-Vivien, Centre for International
Cooperation in Agronomics Research and
Development (CIRAD); and other dignitaries, hundreds of handicraft artisans from various states and regions
across the country were present for the workshop.
***
GG/DJM
12/8/2017 Ravi Shankar Prasad Calls for at least one NIELIT Centre in each State

Government of India
Ministry of Electronics & IT
06-May-2017 16:10 IST
Ravi Shankar Prasad Calls for at least one NIELIT Centre in each State
Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Union Minister for Electronics & IT, Law & Justice inaugurates NIELIT Bhawan at
Dwarka, New Delhi
The Minister directs all concerned departments to pool resources to transform India into a truly digitally literate
state at the earliest
NIELIT launches e-Content Courses to cater to the areas with shortage of training facilities
NIELIT registered a growth of 175% in last 5 years
NIELIT has launched 70 Apps for Android based Smart Phones on various topics of CCC (Course on Computer
Concepts) course in 11 languages
51 Skill Oriented courses of NIELIT have been aligned with NSQF at different levels
In the last five years NIELIT has skilled about 33 lakh candidates
PAN India presence of NIELIT own Centres increases from 22 to 36 in the last 4 years. More Centres are in
pipeline
Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Honble Union Minister for Electronics & Information technology and Law & Justice today
inaugurated the NIELIT Bhawan, a new state of the art green building of the National Institute of Electronics and
Information Technology (NIELIT) at Dwarka, New Delhi in the gracious presence of Shri P. P. Chaudhary, Honble MoS.
Electronics & IT, Law & Justice among others. In his keynote address, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, There is no aspect of
human life which is untouched by advances in Information Technology and Electronics. NIELIT has endeavored to lead by
example and is empowering youth through Skill Development and Capacity Building initiatives. In addition to Digital
Literacy the demands for skilling in basic Cyber Security concepts has also increased manifold, and NIELIT is equitably
poised to address this challenge. For effective implementation of skill development programmes including Government of
Indias initiatives at PAN India level, he further said that NIELIT should strive to ensure that it has presence through at least
one own Centre in each state.
We are working towards transforming India into a digitally empowered nation, and imparting digital literacy to the last
miles of rural India holds the key here. The Common Services Centres (CSCs) have so far done a great job in this direction;
our target is to provide training on digital literacy to 6 crore citizens, which will be certified by NIELIT. I appeal NIELIT as
well as all concerned functionaries to take this project on a mission mode and contribute to the larger goal as envisaged by
the Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. We would like to see all government services, both at central and state
level, to be digitally available to the every citizen of this country. added Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad.
Shri P.P. Chaudhary, Honble Union MoS for Electronics & IT, Law & Justice congratulated NIELIT for institutionalizing
the newly constructed NIELIT Bhawan and said, The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has also
been delegated with the responsibility of promotion of Digital Transactions including Digital Payments. In this regard, there
is a need for concerted efforts by all stakeholders for promotion of digital payments to move towards a less cash economy
and NIELIT together with other organizations is also contributing towards this vision.
Shri Parvesh Sahib Singh, Honble Member of Parliament, West Delhi Lok Sabha constituency, Col. Devinder Sehrawat,
Honble MLA and a host of other dignitaries and senior officers from Government and MeitY were also present at the
occasion.
NIELIT is a key part of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is engaged in Capacity Building
and Skill Development of youth all over India. With the addition of a new campus NIELIT has added another feather in its
cap. Incidentally, NIELIT has PAN India presence through 36 own Centres and about 9000 training partners.
12/8/2017 Ravi Shankar Prasad Calls for at least one NIELIT Centre in each State
In his address Shri Sanjiv Mittal, Joint Secretary, MeitY said, NIELIT has developed expertise in development of quality
course curriculum and many of these courses have also been aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework for
greater employability and industry acceptance.
Dr. Ashwini Kumar Sharma, Director General, NIELIT tracing the journey of construction of NIELIT Bhawan, which has
been taken up with renewed vigor only recently, said, To follow green practices NIELIT Bhawan has been equipped with
Solar Panels on rooftop in support of New & Renewable Energy mission of the Government. The stupendous growth of
NIELIT in the last 5 years has been possible due to proactive use of technology and process re-engineering initiatives.
It is noteworthy that the foundation stone was laid in May 2015 and as such the construction of NIELIT Bhawan has been
completed within a very short span of less than 2 years.
During inauguration, e-Contents of NIELIT Courses were also launched. Through e-Content NIELIT aims to widen its reach
especially in those areas where there is shortage of training facilities. In continuation to the efforts made by NIELIT to
facilitate stakeholders through its repertoire of Online facilities, an Online Accreditation Portal was also launched which
would considerably reduce time and paper documentations for grant of accreditation to private training institutes under a
time-tested PPP model. Besides, a new concept has also been introduced by NIELIT, whereby candidates shall now be
awarded e-Certificate on completion of a single module. As NIELITs non-formal courses are targeted towards those
candidates who are unable to join the main-stream university education system, issuance of module wise e-Certificates
would further widen the scope for employment.
NIELIT is working in unison with its network of training partners in taking forward Digital India, Make in India, Skill
India, towards development of an empowered society. The NIELIT Bhawan inaugurated today is another key link in the
growing footsteps of NIELIT all over India. NIELIT in the last 5 years has registered a healthy growth in all spheres with
revenue registering a jump of about 175%. NIELIT annually skills more than 7 lakh candidates and has institutionalized
many new initiatives such as SMART Virtual Classroom for training in Electronic mode. NIELIT has launched 70 Apps for
Android based Smart Phones on various topics of CCC (Course on Computer Concepts) course in 11 languages and 51 Skill
Oriented courses of NIELIT have been aligned with NSQF at different levels. NIELIT has also established Model Career
Centres under the National Career Service Scheme of Government of India which organizes Job Fairs to promote
employability among youth. Recently, it has also established a Study Centre at Baramulla, J&K jointly with Indian Army to
mainstream local youth in the region through skill development programmes. At NIELIT, internal capacities are being
augmented through training of Master Trainers in niche areas such as Mobile Application Development, Cloud Computing,
IoT, e-Waste, Cyber Security, Mobile Handset Design, etc. in synergy with industry leaders like Amazon, Google, Intel,
Microsoft, etc. for skilling and empowerment of youth especially in rural India. Besides, NIELIT in collaboration with
CAIT has been organising workshops and DigiDhan camps to onboard self organised small/ medium businesses/ traders on
Digital Payment initiatives across India.
***
NNK
12/8/2017 From the banks of Rupnarayan to the shores of Ganga : Integrated cargo transport along multiple waterways begins

Government of India
Ministry of Shipping
06-May-2017 11:17 IST
From the banks of Rupnarayan to the shores of Ganga : Integrated cargo transport along multiple waterways begins
IWAI ship carries cement from Kolaghat on NW-86 to Bhagalpur on NW-1
MV V. V. Giri, a vessel of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) began a landmark pilot movement on
April 23rd 2017 from Kolaghat in East Midnapore district of West Bengal to Bhagalpur in Bihar with a cement
consignment of 240 tonnes. The vessel's journey commenced from Kolaghat on Rupnarayan river (National
Waterway- 86) to reach Bhagalpur via river Ganga (NW-1). This marks the beginning of an integrated cargo
movement involving two different NWs - NW-86 and NW-1. Rupnarayan river (NW-86) connects with river
Ganga (NW-1) at Geokhali near Haldia. On its return trip, the vessel will bring fly ash/pet coke.
A private cement company has committed a consignment of 1.20 lakh tonnes of cement per annum from its plant
at Salboni in East Midnapore district in West Bengal to various destinations on river Ganga (NW-1) in the states
of Jharkhand and Bihar.
Earlier this year, an IWAI vessel MV Zakir Hussain had transported 350 tonnes of cement consignment from
Haldia to Patna. The Government of India plans to make cargo movement on NW-1 (Ganga river) a regular
feature.
Many prominent cement companies have also shown interest in transporting their cargo through river NW-1
which the IWAI is developing under the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP), with technical and financial assistance
of the World Bank at an estimated cost of Rs. 5369 crore. The project would enable commercial navigation of
vessels with capacity of 1500-2,000 tonnes.
******
UM/ NP/MS
12/8/2017 Meeting Held at Rashtrapati Bhavan Regarding Expansion of Smartgram Initiative from 5 to 100 Villages

Government of India
President's Secretariat
08-May-2017 18:41 IST
Meeting Held at Rashtrapati Bhavan Regarding Expansion of Smartgram Initiative from 5 to 100 Villages
The SMARTGRAM initiative of Rashtrapati Bhavan was inaugurated for five villages of Haryana i.e. Tajnagar,
Dhaula, Alipur, Harchandpur and Rojka Meo by the President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee on July 2, 2016.
On May 1, 2017, it was approved that the initiative be extended to 100 villages in the vicinity of the initially
selected five village of Haryana. A meeting with peoples representative from 100 villages now included under
the SMARTGRAM initiative and selected stakeholders on expansion of SMARTGRAM initiative was taken by
the Secretary to the President, Smt. Omita Paul today (May 8, 2017) at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The aim of the
meeting was to sensitize them on the initiative and discuss plans for implementation of various programmes in
these villages.
A large number of projects have been undertaken in the initially selected five villages of Haryana under the
SMARTGRAM initiative in the fields of agriculture, skill development, energy, education, heath, employment
generation, developing entrepreneurship etc. These initiatives have generated a lot of enthusiasm in the nearby
areas. Therefore, this initiative was extended to 95 more villages in the vicinity of the earlier selected five
villages taking the total number of villages under the SMARTGRAM initiative to 100.
****
AKT/SH
12/8/2017 Radha Mohan Singh writes letters to all the Chief Ministers of the States / Union Territories to review all the measures before time to handle the

Government of India
Ministry of Agriculture
08-May-2017 16:10 IST
Radha Mohan Singh writes letters to all the Chief Ministers of the States / Union Territories to review all the
measures before time to handle the situation arising out of any monsoon failure
Central Government permits States and UTs to earmark 25% of funds under centrally sponsored schemes as flexi-
funds which, inter-alia, could be used for mitigation of natural calamities: Shri Singh
Union Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Minister, Shri radha Mohan Singh, has written a letter to the all Chief
Ministers of the States/UTs today for the review of the state of preparedness in managing any weather related contingency if
any in advance so that the possible adverse impact of sub-par rainfall on the farmers can be mitigated. Shri Singh in his
letter mentioned that India Meteorological Department (IMD) projected a likely rainfall of 96% (+ 5%) of the Long Period
Average during Kharif 2017 in its first stage forecast for the South-West Monsoon. An updated forecast will be issued by
IMD in June, 2017 with details of temporal (monthly) and regional distribution of monsoon rainfall.
Shri Singh further written that 2016-17 was a very satisfactory year for the agriculture sector as a whole. The State
Governments and farmers were able to take the best advantage of a normal monsoon to create record-breaking performance
in the production of cereals, pulses and oilseeds. Yet, the normal rainfall notwithstanding, agricultural operations faced
disruption in some States during 2016-17 on account of drought caused by aberrant weather conditions. It would, therefore,
be helpful if a review of the state of preparedness in managing any weather related contingency is carried out in advance so
that the possible adverse impact of sub-par rainfall, if at all, on the farmers can be mitigated.
Shri Singh also reminded the Chief Ministers that Honble Prime Minister had discussed drought mitigation/management
measures in meetings with Chief Ministers of States affected by drought during 2015-16. Shri Singh expressed his
confidence that the administration would have made arrangements to operationalise their drought mitigation strategies, in
the event of failure of the monsoon rainfall. In this context, Shri Singh suggested to consider carrying out a review which,
inter alia, may include the following:
(i) State of preparedness in districts in line with the District Agricultural Contingency Plans (availability of e.g. abiotic
stress resilient seeds varieties etc.)
(ii) Progress in the implementation of schemes under District Irrigation Plans of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai
Yojana.
(iii) Status of progress of water conservation/recharge/harvesting related works under MGNREGS and water-shed
management.
(iv) Establishment and activation of Drought Management Centre at the State Headquarter and arrangements for the
monitoring of drought.
(v) Progress in the restoration of irrigation infrastructure e.g, desiltaion of canals, repair/energization of tube-wells and
replacement/repair of faulty pumps; repair of transformers/power lines.
(vi) Progress in the repair of handpumps/drinking water projects.
Union Agriculture Minister further informed that the Central Government has permitted States and UTs to earmark 25% of
funds under centrally sponsored schemes as flexi-funds which, inter-alia, could be used for mitigation of natural calamities.
In addition, expanding the coverage of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana will enable farmers to minimise risks
associated with loss of production in the event of a disaster.
Shri Singh hoped that all necessary and advance steps are being taken by the State Governments in the interest of the
farmers.
12/8/2017 Radha Mohan Singh writes letters to all the Chief Ministers of the States / Union Territories to review all the measures before time to handle the
****
SS
12/8/2017 DIPP & WIPO to set up Technology and Innovation Support Centers

Government of India
08-May-2017 12:08 IST
DIPP & WIPO to set up Technology and Innovation Support Centers
The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) and World Intellectual Property Organization
(WIPO)have signed an agreement to establish Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC)
WIPOs Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC) program provides innovators in developing
countries with access to locally based, high quality technology information and related services, helping them to
exploit their innovative potential and to create, protect, and manage their intellectual property (IP) rights.
Services offered by TISCs may include:

Access to online patent and non-patent (scientific and technical) resources and IP-related publications;
Assistance in searching and retrieving technology information;
Training in database search;
On-demand searches (novelty, state-of-the-art and infringement);
Monitoring technology and competitors;
Basic information on industrial property laws, management and strategy, and technology commercialization
and marketing.
The Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM) is designated as the National Focal point for the TISC
national network. As the national focal point, CIPAM shall identify potential host institutions, assess their
capacities and support them in joining the TISC project. CIPAM will also act as the main intermediary between
WIPO and TISC host institutions and coordinateall the activities of the national TISC network.
Over 500TISCs operate worldwide and establishing TISC in India will give the host institutions access to the
Global network. In upcoming years CIPAM is planning to establish TISCs in Universities, State Science
Councils, R&D institutions etc. TISC will give an impetus to Knowledge sharing, sharing of best practices
among the TISCs, capacity building, generation and commercialization of IPs
***
12/8/2017 DIPP & WIPO to set up Technology and Innovation Support Centers
MJPS
12/8/2017 Union Home Minister chairs the Review Meeting of LWE-affected States

Government of India
Ministry of Home Affairs
08-May-2017 19:11 IST
Union Home Minister chairs the Review Meeting of LWE-affected States
Shri Rajnath Singh gives new Doctrine of SAMADHAN for use in security operations
The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh carried out a review of the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) situation in
the ten LWE affected States here today. The meeting was attended by Chief Ministers of Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand,
Maharashtra, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh. Other States were represented by senior ministers from the States. Chief Secretaries
and DGPs of States were also present. From the Centre, the Ministers of State in the Home Ministry, the National Security
Adviser (NSA), Home Secretary, Director, Intelligence Bureau and other senior officers were present. For the afternoon
session on development, Ministers of Power & New and Renewable Energy, Railways, Civil Aviation, Road Transport and
Highways and Communications were present along with senior officials of the ministries. On specific directions of the
Home Minister, Districts Magistrates and SPs of the 35 worst affected LWE districts were also invited to provide inputs and
feedback from the cutting-edge level and understand their problems.
In the morning session issues related to security were discussed. The Home Minister enunciated an operational
strategy SAMADHAN to fight Left Wing Extremism. The elements of this strategy are S for Smart Leadership, A for
Aggressive Strategy, M for Motivation and Training, A for Actionable Intelligence, D for Dashboard-based Key Result
Areas and Key Performance Indicators, H for Harnessing Technology, A for Action Plan for Each Theatre and N for No
access to Financing.
During the meeting, important issues and requests of States included the following:-
(a) Continuation/resumption of LWE specific schemes like Security Related Expenditure (SRE), Special
Infrastructure Scheme (SIS), Integrated Action Plan (IAP)/ Additional Central Assistance (ACA), Counter
Insurgency and Anti-Terrorism (CIAT) Schools and Fortified Police Stations.
(b) Inclusion of some new districts under the SRE Scheme.
(c) Deployment of additional Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) Battalions. Some States have also sought
exemption from payments for CAPF battalions provided by the Centre.
(d) Most States requested for helicopter support for operations.
(e) Use of modern technology by the State Police and the CAPF was also discussed.
(f) Issues related to inter-State coordination, intelligence sharing, setting up of Joint Task Forces for operations
along inter-State boundaries were deliberated upon.
(g) The Chief Minister of Bihar suggested that the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) needs to be
reviewed to ensure effective choking of fund flow to LWE groups.
(h) Measures to prevent repetition of incidents such as at Sukma on April 24, 2017 was discussed at length with
suggestions from SPs of the 35 worst affected LWE districts.
During the session on development issues, the following points were discussed:
(a) Minister of Road Transport and Highway informed that various new technologies like pre-fabricated slabs
and soil stabilization were been examined. States can initiate pilot projects for construction of roads with these
technologies. He has also assured that the States can project any requirement for dispensation in LWE areas.
b) Minister of New and Renewable Energy Resources informed that the Ministry was undertaking several Solar
Parks, Solar Lighting and Solar Pumps schemes for providing low cost energy to LWE affected States.
12/8/2017 Union Home Minister chairs the Review Meeting of LWE-affected States
c) Minister for Power informed that the electrification of villages in LWE areas is being undertaken on a war
footing with Dec, 2018 as the target.
d) The Airport at Jagdalpur in the heart of Maoist core area will be operational very soon.
e) Phase-II of Installation of Mobile Towers is being initiated after incorporating the experiences and problems
of Phase-I.
g) Minister of Railways informed that line Hajipur-Sagauli, Giridih-Koderma, Deoghar-Sultanganj is nearing
completion.
In his concluding remarks, Shri Rajnath Singh said that the meeting had been very purposeful and the participants
made very valuable suggestions which have been noted by the MHA. He said that he will personally monitor the progress on
these issues. Shri Rajnath Singh also appreciated the wonderful job being done by young officers as Deputy
Commissioners/Superintendents of Police in the LWE-affected areas despite some difficulties.
****
KSD/NK/PK
12/8/2017 MHA advisory to States/UTs on Prison Reforms

Government of India
08-May-2017 16:38 IST
MHA advisory to States/UTs on Prison Reforms
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has written a letter to the Principal Secretary/Secretary Home (In-charge of Prisons)
of all States and Union Territories on the resolutions adopted by 5th National Conference of Heads of Prisons of States/UTs
on Prison Reforms.
The 5th National Conference of Head of Prisons of States and UTs on Prison Reforms was held at New Delhi on September
29-30, 2016. The Conference was inaugurated by Minister of State (Home) Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir and was attended
by 150 delegates from various States/UTs, CPOs, NGOs etc. After detailed deliberations on various aspects of prison
administration, some important resolutions were adopted for guidance and implementation by the State/UT Prison
authorities.
The State/UT Governments have been accordingly advised to consider for implementation of the following suggestions
which are aimed at having an effective prison administration system:
i) The nomenclature of Prisons Department may be changed to "Prisons and Correctional Administration", which
should have integrated prison, correctional and probation services.
ii) Every State should establish a Welfare Wing under Prison Department comprising Welfare Officers, Law Officers,
Counselors and Probation Officers.
iii) In order to ensure basic uniformity in prison rules and regulations, all States and Union Territories should revise
their existing Prison Manuals by adopting the provisions of Model Prison Manual, 2016 prepared by Ministry of
Home Affairs & circulated to all States and UTs in May 2016.
iv) The Prisons should be linked with Courts through video conferencing for expeditious trial and to save costs in
escorting under-trials to the Courts.
v) The existing vacancies in all ranks of Prison Departments to be filled up expeditiously.
vi) Prison e-system should be integrated with Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) as well as
e-Courts on priority basis.
vii) Combined training of Prison, Police, Health Department and Judiciary on under-trial Management to be conducted
periodically. Separate training course on de-radicalization of prisoners should also be conducted.
The States and UTs have been advised to make concerted efforts to implement the same in a time bound manner, which
will go a long way in alleviating the condition of prison inmates and bring the desired improvement in prison
administration.
The State Governments and UT Administrations have also been requested to intimate the updated status of
implementation of the above advice.
***
KSD/PK/NK
12/8/2017 Union Home Minister addresses the Review Meeting of Left Wing Extremism affected States

Government of India
08-May-2017 12:27 IST
Union Home Minister addresses the Review Meeting of Left Wing Extremism affected States
The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh presided over the Review Meeting of Left Wing Extremism
affected States here today. Following is the text of his Opening Remarks made during the Inaugural Session this
morning on Security Issues:
Chief Ministers and Ministers of participating States, my colleagues the Ministers of State in the Home Ministry,
National Security Advisor, Union Home Secretary, Union Defence Secretary, DIB, Director Generals of Central Armed
Police Forces, Chief Secretaries and Director Generals of Police of the State Governments, Collectors and SPs of the 35
worst affected districts and other senior officers of the Government of India and the States.
- This meeting has been convened to jointly understand the different aspects of Left Wing Extremism with the 10
affected States, so that Left Wing Extremism can be countered with full force and competence. To discuss and
work out an integrated strategy of Security and by giving impetus to Development in the 35 worst affected
districts, the LWE influence can be eliminated.
- The whole country is agitated with the martyrdom of 25 CRPF personnel in the incident of April 24, 2017 in
Burkapal, Sukma district of Chhattisgarh. In such situations, the challenge before us is to maintain focus and move
towards our goal with speed, in a planned manner.
- I am concerned but not perturbed by the attack on the CRPF Camp by the Left Wing Extremists. Todays meeting
is therefore important because we have to consider and deliberate in totality, as to what would be our thinking, our
strategy, our preparedness and how we have to use our resources. I have full confidence on you, and our forces and
together, with a new strategy and with full force we will counter and achieve victory against Left Wing
Extremism.
- India is the largest democracy in the world. However, Left Wing Extremism desires to weaken and make the roots
of democracy hollow. The development of new India that our Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji is
envisaging is based on development and strength of democracy. In order to free India from the influence of LWE
that encourage violence and killing, it is necessary that we all should think and work in this direction. I believe
that efforts to suppress democracy through the influence of the gun will never succeed.
- Today in this room Chief Ministers and Heads of Administrative and Police department of 10 States are present.
You are the policy-makers as well as the implementation agencies. The fight against Left Wing Extremism is a
coordinated battle on security and development fronts that has to be fought to finish and won. Who could be more
suitable and competent than you all? The presence of our forces should instil fear in the Left Wing Extremists and
a sense of confidence among the local people and tribals Let your action speak for itself.
- 12000 citizens of our country have lost their lives in violent activities of the Left Wing Extremists.
- Out of these 12000 people, 2700 are jawans of the Security Forces and the remaining 9300 are innocent and
simple common people who are not guilty.
- The anti-development Left Wing Extremism not only target the Security Forces but also public property like
roads, culverts, railway tracks, electricity and telephone towers, hospitals, schools, anganwadi and panchayat bhawans
etc, that are created by the Government for benefit of the common man.
- It is evident from the destruction caused by the Left Wing Extremists that they do not want people to get
facilities and access to the development, in the remote and inaccessible areas, because these facilities provide the path of
economic and social progress, to the local people. It also joins them to the mainstream of the nation. The cancer of LWE
flourishes in poverty or backwardness. Therefore, the LWE strategy is to ensure that the people of this area stay without
electricity, without road, without education, so that the vested interest of the Left Wing Extremists continues unabated.
Solution SAMADHAN-
- The solution to the LWE problem is not possible with any silver bullet. There is no short-cut for it. For this short
term, medium term and long term policies need to be formulated at different levels. There is need to find a solution for
this problem and the strategy is available and encompassed in the word SAMADHAN which means-
1. S- Smart Leadership
2. A- Aggressive Strategy
3. M- Motivation and Training
4. A- Actionable Intelligence
5. D- Dashboard Based KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and KRAs (Key Result Areas)
6. H- Harnessing Technology
7. A- Action plan for each Theatre
8. N- No access to Financing
I would like to elaborate the new Doctrine SAMADHAN for use in Security Operations:
1. S Smart Leadership-
- You also know that effective leadership can lead to any desired outcome. A leader is the one who makes the
impossible possible, converts failure to success and defeat to victory.
- The key properties of Smart Leadership are:
Vision, Mission, Passion and Self belief.
- A leadership full of self confidence should have a solid vision on how he would envisage the challenges of the
future and prepare his team and energise his team to a mission mode, in order to achieve his objectives. To make his team
secure, disciplined and victorious, should be of paramount importance for him.
- The success stories of many police officers in India are inscribed in the minds of the common people, as to how
they kept their teams alive with energy. On the Left Wing Extremism front, we also need such leadership, who despite
adversity, keep their jawans full of enthusiasm and teach them only to win.
- Be it Central Forces or the district police, they will have to work under a coordinated strategy and plan. The most
important thing is that the officers will have to lead from the front. Success in this regard cannot be achieved only by
sitting in Delhi, Ranchi or Raipur.
- Unified Co-Ordination and Command is needed in the LWE Front. Along with Strategic Command, Unified
Command is also required at the Operational and Tactical Level. Intelligence sharing is important too.
2. A-Aggressive Strategy-
You are aware that in the last three years, Government has seen good results from the Multi Pronged Strategy
against Left Wing Extremism. Statistics of violence from 2014 to 2016 indicates this. In the year 2016, 150 percent Left
Wing Extremists were killed as compared to the previous year 2015, and arrests and surrender taken together has seen an
increase of 47 percent.
- In the year 2016, Left Wing Extremists have suffered heavy losses. They also mentioned this in their statements
and documents. It is also true that Left Wing Extremists are constantly trying to take action against the security forces to
increase the morale of their cadres, and undoubtedly the incident of the Burkapal of Sukma is one such example.
- Even in the year 2017, figures show that LWE incidents have decreased by 23.3 percent (377 to 289). But two to
three incidents have occurred in which Security Forces have suffered heavy losses. Therefore, it is necessary that an
analysis of these events is carried out, in order to assess the reasons as to why such incidents occur. The first session of
the meeting will analyse the mechanism in place to combat Left Wing Extremism and other related issues.
- Today, we need to consider whether to react only after the occurrence of such events? Should our role not be
Proactive?
- Learning from the old incidents, we need to bring aggression into our policy. Aggression in thinking, Aggression
in strategy, Aggression in deployment of forces, Aggression in operations, Aggression in development and Aggression in
road construction.
- We will have to be cautious that extremely defensive deployment may result in reduction of operational
offensive.
- We have to consider that although the figures of the surrenders of the Left Wing Extremisms are increasing, but
whether benefit of intelligence from these surrendered LWE cadres is being derived.
- We must ensure that the States take the ownership of LWE operations and CAPFs cooperate with them fully. At
the same time, the forces on the Ground level should not lack leadership. "Unity of Purpose" and "Unity of Action" are
essential for the success of operations.
3. M - Motivation and Training -

- The Government has superior resources, training, technology, than the Left Wing Extremists. But there is a need
for better coordinated efforts to counter the strategy of the LWE.
- Success on this front cannot be achieved only by being emotional in this regard. The right vision, right strategy,
efficient use of resources, knowledge of enemy strengths and weaknesses, training of their security forces, their facilities
and arrangements of tools are necessary for success. So we have to consider all these issues correctly, point wise. Today's
meeting is important in this regard.
- In the camps where the security forces are residing, proper facilities of power, water, connectivity should be
provided so that the Security Forces may remain stress free. They should also be able to contact their family as per
requirement.
- In addition to information about the place of posting, security forces should also have knowledge of language,
dialects, traditions and culture so that they can adapt to the local conditions and earn the trust of the local people.
- Security forces must adhere to Standard Operating Procedures so that they are conscious about their own
security.
4. A-Actionable Intelligence
- To develop actionable intelligence it is important that all intelligence agencies and security forces establish a
good network with local people.
- Surrendered LWE cadre should be used for intelligence collection to the maximum possible.
- In comparison to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the Technical Intelligence Inputs in Bastar Zone of
Chhattisgarh are very low and the reason for this is only 20 percent effective connectivity in Bastar. It is only 4 percent in
a district like Sukma. There is a need to create special action plans through the Universal Service Obligation Fund
(USOF) to increase connectivity across the entire LWE affected area.
- From the point of view of Intelligence, I believe that there is a need to depute Shadow Intelligence Officers to
trace the prominent targets associated with Left Wing Extremism.
- There is a need to establish specific procedures between State Police and Central Forces for the exchange and use
of intelligence.
5. D-Dashboard based KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and KRAs (Key Result Areas)
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Key Result Areas (KRAs) should be determined both for the State Police
and the CAPFs. This would not only help to assess the preparedness but also their performance, regular progress of its
unit and individual abilities of each police officer.
6. H - Harnessing Technology -
- We are all aware that Technology is a Force Multiplier.
- Many technologies including Space, IT and Communication have brought revolutionary changes in the world.
Many new techniques are also being used in dealing with law and order and the crime. On the LWE front, there is a need
to use more of such latest technologies.
Now I would like to talk about the use of some Cutting edge Technologies : -
- Currently the use of the UAV is sub-optimal, that needs to be augmented both by numbers and by use in the right
place.
- The Mini UAVs are extremely useful. Therefore, they should be procured and available in more quantities. We
must try that with every battalion there must be atleast one UAV / Mini UAV.
- We need to use high resolution PTZ Cameras, GPS Tracking, Handheld Thermal Imaging, Radar, Satellite Image
etc.
- We also know that Left Wing Extremists mostly use looted weapons. In order to prevent this, it would be
advisiable to have
- Trackers in Weapons,
- Biometrics in smart gun triggers.
- Trackers should also be embedded in Shoes, BP jackets etc.
- In addition, Unique identification numbers should also be used in Gelatine and other explosive materials.
- States that do not have expertise in such state of the art technology, the Central Government can assist in this
regard.
7. A-Action plan for each theatre-

- You are also aware that the situation of Left Wing Extremism in different States is not the same.
- In different States, to fight Left extremism, there is a need to fight on multiple fronts and to create a specific
action plan for each of such fronts, in order to achieve success on a systematic basis.
- There is a need to create separate short-term, medium-term, long-term strategies, whose goals and deadlines are
clearly defined. The Implementation should be done on a Mission Mode defining the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
for continuous monitoring and Key Result Areas (KRAs), that should also be aligned with these strategies.
8. N-No access to financing-

- It is well-known that economic resources play an important role in any war or any such exercise, because when
money is available, only then will it be possible to buy, eat, drink and possess ammunition and weapons. Therefore,
choking the financial resources of the LWE is the most basic mantra in this fight.
- I would like to remind you how the US took the 9/11 incident as a challenge, in order to prevent it from repeating
itself. In the report it was stated that the 9/11 incident was not a "failure of intelligence but the failure of Imagination".
Therefore, the 'Samadhan' which we have discussed today has inbuilt potential for imagination. We have to work on
imaginative thinking on the whole situation so that we can "Out Think" and "Out Manoeuvre" the LWE.
- We have come a long way in defeating the fight with Left Wing Extremists. In the remote areas, our young men
are constantly working for the development and protection of the area endangering their lives. In the yagya for the
security of the country many soldiers have been martyred. I am convinced that their martyrdom will not go in vain. That
day is not far when this mindless violence will be completely finished and once again the atmosphere of peace and
prosperity will prevail and people will rapidly join the main stream along with enjoying the fruits of development.
- Now I would like to also mention the ongoing Security related Assistance given to the State Governments by the
Government of India. Under this, 118 Battalions of CAPF have been deployed in the States. Besides, States have been
given the sanction for IR Battalions and SIRB to strengthen the security Apparatus of the States. 10 CoBRA Battalions
have been deployed, in addition to handle this kind of LWE issues.
- In the last few years, the Ministry of Home Affairs has assisted the States through various schemes for Capacity
Building. Under the SRE Scheme, reimbursement of security related expenses, such as ex-gratia, transportation, training,
honorarium for SPOs etc, was done by the Central Government in 106 districts of 10 States. In the financial year 2016-17,
the Home Ministry has reimbursed Rs 210 crore.
- Under the Special Infrastructure Scheme, 122.13 crores was given to strengthen the special forces of 6 States.
Apart from this, a sum of 24 crores was provided for setting up 16 CIAT schools in 6 States. More than 4000 police
personnel are being trained every year by Army and Greyhounds.
- Similarly, under the Fortified Police Station Scheme, the Central Government has made available Rs. 624 crores
to the States for the construction of 400 Fortified Police Stations in 10 States.
- LWE Affected States have been sanctioned 56 IRB and 10 SIRB. States have been given these sanctions to
increase their force resources. The SIRB is a major step towards providing security for the State's infrastructure projects,
especially in these sensitive areas. But now 20 IR Battalion and 06 SIRB are yet to be raised with both the security and
engineering components. In addition, engineering components of 02 SIRBs are pending.
- The Home Ministry has provided support to security forces for other facilities such as Helicopters, UAVs etc.
From time to time, the amount required for the CRPF is being provided by the GOI for the basic facilities, due to lack of
resources of the State Governments.
- We assure the States that we will continue to provide full support to them for their capacity building and training
needs. Intelligence sharing and deployment of Central security forces will continue as per requirement. But the States
must take initiative to conduct Operations and use Resources optimally.
- I have full confidence that today's deliberations will be fruitful and we will be able to realize the vision of our
Honble Prime Minister of building a Left Wing Extremism free India.
****
KSD/NK/PK
12/8/2017 India unanimously elected to head UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme

Government of India
Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation
08-May-2017 16:23 IST
India unanimously elected to head UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme
Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu to Chair the Governing Council Meeting in Nairobi from today
Shri Naidu also to chair Bureau meeting of Asia Pacific Ministers Conference on Housing & UD
India has been unanimously elected as the President of the UN-Habitat, an organ of the United Nations
Organisation (UNO) that promotes socially and environmentally sustainable human settlements across the world,
after 10 years. UN-Habitat reports to the United Nations General Assembly.
Further to todays election, Minister of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu will chair
the four day meeting of the 58 member Governing Council of UN-Habitat in Nairobi, Kenya from today. Shri
Naidu will preside over the deliberations of the Governing Council of UN-Habitat for the next two years. Since
the UN-Habitat came into being in 1978, It is only the third time that India has been elected to lead this
important organization after 2007 and 1988.
As an inter-governmental policy making and decision making body, the Governing Council of UN-Habitat seeks
to promote integral and comprehensive approach to human settlements, assist the countries and regions in
addressing human settlement problems and strengthen cooperation among all countries on human settlement
issue.
The theme of the 26th Meeting of the Governing Council to be chaired by Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu from today is
Opportunities for effective implementation of the New Urban Agenda with focus on inclusive, sustainable and
adequate housing for a better future and planning and financing sustainable urbanization and integrated human
settlements. The New Urban Agenda was adopted by the world community at Quito, Ecuador last year.
Shri Venakiah Naidu will also chair the Bureau Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Ministers Conference on Housing
and Urban Development beginning in Nairobi today.
Shri Venkaiah Naidu thanked the member countries of the Governing Council of UN-Habitat for reposing faith in
India and electing as the President of the Governing Council for the next two years.
Addressing the Governing Council of UN-Habitat, Shri Naidu has stressed on the need to reorient urban planning
and execution strategies to ensure dignity of living and sufficient means of living for people in the context of
rapid urbanization, particularly, in developing countries.
12/8/2017 India unanimously elected to head UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme
Shri Naidu elaborated on the integrated, inclusive and sustainable urban development model of India through
various new missions like Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Smart City
Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. He said these missions are addressing
deficits in different kinds of infrastructure including affordable housing in a convergence mode.
AAR
12/8/2017 Girls from Jammu & Kashmir visit Delhi and Bengaluru as Part of Armys out reach programme

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
09-May-2017 18:02 IST
Girls from Jammu & Kashmir visit Delhi and Bengaluru as Part of Armys out reach programme
As part of the Indian Armys ongoing outreach programme to foster the spirit of National Integration across the
entire swathe of the country, a tour of 16 Girls from the remote town of Gingle, Uri Tehsil in Srinagar District of Jammu &
Kashmir is being organised form 02 to 11 May 17. National Integration Tours are educational and motivational tours for
school children, youth and local populace of J&K and North Eastern States, with an aim to provide an insight into the rich
heritage of the country, various development and industry initiatives that are afoot exposing them to varied career options
while providing an opportunity to interact with renowned personalities.
During the course of the tour, the children have visited various cultural and historical places in Bengaluru and Delhi.
The participants interacted with General Bipin Rawat on 09 May 2017, who shared his experiences of these areas with the
students and motivated them to work hard and contribute actively in the Nation Building process.
TAGS : National Integration, Gingle, Uri, Srinagar, educational and motivational tours, youth of J&K, heritage of the
country, cultural and historical places
Col Aman Anand

PRO (Army)
12/8/2017 Measurement of Liveability Index of cities to begin next month

Government of India
09-May-2017 14:57 IST
Measurement of Liveability Index of cities to begin next month
Cities cant be run from State capitals, says UD Secretary
Ministry of Urban Development will launch measuring of Liveability Index of cities next month based on
indigenously evolved Index. This was announced by Shri Rajiv Gauba, Secretary (Urban Development) here
today while addressing a World Bank organized knowledge sharing workshop on improving accountability for
local governments.
To start with, Liveability Standards of 140 cities including 53 cities with population of one million and above and
Smart Cities will be assessed. The Ministry has already invited bids for selecting the agency for carrying out the
assessment based on the parameters evolved by the Ministry. The Ministry of Urban Development has come out
with a detailed document on Methodology for Collection and Computation of Liveability Standards in Cities
for the benefit of States and Cities.
Cities will be assessed on 15 core parameters relating to Governance, social infrastructure pertaining to
education, health and safety and security, economic aspects and physical infrastructure like housing, open spaces,
land use, energy and water availability, solid waste management, pollution etc. Cities will be ranked based on
Liveability Index that would cover a total of 79 aspects.
Shri Rajiv Gauba said that a sense of healthy competition is being promoted among cities and towns in the
country to focus their attention on improving governance and infrastructure availability. He further said that more
than providing funds to State and City Governments, Ministry of Urban Development is according priority for
incentivizing implementation of reforms that have a far reaching impact on governance and service delivery.
Stressing on the need for decentralization and empowering of city governments, Shri Gauba stressed that Cities
cant be run and managed from state capitals and secretariats. They should be made to stand on their own for
improving performance, responsibility and accountability.
Government officials and experts from India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are participating in the
workshop for sharing respective experiences on decentralization and empowerment of local bodies.
AAR
12/8/2017 Minister of State for Railways Shri Rajen Gohain inaugurates Udaan- A Sports Conclave

Government of India
Ministry of Railways
09-May-2017 15:55 IST
Minister of State for Railways Shri Rajen Gohain inaugurates Udaan- A Sports Conclave
Shri Rajen Gohain, Minister of State for Railways inaugurated Udaan- A Sports Conclave organized by
Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) under Ministry of Railways here today. Chairman, Railway Board Shri
A.K.Mital, & Member Staff Shri Pradeep Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Sports Shri Ingeti Srinivas were present
to grace the occasion.
The Conclave was attended by various eminent sportspersons like Ms. Mary Kom, Sushil Kumar, Ms. Sakshi
Malik, Shri Bhaichung Bhutia, Gymnastics Coach Shri B.S. Nandi. Ms. Rekha Yadav, Secretary, Railway Sports
Promotion Board and Col. Satyavrat Sheoran from Services Sports Control Board were also present on the
occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu, Minister of Railways said through video conferencing
that the conclave is an effort to bring all stakeholders on one platform. Railways is proud to have sportspersons
who have made the countrys flag fly high. The idea behind the conclave is to get inputs to explore more
opportunities in making Railways a better organisation in terms of sports.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Manoj Sinha, Minister of State for Railways and Minister of State for
Communications (Independent Charge) said through video conferencing that Railway Sports Promotion Board is
doing a commendable job in promoting sports in India. One third of Sportsperson are from Railways. Railway
Sports Promotion Board is also empowering women by promoting women employees for sports. Efforts of
Railway Sports Promotion Board can help India reach to the next level in Sports. He congratulated the organisers
for organising the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajen Gohain, Minister of State for Railways said that Railways is striving to
provide the best opportunities to its sportsmen. Railway Sports Promotion Board has taken various steps in this
regard. Railways is proud of its players who have brought laurels to the country. This conclave shall further
streamline the efforts of Railway Sports Promotion Board as it has brought stakeholders, sportsmen & Railways
as an organisation on one platform. He congratulated the organisers for organising the event.He stressed on
strengthening the Sports in Railways.
Conclave also saw the participation of representatives from Corporate sector like Shri Pankaj Sahni, COO,
Medanta The Medicity; Shri Harbhajan Singh, DG/Corporate Affairs, Honda Motorcycle; Shri Vivek Kohli,
Co-Chairman, STAG International; Shri Viren Rasquinha, CEO, Olympic Gold Quest and noted Media persons
12/8/2017 Minister of State for Railways Shri Rajen Gohain inaugurates Udaan- A Sports Conclave
Shri Pradeep Magazine and Shri Vikrant Gupta. The discussion pertained to Sports in India : Challenges & the
Road Ahead and Convergence of Stakeholders Strategic Partners to Rejuvenate Indian Sports.
***
AKS/MKV/AK/EN
12/8/2017 Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu asks global funding agencies to focus on inclusive urban development

Government of India
Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation
10-May-2017 17:51 IST
Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu asks global funding agencies to focus on inclusive urban development
Sets five point agenda for deliberations at UN-Habitat meet
Outlines urban renaissance taking place in India ; Credit Ratings a pointer, Says Minister
Newly elected President of the Governing Council of UN-Habitat and Minister of Housing & Urban Poverty
Alleviation Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu today urged the international funding agencies to support programmes aimed
at promoting inclusive urban development that benefits all sections of the society in the context of rapid
urbanization in developing countries.
In his Presidential Address the Plenary Session of the Governing Council of UN-Habitat in Nairobi, Kenya
today, Shri Naidu stressed that affordable housing, provision of other basic urban infrastructure, solid waste
management, environment friendly public transport and skill development needs to be accorded priority in
funding by the international agencies to enat sure inclusive development so that public spaces and opportunities
in urban areas are equitably shared by all.
Stressing on the need for collective actions by the global community to take forward the New Urban Agenda
adopted at Quito, Ecuador last year, Shri Venkaiah Naidu suggested a five point strategy to improve urban
governance at the local level. He suggested decentralization of decision making, devolution of functions, funds
and functionaries to urban local bodies, reform of administrative and financial processes, augmenting resource
collection and enhanced citizen participation for effective functioning of urban local bodies.
Stating that growing urbanization is an irreversible process, particularly, in the developing countries, Shri
M.Venkaiah Naidu stressed on the need for collective actions through effective global partnerships to take
advantage of this growing urbanization to catalyse global economic growth.
Shri Naidu further said that under the over arching philosophy of Perform, Reform and Transform suggested by
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, a process of urban renaissance has been set in motion in India under which
the political and administrative leadership in urban areas is adopting new decision making, planning and
execution methods.
From a state of total neglect of urban planning and execution, urban local bodies in India are now
enthusiastically obtaining credit ratings that impact a wide range of urban governance issues. This is a clear sign
of urban renaissance in India Shri Naidu asserted.
12/8/2017 Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu asks global funding agencies to focus on inclusive urban development
The Minister said that new urban missions like Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation
(AMRUT), Smart City Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) and the measures
for promoting environment friendly public transport are aimed at ensuring inclusive and sustainable urban
development.
The Presidential Address of Shri Venkaiah Naidu was appreciated by the experts and participants including
Mr.Joan Clos, Executive Director of UN-Habitat and representatives of other member countries of the Governing
Council of UN-Habitat.
Shri Venkiah Naidu was unanimously elected as the President of the Governing Council of UN-Habitat on
Monday this week.
AAR
12/8/2017 Election Commission of India Launches National Contact Centre

Government of India
Election Commission
11-May-2017 20:17 IST
Election Commission of India Launches National Contact Centre
National Contact Centre toll-free No. 1800111950
Every vote counts. And so does every voter. Serving every elector flawlessly is the commitment of Election
Commission of India that it has lived up to time and again. The Commission has added another feather to its cap with the
launch of National Contact Centre with a toll-free No. 1800111950. Now any citizen from any part of the country can call
on the toll-free in English or Hindi with any query or complaint at any time of the day. Callers can enquire on subjects such
as elections, voting dates, EPIC, electoral roll, online registration etc. and lodge a complaint by simply dialing in to the toll
free no. Not only this, executives also make outbound calls for educating the electors and spreading voter awareness.
The National Contact Centre is operated on a National Grievance Redressal System Software. This software is a
single window platform to manage complaints and feedback received through calls, emails, sms and website access in an
integrated and time-bound manner. Callers may connect with the executives to register a complaint and know about its
status of receipt and disposal as well as to give suggestions and feedback at every step of the way.
The Contact Centre is Commissions step forward towards bringing about electoral reforms where citizens and
officials are empowered to monitor and report any anomaly or violation of ECI instructions in the field before, during or
post elections.
Each state and UT will also soon setup and operationalize dedicated State Contact Centre (SCC) and District
Contact Centre (DCC) to ensure seamless flow of information across the contact centers for handling issues/ query from
citizens. National Contact Centre will build IT protocols to ensure that any call landing at NCC are properly redirected to
the respective State Contact Centre.
It is expected that on operationalization of Integrated Contact Centre, ECI will be able to provide multilingual
support to all the citizens across the nation in a decentralized and integrated manner.
ICT 2025 Vision Document

ICT 2025 is about setting up core IT infrastructure and process to consolidate multitude of election process and
functions.
The ICT 2025 Vision Document heralds the beginning of what we call as Digitalization instead of just Digitization.
Digitalization is the key strategy in ICT 2025. It is the strategy of adopting recent technologies and consolidating existing
technologies in IT to make the most of the digital resources available in the Election ecosystem.
Launch of ICT 2025 Vision Document by the Honble Commission
The ICT 2025 Projects which capitalise on Digitalization, will capture both Electoral Process and the conduct of
elections. There are four major components of the ICT 2025.
1. Integrated Software application

2. GIS, Analytic and Integrated Contact Centre
3. IT infrastructure including data center, IT security, disaster recovery
4. Knowledge Management, Capacity building and social media engagement
Further Election Commission has launched Annual Report 2017 & Electoral Statistics Pocket book 2017 & IT in
Elections Booklet.
RM/
12/8/2017 Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister launch e-Krishi Samvad, an online interface

Government of India
11-May-2017 17:00 IST
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister launch e-Krishi Samvad, an online interface
Farmers and stakeholders can directly approach ICAR with their problems: Shri Singh
Appropriate solutions from specialists will be provided via SMS and Web: Shri Singh
Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, here today launched at Krishi
Bhawan. Shri Singh informed that the e-Krishi Samvad is internet-based interface and is a unique platform that will
provide direct and effective solutions to the problems faced by farmers and stakeholders in the agriculture sector.
Union Agriculture Minister said that people can directly connect to the ICAR website http://icar.org.in and get the
appropriate solutions from the subject matter specialists and institutes through web or SMS. Stakeholders can upload
photographs related to diseases of the crops, animals or fishes for diagnostics and remedial measures instantly from the
specialists.
Shri Singh further said that those who have internet facility on the mobile phone can also avail this facility. e-Krishi
Samvad is useful to get information pertaining to welfare and development of agricultural stakeholders. Dr. T. Mohapatra,
(DG, ICAR), Shri C. Roul (Secretary, ICAR), Dr. AK Singh (DDG, Agricultural Extension) and Dr. SK Singh (Project
Director, DKMA) and other senior officials of ICAR were also present on the occassion.
SS(e-krishi samvad)
12/8/2017 Shri Rajnath Singh launches the MHA Mobile Application for Grievances Redressal of CAPF personnel

Government of India
11-May-2017 19:22 IST
Shri Rajnath Singh launches the MHA Mobile Application for Grievances Redressal of CAPF personnel
App is a Digital Option to jawans to lodge their grievances: Home Minister
The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh launched the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) Mobile Application for
grievance redressal of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel, here today. The Union Home Minister also
launched BSFMyApp on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh said that he had proposed this App at the DGPs conference held in Hyderabad
last year. He said that he wished to relate to every jawan working for nation. He congratulated the BSF for developing this
App in short span of time. He said that the CPAFs are one of the most disciplined forces. If they are disciplined, this does
not mean that they do not have emotions, he added. He said that they also have some personal problems and the system
keeps on resolving their problems from time to time. Shri Rajnath Singh said that this App is required when the jawans feel
that their problems need attention of the Ministry of Home Affairs. This has given a Digital Option to jawans to lodge their
grievances and he is just one click away from jawans, the Home Minister said. Shri Rajnath Singh said that he will review
the dashboard of the App every month and check the status of redressal of grievances. The MHA will intervene, wherever
required, he said. He said that everybody should get benefitted from the telecom revolution.
The Home Minister also appreciated the jawans for the dedication with which they do their duty. He said that the
Government is making efforts for the welfare of jawans. He said that to curb stagnation, 34,000 jawans have been promoted
to Head constable position. He also said that the families of the jawans, who sacrifice their life for the nation, should get
minimum assistance of Rs one crore. He said that the Government has recently launched a web portal Bharat ke veer to
enable the willing donors to contribute towards the family of a braveheart who sacrificed his/her life in line of duty. The web
portal is getting very good response, he added.
The MHA Mobile App has been developed in view of the fact that personnel of various Central Armed Police Forces are
discharging their duties at their places of duty all over the Country. In the course of discharging their duties, they come
across various personal/service related problems which can be addressed and re-addressed by their organizations. All
Central Armed Police Forces have well organized mechanism for Redressal of Grievances of their personnel.
Notwithstanding, there are still some personnel who feel that their grievances need further consideration and better solution.
As a result, they have a keen desire to raise their level of grievances to the level of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). This
required a suitable mechanism to enable Force personnel to submit their grievances to MHA and at the same time provide an
opportunity to their organization for further consideration of their requests. Considering this requirement, the MHA Mobile
App provides a common system in which all personnel of various CAPFs can submit their grievances through a Mobile
Application and the same provides respective Forces to receive the submitted grievance for further action. The Mobile
application also has a provision for MHA to continuously monitor the action taken by various CAPFs on their grievances
and regulate the process for further improvement in the Grievance Redressal System.
The BSFMyApp launched on the occasion has been developed to cater to the requirement of BSF personnel regarding
Grievance Redressal as well as various other service and welfare related issues of the Force personnel, deployed in the field.
It provides mechanism to address issues related to Pay, GPF, Leave, Deputation etc. The most significant feature of the
Application is its Financial Literacy Module which not only educates BSF Personnel about investment of their savings but
also facilitates investment in a safe and systematic manner.
The DGs of CAPFs and senior officers of the Ministry of Home Affairs and CAPFs were also present on the occasion.
*****
KSD/NK/PK
12/8/2017 Shri Rajnath Singh launches the MHA Mobile Application for Grievances Redressal of CAPF personnel
12/8/2017 Two Schemes to be launched this year by Ministry of Minority Affairs: Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

Government of India
Ministry of Minority Affairs
11-May-2017 16:53 IST
Two Schemes to be launched this year by Ministry of Minority Affairs: Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi
The government is empowering minorities through education and employment: Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi
5 world class educational institutions will be established to provide education in technical, medical, Ayurved, Unani
etc. fields: Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi
Minister of State for Minority Affairs (Independent Charge) & Parliamentary Affairs Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi
has said that is ministry will launch two schemes in this year. The USTTAD Samman Samaroh will be launched
during Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya birth centenary under which the artisans and craftsmen of the Minorities
will be honoured. The other scheme Campaign for Education will be launched on the anniversary of former
president A. P. J. Abdul Kalam on 15th October 2017. This campaign will be held during 2017-18 and one
hundred districts have been identified for this.
Addressing a press conference in New Delhi today on the achievements of the Ministry of Minority Affairs
during three years of NDA regime Shri Naqvi said that the Government has been successful to bring the poor,
backward and weaker sections of the Minorities into the mainstream of the development through 3E-
Education, Employment and Empowerment. He emphasized that our Empowerment without Appeasement
policy has created an atmosphere of development and trust among Minorities. Schemes/programmes such as
Garib Nawaz Skill Development Centre, Usttad, Nai Manzil, Nai Roshni, Seekho aur Kamao, Padho
Pardes, Progress Panchayat, Hunar Haat, multi-purpose Sadbhav Mandap, PMs new 15 point
programme, Multi-sectoral Development Programme, Begum Hazrat Mahal Scholarship for girls, etc. have
ensured development of every needy person belonging to the Minority communities.
The Minister said that keeping in view the socio-economic-educational empowerment of Minorities, the
Government have increased Budget of the Minority Affairs Ministry to Rs 4195.48 crore for 2017-18, which is
Rs 368.23 crore more than the 2016-17 Budget of Rs 3827.25 crore. In 2012-13 the budget of the Ministry was
Rs 3135 crore, in 2013-14 Rs 3511 crore, in 2014-15 Rs 3711 crore and in 2015-16 the budget was Rs 3713
crore. He said that about 70 per cent of the 2017-18 Budget, will be spent on programmes/schemes aimed at
educational empowerment and skill development of Minorities.
Shri Naqvi said that the Modi Government is committed to provide quality education to students belonging to
Minority communities and keepin this in mind, the Ministry of Minority Affairs is establishing 5 world class
educational institutions which will provide education in technical, medical, Ayurved, Unani etc. fields across the
country. A high-level committee, constituted on 10th January, 2017 to frame roadmap including places where
these institutes will be established, will soon submit its report. Our target is to start academic session in these
institutes from 2018. We have proposed 40 per cent reservation for girls in these institutions. About 100 Navoday
Vidyalaya type schools will also be opened in Minority concentrated areas in the coming months. To ensure
better education to every person belonging to poor sections a campaign Tehrike Taleem is being launched.
Under which every needy person will be provided resources and facilities.
During the last three years, the Ministry has created infrastructure development projects such as 33 Degree
Colleges; 1102 school building; 15,869 additional class rooms; 676 hostels; 97 ITIs; 16 Polytechnics; 1952
drinking water facilities; 8532 Aanganwadi Centres; 2090 health centres; 223 Sadbhav Mandaps (during last 6
months); 18 Gurkul type residential schools (in last six months). Besides, 47,986 pucca houses have been
constructed under PM Awas Yojana.
During the last three years, scholarships worth Rs 4740 crore were given to 1.82 crore students. Rs 116 crore
were given to 32,705 students under free coaching scheme for competitive exams, while Rs 166 crore were
distributed among 1,38,426 girl students under Begum Hazrat Mahal Scholarship. Money of all these
scholarships have been transferred directly into bank accounts of the students through Direct Benefit Transfer
(DBT) mode leaving no room for any leakage.
Shri Naqvi said that during the last three years, over 5.2 lakh youths including about 40 per cent women, have
been covered under various job-oriented skill training schemes of the Ministry of Minority Affairs at an
expenditure of Rs 578 crore. Under Seekho aur Kamao, over 2 lakh youths have been provided employment
oriented skill training and employment with an expenditure of more than Rs 300 crore; 1.99 lakh women have
been provided various leadership development training under Nai Roshni and 70,000 youths have been
covered for training and employment opportunities under Nai Manzil scheme. Thousands of Minority
communities schools and Madrasas have been connected with 3T- Teachers, Tiffin and Toilets during last
three months. These educational institutions also include institutions run by Gurudwaras and those run by Jain,
Buddhist and Parsi community.
The Minister of State (I/C) for Minority Affairs said that while on one hand Progress Panchayat have proved to
be a strong mission to fulfil our commitment to Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas and Antyodaya, on the other hand
Hunar Haat is providing encouragement, market and opportunity to master artisans belonging to Minority
communities. Two Hunar Haat have been organised by the Ministry so far. More than 35 lakh people (about 26
lakh visitors at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, about 9 lakh visitors at Pragati Maidan) visited these
two Hunar Haat.
Shri Naqvi said that with the theme Craft Aur Cuisine Ka Sangam, the second Hunar Haat was unique in the
sense that it showcased crafts and traditional cuisines brought from different parts of the country at
Bawarchikhana. The first Hunar Haat had been organized from 14 to 27th November at India International
Trade Fair in November 2016. After huge success of these two Hunar Haat, the Minority Affairs Ministry has
decided to establish Hunar Hub, to organize such events, in every state. Several states have come forward to
provide land for the project. Next Hunar Haat will be organized at Puducherry, Mumbai, Lucknow, Bengaluru,
Kolkata, Gauhati, Ahmedabad, Jaipur.
Shri Naqvi said that joining Digital India campaign launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the
Ministry of Minority Affairs has made all its schemes and programmes digital/online. Even entire Haj process
has been made online this time and also a Haj mobile app has been launched. A total of 1lakh 70 thousand
pilgrims will go to Haj from India this year. Saudi Arabia Government has increased Indias Haj quota by
34,005. Its a significant increase in our countrys Haj quota after several years.
******
BCK/AK
12/8/2017 Technology Day Commemorates Indias Success In Taking Science And Technology To The Service Of The Country

Government of India
Ministry of Science & Technology
11-May-2017 19:06 IST
Technology Day Commemorates Indias Success In Taking Science And Technology To The Service Of The Country
India is now one of the worlds fastest growing centers for S&T entrepreneurship.
Technology for Inclusive and Sustainable Development through micro-industry models using local material
India is now one of the worlds fastest growing centers for S&T entrepreneurship, said the Union Minister for
Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Dr. Harshvardhan. The Minister was speaking at the Technology Awards
Ceremony on the occasion of National Technology Day in New Delhi today.
Technology Day commemorates Indias success in using science and technology to address the challenges facing the
country. On 11 May 1998 the Pokhran test was conducted. Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee declared India a full-fledged
nuclear state after operation Shakti and it made India the 6th country to join the Nuclear Club.
India is now one of the worlds fastest growing centres for S&T entrepreneurship. Start-ups and entrepreneurship
are the key to a nations economic growth and employment. The Ministry of Science & Technology through its various
programmes have funded and supported thousands of start-ups, incubators and developed new technologies that have
reached the market. In keeping with the theme of the day on Technology for Inclusive and Sustainable Development, the
DST has catalyzed the development relevant rural micro-industry models.
Make in India: High-tech manufacturing in S&T is extraordinarily demanding. One collaborative effort is the successful
operationalizing of Indias largest steerable optical telescope in Devastahl, Uttarakhand.
In Health Technology, the CSIR has developed Saheli the worlds first non-steroidal contraceptive pill which is affordable
at 1/10 the cost of conventional pills. The indigenous clot-dissolving drug, Streptokinase saves millions of lives through an
affordable alternative to cost drugs in the market. A 1-day Dengue diagnostic test developed by the Department of
Biotechnology is fast and effective and has reached millions.
In Vaccines, in partnership with the health ministry DBT has recommended several new vaccines for the Universal
Immunization Programme. Notable is the affordable indigenous Rotavirus vaccine now a part of the universal immunization
programme. Vaccine development for Malaria, Dengue are undergoing trials.
Agriculture and Farm Technology is another mission where major success has been achieved. The programme Biotech-
KISAN (Krishi Innovation Science Application Network) has been launched in collaboration with ICAR. In each Agro-
climatic zone, farmers will benefit of quality technical solutions to problem of Seed, Water, Soil and Market. Indian
Farmers now get 21 million agro-advisories that have resulted in over Rs.50,000 crores contribution to the GDP as per the
NCAER report 2015
Arsenic resistance rice has been developed by the CSIR and is now being cultivated in West Bengal, thereby addressing a
major problem.
Under the National Monsoon Mission, Climate and Weather forecasting have been improved. Dynamical forecast is a
major advance, which allows massive data to be analyzed speedily and more reliable predictions made. Errors in cyclone
forecast have been greatly reduced and deaths from cyclone have been greatly reduced
Wealth from Waste and Waste to Energy has been successfully done. A commercial plant to produce 3000 litres of
ethanol from 10 tonnes of agricultural waste has been set up. It is now being scaled- up by major Oil Manufacturing
Companies. Applying the latest technology for treating flowing sewage, a pilot project has been installed at Barapullah drain
in Delhi under the international collaboration with The Netherlands.
12/8/2017 Technology Day Commemorates Indias Success In Taking Science And Technology To The Service Of The Country
***
RDS/nb
12/8/2017 Janaushadhi Pariyojana is creating a Silent Revolution in achieving Health Security by providing Affordable, Quality Medicines for All: Shri Anan

Government of India
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
12-May-2017 15:56 IST
Janaushadhi Pariyojana is creating a Silent Revolution in achieving Health Security by providing Affordable,
Quality Medicines for All: Shri Ananthkumar
The Goal of the Government is to take Janaushadhi scheme to every Block: Shri Ananthkumar
1320 Janaushadhi Kendras already functioning across the country
By end of this year more than 3000 Janaushadhi Kendras to be opened; Over 30,000 received applications
given in principle approval
To ensure high quality, only the medicines meeting WHO GMP benchmarks supplied at Janaushadhi
Kendras
Mandatory for all medical practitioners to prominently mention Generic Names of drugs along with
Brand Names, as per MCI guidelines: Shri Ananthkumar
Addressing the media on the achievements under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)
here today, Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Ananthkumar said that
the scheme is creating a Silent Revolution in achieving Health Security by providing Affordable, Quality
Medicines for All. Today India is the Worlds Pharmacy and our Pharma sector is growing at a pace of 20-21%
and India is exporting quality generic medicines to 215 countries the Minister added.
Shri Ananthkumar said that following the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modis vision of making
providing Affordable, Quality Medicines for All, the Government has made Health Security for all citizens its
priority and this aim can only be achieved through the Janaushadhi pariyojana. Through this scheme, the
Government is planning to take affordable medicines to each block of the country in near future, he added.
Shri Kumar informed that as on date, 1320 PMBJP Kendras (PMBJKs) are functioning in the country in the 30
States/UTs, covering 426 districts, as compared to only 80 opened between 2008 and 2014. The turnover in the
beginning of the scheme was around Rs. 3 crores, which would increase to around Rs. 60 crores by end of this
year, he informed.
Further, the Minister said that MoUs for opening PMBJKs have been signed by Union Government with 19 State
Governments and other Organisations/NGOs. A total of 32,225 applications have been received out of which in-
principle approval has been given to 30,300 applications. which is a proof of the huge opportunity that this
scheme provides for unemployed youth to get self-employed, Shri Kumar added.
Talking about the actual reduction in medicine prices, Shri Kumar said that in these PMBJKs, the Government
procured generic medicines are sold which are 50% - 90% less as compared to the branded medicines in open
market, for e.g. the price of Amlodipine 5 mg 10 Tablets is Rs. 3.25 as compared to market average price of Rs.
20.00 for branded version. Further, the product basket of PMBJP contains more than 600 medicines and 154
surgicals and consumables in all therapeutic categories viz. Anti-infectives, Anti-diabetics, Cardiovasculars,
Anti-cancers, Gastro-intestinal medicines, etc.
Most importantly, allaying the concerns about quality, the Minister said that each batch of drug supplied to
PMBJKs is tested for impeccable quality assurance at NABL (National Accreditation Board Laboratories)
accredited laboratories and is compliant with WHO GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) benchmarks. Out of
total 10,000 pharmaceuticals companies in India, 1400 are WHO GMP compliant and drugs under the PMBJP
are procured only from these 1400 companies, Shri Kumar said.
Answering to a question on prescription of generic medicines by doctors, the Minister informed that due to
sustained efforts of the Ministry, the Medical Council of India (MCI) has recently issued a directive to all
medical colleges, hospitals, doctors across the country and made it mandatory to prominently mention Generic
Names of drugs along with Brand Names in their prescriptions, in pursuance of which strict disciplinary action
may be taken against the violators. All medical practitioners have been directed by the Government to strictly
comply with its directions. Further, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has also issued advisory to all State
Drug Controllers that all branded drugs, imported or domestically manufactured, should mandatorily contain
generic names mentioned in bold letters while packaging, Shri Kumar added.
It was also informed that in order to encourage doctors to prescribe generic medicines, the MCI had amended the
Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002 on 08th October 2016
advising the use of generic name of drugs in doctors prescription.
Informing about the Governments efforts towards future expansion of PMBJKs in the country, Shri Kumar said
that the Ministry of Railways has come on board to open Janaushadhi kendras in over 1000 railway stations
across the country in collaboration with Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers. Further, the Ministry of Chemicals
& Fertilizers has also written to all State Governments to open PMBJKs in District headquarters, Tehsil/Block
level, bus stands etc. to increase the reach of affordable medicines to the poor and underprivileged citizens of the
country, Shri Kumar added.
Other dignitaries present on the occasion were Shri J.P. Prakash, Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Shri
Rajneesh Tingal, JS, Pharma and Shri Biplab Chatterjee, CEO, Bureau of Pharma PSUs in India (BPPI), the
implementing agency for PMBJP, under Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers.
*****
VM
12/8/2017 Tejas Successfully Test Fires Derby Air-to-Air Beyond Visual Range Missile

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
12-May-2017 18:23 IST
Tejas Successfully Test Fires Derby Air-to-Air Beyond Visual Range Missile
Tejas, the Light Combat Aircraft today successfully demonstrated an Air-to-Air Beyond Visual Range (BVR)
missile firing capability by releasing Derby Air-to-Air BVR missile in RADAR guided mode. The missile launch
was performed in Lock ON after Launch mode for a BVR target in the look down mode and the target was
destroyed.
The objective of the test was to assess the Derby integration with aircraft systems on-board Tejas including the
aircraft avionics, fire-control radar, launchers and Missile Weapon Delivery System and to verify its
performance.
The test was conducted on a Manoeuvrable Aerial Target at the Interim Test Range (ITR), Chandipur. The
sensors at ITR also tracked the target and missile.
A safe separation was followed by missile guidance towards RADAR acquired target. The flawless launch was
demonstrated with all on-board systems performing satisfactorily and the missile scored a direct hit on the target
with complete destruction of it.
The test firing achieved all its planned objectives. The Derby firing is a major step towards clearing BVR
capabilities on LCA aircraft for FOC.
NW/NAo/DK/Rajib
12/8/2017 Central Government notifies Exemption from Quoting Aadhaar / Enrolment ID to certain individuals

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
12-May-2017 16:42 IST
Central Government notifies Exemption from Quoting Aadhaar / Enrolment ID to certain individuals
The Central Government vide notification dated 11th May, 2017 has notified that the requirement of quoting of
Aadhaar / Enrolment ID shall not apply to the following individuals if they do not possess the Aadhaar / Enrolment ID:
i. An individual who is residing in the state of Assam, Jammu and Kashmir and Meghalaya.
ii. An individual who is a non-resident as per the Income-tax Act, 1961.
iii. An individual of the age of eighty years or more at any time during the previous year.
iv. An individual who is not a citizen of India.
The notification is available on the Income Tax website www.incometaxindia.gov.in.
Section 139AA of the Income-tax Act, 1961, as inserted by the Finance Act, 2017 provides for mandatory quoting of
Aadhaar / Enrolment ID of Aadhaar application form for filing of return of income and for making an application for
allotment of Permanent Account Number with effect from 1st July, 2017. Section 139AA (3) of the Act empowers the
Central Government to notify the person(s) or State(s) to which the requirement of quoting of Aadhaar / Enrolment ID shall
not apply.
************
DSM/VKS/KA
12/8/2017 Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) takes Key Initiatives in the last three years;

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
12-May-2017 14:01 IST
Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) takes Key Initiatives in the last three years;
Total disinvestment achieved in the last three years (2014-15 to 2016-2017) was Rs. 87,714 crore as against Rs. 53,670
crore in the previous three-year period; A system of Rolling Plan has been brought-in to take advantage of the
market conditions without any loss of time and with an element of surprise for the market players among others.
With a vision to promote peoples ownership of the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and a share in their
prosperity through disinvestment, and efficient management of public investment in CPSEs for accelerating economic
development and augmenting Governments resources for higher expenditure, the Department of Investment and Public
Asset Management (DIPAM), Ministry of Finance, has been working tirelessly to achieve these goals.
Figure 1: Areas of Achievements of DIPAM in the past three years
The major achievements of DIPAM in the past three years are outlined below.
Disinvestment Performance
The total disinvestment achieved in the last three years (2014-15 to 2016-2017) was Rs. 87,714 crore as
against Rs. 53,670 crore in the previous three-year period. The average yearly realization of Rs. 29,238 crores during the
period between 2014-15 to 2016-17 (last 3 years) vis--vis Rs. 19,873 crore for the period between 2009-10 to 2013-14 (5
years) represents an increase of 47%.
Figure 2: Disinvestment achieved (Rs crore)
(Figures for 2016-17 are till end February, 2017)
2) Accelerating the Disinvestment Process
A system of Rolling Plan has been brought-in, replacing the earlier system of annual plans, wherein shares are
readily available for transactions, to take advantage of the market conditions without any loss of time and with an element of
surprise for the market players. This helps in minimizing the price hammering during disinvestment of CPSEs.
Figure 3: Accelerating the disinvestment process
Based on the suggestion made by DIPAM, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) through its circular
dated 15th February, 2016 has reduced the notice period for an Offer for Sale (OFS) transaction from T-2 to T-1 (T
being the transaction day). This change is now helping in minimizing price hammering between the notice day and the
transaction day, which used to take place earlier under the T-2 dispensation.
The Government is evolving an Equity Culture and has made the CPSEs disinvestment programme more inclusive
by following an approach to reserve 20 per cent of shares in CPSEs-OFS transactions for retail investors on a case to case
basis.
3) Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSE) Exchange Traded Fund (ETF)
The CPSE ETF allows the Government of India to simultaneously divest multiple stocks spread across various
sectors in one bundled instrument, thereby reducing overhang on individual stocks and maximizing the sale proceeds for the
Government.
The Government launched a Further Fund Offer (FFO) of the CPSE ETF Scheme. Overall, the issue got
oversubscribed by 2.30 times Rs. 13,802 crore worth of applications were received as against the maximum issue size of
Rs. 6,000 crore. The number of Retail applications was 2,70,712 (approx. 7 times the Retail applications received during
first tranche held in March 2014), with corresponding value of Rs. 2,465 crore. This was one of the largest retail offering
(Government / Private) in capital market in last few years. The Government realized an amount to the tune of Rs. 6000 crore
through this offer.
4) Strategic Disinvestment
As a part of the initiative to fast-track strategic disinvestment of CPSEs, the Core Group of Secretaries on
Disinvestment (CGD) was constituted on 21st March, 2016. Based on the report of the NITI Aayog and the
recommendations of CGD, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) in its meeting held on 27th October, 2016,
has approved, in-principle the proposal for strategic disinvestment of some CPSEs, units of CPSEs and subsidiaries of
CPSEs.
For the purpose of uniformity and efficient implementation of strategic disinvestment transactions, the 'flow of
activities' to be completed within a specified time in respect of disinvestment of Government equity as well as disinvestment
of equity of parent CPSE, subsidiary and sale of units of CPSEs has been prepared and communicated to the concerned
Administrative Ministries/Departments for completion of the activities within the specified timeline.
These efforts are in sync with the Union Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitleys Budget Speech of 2015-16 where he
had stated that the budget reflects considerable scaling-up of disinvestment figures. This will include both disinvestment in
loss making units and some strategic disinvestment.
The objective of strategic disinvestment includes the Government exiting from non-strategic business, unlocking
optimum economic potential by promoting efficiency & professional management in such companies.
5) Promotion of payments through cards and digital means
To promote digital payments, BHIM application has been launched that facilitates digital payment transactions
through UPI and USSD modes. The acceptance infrastructure is being ramped up through procurement of Aadhaar ready
PoS machines. Further, alternative acceptance options through QR code have also been developed.
A number of incentives have been provided to encourage digital payments amongst merchants and consumers.
Capacity building and awareness campaigns have been launched by various Departments and State Governments to promote
digital payments. The Business Correspondents network is being expanded through inclusion of Fair Price Shops and Post
Offices to provide digital transaction options at various geographically convenient locations. Seeding of Aadhaar and
mobile numbers in the bank accounts is also underway to enable the accountholders to undertake transactions through
mobiles or Aadhaar authentications.
6) Time-bound listing of CPSEs on Stock Exchanges
The Budget 2017-18 announced to put in place a revised mechanism and procedure to ensure time bound listing of
identified CPSEs on stock exchanges. This will enable unlocking the true value of the company and promote peoples
ownership by encouraging public participation in CPSEs, making them accountable to its shareholders. DIPAM has issued
circular dated 17.02.2017 on the mechanism and procedure, along with a list of activities with indicative timelines, for time
bound listing of CPSEs by all the Administrative Ministries/Departments.
*****************
DSM/VKS/KA
12/8/2017 NHAI Masala Bond Launched at London Stock Exchange

Government of India
Ministry of Road Transport & Highways
12-May-2017 12:12 IST
NHAI Masala Bond Launched at London Stock Exchange
The Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Shipping Shri. Nitin Gadkari yesterday launched the
NHAI Masala Bond issue at the London Stock Exchange. The NHAI issue witnessed an overwhelming response
from a wide range of investors, some of them being first timers to participate in the Masala Bond market. The
initial benchmarked issue of INR 1500 crore was upsized to INR 3000 crore by yesterday 3.00 PM (GMT) at a
price yielding 7.30% annually in view of the highly positive response from the investor market. The transaction
marks the largest ever 5 year issuance and the largest inaugural transaction in Masala Bond market. Some of the
leading investors were still showing interest in the NHAI issue who may be brought into the fold in the near
future.
It is interesting to note that the NHAI Masala Bond issue has attracted investors from across the spectrum with
Asia contributing 60% of the subscription and the balance 40% coming from Europe. Further, 61% of the amount
comes from the Fund Managers or Insurance, 18% from the Banks and 21% from the private banks. The
spectrum of investors shows bright prospects of the Masala Bond as an instrument of raising rupee denominated
resources internationally. On this occasion London Stock Exchange presented a Memento to Shri Nitin Gadkari.
Shri Gadkari started the days trading at LSE yesterday, and also addressed the media at India House, London.
Shri Gadkari also visited Ambedkar House, where Dr B R Ambedkar stayed during his student days at London
School of Economics.
****
UM/NP/MS
12/8/2017 INS Darshak completes hydrographic surveys in Sri Lanka

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
13-May-2017 16:28 IST
INS Darshak completes hydrographic surveys in Sri Lanka
INS Darshak of the Eastern Naval Command which has been on a two month deployment to Sri Lanka has
successfully completed surveys of Weligama Bay and Southern coast of Sri Lanka. The result of the surveys
were formally handed over by Captain Peush Pawsey, Commanding Officer, INS Darshak to Vice Admiral RC
Wijegunaratne, WV, RWP & Bar, RSP, VSV, USP, ndc, psn, the Commander of Sri Lanka Navy, in a ceremony
held at Colombo on 12 May 17.
The survey operations were undertaken in three phases and ship also visited Colombo and Galle harbour. The
ship and ships survey motor boats fitted with multi beam systems were extensively deployed and the
hydrographic survey data for more than 7000 nautical miles was collected. Ships integral Chetak helicopter also
participated in the operations.
The Officers and sailors of Sri Lanka Navy had embarked ship during the conduct of joint survey operations and
were also imparted training on various aspects of hydrographic surveying. In addition, the sailors of both the
navies interacted during ships stay at Colombo and Galle and played friendly football, volleyball and basketball
matches. Beach cleaning drives were also conducted as part of interaction.
INS Darshak has the unique distinction of having surveyed in Mauritius, Seychelles, Myanmar, Mozambique and
Tanzania in the last few years. The successful completion of the maiden Joint Hydrographic survey with Sri
Lanka Navy marks a new beginning in the bilateral relations.
CGR/VZ/49-17
12/8/2017 INS Rajput on a 3-day visit to Yangon

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
13-May-2017 19:04 IST
INS Rajput on a 3-day visit to Yangon
INS Rajput, Indian Navy's front line guided missile destroyer entered Yangon, Myanmar for an Operational Turn
around (OTR) from 11-13 May 17. The ship was given a traditional welcome and received by Commodore Thant
Sin Lay Deputy Commander Naval Dockyard. Captain RA Shah, Commanding Officer INS Rajput called on
Commodore Nay Win , Commander, Ayeyarwady Naval Regional Command.
Later, Capt RA Shah, Commanding Officer, INS Rajput laid wreath for the Martyrs of the First and Second
World War at Yangon War cemetery. He also called on His Excellence V Misra, the Indian Ambassador of
Myanmar.
During the visit, 35 Indian Naval officers visited the Myanmar Naval Training Command and 35 Myanmar Navy
officers and 160 under trainee sea cadets visited the ship and were given a guided tour of the ship. The sea cadets
interacted with the junior officers of the ship during the visit. A friendly volleyball match was also with
Myanmar navy personnel.
Team Rajput comprising 05 officers and 05 sailors also visited Thanlyin Orphanage School and distributed
notebooks, stationary and food packets to the students of the orphanage as a good will gesture.
CGR/VZ/50-17
12/8/2017 Shri J P Nadda launches Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)

Government of India
13-May-2017 16:17 IST
Shri J P Nadda launches Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)
No Child should die in the country from Vaccine Preventable Diseases. We stand committed to reducing child deaths:
Shri J P Nadda
No child should die in the country from Vaccine Preventable Diseases is the Goal & Commitment of our
government. We stand committed to reducing child deaths and providing a healthier future to our children. Shri
J P Nadda, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare stated this as he announced the introduction of
pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) in the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) of the country in a
function at Mandi, today. Terming this as an historic moment and an exemplary step in Indias immunization
programme, the Union Health Minister added that the Government is committed to reducing morbidity and
mortality in children. Strengthening routine immunization is an essential investment in Indias children and will
ensure a healthy future of the country, he noted.
PCV protects children against severe forms of pneumococcal disease, such as pneumonia and meningitis.
Currently, the vaccine is being rolled out to approximately 21 lakh children in Himachal Pradesh and parts of
Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in the first phase. This will be followed by introduction in Madhya Pradesh and
Rajasthan next year, and eventually be expanded to the country in a phased manner. Shri Kaul Singh Thakur,
Minister of Health, Government of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Ram Swaroop Sharma, Member of Parliament,
Mandi, Himachal Pradesh and Shri Sanjeeva Kumar, Additional Secretary, Health, were also present at the
function.
Reiterating the commitment of Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi to save lives of children against vaccine
preventable diseases, Shri Nadda said that the Government has taken notable steps in the direction of total
immunisation. Under Mission Indradhanush, so far, more than 2.6 crore beneficiaries have been immunized.
From 1% annual increase in coverage of Full Immunization, Mission Indradhanush has resulted in a 6.7 %
annual expansion in the immunization cover. The immunization programme started with providing protection
against 6 vaccine preventable diseases, it will now offer protection to our children from 12 diseases, Shri Nadda
said.
The Health Minister further said that all these vaccines were available in the private sector for many years, not
only in India but also across the world. While these vaccines in the private sector were accessible to only those
who could afford them, by making them available under the UIP, the government is ensuring equitable access to
those who need them the most, the underprivileged and underserved, Shri Nadda added.
Pneumonia kills more children under five years of age in India than any other infectious disease. The
pentavalent vaccine which was scaled up in all states under the UIP by 2015 protects against Haemophilus
influenzae type b (Hib) pneumonia. Now, the introduction of PCV in the UIP will reduce child deaths from
pneumococcal pneumonia. It will also reduce the number of children being hospitalized for pneumonia, and
therefore reduce the economic burden on the families and the health cost burden on the country, The Health
Minister elaborated.
The Health Minister informed that the ICT-based Patient Satisfaction System (PSS) Mera Aspataal / My
Hospital for implementation in public and empanelled private hospitals, is envisaged to empower the patient by
seeking his / her views on quality of experience in a public healthcare facility. He further said that the Free Drugs
Services Initiative, universal screening for non-communicable diseases for all people above 19 years to be rolled
out shortly in select 100 districts in the first phase, the Free Diagnostics Services Initiative, the District Hospital
Strengthening support, roll out of comprehensive primary health care, and Quality Assurance Programme - all
represent initiatives intended to reduce fragmentation of care, improve quality of care and reduce out of pocket
expenses.
Shri Kaul Singh Thakur, Minister of Health, Government of Himachal Pradesh, stated that PCV is a very
important for children as it will provide protection cover to all the children below 5 years of age from pneumonia
and meningitis. Shri Kaul thanked Shri J P Nadda for launching the PCV from Mandi Himachal Pradesh. This
vaccine will support efforts of the state government in further bringing down the child mortality, he added.
To raise awareness about PCV, Shri Nadda also unveiled the communication material comprising TV and radio
spots, posters, banners, etc. at the event. The Ministry has planned an extensive awareness campaign so that
maximum number of people can avail these services.
Pneumococcal disease is the leading cause of vaccine-preventable deaths in children under five years of age
globally and in India. India accounts for nearly 20% of global pneumonia deaths in this age group. In 2010,
pneumococcal pneumonia accounted for approximately 16% of all severe pneumonia cases and 30% of
pneumonia related deaths in children under- five years of age in India. Introducing PCV, therefore, will
substantially reduce disease burden in the country.
Also present at the function were Smt. Vandana Gurnani, Joint Secretary (RCH, IEC), Shri Prabodh Saxena,
Principal Secretary (Health), Govt. of Himachal Pradesh along with the other senior officers of the Health
Ministry and Himachal Pradesh Government and representatives of development partners such as WHO,
UNICEF, PHFI etc
***
MV/SK
12/8/2017 India Shows the Way to the World in Fight Against Climate Change

Government of India
Ministry of Power
13-May-2017 20:44 IST
India Shows the Way to the World in Fight Against Climate Change
Shri Piyush Goyal Presides over the Launch of UJALA UK in London
Union Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines, Shri Piyush Goyal presided
over the launch of Worlds largest efficient lighting programme, UJALA UK (UK Joins Affordable LEDs for
All) by Energy Efficiency Services Ltd. (EESL) in London, United Kingdom today. Talking about the philosophy
of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi about preventing wastage of all resources especially
electricity, Shri Goyal said that, a sustainable lifestyle is important for the future of the planet and if the planet
has to be saved for the future generations, it is I, you and we all who have to collectively make a difference and
act today itself. We are running out of time.
Informing the august gathering about the scale at which the EESL LED programme is expanding, the Minister
said that, the EESL LED programme in India has grown 140 times in less than 2 years and I don't think we will
find any parallel to that anywhere in the world. EESL would achieve the turnover target of $1.5 million by 2019,
concomitant with the Government of Indias target under the UDAY scheme and 100% rural household
electrification. Shri Goyal further stated that even in the Developed countries like the US and Europe, there is a
great potential for incorporating energy efficiency measures like the EESL LED programme, especially looking
at the climate change scenario in the present context. India's share in the Global LED market has increased from
a mere 0.1% a few years back to around 16% today, it was informed.
Talking about the potential energy savings by implementing the LED programme in India, Shri Goyal said that
lighting alone consists of 15% of the total energy needs of the population across the country, especially the lower
middle class families, which is about 180 billion units of energy. As India moves towards becoming a 100% LED
Nation, the potential savings would be around 112 billion units, in other terms reducing carbon dioxide emissions
by nearly 79 million tonnes every year. Consequently, Indias peak load will reduce by about 20 GW and our
consumers will save around $6.5 billion worth in electricity bills annually, the Minister added.
Describing the strategy for scaling up the LED penetration in UK, Shri Goyal said that India was able to
significantly reduce the purchase price of the LED by increasing efficiency and not giving subsidies to the
consumers. The scheme has sustained itself on the savings achieved by increasing energy efficiency in the whole
lifecycle of the LED bulbs. Government of India has fine tuned the process, brought down the costs of
manufacturing and sold nearly 230 million LED bulbs whereas the private sector, in the same period, sold about
330 million LED bulbs, effectively replacing about 560 million incandescent bulbs in the last 2 years. The
12/8/2017 India Shows the Way to the World in Fight Against Climate Change
consumers are the direct beneficiaries by saving on electricity bills and reducing the carbon footprint on the
environment for the future generations, he added.
The Minister requested the Government of UK to get EESL in touch with all the stakeholders like local
distribution companies, e-commerce companies, hotels, industry, large businesses, supermarket chains etc. and
replicate India's model in the UK so as to achieve a similar kind of scale up that the programme has witnessed in
India as a zero investment model. He stressed that a massive deployment of this LED programme throughout the
world will go a long way in fighting climate change and make the world a better place to live in for the future
generations. The Minister urged all the dignitaries present to become ambassadors of this Energy Efficiency
programme for a better tomorrow. I hope that we all will come together in a mission mode to adopt Energy
Efficiency as a way of life in the future, Shri Goyal added.
The Minister also suggested to the Government of the UK a target of replacing at least 100 million incandescent
bulbs with LEDs by March 2019 and reduce the individual household consumption of energy by at least half.
Further, it was informed that as a beginning to UJALA-UK operations, EESL has started the retrofitting of the
facade and other lights of the High Commission of India in UK and the India House which would lead to
considerable energy savings. EESLs engagement with the UK will cover a broad spectrum including marketing
of the world class energy efficiency products, services, investments and raising capital, scouting for new energy
efficiency technologies and partnering with British companies to establish presence in third world country
markets.
During the event, MoUs were signed between Indian High Commission and EESL and between the British
Electrotechnical and Allied Manufacturers Association (BEAMA) and the Indian Electrical and Electronic
Manufacturers Association (IEEMA) to strengthen bilateral industry cooperation and exchanges between India
and the UK.
Dignitaries present during the event were Shri Y.K. Sinha, the High Commissioner of India to the UK, Shri
Dinesh Patnaik, Deputy High Commissioner of India in UK, Pankaj Patel, President, FICCI along with other
dignitaries from Governments of India and UK, FICCI and other stakeholders from the industry.
****
RM/VM
12/8/2017 Sagarmala- DDUGKY Convergence for Skill Development in Coastal Districts

Government of India
Ministry of Shipping
16-May-2017 18:47 IST
Sagarmala- DDUGKY Convergence for Skill Development in Coastal Districts
MoU between Ministry of Shipping and Rural Development
For skills development of youth in coastal areas, the Ministry of Shipping signed an MoU with theMinistry of
Rural Development in New Delhi today. The MoU is for convergence of the Ministry prestigious project
Sagaramala and Ministry of Rural Developments flagship programme Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen
Kaushalya Yojana (DDU GKY) . The Minister of Shipping and Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari
and the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Drinking Water and Sanitation Shri Narendra Singh
Tomar were present on the occasion. DDU-GKY is expected to bring in its skilling expertise to provide skilling
for the coastal communities, thereby preparing them to take advantage of the job opportunities that are expected
to come up in the maritime sector follwing port led development under Sagarmala.
Speaking on this occasion, Shri Nitin Gadkari said that this MoU will meet the exact skill needs of industries in
the port and maritime sector and provide the coastal communities right skills for better opportunities emanating
from the large scale impact of Sagarmala projects. He said that with skill development there will be close
involvement of the coastal communities in Sagarmala and will make them contributors in the economic
development and will ensure inclusive growth of the coastal districts of the country. He said that the centre is
planning to facilitate fisherman with mechanized trawlers that will allow them to fish till 30-40 Nautical Miles in
international ocean. This will generate employment opportunities for youth in coastal areas, as fishing is a big
industry, which involves processing, packaging and export of fish and other sea produce. He said that there is a
need to develop tourism around lighthouses in coastal areas, as this will provide employment to rural youth in
these areas.
On this occasion, the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Drinking Water and Sanitation Shri
Narendra Singh Tomar said that DDUGKU is the flagship programme of the ministry and after this MoU
agreement, rural youth and women of coastal areas will be able to develop skills for Maritime, Shipping and Port
Management. He said that under skill development pilot project, around 7,000 persons have been already been
trained and out of this 600 people have been already got employment.
The Coastal Communities are key stakeholders in the Sagarmala Programme and their skill development and
livelihood is an important objective of the program. A budget of Rs.100 Cr. has been allocated under Sagarmala
for coastal community development activities. Before execution, understanding the exact requirement is a key
step and therefore, an on-ground survey for accurate understanding of skill needs of 21 coastal districts has been
12/8/2017 Sagarmala- DDUGKY Convergence for Skill Development in Coastal Districts
done so that the training programs can be aligned to the exact requirements. Along with the Skill gap studies,
District Action Plans have been made in consultation with the State Governments and districts concerned and
training will commence from May, 2017. Specific training needs have been identified for more than 60000
trainees in the next phase through more than 100+ skill projects.
The primary goal of the Skills and Livelihoods in Sagarmala is to meet the exact skill needs of industries in the
port and maritime sector and provide the coastal communities right skills for better opportunities emanating from
the large scale impact of Sagarmala projects. It is expected that the close involvement of the coastal communities
in Sagarmala will make them contributors in the economic development and will ensure inclusive growth of the
coastal districts of the country.
DDU-GKY is currently being implemented in 28 states and has over 654 training centres in 522 projects, in
partnership with over 261 training partners conducting training across 39 sectors, and over 329 job-roles. So far a
total of 4.54 lakh candidates have been skilled and 2.31 lakh candidates provided jobs.
In the first phase, skill training was undertaken in 22 districts in 5 states of A.P, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha
and Tamil Nadu with 23 Project Implementing. Out of a total planned target of 2130, training has commenced in
respect of 1483, 935 trainees have been trained in 35 trades, 646 trainees have been placed and 548 are currently
undergoing training. The next phase is expected to scale up the effort based on the learning from the past and be
more refined and focussed on port and maritime sector. It will include all districts where skill gap studies and
district action plans have been completed.
****
UM/NP/MS
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves Pan-India implementation of Maternity Benefit Program

Government of India
Cabinet
17-May-2017 16:22 IST
Cabinet approves Pan-India implementation of Maternity Benefit Program
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given ex-post facto approval to Pan-India
implementation of Maternity Benefit Program which now has been extended to all districts of the country w.e.f. 01.01.2017.
The Prime Minister in his address to the nation on 31.12.2016 had announced Pan-India implementation of Maternity Benefit
Program.
The Maternity Benefit Program will provide compensation for the wage loss in terms of cash incentives so that the women
can take adequate rest before and after delivery and not be deprived of proper nutrition.
The total cost of the proposal for the period from 01.01.2017 to 31.03.2020 including Central and State Government share
isRs.12,661crore. Government of Indias share during the period 01.01.2017 to 31.03.2020 comes to around Rs. 7932 crore.
Objective of the Scheme
i) To provide partial compensation for the wage loss in terms of cash incentives so that the woman can take adequate rest
before and after delivery of the first living child.
ii) The cash incentives provided would lead to improved health seeking behaviour amongst the Pregnant Women and
Lactating Mother (PW&LM) to reduce the effects of under-nutrition namely stunting, wasting and other related
problems.
Target Group
All eligible Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers (PW&LM), excluding the Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers who
are in regular employment with the Central Government or State Government or Public Sector Undertakings or those who
are in receipt of similar benefits under any law for the time being. It has been decided to give the benefit of Rs.5000/- to
PW&LM in three installment for the birth of the first live child by MWCD and the remaining cash incentive as per approved
norms towards Maternity Benefit under existing programmes after institutional delivery so that on an average, a woman will
get 6000/-.
Conditions and installments

Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers who are eligible will receive a cash benefit of Rs.5,000/- in three installment at the
following stages as specified in the table given below:
Cash Transfer Conditions Amount

(in )
First installment Early Registration of Pregnancy. 1,000/-

Second installment Received at least one antenatal Check-up 2,000/-
(after 6 months of pregnancy)
Third installment Child birth is registered. 2,000/-
Child has received first cycle of BCG, OPV,
DPT and Hepatitis-B or its
equivalent/substitute.
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves Pan-India implementation of Maternity Benefit Program
The eligible beneficiaries would continue to receive the remaining cash incentive as per approved norms towards Maternity
Benefit under existing programmes after institutional delivery so that on an average, a woman will get 6000/-.
Mode of cash transfer to the Beneficiaries

The conditional cash transfer scheme would be in DBT mode.
Background:
The Government of India is committed to ensure that every woman gets adequate support and health care during pregnancy
and at the time of delivery and every newborn is immunized on time which is the foundation for better health of the mother
and the newborn. Normally, the first pregnancy of a woman exposes her to new kinds of challenges and stress factors.
Hence, the scheme intends to provide support to the mother for safe delivery and immunization of her first living child. The
improved health care seeking behaviour of the PW&LM would lead to better health status for the mother and the child.
***
AKT/VBA/SH
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves Amendment of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958

Government of India
Cabinet
17-May-2017 16:20 IST
Cabinet approves Amendment of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the introduction of the
Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites Remains (Amendment) Bill, 2017 in the Parliament.
To make way for certain constructions limited strictly to public works and projects essential to public within the
prohibited area, the following amendments have been approved:
i) Insertion of a new definition of public works in section 2 of the Act.
ii) Amendment to section 20A of the Act so as to allow any Department or Office of the Central Government to
carry out public works in the prohibited area after obtaining permission from the Central Government.
iii) Insertion of a new clause (ea) to section 20-I of the principal Act
Background:
The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites Remains Act, 1958 (as amended in the year 2010) prohibits
grant of any permission for new construction within the prohibited area of a centrally protected monument/ site.
Prohibition of new construction within prohibited area is adversely impacting various public works and
developmental projects of the Central Government.
The amendment will pave way for certain constructions limited strictly to public works and projects essential to
public within the prohibited area and benefit the public at large.
***
AKT/VBA/SH
12/8/2017 Boost to transform domestic nuclear industry

Government of India
Department of Space
17-May-2017 16:29 IST
Boost to transform domestic nuclear industry
Cabinet approves construction of 10 units of Indias indigenous Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR)
In a significant decision to fast-track Indias domestic nuclear power programme, and give a push to countrys
nuclear industry, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for
construction of 10 units of Indias indigenous Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR). The total installed
capacity of the Plants will be 7000 MW. The 10 PHWR project will result in a significant augmentation of
nuclear power generation capacity.
India has current installed nuclear power capacity of 6780 MW from 22 operational plants. Another 6700 MWs
of nuclear power is expected to come onstream by 2021-22 through projects presently under construction. As the
government marks three years of its nation and people centric governnace, in a first of its kind project for Indias
nuclear power sector, the ten new units will come up in fleet mode as a fully homegrown initiative. It would be
one of the flagship Make in India projects in this sector.
With likely manufacturing orders of close to 70,000 crores to the domestic industry, the project will help
transform Indian nuclear industry by linking our goal of a strong nuclear power sector with our indigenous
industrial capacities in high-end technologies.
This Project will bring about substantial economies of scale and maximise cost and time efficiencies by adopting
fleet mode for execution. It is expected to generate more than 33,400 jobs in direct and indirect employment.
With manufacturing orders to domestic industry, it will be a major step towards strengthening Indias credentials
as a major nuclear manufacturing powerhouse.
The ten reactors will be part of Indias latest design of 700 MW PHWR fleet with state-of-art technology meeting
the highest standards of safety.
The approval also marks a statement of strong belief in the capability of Indias scientific community to build our
technological capacities. The design and development of this project is a testament to the rapid advances
achieved by Indias nuclear scientific community and industry. It underscores the mastery our nuclear scientists
have attained over all aspects of indigenous PHWR technology. Indias record of building and operating PHWR
reactors over the last nearly forty years is globally acclaimed.
The Cabinets decision reflects the Governments commitment to prioritise the use of clean power in Indias
energy mix, as part of low-carbon growth strategy and to ensure long-term base load requirement for the nations
12/8/2017 Boost to transform domestic nuclear industry
industrialization.
It also supports Indias commitment to sustainable development, energy self-sufficiency and bolsters global
efforts to combat climate change.
***
AKT/VBA/SH
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves Signing of Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA) with Letter of Assurance (LoA) holders of Thermal Power Plants(TPPs) - Fading Aw

Government of India
Ministry of Coal
17-May-2017 16:40 IST
Cabinet approves Signing of Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA) with Letter of Assurance (LoA) holders of Thermal
Power Plants(TPPs) - Fading Away of the existing LoA-FSA Regime and Introduction of a New More Transparent
Coal Allocation Policy for Power Sector, 2017-SHAKTI (Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala (Coal)
Transparently in India)
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the
signing of Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA) with the Letter of Assurance (LoA) holders. Allocation of linkages for power
sector shall be based on auction of linkages or through Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) based on competitive bidding of
tariffs except for the State and the Central Power Generating companies and the exceptions provided in Tariff Policy, 2016.
Coal drawal will be permitted against valid Long Term PPAs and to be concluded Medium Term PPAs.
The approved framework ensures that all projects with linkages are supplied coal as per their entitlement. This will
ensure the rights of coal supplies for FSA holders and signing of FSA with LoA holders.
Allocation of linkages in future will be transparent and bidding based, barring some exceptions as per Tariff Policy.
Future allocation/grant of linkages will be based on auction and/or tariff based bidding. It attempts to make optimal
allocation of the vital natural resource across the power units.
The salient features of the SHAKTI are as follows:
i. TPPs having LoA shall be eligible to sign FSA after ensuring that the plants are commissioned, respective
milestones met, all specified conditions of the LoA fulfilled within specified timeframe and where nothing
adverse is detected against the LoA holders and the TPPs are commissioned before 31.03.22.
ii. TPPs, part of 78000 MW, that could not be commissioned by 31.03.15 shall now be eligible for coal drawal
if the plants are commissioned before 31.03.22.
iii. Actual coal supplies to all TPPs shall be to the extent of long term PPAs or medium term PPAs to be
concluded in future.
iv. Future coal linkages shall be granted as per the following provisions:
a) To Central and State Gencos, on recommendations of Ministry of Power (MoP).

b) Coal linkages shall be granted on auction basis for Independent Power producers (IPPs) with PPA based on
domestic coal. The IPPs participating in auction will bid for discount on the existing tariff. The discount on
tariff would be adjusted from the gross amount of bill at the time of billing.
c) The future coal linkages for supply of coal to IPPs without PPA shall be on the basis of auction where
bidding for linkage shall be done over the Notified Price of Coal Company. The LoA shall be issued to the
successful bidders and FSA signed after meeting the terms of LoA.
d) Linkages shall be earmarked to the States where any linkage quantity unutilized for two years shall lapse.
States may indicate the earmarked linkages to the DISCOMs/SDAs, who may:
Undertake tariff based competitive bidding on long-term and medium-term PPAs and allot these
linkages to the successful bidder; or
Assign these linkages to capacities that are covered under exceptions and proviso clauses of para 5.2 of
the Tariff Policy dated 28.01.16.
e) Power requirement of group of States can be aggregated and procurement of power on tariff based bidding
shall be made by a designated agency. Coal linkages shall be earmarked for such agency.
f) Linkages, for full normative quantity, shall be granted for setting up Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPP).
g) Coal linkages, for IPPs having PPA based on imported coal, shall be made available through a transparent
bidding process.
Policy directions will be issued by the Ministry of Coal and Ministry of Power and will be implemented by CIL
(Coal India Ltd.) / SCCL (Singareni Collieries Company Ltd.) and different power entities of the State and Central
Government.
Background:
The coal supply to the TPPs has been made as per the provisions of the New Coal Distribution Policy (NCDP), 2007.
Till 2010, CIL had issued LoA for approximately 1,08,000 MW capacity and no new LoAs were issued thereafter due to the
prevailing scarcity scenario. The CCEA decision of 21.06.13 directed CIL to sign FSA with TPPs of about 78,000 MW
capacity. The coal availability scenario has, now, emerged from scarcity to adequacy. In this adequate coal availability
scenario, the present policy proposes a fading away of the old linkage allocation policy and emergence of a new linkage
allocation policy based on transparent and objective criteria for the optimal utilisation of the natural resources.
Coal linkage to the power sector is governed by provisions of the NCDP, 2007. Under the NCDP, a system of
issuance of LoA was introduced wherein requests for Linkage/LoA are forwarded to MoP for its recommendations. These
recommendations are placed before the Standing Linkage Committee (SLCLT) which authorizes issue of LoA.
POLICY HIGHLIGHTS
I. Existing Regime
FSA to be signed with the existing LoA holders

About 28,000 MW
Plants have to be commissioned within 31.03.2022
Respective milestones are met
All LoA conditions fulfilled in specified time frame
Nothing adverse is detected
TPPs which are part of 78000 MW, to get coal if commissioned within 31.03.2022
TPPs to get coal at existing rate (@75% of ACQ)
Coal supply to increase on coal availability
II. New Regime (SHAKTI, 2017)
State/Central Gencos & their JVs to get coal linkages as per MoP recommendations
Coal Linkage on auction basis for IPPs:
Having PPA based on Domestic Coal

Bid for discount in existing tariff (paise/unit)
A minimum discount in tariff to be determined
Discount to be adjusted from gross amount at time of billing
Without PPA
Bid for linkages over CIL notified price
PPA to be submitted within 2 years
Having PPA based on Imported Coal

Transparent bidding process of linkages
Methodology to be formulated by MoC & MoP
Future Medium Term PPAs also to be eligible for linkage coal
Coal linkages for full normative quantity of UMPPs on tariff based competitive bidding
Coal linkages to be earmarked to States for
Tariff based competitive bidding for PPA; OR

Grant to capacities covered under exceptions in Tariff Policy dated 28.01.16, namely,
One time capacity addition of up to 100% of existing capacity

Plant set up under a notified policy of State Government for investment promotion (maximum 35% can be procured
by State Discom)
State to decide from above two, in public interest and requirement

Linkage quantity unutilised for 2 years to lapse
Power requirement of group of States can be aggregated

Linkage to agency designated by MoP/States
Agency to undertake tariff based competitive bidding
III. Benefits of the Policy
Coal available to all Power Plants in transparent and objective manner
Auction to be made the basis of linkage allocations to IPPs; cheaper and affordable POWER FOR ALL
The Stress on account of non-availability of linkages to Power Sector Projects shall be overcome. Good for the
Infrastructure and banking Sector
PPA holders to reduce tariff for linkage; Direct benefit of reduced tariff to Discom/consumers
***
AKT/VBA/SH
12/8/2017 Bilateral Exercise Between Indian & Republic Of Singapore Navy Simbex-17 Commences

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
18-May-2017 15:19 IST
Bilateral Exercise Between Indian & Republic Of Singapore Navy Simbex-17 Commences
As part of "SIMBEX-17, the ongoing Bilateral Naval Exercise between Navies of the Republic of Singapore
and India, lndian Naval Ships Shivalik, Sahyadri, Jyoti and Kamorta and one P8-I Maritime Patrol and Anti-
Submarine Warfare Aircraft are participating. While INS Sahyadri and INS Kamorta are at Singapore since 12
May 2017, INS Shivalik and INS Jyoti would be joining directly for the sea phase of the exercise. The ships are
under the command of Rear Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta, YSM, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet.
SIMBEX is an acronym for Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercises. Bilateral cooperation between
Singapore and India was first formalised when RSN ships began training with the Indian Navy in 1994. This
years edition of SIMBEX-17 being held in the South China Sea would be the 24th in the series and is aimed to
increase interoperability between the RSN and IN as well as develop common understanding and procedures for
maritime security operations. The scope of the current exercise includes wide-ranging professional interactions
during the Harbour Phase scheduled from 18 May to 20 May and a diverse range of operational activities at sea
during the Sea Phase to be held from 21 May to 24 May. The thrust of exercises at sea this year would be on
Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), integrated operations with Surface, Air and Sub-surface forces, Air Defence
and Surface Encounter Exercises.
During SlMBEX-17, the Singapore Navy is represented by RSN Ships Supreme, Formidable and Victory and
Maritime Patrol Aircraft Fokker F50 in addition to the RSAF F-16 aircraft.
The two navies share a long standing relationship with regular professional interactions that include exchange
programs, staff talks and training courses. Singapore Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Lai Chung Han had earlier
visited ENC and participated in lFR-16 held in February last year in the City of Destiny, Visakhapatnam. RSS
Formidable and a Fokker F 50 aircraft participated in SlMBEX-16 which was held at Visakhapatnam and in Bay
of Bengal.
INS Sahyadri, and INS Shivalik-both multi-role stealth frigates - are commanded by Captain Anil Jaggi and
Captain R Vinod Kumar respectively while INS Kamorta, an Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette is commanded
by Commander Vipin Gupta. lNS Jyoti, the fleet replenishment tanker is commanded by Captain S Shyam
Sundar.
******
12/8/2017 Bilateral Exercise Between Indian & Republic Of Singapore Navy Simbex-17 Commences
DKS/AC 42/17
12/8/2017 Joint HADR Exercise Commences At Naval Station Karwar

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
18-May-2017 17:40 IST
Joint HADR Exercise Commences At Naval Station Karwar
The Annual Joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise involving multiple agencies
and being conducted by Indian Navys Western Nava Command commenced at Naval Station Karwar this
morning with an inaugural session. Named as "KARAVALI KARUNYA", the exercise, which involves both
professional exchange and actual disaster response mechanisms is set on a Tsunami disaster scenario and will
continue till 20 May 2017. In his Key Note address Rear Admiral KJ Kumar, Flag Officer Commanding
Karnataka Naval Area, welcomed the delegates who have come from India and abroad and stressed on the
requirements of coordination and synergy between civil-military agencies in the event of a disaster. Highlighting
the requirements for preparations to tackle a Tsunami Disaster he apprised the audience of the Tsunamis in the
Indian Sub-continent with the last recorded on the west coast of India on 27 November 1945. He also highlighted
the reduction in number of causalities during disasters post enactment of Disaster Management Act 2005.
Two first-hand accounts of actual Tsunami relief operations, in 2004, were presented by Rear Admiral Suraj
Berry and Colonel Vikram Sharma, both from Integrated Headquarter Ministry of Defence (Navy), bringing out
the real scenario of 2004 Tsunami Hit areas in Sri Lanka; and Andaman and Nicobar Islands respectively.
Speaking on the occasion Lieutenant General NC Marwah (Retd), from National Disaster Management Authority
(NDMA) apprised the delegates on the role of NDMA and developments in the field of Disaster Management.
He stressed on the importance of general knowledge among the citizens on basic Natural Disasters and first aid.
He also apprised the audience of available SOPs already laid out for the various contingencies.
The proceedings of the day also included setting up of Internally Displaced People camp and static display. The
Camp at Rabindranath Tagore Beach will be open to public from 3:00 PM on 19 May 17.
*****
RS/NV/SD
12/8/2017 The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB) on 23rd May, 2017; it is th

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
18-May-2017 17:08 IST
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank
(AfDB) on 23rd May, 2017; it is the first time in the history of AfDB Group that India would be hosting the Annual
Meetings
Core theme of the event is Transforming Agriculture for wealth creation in Africa
India would seek to leverage this occasion to further deepen her economic cooperation with the African countries;
India is also looking forward to cooperation with Africa on the International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank
(AfDB) on 23rd May, 2017. It is the first time in the history of the AfDB Group that India would be hosting the Annual
Meetings of the Bank from 22nd to 26th May, 2017 at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The annual meetings are the largest event of the
Bank, which would witness about 3000 delegates from 81 member countries from across the world gathering at the
sprawling Mahatma Mandir convention centre.
During the course of the event, the Board of Governors of the Bank will meet to dwell upon the major developmental
challenges facing the African countries and the ways to achieve an inclusive and sustainable growth. AfDB has adopted a
strategy called High 5s, which focuses on five major developmental priorities comprising agriculture, energy,
industrialization, regional connectivity, and improved quality of life through access to social and economic opportunities.
The core theme of the event is Transforming Agriculture for wealth creation in Africa, which has tremendous scope
for cooperation between India and Africa.
During India Africa Forum Summit 2015, the announcement of a US$ 10 billion line of credit by the Prime
Minister of India marked a new beginning in Indias approach to engage with African countries in a more constructive
manner. Indias support through lines of credit have not only helped finance the projects in African countries, but have also
contributed to capacity building, IT education, and higher education.
While Annual Meetings of the Bank this year would be another opportunity to discuss the issues facing the regional
member countries, India would seek to leverage this occasion to further deepen our economic cooperation with the African
countries through various other events that have been planned. Government of India is organizing an Africa India
Cooperation Event, in partnership with CII, on the sidelines of the main event. The sessions would primarily focus on
Agriculture, Healthcare, e-Governance, Renewable energy, Skill development and education, Manufacturing, trade
and investment.
Government of India is also organizing an exhibition, in partnership with FICCI, during the Annual Meetings of the
Bank with the objective to showcase the capabilities of Indian companies in terms of technology, innovation, and start-
ups, which could be relevant for African countries. The theme of the exhibition is centred around the priority areas of the
Bank. It will witness the presence of a wide spectrum of industry leaders from India.
12/8/2017 The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB) on 23rd May, 2017; it is th
India joined the African Development Fund (ADF) in 1982 and the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 1983,
initiating a long history of cooperation spanning more than 30 years. Indias collaboration with the Bank Group is built
around 4 main pillars: contributions to the General Capital Increase (GCI), contributions to ADF replenishment and a
bilateral trust fund; and providing resources to support Highly Indebted Poor Countries and the Multilateral Debt Reduction
Initiative. Since joining the Bank, India has contributed to all its General Capital Increases. For the most recent African
Development Fund replenishment, ADF-14 (2017-19) India pledged USD 29 million consisting of a grant and bridge loan in
November 2016. The Lines of Credit, executed through Exim Bank, has 152 operative LOCs to Africa, extended to 44
countries and amounting to US$ 7.60 billion. Of these, 147 LOCs aggregating to US$ 7.51 billion to 41 countries are
extended on behalf of, and guaranteed by GOI. Under the India Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme,
around 5000 scholarships have been offered to officials from African countries. The ITEC courses have been hugely popular
with our partner countries in Africa. In last financial year around 4000 scholarships were used by African partners.
India is also looking forward to cooperation with Africa on the International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative, which
was launched at the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris in November 2015. The ISA is conceived as a coalition of
solar resource rich countries to address their special energy needs. A total of 24 countries, most of them from Africa
(Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Nauru, Niger, Republic
of Guinea, Senegal, Sudan, Tanzania and Tonga) have signed the ISA Framework Agreement in Marrakech on 15 November
2016. Rwanda singed the Framework Agreement on 9 January 2017. Guatemala, Djibouti, Cote dIvoire, Ghana, Mauritius,
Chad, Yemen, Comoros and Somalia have also conveyed that they are ready to sign the ISA framework agreement.
*****
DSM/VKS/KA
12/8/2017 EVM Challenge by Election Commission of India

Government of India
Election Commission
20-May-2017 19:21 IST
EVM Challenge by Election Commission of India
1. The Election Commission of India is globally acknowledged as a ''Gold Standard'' in conduct of free
and fair elections with integrity in India. It has set ever-higher standards of efficient, smooth and
professional conduct of Elections and has been at the forefront of embracing, adopting and
implementing the latest technological advancements in improving and fine-tuning the election
processes and systems.
2. The Commission has taken the pioneering initiative of introducing Electronic Voting Machine (EVM)
for recording, storing and counting of votes across the length and breadth of this country in a
transparent, credible and secure manner, duly backed by appropriate legal support.
3. Over the last twenty years, the Commission has successfully conducted 107 State Legislative
Assembly elections and 03 Lok Sabha elections using EVMs. Since September 2013, Voter Verifiable
Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines have also been used in various State Assembly and
Parliamentary constituencies for enhanced transparency and credibility in the voting process.
4. The introduction of EVMs in 90s was a positive electoral reform by the Commission. Some doubts
have been raised on the functioning of the EVMs from time to time and from some quarters.
5. After the announcement of the results of the five State Assembly Elections (UP, Uttarakhand, Punjab,
Goa and Manipur), in March 2017, again certain doubts have been raised on the functioning of
EVMs. Some complaints and suggestions were received by Commission after declaration of results of
five State Assembly elections. The Commission duly examined these complaints and asked for
evidence and credible material information supporting the claims, but so far no evidence has been
provided by complainants to ECI.
6. A group of thirteen political parties met the Commission on 10th April, 2017 and expressed certain
reservations about the use of EVMs. Some political parties also raised queries about incidents relating
to VVPATs used on 31/3/17 during demonstration (NOT in actual poll) at Bhind (M.P) and Dholpur
(Rajasthan) Bye-elections held in the first week of April, 2017.
7. To understand the concerns of political parties, Commission convened an all-party meeting on 12th
May. A press statement was also issued by ECI the same day to the following effects.
(i) The Commission stated before political parties that all future elections will be mandatorily
held with VVPATs. The Commission firmly believes that use of VVPAT machines along with
the EVMs in all polling stations, in all future elections, will bring utmost transparency and
credibility in the EVM-based voting system. This will enable each voter to see for himself in
VVPAT whether his or her vote has gone to the right candidate. After press of button on BU,
name and symbol the concerned candidate will appear on the screen of VVPAT machine and
paper slip bearing name and symbol will be dropped in a sealed box connected with VVPAT.
These slips will serve as audit trial of the vote cast by voter on EVM. Audit trail will enhance
confidence and trust of voters. Use of VVPATs with EVMs must conclusively put to rest all
misinformed doubts and misgivings regarding EVMs. It will also be a matter of pride that India
will become the first country to deploy 100% VVPATs or paper trail in the world, an element
that was missing in many countries including Netherland, Germany and Ireland.
Funds for procuring the required VVPATs for 100% deployment have already been sanctioned
and production is to begin in August, 2017 and will be completed by September, 2018.
(ii) It was also stated that the Commission has also taken into account suggestions made by various
political parties regarding counting of VVPAT slips. The Commission will count VVPAT slips
up to a definite percentage, which will be determined by the Commission. The ECI will shortly
evolve an appropriate framework in this regard.
(iii) The Commission will hold a challenge and offer opportunity to political parties to demonstrate
that EVMs used in the recently concluded Assembly elections were tampered or that EVMs can
be tampered even under the laid down technical and administrative safeguards of ECI.
(iv) Commission also urged all parties to ensure their continuous and qualitative participation in all
crucial steps during elections such as First Level Checking (FLC), randomisation of
EVMs/VVPATs/polling personnel, EVM preparation and candidate setting, mock poll, EVM
sealing and storage. The Commission also invited more suggestions from political parties on
how to further increase their participation, so that absolute transparency is maintained at all
times.
(v) Commission, further, urged political parties that improving integrity of election process is a
shared responsibility of all the stake holders. We solicited their suggestions to fill up gaps, if
any, during election and non election period. The Commission made it clear that ECI want total
transparency and have nothing to hide from people and other stakeholders. Commission will
always receive suggestions from its stakeholders for improvement of its processes.
(vi) The Commission also emphasised that Commission is committed and it maintains equidistance
from all parties and groups. The Commission further emphasised that ECI has no favourites.
Further, this equidistance by ECI has enhanced Indias reputation in the eyes of the global
community.
8. The Commission has already issued detailed Press releases on Credibility of Electronic Voting
Machines on 16th March, 2017, on alleged VVPAT incident during mock EVM demonstration on 31st
March 2017 (and not in actual poll as alleged) at Bhind (Madhya Pradesh) on 07th April, 2017 and
also regarding EVMs in Dholpur (Rajasthan) on 11th April, 2017. In Bhind, a wrong notion was
created that for any key pressed on the Ballot Unit, only one symbol was printed by VVPAT.
Commissions thorough enquiry clearly established that during the EVM demo held on 31.03.2017 in
DEOs office the 4 buttons were pressed during the demo and not the actual poll and every time the
correct corresponding symbol was printed. A Status Paper on EVMs has also been circulated to all
stakeholders on 12th May, 2017elaborating various aspects about EVMs and VVPATs for information
and awareness. (All these documents are available on ECI website).
9. Certain complaints of alleged tampering of EVMs during the recently held Municipal elections in
Maharashtra and elsewhere also generated wrong perception about EVMs of ECI. It was noted that
confusion exists in the minds of many about the jurisdiction of ECI. We would like to clarify once
again on this occasion that ECI is not responsible for the conduct of local body elections by the State
Govts in the country and consequently about various protocols and procedures adopted by the
concerned State Election Commissions. Election to local bodies, both urban and rural, are conducted
by separate constitutional authorities State Election Commissions constituted by the State Govts.
under Article 243 of the Constitution. Moreover, a particular complaint of some candidate receiving
zero vote in Mumbai Municipal elections has been found to be totally false by SEC Maharashtra.
10. The Commission is confident and has firm conviction about the integrity, non-tamperability and
credibility of the EVMs. The basis of confidence of the Commission flows from a wide range of
technical and administrative protocols and procedural safeguards that protects our EVMs and
VVPATs against any sort of tampering during manufacture, transportation, storage, polling and
counting process. Still, the Commission is open to receiving from all stakeholders suggestions on
how to further improve the integrity and credibility of our EVMs and VVPATs. The Commission will
not allow even a shade of doubt about EVM operations.
11. The Commission would like to address some of the important issues that have been raised from time
to time in past two months:
A.ECI- EVMs are not hackable as these, are stand alone machines and not connected to the
internet and /or any other network at any point of time during polling. Hence, there is no
chance of hacking.
The ECI-EVMs do not have any frequency receiver or data decoder for wireless and hence
cannot receive any coded signal by wireless. Hence, no tampering can be carried out through
external hardware Wireless, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth device. Moreover, machines are always in the
custody of ECI and its election authorities.
B. Manipulation at manufacturing stage is ruled out as there is very stringent security
protocol regarding the security of software. Further, the Machines have been manufactured in
different years starting from 1989. After manufacturing, EVMs are sent by ECI to State and
district within a State. The manufacturers are in no position to know several years ahead which
candidate will be contesting from a particular constituency and what will be the sequence of the
candidates on the BU and, therefore, cannot manipulate EVMs in a predetermined manner at
manufacturing stage.
C.Results cannot be altered by activating a Trojan Horse through a sequence of key presses
because
1. Trojan Horse cannot be inserted into the software code of ECI EVM burnt into the
Microcontroller Chip since the chip is one time Programmable only.
2. The stringent security measures by ECI make it impossible to access the EVMs which is an
essential prerequisite for attempting to change the Micro-controller for inserting a Trojan
Horse.
3. Control Unit activates Ballot Unit for only one key press at a time. Any additional key
pressed on the Ballot Unit is not sensed by the Control Unit making it impossible to send
signals by pressing a sequence of keys or secret codes.
Once a ballot key is pressed in CU, the CU enables BU for registering the vote and waits for
the key pressing in the BU. During this period, all keys in the CU become inactive till the
entire sequence of casting of that vote is complete. Once any of the keys (candidates vote
button) is pressed by a voter in BU, the BU transmits the key information to CU in
dynamically encrypted form. The CU gets the data and acknowledges it by glowing the
corresponding red LED lamps in BU. After the enabling of ballot in CU, only the first key
press is sensed and accepted by CU. After this, even if a voter keeps on pressing the other
buttons, that is of no use as there will not be any communication between CU and BU of
those subsequent key presses, nor will BU register any key press. To put it in other words,
there can be only one valid key press (the first key press) for every ballot enabled using CU.
Once a valid key press (voting process) is complete, until another ballot enabling key press
is made there will not be any activity between the CU and the BU. Hence, sending of any
malicious signal, by way of so called sequenced key presses, is impossible in the
Electronic Voting Machines being used in the country.
D.ECI-EVMs cannot be Physically Tampered with nor their components be changed without
anyone noticing. It is clarified that replacement of micro controller/chip and the motherboard in
earlier generations of machines like M1 and M2 is ruled out due to robust administrative and
technical safeguards. Further, the new M3 EVM produced after 2013 have additional features
like Tamper Detection and Self Diagnostics. The tamper detection feature makes an EVM
inoperative the moment anyone tries to open the machine. The Self diagnostic feature checks
the EVM fully every time it is switched on. Any change in its hardware or software will be
detected. Rs. 1900 Crore have already been sanctioned to the manufacturers for production of
13.95 Lakh BU and 9.30 Lakh CU of M3 generation. Also, 16.15 Lakh VVPATs are also under
production and Rs. 3173 Crore have been sanctioned for the same.
E. The latest technological features make ECI-EVMs tamper proof. The ECI-EVMs use some
of the most sophisticated technological features like one time programmable (OTP)
microcontrollers, dynamic coding of key codes, date and time stamping of each and every
key press, advanced encryption technology and EVM-tracking software to handle EVM
logistics, among others to make the machine 100% tamper proof. In addition to these, new
model M3 EVMs also have tamper detection and self-diagnostics as added features.OTP
software implies that the programme in the EVM cannot be altered, re-written or re-read by
anyone under safe custody of ECI. This makes EVM tamper proof. If anyone makes an
unauthorized attempt, the machine will become in-operative.
F. Contrary to misinformation spread and alleged by some, ECI does not use any EVMs produced
abroad. EVMs are produced indigenously by two PSU manufacturers viz. Bharat Electronics
Ltd., Bengaluru and Electronics Corporation of India Ltd., Hyderabad. The Software Program
Code is written in-house by these two companies and not outsourced and approved by TEC of
ECI and subjected to strict security procedures at factory level to maintain the highest levels of
integrity.
The software programme is converted into machine codeby manufacturers and only then given
to the chip manufacturer abroad. (We dont have the adequate capability of producing semi-
conductor microchips within the country). Every microchip has an identification number
embedded into memory and the producers have their digital signatures on them. So, the
question of their replacement does not arise at all because microchips brought back to
manufacturers are subjected to functional tests with regard to the software. Any attempt to
replace microchip is detectable and can make EVM in-operative. Thus, both changing existing
program and introducing new one are detectable making EVM in-operative because EVMs are
tamper detect. Also the technological advancement now permits fusing of the software on the
chip at BEL and ECIL itself and hence, in M3 the software is fused on the chip inside BEL and
ECIL.
G. There are no possibilities of manipulation in EVM during transportation or at the place

of storage.At the district headquarters, EVMs are kept in a double-lock system under
appropriate security. Their safety is periodically checked. The election authorities do not
open the strong room, and they only regularly check whether its fully protected and whether the
lock is in proper condition or not. No Unauthorized person can get access to the EVMs at
any point of time. During the non-election period, annual physical verification of all EVMs is
done by DEOs and report sent to ECI. Further, strong rooms are always opened in the presence
of representative of political parties.
H. There are different levels of checks and balances ensuring tamper proofing of ECI-
EVMs which are as follows:
First Level Checking: Authorized BEL/ECIL engineers certify originality of
components after technical and physical examination of each EVM, which is
undertaken in the presence of representatives of political parties. Defective EVMs are sent
back to the factory. The FLC Hall is sanitized, entry is restricted and no camera, mobile
phone or spy pen is allowed inside. The Mock Poll is conducted on EACH EVM by
election officials in the presence of representatives of political parties.The Mock poll of at
least 1000 votes is conducted on 5% EVMs selected randomly by representatives of
political parties and the result shown to them. The entire process is video graphed.
Candidate Setting: Yet another significant safeguard is the process of candidate setting,
which is done after the finalization of contesting candidates. A ballot paper is inserted in
the Ballot Unit, which is then sealed with Pink Paper Seal. BU is sealed at this stage.
Where VVPATs are used, candidates symbols are loaded in each VVPAT at this stage.
Once again, every EVM is subjected to mock poll and 5% EVMs are randomly picked up
for 1000 mock poll.
Randomization: EVMs are randomized twice while being allocated to an Assembly and
then to a polling booth ruling out any fixed allocation. As you can appreciate, till first
randomization no-one knows the sequence of names on the ballot paper till the finalization
of list of contesting candidates, the names of contesting candidates are placed
alphabetically on the ballot paper first for National and State Parties, followed by other
Registered Parties, followed by independents and NOTA. Thus the Serial no. of any
political party, candidate on the BU would be variable from constituency to constituency. It
is therefore clear that serial no. of any political party candidate is not fixed or pre-
determined in all the constituencies of the state. Hence, till candidate setting, none, not
even RO or DEO or CEO or the Commission could know which button on which BU will
be assigned to which candidate.
Mock Poll of at least 50 votes at the polling station is also conducted in front of polling
agents of candidates on the poll day, before poll begins.
After Poll, EVMs are sealed and polling agents put their signature on the seal. Polling
agents can travel up to strong room during transportation of polled EVMs from the polling
station to the EVM Strong room.
Strong Rooms: Candidates or their representatives can put their own seals on the strong
rooms, where polled EVMs are stored after the poll and also camp in front of the strong
room. These strong rooms are guarded 24x7 in multilayers, with CCTV facilities.
Counting Centres: The polled EVMs are brought to the Counting Centres under security
and in presence of candidates and Unique IDs of the seals, signature of polling agents on
CU are shown to representatives of candidates before the start of counting.
12.Looking at the above series of fool-proof checks and balances that are undertaken by the ECI to
make EVMs tamper proof, it is evident that neitherthe machines can be tampered-withnor they
can leave the ECI-EVM system. Further, neither defective machines nor Non-ECI-EVM can get
re-inducted/inducted into the polling process at any point of time. Non ECI-EVMs will get
detected by the above process due to mismatch of BU & CU.
13. Some people argue that why have Developed Nations like the US and the European
Union not adopted EVMs and some have even discontinued?
ECI EVMs are far superior to any EVMs worldwide. EVM, used in the Netherlands, Ireland and
Germany were privately manufactured and had no independent certification system unlike a very
robust verification and certification system through independent TEC or an ECI approved third
party in case of ECI EVMs. Also, voting data in these NEDAP EVMs in the Netherlands was
transferred using CDs, unlike our EVMs where it is stored internally and never transferred. Also
these countries lacked full end to end administrative and security safeguards as well as legal
framework. Finally their EVMs also lacked auditability.
A point is raised from time to time that several foreign countries have discontinued the use of voting
machines and why India is using EVMs.
With the rapid advances in technology over the years, Election Management Bodies, professionals,
experts, and activists (particularly Green Activists) have mooted the idea of using paperless
electronic voting methods in different parts of the world in order to overcome the disadvantages of
manual marking of paper ballots. The marriage between technology and election management goes
back to at least 1892, when the first lever voting machine was used in New York, after using the
paper ballot for a long time. In the 1960s, punch-card machines were introduced in the USA, and the
first EVM was introduced there in 1975. Electronic Voting has moved quite ahead since then.
Types of Electronic Voting:

The process of electronic voting can be of three types:
(i) Direct Recording Machines placed at designated polling station,
(ii) Internet Voting
Remote Online Voting
At Designated Polling Stations
(iii) Optical Scanners
Stand-alone
Networked for centralized counting of results
EVMs used in India fall under the first type of stand-alone direct recording machines with no
possibility of any kind of network connectivity where voters cast their votes at an assigned polling
station on the day of election under strict administrative security ensured by the ECI.
Even though ECI EVMs are also direct recording machines ECI EVMs are completely different
from any of the EVMs used internationally either for direct recording or for internet voting or for
optical scanning. This is clearly highlighted in the comparative analysis of ECI EVMs with the
DRMs used in countries like Germany, Netherland, Ireland, and USA as follows:
The Netherlands
Electronic Voting was used in The Netherlands in between 1990-2007. The voting machines were
manufactured by a private Dutch-company called NEDAP (Nederlandse Apparaten Fabriek NV). In
2006, the government ordered an independent testing of the voting machines. Two independent
commissions, The Voting Machines Decision-making Commission and the Election Process
Advisory Commission (EPAC) were also established on December 19, 2006 and January 18, 2007,
respectively, to review the security and reliability features of NEDAP machines.
Following the observations of the two Commissions, the use of NEDAP machines and electronic
voting was discontinued in 2007 on the following grounds:
The Ministry of Interior and Kingdom Relations (MOIKR) of The Netherlands lacked
adequate technical knowledge vis--vis the NEDAP machines, leading officials to depend on
external actors for the conduct of elections.
Technology vendors became part of the decision making process and the ministry was not in a
position to exercise effective oversight.
The Dutch Organization for Applied Scientific Research (Toegepast Natuurwetenschappelijk

Onderzoek, TNO) certified and tested these machines following outdated standards which were
not immune to modern IT and security threats.
Moreover, the certification and testing reports were not made public depriving independent
experts to verify the analysis.
The legal framework, particularly the necessary security requirements, wasinadequate to deal
with the specificities of the electronic voting process. (For a comprehensive report on electronic
voting in The Netherlands, see link: https://www.ndi.org/sites/default/files/5_Netherlands.pdf)
Germany:
In Germany, the e-voting machines manufactured by NEDAP were used in between 2005 2009
before it came under criticism and finally discontinued. The Bundesverfassungsgericht (the Federal
Constitutional Court of Germany) ordered the discontinuation of the use of NEDAP machines in
2009 because of the below-mentioned reasons:
The use of Nedap electronic voting machines violated the principle of the public nature of
elections (Article 38 in conjunction with Article 20.1 and 20.2 of the Basic Law) that requires that
all essential steps in the elections are subject to public examinability unless other constitutional
interests justify an exception.
It also observed that it must be possible for the citizen to check the essential steps in the
election act and in the ascertainment of the results reliably and without special expert knowledge.
(See the judgment in the following link:
http://www.bundesverfassungsgericht.de/SharedDocs/Entscheidungen/EN/2009/
03/cs20090303_2bvc000307en.html;jsessionid=FEA71E86E2CEE030FF7AAAC905
72279C.2_cid383)
Ireland:
NEDAP machines were used in Ireland in between 2002 2004. The use of these machines was
questioned following which two independent commissions were set up. The two Commissions on
the Secrecy, Accuracy and Testing of the Chosen Electronic Voting System, concluded the NEDAP
machines could not be used in elections in Ireland on the following grounds:
Inadequate technological safeguards
Insecure transfer of data by the use of CDs
Absence of a comprehensive independent end-to-end testing, verification and certification by
a single accredited body
Inconsistencies in physical security of machines across constituencies
Absence of a clear policy guideline via-a-vis storage, transport, set-up, use and disposal of
voting equipment; and
Absence of comprehensive electronic register to record the identity, location and movement of
the electronic voting devices.
(See links: http://www.umic.pt/images/stories/publicacoes1/00Index.pdf;
http://www.umic.pt/images/stories/publicacoes1/Part%200%20Index.pdf)
United States of America:

In 2000, after the dispute on the voting method in the USA presidential elections, the voting method
was reviewed (Esteve, Goldsmith, & Turner, 2012: 185). Accordingly, Direct Recording Electronic
(DRE) Systems (like the widely used AccuVote TS developed by Premier Election Solutions,
commonly called Diebold) were introduced. DRE Systems uses one of three basic interfaces
(pushbutton, touchscreen or dial) through which voters record their votes directly into computer
memory. The voters choices are stored in DREs via a memory cartridge, diskette or smart card
Some DREs can be equipped with Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) printers... Currently,
in the USA, the Direct Recording Machines are used in 27 states, among which paper audit trails are
used in 15 states. The other voting methods include: Optical Scan Paper Ballot Systems, Ballot
Marking Devices, and the Punch Card Ballot.
(See link: https://www.verifiedvoting.org/resources/voting-equipment/)
Other countries:
In Brazil, the machines used in elections are called electronic ballot boxes which are stand-alone
direct electronic recording systems. In Venezuela, SATIS (Smartmatic Auditable Election Systems)
voting machines are used which were fully implemented across the nation in 2004. (Esteve,
Goldsmith, & Turner, 2012: 185)
India:
Indian EVMs are truly unique compared to the e-voting machines used in other parts of the world
for the following reasons:
ECI-EVMs are stand-alone non-networked machines
The ECI-EVMs are manufactured in two PSUs namely ECIL and BEL, unlike machines used
in other countries, which were manufactured entirely by private entities. Hence there is no chance of
involvement of vested interest of private players or technology vendors in decision making or
production of the ECI-EVMs.
ECI-EVMs have been time and again successfully verified and certified by an independent
Technical Experts Committee after an end-to-end testing process. STQC under Ministry of
Information and Technology, an accredited third party entity, conducts standardization and
certification of ECI EVMs produced by manufacturers, unlike the machines used in Netherlands,
In ECI EVMs data is stored internally and not transferrable by any device, unlike other
countries where voting data recorded in the DRM is transferred by means of CD, etc.
Commission has evolved full end to end security protocol and administrative safeguards for
the use, storage, transportation and tracking of ECI EVMs, unlike in other countries where NEDAP
machines were used.
Unlike MOIKR of Netherlands, the Commission is fully backed by a Technical Expert
Committee comprising of eminent professors.
Every EVM has a unique number attached to it, which is recorded in the Election
Commissions database through EVM Tracking Software. This number of the EVM can always be
cross-checked against the database.
The software used in these EVMs is One Time Programmable (OTP), which cant be re-
written after manufacture.
The ECI-EVMs are always under strict, uniform, high profile administrative and physical
security as per legal framework across the country.
Section 61 A of the Representation of the Peoples Act 1951 allows the use of EVMs by ECI.
The different High Courts across the country have also upheld the use of EVMs time and again in
various judgments and the Karnataka High Court in 2004 declared ECI-EVMs as national pride
because of its transparency and robustness.
Following the direction of the Honble Supreme Court, the ECI has introduced the technology
of VVPAT in order to ensure public verifiability. The Commission is committed to implement
VVPATs nation-wide by 2019. Thus there will be 100% voter verifiability and auditability of every
vote cast as opposed to lack of such facility in the NEDAP machines, which was struck down by the
German Supreme Court as un-Constitutional, whereas Indian Supreme Court has upheld the validity
of use of EVM for conducting elections in the country.
Thus any comparison of ECI-EVMs with machines used elsewhere is misplaced.
The Commission has always worked in an open and transparent manner and always welcome
questions, doubts and constructive and decent criticism of our processes so that we can further
strengthen electoral processes.
During political party meeting on 12 May 2017, Commission had promised to organise an open
challenge to give an opportunity to political parties to demonstrate that EVMs used in five States were
tampered or EVMs even under technical and administrative safeguards can be tampered. Accordingly,
ECI now proposed to open a challenge on 3rd June 2017 onwards to all political parties.
Frame-work of the challenge:
Election Commission of India invites the nominees of National and State Recognized political parties
who contested and claimed that the EVM machines held under the ownership of Election Commission
of India and used in the recently held General Assembly Elections of five states namely Punjab, Goa,
Manipur, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh in Feb-Mar 2017 were tampered or that these could be
tampered even under technical and administrative safeguards of ECI, to demonstrate their claims at
the ECI Headquarters within the framework of the extant administrative and security protocols
prescribed by the Commission.
Salient features of the EVM Challenge of the Commission are as follows:
Challenge Statement I:
That the EVMs used in the General Elections to five States-2017 were tampered to favour a particular
candidate/political party by altering the results stored in the EVMs after the polls. The claimants will
hence have to alter the results in the Control Units used during these polls in exactly the same scenario
as the EVMs remain within the technical and administrative safeguards of ECI after the poll, i.e. during
the storage in strong rooms or during counting, through
a. using press of combination of keys on CU or BU or BOTH, or
b. Bycommunication to CU or BU or Both via external wireless/Bluetooth/mobile phone etc.
Challenge Statement II
That the EVMs used in the General Elections to the five States-2017 were tampered before or during
the poll day. The claimants will hence have to alter the results in the EVMs used during these polls in
exactly the same scenario as the EVMs remain within the technical and administrative safeguards of
ECI before the poll, i.e. during the storage in strong rooms or during the poll, through
c. using press of combination of keys of CU or BU or Both, or
d. by communication to CU or BU or Both via external wireless/Bluetooth/mobile phone etc.
Common Procedure for Challenge I and Challenge II
1. The EVM Challenge is open for participation from the National and State Recognized Political Parties
only which participated in the five States' Assemblies Elections viz. Goa, Punjab, Manipur, Uttarakhand
and Uttar Pradesh.
2. Each National and State Recognized Party intending to participate may nominate a maximum of 3
persons only to participate in the EVM Challenge. Each Party shall intimate the names of maximum 3
authorized persons, if any, who wish to accompany the chosen EVMs from the Warehouses to the
Commission at New Delhi during transportation at their own cost.
3. The Political Parties willing to participate in the EVM Challenge must mandatorily confirm their
interest to ECI by 5.00 pm on 26th May, 2017 through the email (evmchallenge@eci.gov.in), wherein
the details of the Nominated members must be furnished as per the prescribed Performa. Only those
Political Parties, which respond by 5.00 pm on 26th May, 2017 to the ECI, shall be allowed to
participate in the EVM Challenge. The response of the political parties shall mandatorily be made on the
official letter-head of the party duly signed by the President or General Secretary of the political party
concerned, which shall be scanned and emailed to the email id mentioned above.
4. Further, if the Nominees of any Political Party, to whom a Challenge date-time Slot has been allotted,
fail to report at the designated time and venue without prior intimation or approval, shall forfeit their
right to participation in the EVM Challenge.
5. Each Political Party will be allowed to choose a maximum of 4 EVMs of their choice from any 4 polling
stations out of the Five poll-gone States. Examples; Maximum of 4 EVMs only form 4 polling stations
can be chosen, either from one AC or from multiple ACs in a State or from any of the five States. It is
clarified that any EVMs involved in EP (Election Petition) or those under any sealing by the orders of a
competent Court, shall not be part of this EVM Challenge. If a Political Party does not wish to specify a
particular EVM but wants ECI to provide any EVM of Commissions choice, then the same should be
intimated by 26th May, 2017.
6. The choice of the EVMs shall be emailed (evmchallenge@eci.gov.in) in the prescribed proforma by
5.00 pm on 26th May, 2017.
7. The chosen EVM machines, including Control Units (CU), Ballot Units (BU) (one or more as deployed)
and VVPAT (wherever deployed) shall be brought to the ECI at New Delhi, on as-is-where basis, in
compliance of the extent of established protocol of ECI regarding opening of EVM strong-
rooms/warehouse and EVM transportation.
8. The representatives of the Political Parties at State Level are at liberty to witness the opening of EVM
Strong-rooms at the District/AC level where the EVMs are presently stored, inspect the machines for
the various seals (as in protocol) and accompany the machines during their transportation to ECI in
sealed trunks, if they so desire.
9. As these EVMs were used in the recently held elections and were stored post-counting, the EVMs
would still have the candidate setting and the result of the said election.
10. The results of the machines as recorded during the counting in the previous elections shall be
available in paper form also, having details like total votes polled and votes casted for each candidates
etc.
11. A Challenge Slot of 4 Hours shall be allotted to each participating Political Party, wherein their
registered nominees shall be given access to one of their chosen EVMs (CU+BU + VVPAT if deployed)
for the purpose of PROVING the Challenge Statement 1 and 2. In case the first chosen EVM is in-
operative as a result of transportation, then the second of the chosen EVM shall be allowed to be used
for the challenge and so on. However, if a Political Party desires to avail of more time, the request shall
be made in writing to the Commission, which shall decide the issue on merits and demands of
reasonability.
12. The nominees may before proceeding for challenge if they want, check the result of previous
election already stored in CU and verify that these are same as given by ECI in item 10 above as per
ECI protocol of declaring results from CU. This step is optional and will be recorded if they opt for it in
writing. The result of re-count also will be recorded.
13. The Nominees of the participating Political Parties shall be allowed the following methods on the
Challenge EVMs to prove the challenge:
a. Pressing any sequence of buttons on the CU or BU or Both.
b. The use of any external wireless/Bluetooth/Mobile Phone device/Transmitter.
14. All Key Presses made by the Challenger shall be declared prior to the actual execution of key
presses and these will manually be recorded by the ECI Counter Staff for keeping a written record of
exact process of conduct of the challenge proving poll. In case the challenger wishes to use mobile or
blue tooth during poll, he should inform the Election officials and this should also be recorded. This is
especially relevant, in case the Challenger wishes to conduct any mock poll or full poll by either use of
key presses or mobile phone / blue-tooth during his tamper attempt to prove the Challenge Statements.
15. All Key Presses shall be made in clear and unhindered view of the ECI Counter Staff and the
recording Cameras and made with a Specially Designed Presser, so as to avoid any confusion or
ambiguity in the key presses made by the Challenger using his fingers.
16. EVMs can be opened and only visually inspected during Challenge-II as this is allowed during First
Level Check (FLC). However, EVMs cannot be opened during Challenge- I as EVMs are always kept
sealed after the Poll till counting in actual poll scenario.
17. During the Challenge period, with regard to any written representation or any dispute or
interpretation issues, the decision of the ECI Officer In-charge shall be final.
18. The EVM challenge shall be organised from 03.06.2017 onwards at Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka
Road, New Delhi.
Challenge Conclusion:
1. The Challenger under Challenge I shall be deemed to have ''FAILED'' if:
a. The EVM becomes non-functional after the tamper attempt made by the Challenger. (Reason:
ECI EVMs are designed to go into error mode if any unwarranted technical operations are
conducted rather than recording any wrong results).
b. The EVM is functional and results displayed on the CU after conduct of challenge attempt are the
same as ECI declared results stored on the chosen CU (prior to the pressing of CLEAR Button).
c. If the Challenger violates any of the guidelines prescribed for the EVM Challenge.
d. The challenger withdraws from current challenge.
2. The Challenger under Challenge II shall be deemed to have ''FAILED'' if:
a. The EVM becomes non-functional after the tamper attempt made by the Challenger. (Reason:
ECI EVMs are designed to go into error mode if any unwarranted technical operations are
conducted rather than recording any wrong results).
b. The EVM remains functional and after erasing the earlier stored result, a mock poll or full poll is
conducted by the Challenger along with his challenge attempt and manually recorded votes(by
ECI staff) are the same as that stored on the chosen CU after the said mock/full poll.
c. If the Challenger violates any of the guidelines prescribed for the EVM Challenge.
d. The challenger withdraws from current challenge.
10. Certain naysayers have demanded that ECI should either permit them to take the EVMs with them
for tampering or allow changing of internal circuit etc. of the EVM. This is like saying that they should
be permitted to manufacture a new machine and introduce their new EVMs in our system. Further, it is
common knowledge that changing the internal circuit of any electronic device is like changing the
whole device itself, after which it is no longer the same device. As any person with common sense
will be able to appreciate, a non-ECI EVM or an EVM with a different internal circuit is simply a
different machineor look alike of ECI EVM hence can never be guaranteed by ECI to give correct
results. Such a scenario is completely ruled out within our administrative safeguards and thats why it is
not proposed in the Challenge.
11. The Commission is thankful to all the citizens, voters, political parties and all stakeholders for their
unwavering faith in the Commission for more than 67 years. The Commission would further like to
thank all political parties for showing their continuous trust and confidence in the Election Commission
of India as expressed during interventions of political parties on 12th May in the All Party Meeting. The
Commission would like to reassure the people of the country that the Commission would leave no stone
unturned in preserving the purity, integrity and credibility of the Elections and reinforcing the faith and
trust of the people in the electoral democracy of our country. I wish to reassure that citizens of the
country that the Commission will never ever allow the faith of the people in the integrity of the election
process to be shaken. The Commission desire all citizens and stakeholders to remain aware ,vigilant and
alert about our electoral processes so that conduct of free and fair election by Commission is further
strengthened.
RM/VM
12/8/2017 Shri Piyush Goyal launches SEVA App

Government of India
Ministry of Coal
23-May-2017 16:26 IST
Shri Piyush Goyal launches SEVA App
SEVA would increase Consumer Connect as well as Transparency and Accountability in Coal dispatch: Shri Piyush
Goyal
Union Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines, Shri Piyush Goyal launched the Saral
Eindhan Vitaran Application (SEVA), developed in-house by Coal India Limited (CIL) for power sector consumers,
here today. SEVA is a part of Digital India initiative, which is aimed at increasing the Consumer Connect as well as the
Transparency and Accountability in Coal dispatch.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Goyal said that this app, along with other such apps of various Ministries of Government of
India, are in line with Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modis vision of Easy, Effective, Economical and Transparent
Governance. Shri Goyal further informed that for the benefit of all the citizens, the links for all mobile apps regarding
Ministries of Power, Coal, NRE and Mines would be sent to the respective mobile number from which a missed call on the
designated toll free number 1800 200 300 4 is given.
The Minister added that this Government believes in suo motu dissemination of information of larger public interest and m-
governance would be the key to achieve this goal. These people-centric mobile apps would make the citizen empowered
and hold the Government accountable for its decisions through increased transparency.
Talking about the SEVA app, the Minister said that there is a general perception that an app related to Coal dispatch would
not be of importance for the common man. Contrary to this view, Shri Goyal said, by using this app the common man would
be able to hold the Government accountable for the coal linkage allocations and would be able to check any pilferage or
inefficiencies in coal consumption for power generation. This would, in turn, lead to rationalization of coal linkages and
finally reduction in the power prices in the country. In near future , non-power sector mines would also be added in this App,
the Minister added.
Earlier in the event, it was informed that the SEVA Dashboard provides summary of quantity of coal dispatched along with
grades for the given day, month, and the latest yearly updates as well. It also provides information on rake movement
including latest status of indents of rake, allotment and loading. This would help consumers making advance logistics
planning. Further, the app has a dedicated backend team to monitor the status of specific grievances from consumers and
take action on the feedback received on the app. While much of the information on the SEVA Dashboard is available in open
access, consumer specific data would be password protected.
The consumer friendly mobile app helps in tracking of coal dispatch to 118 Power Plants through Fuel Supply Agreement
(FSA) of around 500 MT besides, dispatch through Special Forward E-Auction and Bridge Linkage from more than 200
dispatch points spread over eight states of the country. Daily quantity involved is to the tune of 1.25 Million Tonnes
involving the daily movement of around 195 coal trains besides dispatch through other captive modes of transport like
MGR, road, belt, ropeways etc.
Other dignitaries present during the event were Shri Susheel Kumar, Secretary Coal, Shri Suresh Kumar, Additional
Secretary Coal, Shri Sutirtha Bhattacharya, Chairman CIL and other senior officers of the Ministry and the PSUs under it.
*****
RM/VM
12/8/2017 Dr. Mahesh Sharma Inaugurates an Exhibition Return of the three stone Sculptures from Australia to India

Government of India
Ministry of Culture
23-May-2017 20:28 IST
Dr. Mahesh Sharma Inaugurates an Exhibition Return of the three stone Sculptures from Australia to India
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State (I/C) for Culture and Tourism inaugurated an exhibition Return of the Three Stone
Sculptures from Australia to India in National Museum, Janpath New Delhi today. The exhibition is organised to mark the
safe return of three stone sculptures (Seated Buddha, Worshippers of Buddha, Goddess Pratyangira) from Australia to India.
These sculptures were purchased by National Gallery of Australia from the Nancy Wiener, New York in 2007 and Art of the
Past, New York, 2005.
Dr. Mahesh Sharma attended a special event at National Gallery of Australia (NGA) in Canberra, Australia in which Senator
Mitch Fifield formally handed over three ancient artefacts stolen and smuggled out of India and inadvertently acquired by
National Gallery of Australia.
The Minister released a book entitled War Paintings of The Irresistible Jat King Surajmal by Dr Satya Vrata Tripathi and
also launched an App on Swachchta Abhiyan.
Shri N.K. Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Shri B.R. Mani, Director General of National Museum and senior officers
of the Ministry werte present on the occasion.
12/8/2017 Dr. Mahesh Sharma Inaugurates an Exhibition Return of the three stone Sculptures from Australia to India
*****
Sanjay Kumar/jk/Culture-01/23/05/2017
12/8/2017 Environment Ministry and Ozonaction, Organize First Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow Post-Kigali Amendment

Government of India
Ministry of Environment and Forests
23-May-2017 17:50 IST
Environment Ministry and Ozonaction, Organize First Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow Post-Kigali
Amendment
In a first, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, along with the UN Environment OzonActions
Compliance Assistance Programme, organized an Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow, post Kigali Amendment to the
Montreal Protocol, on the sidelines of the South Asia National Ozone Officers Annual Network Meeting 2017 in Agra
today. The Roadshow was inaugurated by the Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Ajay
Narayan Jha. The Technology Roadshow was organized for the first time as part of the annual network meeting for Ozone
Officers of South Asia.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Jha said, the Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow, had 13 exhibitors that
promoted ozone and climate-friendly alternative technologies to HCFCs and HFCs in the refrigeration and air-conditioning
(RAC) sector. The Technology Roadshow showcased current refrigeration and air conditioning equipment designed to be
more energy efficient, hence with a double benefit of saving money for consumers, and with a much lower impact on the
environment. Over 200 refrigerant technicians, ozone officers, business representatives and government officials attended
the Roadshow.
Head of the United Nations Environments OzonAction, Dr. Shamila Nair-Bedouelle, highlighted UNEPs
Compliance Assistance Programme (CAP) which provides significant support to Article 5 countries with meeting and
sustaining their obligations under the Protocol. The national ozone officers network meetings are a flagship of the CAP
and offer a forum for exchange of experience and knowledge transfer among national ozone officers, she said. Organising
O2C Technology Roadshow, along with the network meeting represents an innovative approach by the South Asia network
to bring the state-of-the-art technology to the policy makers, she said.
Along with the Technology Roadshow, UN Environment is also organising the annual network meeting for South
Asia Ozone Officers from May 23 to 26, 2017. The meeting focused on current policy and technology updates on ozone and
climate friendly alternatives to HCFCs and HFCs specifically post-Kigali amendment, linking the HCFC phase out to future
HFC phase down, the implications of Kigali amendment for the network countries and challenges and opportunities from a
policy and technology perspective.
Delegates from 20 countries and industry visited the 2017 exhibition and this was the first time the Ozone2Climate
Technology Roadshow was organised as a part of the annual network meeting globally. The National Ozone Officers
(NOOs) from 13 South Asia network countries visited the Technology Roadshow and gained information on state-of-the-art
HCFC/HFC alternative technologies.
12/8/2017 Environment Ministry and Ozonaction, Organize First Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow Post-Kigali Amendment
Secretary, MoEFCC, Shri A. N Jha inaugurating the Technology Roadshow at Agra today.
The Technology Roadshow was organized in association with Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Manufacturers
Association (RAMA), Indian Polyurethane Association (IPUA), Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), GIZ and
UNDP. Joint Secretary, MoEFCC, Shri Manoj Kumar Singh, Regional Director, UN Environment Asia Pacific Office, Dr.
Dechen Tshering, Chief Officer, Multilateral Fund Secretariat, Mr. Eduardo Ganem, Executive Secretary, Ozone Secretariat,
Ms. Tina Birmpili, Head of Branch, UN Environment OzonAction, Dr. Shamila Nair-Bedoulle, and Country
Director, UNDP, India. Mr. Jaco Cilliers were among those present on the occasion.
The Technology Roadshow was attended by leading ozone and climate global technology providers and several
industry representatives.
***
HK
12/8/2017 Employment prospects in Indias IT Sector: Robust Outlook

Government of India
23-May-2017 17:07 IST
Employment prospects in Indias IT Sector: Robust Outlook
It is asserted that the employment potential and prospects in the IT and related sectors are robust and promising.
Some of the reports to the contrary in the media space are highly exaggerated and unfounded.
Indian IT sector employment prospects, both in the near and long-term are expected to be broadly positive and
encouraging for the future. India IT companies currently serve two thirds of the fortune 500 companies and have
created 40 lakhs direct jobs in India
To present an objective and realistic potential of the employment scenario, the Ministry apart from its own
feedback, has taken note of projections by NASSCOM, the principal Industry body, as well as of other well-
known independent organizations and consultants working in this field.
NASSCOM has confirmed that the industry continues to be a net hirer and reports that:
2.5-3 million new jobs will be created by 2025.
In FY 2017, the industry added 1,70,000 new jobs. NASSCOM has already publicly contradicted reports of
large scale layoff
IT industry added 600,000 in last three years and today, boasts of a total employee base of 3.9 million.
TeamLease analysis for 2017-18 reports that IT sector hiring sentiments is positive and is up by 4% in October
2016 to March 2017, compared to the previous six-month period.
The TeamLease analyses also indicates that e-commerce and technology startup sector hiring sentiments has
increased by 2%, with projected 14.94% job growth. (This is despite recent challenges in these sectors.)
Recruitment and staffing firm Randstad projects (in December 2016), a cumulative growth rate of 9% in the IT /
ITeS job market.
The Indian technology startup sector will offer strong and growing employment prospects to Indian IT
professionals. According to NASSCOM, in 2016, Indian technology startups employed 95,000 to 100,000 IT
professionals, across more than 4,750 startups (including ecommerce and hyperlocals).
Indias domestic IT market offers strong prospects for industry growth (consequently employment), even if
12/8/2017 Employment prospects in Indias IT Sector: Robust Outlook
global markets were to face challenges.
Indias total software product market grew at 9.5% in FY2017 to reach USD 7 billion. (Exports grew 7.8% to
reach USD 2.3 billion.) In comparison, the domestic market grew much faster, at 10.4%, reaching USD 4.8
billion.
Indias overall domestic IT/BPM sector is expected to grow at 8.5% from USD 35 billion in 2016 to an
anticipated USD 37 billion in 2017.
Other shining sectors of employment in the overall of IT Industry under Digital India, include, the following:
CSC has generated 10lakhs local level employment by way of village level entrepreneurs.
Total employment in IT/ITES Industry employees is 4 millions as direct employment and 1.3 Crores as
indirect employment.
State-owned Software Technology Park of India (STPI) has generated 50% of the employment generated by
the Indian IT/ITES industry. It is to be noted that out of 56 STPI centres, 48 are located in tier-ii and tier-iii
location, benefitting the qualified youth of such locations.
To further promote the job creation, MeitY has come up with India BPO promotion scheme with an aim to
provide employment to 1.45 lakh persons, mostly in the small towns. More than 48 thousand BPO seats in 2017-
18 year. It is a matter of assurance that BPO through tendering has been finalized and is in its process of being
set up in towns like Imphal, Guwahati, Siliguri, Patna, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Gazipur, Unnao, Amravati etc
To encourage Northeastern part of India, MeitY has a separate Northeast BPO promotion scheme with 5000
seats and having employment potential of 15000 persons. This would go a long way to help the employment
scene in northeast region of India.
In Mobile phone manufacturing, 72 new mobile manufacturing units started only in last 30 months. It has
created 1 lakh direct and 3 lakh indirect jobs in India. All major brands like Apple, Samsung etc. in the ICT
sector are manufacturing or ready to manufacture in India.
The emerging and promising digital economy in the country is going create a very powerful potential for job
creations.
The Govt is encouraging greater stress on cyber security and this will lead to greater focus on innovation,
research and thus significant potential for job creation.
NNK/MD
12/8/2017 Software Procurement Policy

Government of India
23-May-2017 17:07 IST
Software Procurement Policy
The Digital India foot print is expanding day by day. It has been the consistent focus of Shri Narendra Modi
Government, to improve Digital Governance as it is critical for faster delivery and effective monitoring of services.
The transformation happening under the overall Digital India initiative is creating huge opportunities for involvement of
industry/private sector, mainly providers of IT/IT enabled systems and services. However, various concerns have been raised
from time to time by the industry relating to their engagements (and contracts) with government funded projects. These
issues include terms of payments, acceptance criteria, service level agreement and change management etc.
It is the consistent representation of NASSCOM, as also the major System Integrators like TCS, Wipro, Tech Mahindra,
IBM etc, for the need of a model RFP to guide all the organizations across governments, so that all variations, vagaries and
uncertainties may be avoided. Based on intensive deliberations with the industry and other stakeholders, this model RFP has
been formulated.
The major features of Model RFP provides for,

1. Level playing field, to all stakeholders by defining appropriate pre-qualification and technical evaluation criterion.
2. Aligning legal terms and conditions with the requirements of the IT Industry
Template for scope of work and service level agreements
Change request mechanisms
Dispute resolution
Standard contractual terms & conditions
Standardization of Intellectual property rights
Capping the liability, penalty and liquidated damages
3. Making payment terms, objective and easier, for industry and Government Department
Guidance on simplifying payment related conditions
Incorporating the Exchange rate variations
4. Converging Government schemes like Make in India / Preference for Domestically Manufactured Electronic Goods
(PMA), provisions for Start-ups and MSMEs
5. Leveraging latest technologies like cloud, mobiles, etc.
6. Aligned with the General Financial Rule 2017
7. Adherence to the latest standards\
NNK/MD
12/8/2017 Digital India Corporation

Government of India
23-May-2017 17:04 IST
Digital India Corporation
Digital India Corporation (DIC) will lead and guide in realizing the vision, objectives and goals of the Digital India
program. It will provide the strategic support to Ministries/Departments of Centre/States for carrying forward the mission of
Digital India by way of Capacity Building for e-Governance projects, promoting best practises, encouraging Public-Private
Partnerships (PPP), nurturing innovation and technology in various domains. To ensure autonomy and viability of the
organisation in the long run, the DIC, will also collaborate and mobilise partnerships with the industry, to evolve revenue
based models for service delivery.
To undertake these functions, Digital India Corporation will attract talent and resources both from government and market.
The judicious mix of talent will ensure that government is equipped with a broad spectrum of resources for successful
design of Digital India related projects.
Digital India Corporation shall have the following broad responsibilities:
1. To provide leadership and support to Government of India through MeitY, to steer and anchor Digital India and all
related policy and implementation initiatives. To promote digital transactions including digital payments through various
medium.
2. To support MeitY in all its initiatives with policy and implementation related issues concerning various ongoing
programmes & schemes in ICT domain and new initiatives necessitated as part of the Digital India vision.
3. To support Ministries/Departments, both at Centre as well as at States and other stakeholders in crafting progressive e-
Governance strategies, to promote Accountability, Efficiency, Efficacy and Transparency.
4. To source and make available from both the market as well as within government, pool of specialized technically skilled
manpower for hardware, software, networks, cyber security and laws, standards, quality and testing etc. in ICT domain
to Ministries/Deptts. on charge basis under the Central and State Government.
5. To promote innovation and evolve models for empowerment of citizens through Digital initiatives and to promote
participatory governance and citizen engagement across the government through various platforms including social
media.
6. To establish the National e-Governance Academy and to put in place an institutional mechanism for capacity building of
government and its agencies, including assessment and evolution of suitable training packages/modules for capacity
building for the Centre and States for Human Capital formation to enhance competitiveness for successful
implementation of various projects/schemes in ICT domain to cut on cost and time over run.
The Board of Media Lab Asia under the chairmanship of Sh. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Honble Minister of Electronics & IT
and Law & Justice, has approved on 16th May 2017 the proposal for fully realigning the purpose and objectives in line with
Digital India vision. The approval of the Board ensures that the Digital India Corporation with a complete restructuring of its
administrative components, will play the role of a leader in e-Governance space and take forward the projects and activities
of Digital India and facilitate all stakeholders to realise its goals.
NNK/MD
12/8/2017 Goods and Services Tax (GST) will lead to lower tax burden in several commodities including packaged cement, Medicaments, Smart phones,

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
23-May-2017 09:12 IST
Goods and Services Tax (GST) will lead to lower tax burden in several commodities including packaged cement,
Medicaments, Smart phones, and medical devices, including surgical instruments
The roll out of Goods and Services (GST) Tax will bring benefits to the consumers due to reduced tax rates on
various commodities such as packaged cement, medicaments, smart phones, and medical devices, etc.
Packaged cement attracts central excise duty of 12.5% + Rs.125 PMT and standard VAT rate of 14.5%. At these
rates, the present total tax incidence works out to more than 29%. If we include tax incidence on account of CST, octroi,
entry tax, etc., the present total tax incidence would work out to more than 31%. As against this, the proposed GST rate for
cement is 28%.
There will be lesser tax burden in case of Medicaments, including Ayurvedic, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathic or
Bio-chemic systemsalso. Medicaments, in general, attract 6% central excise duty and 5% VAT. Further, CST, octroi, entry
tax, etc. are also applicable in general. At these rates, the present total tax incidence works out to more than 13%. As against
this, the proposed GST rate on medicines, including ayurvedic medicines, is 12%.
Smart phone attracts 2% central excise duty [1% excise duty + 1% NCCD]. VAT rates vary from State to State
from 5% to 15%. Weighted average VAT rate on smart phones works out to about 12%. Thus, the present total tax incidence
on smart phones works out to more than 13.5%. As against this, the proposed GST rate for smart phones is 12%.
Similarly, medical devices, including surgical instruments, in general attract 6% central excise duty and 5% VAT. Along
with CST, octroi, entry tax, etc., the present total tax incidence on them works out to more than 13%. As against this, the
proposed rate under GST is 12%.
Puja samagri including havan samagri will be under the Nil category. However, exact formulation for the same is
yet to be finalized.
*****
DSM/VKS/KA
12/8/2017 CEO, NITI Aayog inaugurates National Conference of Micro Missions of National Police Mission being organised by the BPR&D

Government of India
23-May-2017 19:54 IST
CEO, NITI Aayog inaugurates National Conference of Micro Missions of National Police Mission being organised by
the BPR&D
Conduct survey of States and Districts on Policing index: Shri Amitabh Kant
Shri Amitabh Kant, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India),
has advocated conducting a survey on the status of Policing in various States. Inaugurating the 1st National
Conference of Micro Missions of National Police Mission (NPM) here today, Shri Kant said the Bureau of Police
Research & Development (BPR&D) should come out with the survey of State Police, including at district-level,
based on various parameters including outcomes, to bring about change in policing. Stating that economic
development and internal security have a symbiotic relationship, he said the police will also have to act as an
instrument of social change.
Laying out a survey of districts based on four development indices, - Health, Eductaion, Poverty & Roads, Shri
Kant pointed out it is apparent that the districts lowest in the combined index are concentrated in the Northern
and Eastern parts of the country. These very 100 districts lowest on the development index pose the gravest
challenges to security and law and order, he added.
Shri Kant said as India aims to accelerate the growth rate from the present 7.6% annually to 9-10% for the next
three decades or more, it will be marked by a demographic profile consisting of a majority 72% youth population
and witness a huge amount of urbanization. For the economy to pick pace India will also have to take the share
of womens contribution to GDP from the present 17% to 40% share in the developed world economies, he
added.
Shri Kant also deliberated on Out of Box Ideas to reform the current policing framework in the country. He
gave various examples to state the heightened competitiveness being demonstrated by various State
Governments in terms of Ease of doing business. He further laid stress on adoption of similar competitive spree
amongst different Departments of the Government including the Police.
He also emphasized on areas which could revolutionize the current police functioning across India. These
included:
Improve Citizen-police interface
Improve the condition of Police Stations

12/8/2017 CEO, NITI Aayog inaugurates National Conference of Micro Missions of National Police Mission being organised by the BPR&D
Improve judicial system
Improve rate of conviction
Provide healing touch to victims
Ensure extensive & pragmatic use of technology
Shri Kant gave references of international police departments to exemplify emphatic use of technology in crime
investigation and prevention. Prudent use of Social Media & Data Analytics can help in gathering information,
tracing suspects and identifying crime trends, he added. Shri Kant also unveiled the National Police Missions
Compendium on Projects, which shares insights on various Micro Mission Projects being carried out under the
aegis of NPM.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. M. C. Borwankar, DG, BPR&D, said the eight Micro Missions under the NPM
have been redesigned to include at least 25% young Officers of the level of Superintendents of Police. Shri
Parvez Hayat, ADG, BPR&D also graced the occasion. Dr. Nirmal Kumar Azad, IG, Director, NPM is the
Conference Secretary.
The two-day Conference is being organised by the Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D), under
the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The Conference aims to review, share learnings and trace the journey of
NPM ever since its inception in 2008. It witnesses participation of representations of all eight Micro Missions.
Nobel Laureate Shri Kailash Satyarthi will grace the Valedictory function tomorrow.
****
KSD/NK/PK/KM
12/8/2017 Shri J P Nadda addresses Plenary Meeting at the 70th World Health Assembly

Government of India
23-May-2017 19:20 IST
Shri J P Nadda addresses Plenary Meeting at the 70th World Health Assembly
Confident that India will achieve SDG 3 targets in health sector: J P Nadda
We are confident that India would be able to achieve the 9 targets under SDG 3 relating to health and well being
for all at all ages. This was stated by Shri J P Nadda, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare during his
addresses at the Plenary Meeting of the 70th World Health Assembly, at Geneva today. The Union Health
Minister spoke on the theme Advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: building better
systems for health.
Shri Nadda stressed on the importance of building a strong, resilient health system that mitigates any countrys
vulnerability to health crises. He said that the achievement of health related goals and targets, in Indian context,
is a daunting task, considering Indias geographical size, regional and socio-cultural diversity. India remains
committed to ensuring quality and affordable healthcare for all. We have made strategic investments under the
National Health Mission and the national disease control programmes. We are committed to further strengthening
the health systems, Shri Nadda added
Shri Nadda informed the participants that the National Health Policy, 2017 lays down the roadmap for various
milestones and targets. To translate the Policy into affirmative action, we are working with the States, Union
Territories, academicians and development partners. A National SDG-3 Task Force has been set up with
representation of key ministries, agencies and experts, he said.
Reiterating the commitment of the government, the Health Minister said that India is committed to achieving
universal health coverage (UHC). He further added that health systems strengthening and universal
comprehensive primary health care through Health and Wellness Centres has been identified as non-negotiable
strategies towards UHC. We plan to achieve more than 90% immunization coverage by 2020. We are rolling out
universal population-based screening for common NCDs. There is more stress on quality improvement in public
health service delivery. We plan to provide essential Drugs & Diagnostics-free of cost in public health facilities,
Shri Nadda stated.
***
MV/SK
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves phasing out Foreign Investment Promotion Board

Government of India
Cabinet
24-May-2017 19:38 IST
Cabinet approves phasing out Foreign Investment Promotion Board
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval to the phasing out of
Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB). The proposal entails abolishing the FIPB and allowing administrative
Ministries/Departments to process applications for FDI requiring government approval.
Henceforth, the work relating to processing of applications for FDI and approval of the Government thereon under
the extant FDI Policy and FEMA, shall now be handled by the concerned Ministries/Departments in consultation with the
Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion(DIPP), Ministry of Commerce, which will also issue the Standard Operating
Procedure (SOP) for processing of applications and decision of the Government under the extant FDI policy.
In addition, Foreign Investors will find India more attractive destination and this will result in more inflow of FDI.
The move will provide ease of doing business and will help in promoting the principle of Maximum Governance and
Minimum Government.
Background
The proposal for abolition of FIPB was approved by the Cabinet in its meeting on 24-05-2017. Presently, applications
are considered by FIPB in Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance comprising of various Secretaries of
Government of India for making recommendation on FDI applications. After the Cabinet decision, it would be handled
independently by Administrative Ministries as per Sector.
***
AKT/SH
12/8/2017 Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports to Initiate Adopt A Slum Campaign in Delhi

Government of India
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
24-May-2017 19:06 IST
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports to Initiate Adopt A Slum Campaign in Delhi
Slum Yuva Daud/Marathon to Mark Start of Campaign on May 26
I Have Adopted Timarpurs Indira Basti Under This Campaign: Vijay Goel
Minister of (Independent Charge), Youth Affairs & Sports, Shri Vijay Goel today announced Adopt a Slum - a new
campaign to mark completion of three years of the Government. Addressing a press conference here today, the Minister said
that the idea is to initiate developmental work in these slums and help the slum-dwellers in resolving various issues. A slum
Yuva Daud/Marathon will mark the beginning of this campaign on May 26.
The Minister also said that the Government under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, is
committed to the cause of the weaker sections. He added that the fire that illuminates lives in a positive way and resolves
social and economic issues, must be kept burning.
Shri Goel further said that Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, along with Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, under the
aegis of the Ministry, will initiate Adopt a Slum campaign and groups like NSS, public schools, rotary clubs, will pool in
with efforts and manpower. Shri Goel also stated that he has adopted Indira slum of Timarpur area under the campaign.
A booklet, highlighting the key issues that will be addressed with this campaign and how the entire process will be
initiated and executed, was also released on the occasion. The NYKS will adopt slums across 11 districts and will work for
their overall development with young volunteers. The Slum Yuva Daud will be organized on May 26 at 6 am at Shankarlal
Hall in Delhi University. Similar marathons will also be organized at Wazirpur, Model Town, Adarsh Nagar, Chandni
Chowk, Burari and many more areas.
***
HK/MB
12/8/2017 Key Achievements and Initiatives of Department of Financial Services for providing Social Security and Credit to various sections of society and

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
24-May-2017 16:00 IST
Key Achievements and Initiatives of Department of Financial Services for providing Social Security and Credit to
various sections of society and ensuring Financial Inclusion
Through its Major Schemes, Department of Financial Services is ensuring financial inclusion, providing social security to
the people as well as providing credit to various sections of the society. The major achievements of various schemes under
the Department are highlighted below.
1. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
The deposit base of PMJDY accounts has expanded over time. As on 05.04.2017, the deposit balance in PMJDY
accounts was Rs. 63,971 crore in 28.23 crore accounts. The average deposit per account has more than doubled from Rs.
1,064 in March 2015 to Rs. 2,235 in March 2017. 22.14 crore RuPay cards have been issued under PMJDY.
The Bank Mitra network has also gained in strength and usage. The average number of transactions per Bank Mitra, on
the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System operated by Bank Mitras, has risen by over eightyfold, from 52 transactions in 2014-
15 to 4,291 transactions in 2016-17.
2. Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY)
As on 12th April, 2017, Cumulative Gross enrolment reported by Banks subject to verification of eligibility, etc. is about
3.1 Crore under PMJJBY. A total of 63291 claims were registered under PMJJBY of which 59770 have been disbursed.
3. Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY)
As on 12th April, 2017, Cumulative Gross enrolment reported by Banks subject to verification of eligibility, etc. is about
10 Crore under PMSBY. A total of 12816 claims were registered under PMSBY of which 9646 have been disbursed.
4. Atal Pension Yojana (APY)
As on 31st March, 2017, a total of 48.54 lakh subscribers have been enrolled under APY with a total pension wealth
of Rs. 1,756.48 crore.
5. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana
Under the scheme a loan of upto Rs. 50000 is given under sub-scheme Shishu; between Rs. 50,000 to 5.0 Lakhs under
sub-scheme Kishore; and between 5.0 Lakhs to 10.0 Lakhs under sub-scheme Tarun.
As per latest data, loans extended under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) during 2016-17 have crossed the
target of Rs. 1,80,000 crore for 2016-17. Sanctions currently stand at Rs. 1,80,528 crore. Of this amount, about Rs. 1,23,000
crore was lent by banks while non-banking institutions lent about Rs. 57,000 crore.
Data compiled so far indicates that the number of borrowers this year were about 4 crore, of which over 70% were
women borrowers. About 18% of the borrowers were from the Scheduled Caste Category, 4.5% from the Scheduled Tribe
Category, while Other Backward Classes accounted for almost 34% of the borrowers.
6. Stand Up India Scheme
The Scheme facilitates bank loans between Rs.10 lakh and Rs.1 crore to at least one Scheduled Caste/ Scheduled Tribe
borrower and at least one Woman borrower per bank branch for setting up greenfield enterprises. This enterprise may be in
manufacturing, services or the trading sector.
As on 11th April, 2017, Rs 5807.7 crore has been sanctioned in 28444 accounts. Of these, women hold 22708 accounts
with sanctioned loan of Rs 4740.11 crore, Scheduled Caste persons hold 4487 accounts with sanctioned amount of Rs
825.17 crore while Scheduled Tribe persons hold 1249 accounts with a sanctioned amount of Rs. 242.43 crore.
7. Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana (VPBY)
The revived Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana (VPBY) was formally launched by the Finance Minister on 14.08.2014
based on the budget announcement made during 2014-15 and has been opened during the window stretching from 15th
August, 2014 to 14th August, 2015. Thus all those who subscribe to the VPBY during this period will receive an assured
guaranteed return of 9% under the policy. As per LIC, a total number of 3,23,128 policies with corpus amount of Rs.
9073.20 crore have been subscribed to the Scheme.
8. Other Initiatives
The Government of India in the Interim Budget of FY 2014-15, announced the setting up of Venture Capital Fund for
Scheduled Castes under the head Social Sector Initiatives in order to promote entrepreneurship among the Scheduled
Castes (SC). The scheme is operational since 16.01.2015 with a present corpus of Rs. 290.01 crore contributed by Ministry
of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India (Rs. 240.01 crore) and IFCI Ltd. as sponsor and investor (Rs. 50 crore).
As of 15.03.2017, IFCI Venture Capital Fund Ltd. has sanctioned and disbursed Rs. 236.66 crore and Rs. 109.68 crore to 65
and 32 beneficiaries, respectively under the scheme since launch of the scheme.
The Credit Enhancement Guarantee Scheme (CEGS) for Scheduled Castes (SCs) was announced by Govt. of India
in the Union Budget of 2014-15 wherein a sum of Rs.200 crore was allocated towards credit facility cover for young and
energetic start-up entrepreneurs, belonging to SCs, who aspire to be part of neo middle class category with an objective to
encourage entrepreneurship in the lower strata of the society resulting in job creation besides creating confidence in SCs.
Banks have undertaken Financial Literacy programmes through 718 Financial Literacy and Credit Counselling Centres
(FLCCs). A total of 17,422 skilling centres have been mapped with branches and literacy centres, and financial literacy
imparted to 7 lakh students. The literacy materials have been developed in regional languages and disseminated.
Card acceptance infrastructure: To augment card acceptance infrastructure for use of debit cards, a major drive was
undertaken between December 2016 and March 2017, resulting in an increase in the number of Point of Sale (PoS) terminals
by an additional 12.54 lakh, up from 15.19 lakh as on 30.11.2016. Further, to improve such infrastructure in villages, 2.04
lakh PoS terminals have been sanctioned from the Financial Inclusion Fund by NABARD.
*****
DSM/VKS/KA
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves policy for providing preference to 'Make in India' in Government procurements

Government of India
24-May-2017 19:50 IST
Cabinet approves policy for providing preference to 'Make in India' in Government procurements
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved a policy for providing
preference to 'Make in India' in government procurements. The new policy will give a substantial boost to
domestic manufacturing and service provision, thereby creating employment. It will also stimulate the flow of
capital and technology into domestic manufacturing and services. It will also provide a further thrust towards
manufacture of parts, components, sub-components etc. of these items, in line with the vision of 'Make in India'.
The new policy is the reflection of the Government of India to encourage Make in India and promote
manufacturing and production of goods and services in India with a view to enhancing income and employment.
Procurement by the Government is substantial in amount and can contribute towards this policy objective. Local
content can be increased through partnerships, cooperation with local companies, establishing production units in
India or Joint Ventures (JV) with Indian suppliers, increasing the participation of local employees in services and
by training them.
Details:
The policy will be implemented through an Order pursuant to Rule 153(iii) of the General Financial Rules, 2017
to provide purchase preference (linked with local content) in Government procurements. Under the policy,
preference in Government procurement will be given to local suppliers. Local suppliers are those whose goods or
services meet prescribed minimum thresholds (ordinarily 50%) for local content. Local content is essentially
domestic value addition.
In procurement of goods for Rs. 50 lakhs and less, and where the Nodal Ministry determines that there is
sufficient local capacity and local competition, only local suppliers will be eligible.
For procurements valued at more than Rs. 50 lakhs (or where there is insufficient local capacity/ competition) if
the lowest bid is not from a non-local supplier, the lowest-cost local supplier who is within a margin of 20% of
the lowest bid, will be given the opportunity to match the lowest bid. If the procurement is of a type that the
order can be divided and given to more than one supplier, the non-local supplier who is the lowest bidder will get
half of the order and the local supplier will get the other half if it agrees to match the price of the lowest bid. If
the procurement cannot be divided, then the lowest cost local supplier will be given the order if it agrees to
match the lowest bid.
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves policy for providing preference to 'Make in India' in Government procurements
Small purchases of less than Rs.5 lakhs are exempted. The order also covers autonomous bodies, government
companies/ entities under the governments control.
The policy also requires that specifications in tenders must not be restrictive e.g. should not require proof of
supply in other countries or proof of exports in respect of previous experience. They must not result in
unreasonable exclusion of local suppliers who would otherwise be eligible, beyond what is essential for ensuring
quality or creditworthiness of the supplier.
The policy lays down a procedure for verification of local content relying primarily on self-certification. There
will be penal consequences for false declarations. In some cases, verification by statutory / cost auditors etc. will
be required.
A Standing Committee in Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion will oversee the implementation of this
order and issues arising therefrom, and make recommendations to Nodal Ministries and procuring entities.
The policy has been developed keeping in view the core principles of procurement including competitiveness
and adhering to sound procurement practices and execution of orders. The policy would continue to maintain the
balance between promoting 'Make in India' and ensuring timely, value-for-money products for the procuring
entities.
*******
AKT/SH
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves Joint Declaration of Intent between Germany and India regarding cooperation in the sector of alternative medicine

Government of India
AYUSH
24-May-2017 19:43 IST
Cabinet approves Joint Declaration of Intent between Germany and India regarding cooperation in the sector of
alternative medicine
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the Joint Declaration of
Intent (JDI) between Germany and India regarding cooperation in the sector of alternative medicine.
The signing of the JDl will enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the areas of
traditional/alternative medicine. Initiation of collaborative research, training and scientific capacity building in
the field of alternative medicine under the JDI between the two countries would contribute to the enhanced
employment opportunities in the AYUSH sector.
There are no additional financial implications involved. The financial resources necessary to conduct research,
training courses, conferences / meetings will be met from the existing allocated budget and existing plan schemes
of Ministry of AYUSH.
Background:
India is blessed with well-developed systems of traditional medicine which hold tremendous potential in the
global health scenario. Germany has considerable interest in Traditional Systems of Medicine. The Ministry of
AYUSH as a part of its mandate to propagate Indian systems of Medicine globally has taken effective steps by
entering into MoU with China, Malaysia, Trinidad & Tobago Hungary, Bangladesh, Nepal, Mauritius, Mongolia
and Myanmar.
The Ministry has taken many initiatives for promotion of Ayurveda in Germany with the recommendation and
cooperation of the Indian Embassy in Berlin. One of the major initiatives is the collaborative research Project
between the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) and Charite University, Berlin on
Osteoarthritis of the knee. The results of the trial are encouraging and the clinical trial demonstrates significant
improvement in patients. The study has been completed successfully and is under publication.
A delegation led by Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Hon'ble Minister of State, (Independent Charge). Ministry of
AYUSH had visited Germany from 15-19 October 2016 to participate in the 2nd European World Ayurveda
Congress (EWAC) and have interactions with the authorities in Germany. The Congress was supported by the
Ministry of AYUSH. During the visit a bilateral meeting was held between Hon'ble MoS(IC), AYUSH with the
Parliamentary State Secretary Ms. Ingrid Fischbach during which both sides had unanimously agreed to begin
12/8/2017 Cabinet approves Joint Declaration of Intent between Germany and India regarding cooperation in the sector of alternative medicine
the process of drafting and negotiating a JDl in the field of AYUSH and Natural medicine. It is expected that the
JDI would give a boost to India-Germany ties and enhance cooperation between the two countries.
*******
AKT/SH
12/8/2017 <pre><b>A Farmer Friendly Step Cabinet approves Fair and Remunerative Price payable by sugar mills for 2017-18 sugar season

Government of India
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
24-May-2017 19:25 IST
A Farmer Friendly Step
Cabinet approves Fair and Remunerative Price payable
by sugar mills for 2017-18 sugar season
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its
approval for fixing the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane at Rs. 255/- per quintal (qt) for sugar
season 2017-18 linked to a basic recovery rate of 9.5% subject to a premium of Rs. 2.68 per qtl for every 0.1%
point increase in recovery above that level. The approved FRP reflects an increase of 10.87% over the FRP of
sugar season 2016-17. The FRP so approved shall be applicable for purchase of sugarcane from the farmers in
the sugar season 2017-18 by the sugar mills. The move is a reflection of the Governments pro-farmer initiatives,
keeping in mind the interest of sugarcane farmers and importance of the sugar industry.
Details
The sugar industry is an important agro-based industry that impacts the livelihood of about 50 million sugarcane
farmers and around 5 lakh workers directly employed in sugar mills, apart from those employed in various
ancillary activities including farm labour and transporters. This decision has been taken to provide appropriate
price to the farmers for their cane.
FRP of sugarcane has been determined on the basis of recommendations of Commission for Agricultural Costs
and Prices (CACP) and after consultation with State Governments and other stake-holders. Recommended FRP
has been arrived at by taking into account various factors such as cost of production, overall demand-supply
situation, domestic and international prices, inter-crop price parity, terms of trade prices of primary by-products,
and likely impact of FRP on general price level and resource use efficiency.
During the last 3 years, in order to support the sugarcane farmers and to ensure that their dues are paid by the
sugar mills, the Government of India introduced schemes such as SEFASU; Soft Loan, Incentive for Raw Sugar
Export and Production Subsidy. Through these interventions, the funds made available to the mills were utilized
for payment of the cane price arrears of the farmers. Direct credit into the farmers bank accounts of their dues
was also mandated.
As a consequence, clearance of cane price arrears of farmers reached 99.33% for 2014-15 sugar season and
98.5% for 2015-16 sugar season. Cane price arrears for the current sugar season 2016-17 is the lowest as
compared to last five years of the corresponding period.
12/8/2017 <pre><b>A Farmer Friendly Step Cabinet approves Fair and Remunerative Price payable by sugar mills for 2017-18 sugar season
In order to address the current sugar seasons shortfall in production and any possible adverse price sentiment,
the Government has allowed import of only 5 lakh MT of raw sugar at zero duty. However, to protect the Indian
farmers, import quantity has been restricted along with zonal restrictions so as to make it available only in
actually deficient areas and safeguard the interest of cane farmers.
*******
AKT/SH
12/8/2017 Start Up -Definition changes

Government of India
25-May-2017 09:10 IST
Start Up -Definition changes
Startup India was launched by the Government of India on 16th January, 2016 to build a strong eco-system for nurturing
innovation and Startups in the country to drive economic growth and generate large scale employment opportunities.
In order to promote entrepreneurship in the country, the Government of India has amended the definition of a Startup. The
following significant changes have been made to the definition of Startups
a) Age of Startup increased: Taking into account the long gestation period by Startups to establish, an entity shall be
considered as a Startup up to seven years from the date of its incorporation/ registration (from earlier 5 years).
However, in the case of Startups in the Biotechnology sector, the period shall be up to ten years from the date of
incorporation/ registration.
b) No Letter of Recommendation required: No letter of recommendation from an incubator/industry association shall

be required for either recognition or tax benefits
c) Potential of Job and Wealth Creation: The scope of definition has been broadened to include scalability of business
model with potential of employment generation or wealth creation.
As a constant endeavour to facilitate the Startup ecosystem, the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) has
been holding extensive consultations with stakeholders. The above changes are an effort to ensure ease of starting up new
businesses to promote the Startup ecosystem and build a nation of job creators instead of job seekers.
MJPS
12/8/2017 African development Banks President thanks India for success of the annual meetings of the bank held in Gandhinagar; Expects that all these

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
25-May-2017 18:25 IST
African development Banks President thanks India for success of the annual meetings of the bank held in
Gandhinagar; Expects that all these meetings would substantially contribute to the AFDBS new transformation
agenda encapsulated in the High 5s related to the fields of power, Agriculture(food security), connectivity
(Transportation), industrialization(Skill Development) and Health.
The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Shri Akinwumi Adesina expresses happiness at the
outcome of the Annual Meetings of the bank held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Addressing a Press Conference at
Mahatma Mandir International Convention cum Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar, Gujarat today, the Banks
President thanked India and the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi in particular for the success of its Annual
Meetings. Shri Adesina said that he had fruitful meetings with Shri Modi, the Union Finance Minister Shri Arun
Jaitely, the Power Minister Shri Piyush Goyal and other Indian Ministers during the five day Annual Meetings of
the bank. He said all these meetings are expected to substantially contribute to the banks New Transformation
Agenda encapsulated in the High 5s related to the fields of power, agriculture(food security), connectivity
(transportation), industrialization(skill development) and health. Shri Adesina also said that he is happy that the
Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modi had mentioned of India and Japan considering the Asia Africa Growth
Corridor and he is now more confident that all this should contribute to greater development in Africa. He said
the AfDB is looking forward to scaling-up of technologies and for investments in future technologies for skilling
African youth. He said that he also expects youth in Africa to more actively participate in agricultural activities
to fight poverty in Africa. The President of the AfDB said that he even sees possibilities of bollywood films
contributing to encourage African youth towards Agriculture.
Shri Adesina thanked the Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Vijay Roopani and all others who helped in making the
meetings of the bank a great success
The Presidents of Benin and Senegal, the Vice President of Cote DIvoire, the Secretary-General of the African
Union, the Commissioner of the African Union Commission and the Chief Minister of Gujarat and State
Government Ministers were among other dignitaries who graced the AfDB Annual Meetings being held from
22nd May, 2017 onwards at Mahatma Mandir International Convention cum Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar,
Gujarat..
****
KSP/DSM
12/8/2017 Proposed GST Tax rates would be lesser than the prevailing taxes in case of Sugar, Tea and Coffee (other than instant coffee) and Milk Powder

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
25-May-2017 17:38 IST
Proposed GST Tax rates would be lesser than the prevailing taxes in case of Sugar, Tea and Coffee (other than instant
coffee) and Milk Powder; Present incidence of taxes on sugar is 8% while proposed GST rate on Sugar is only 5% i.e.
3% less;
Similarly, present incidence of taxes on Milk Powder, Tea and Coffee (other than instant coffee) is 7% while proposed
GST rate on these items is only 5%.
Proposed GST Tax rates would be much lesser than the prevailing incidence of taxes in case of Sugar, Tea and Coffee
(other than instant coffee) and Milk Powder. Details in this regard are as follows:
1. Sugar: Sugar attracts specific central excise duty of Rs.71 per quintal plus Sugar Cess of Rs.124 per quintal, which
translates to ad valorem rate of more than 6%. Including incidence on account of account of CST, octroi, and entry tax etc.,
the present total tax incidence would work out to more than 8%. As against this, the proposed GST rate on sugar is only 5%
i.e. 3% less than present incidence of taxes.
2. Tea and coffee (other than instant coffee): Tea and coffee attract Nil central excise duty and VAT rate of 5%.
Considering embedded taxes in production of tea and coffee and the incidence on account of CST, octroi and entry tax etc.,
the present total tax incidence works out to more than 7%. As against this, the proposed GST rate for tea and coffee (other
than instant coffee) is only 5%.
3. Milk powder: Milk powder attracts Nil central excise duty and 5% VAT. Considering embedded taxes in production
of milk powder and the incidence on account of CST, octroi, and entry tax etc., the present total tax incidence works out to
more than 7%. As against this, the proposed GST rate on milk powder is only 5%.
*****
DSM/KA
12/8/2017 Dhola-Sadiya: A Bridge of New Hope for the North East

Government of India
25-May-2017 12:42 IST
Dhola-Sadiya: A Bridge of New Hope for the North East
Road connectivity in the North-East will see a major transformation when Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
inaugurates the countrys longest river bridge the Dhola- Sadiya Bridge in Assam tomorrow. This new, three
lane, 9.15 kilometre bridge has been built over river Lohit, a tributary of the Brahmaputra, linking Dhola to
Sadiya in Assam . The bridge will fill a huge connectivity gap that has existed in the region. Till now, the only
means to cross the Brahmaputra at this location has been by ferry only in day-time and even this is not possible
during floods. The last bridge over the Brahmaputra was the Kalia Bhomora Bridge at Tejpur. This will however
change from tomorrow with the Dhola-Sadiya bridge ensuring 24X7 connectivity between upper Assam and
Eastern part of Arunachal Pradesh.
The bridge will also reduce the distance from Rupai on NH- 37 in Assam to Meka/Roing on NH-52 in Arunachal
Pradesh by 165 KM. The travel time between the two places will come down from the current six hours to just
one hour a total five hour reduction. This will result in saving of petrol and diesel worth Rs 10 Lakh per day.
The Dhola-Sadiya bridge promises to usher in prosperity in the North-East. It will provide efficient road
connectivity to remote and backward areas which have poor road infrastructure. This bridge will also give a
major boost to overall economic development of the areas north of Brahmaputra in upper Assam and Arunachal
Pradesh. It will also cater to the strategic requirements of the country in the border areas of Arunachal Pradesh,
besides facilitating numerous hydro power projects coming up in the state , as it is the most sought after route for
various power project developers.
The total length of the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge project, including the approach roads on each side, is 28.50 km. The
length of the bridge itself is 9.15 Km. It has been constructed on BOT Annuity basis at a total cost of Rs 2,056
crore, as part of the Arunachal Package of Roads and Highways under the Ministrys SPECIAL
ACCELERATED ROAD DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME for NORTH EAST (SARDP-NE). The objective
was to bring the people of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh closer to each other.
*****
UM/NP/MS
12/8/2017 ISA can act as a medium to achieve universal energy access target set up before 2030- Shri Piyush Goyal

Government of India
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
25-May-2017 15:30 IST
ISA can act as a medium to achieve universal energy access target set up before 2030- Shri Piyush Goyal
Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, Mines and New & Renewable Energy said that
International Solar Alliance ( ISA) can act as a medium to spread lessons on energy security which can help
achieve universal energy access target set up in SDGs before 2030. He was speaking at the launch of Scaling
Solar MiniGrids by France and India on the sidelines of 52nd Annual Meeting of the African Development
Bank (AfDB) in Ahmedabad yesterday.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Goyal called for deeper Indo-African cooperation. He said that Indian renewable
energy sector offers lessons such as lower and innovative financing models, risk reduction, setting up large scale
solar projects through energy parks. India has achieved grid parity in solar tariffs, he added.
Shri Piyush Goyal also said that Scaling Solar MiniGrids shall work in tandem with ISAs over all objectives and
already existing two programmes, namely Scaling Solar Applications for Agricultural Use and Affordable
Finance at Scale launched on 22nd April, 2016. The main activities under the programme shall include-design
and deploy small grids, adopt common standards, aggregate demand, help establish global credit enhancement
and de-risking mechanisms, call for expression of interest, assess demand and costs requirement for mini grid
projects, identify/develop attractive payment models for consumers, and persuade member countries with
overseas assistance budgets to earmark a portion of their soft loan for the Third Programme.
The objective of the event is to cater to the energy needs of ISA Member states in identified areas with unreliable
or no grid(s), and in island member states having abundant potential to tap solar energy. Such participating
member countries can take advantage of the available solutions to promote universal energy access and reduce
electricity costs and tariffs through introduction and promotion of mini, micro, and nano grids with smart
features for harnessing solar power, in a time bound manner.
Mr. Ahmed Said Hassaini Djaffar, Vice President of the Republic of Comoros in his address welcomed the ISA
initiative and stated that Africa is a solar resource rich region and can help achieve targets in solar energy.
ISAs third programme is an attempt to address the challenges in integrating solar energy into insular or
unconnected electricity grids. The challenges mainly include iniquitous electricity tariff regimes, small and
disaggregated size of the markets, building up of local skill sets, lack of access to low cost capital, effective
interconnection to grids in rural, remote and urban areas etc. In addition management of variability, intermittency
and its impact on the stability of small-scale electricity systems also add to the woes.
12/8/2017 ISA can act as a medium to achieve universal energy access target set up before 2030- Shri Piyush Goyal
Recently Expression of Interest have been received from Indian companies to install 664,000 solar pumps, install
56 MW of Minigrids and train 5400 solar mechanics in the African countries who have signed and ratified the
ISA Framework Agreement. Government of India is extending a US $ 10 billion line of credit for undertaking
developmental work in African countries. On the request of ISA, Government of India has agreed to earmark 15-
20% of this line of credit for undertaking solar related projects. H.E. Mrs. Sgolne Royal, Minister for
Environment, Energy and Marine Affairs of France, in charge of International Relations on climate change, was
the main architect and motivator to launch this programme during such a short period. Delegation from the
French Embassy was present too on this occasion.
The International Solar Alliance is an initiative jointly launched by the Honourable Prime Minister of India and
Honourable President of France on 30th November 2015 at Paris, in the presence of the Secretary General of the
UN, on the side lines of COP21. The main objective of ISA is to undertake joint efforts required to reduce the
cost of finance and the cost of technology, mobilize more than US $ 1000 billion of investments needed by 2030
for massive deployment of solar energy, and pave the way for future technologies adapted to the needs of 121
countries lying fully or partially between the Tropics. So far 31 countries have signed the Framework Agreement
of the ISA, which is the first international and intergovernmental organization to be headquartered in India.
*****
RM/PS
12/8/2017 PM inaugurates India's longest bridge in Assam, addresses public meeting at Dhola

Government of India
26-May-2017 12:50 IST
PM inaugurates India's longest bridge in Assam, addresses public meeting at Dhola
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today inaugurated India's longest bridge - the 9.15 km long
Dhola-Sadiya bridge, over the River Brahmaputra, in Assam.
This was his first engagement on the third anniversary of his swearing-in as Prime Minister.
The bridge will enhance connectivity and greatly reduce travel time between Assam and Arunachal
Pradesh.
After unveiling a plaque to mark the inauguration, the Prime Minister travelled, and walked on the
bridge for a few minutes.
Later, addressing a public meeting at Dhola, the Prime Minister said that the inauguration of the
bridge marks the end of a long wait for the people of this area.
The Prime Minister said infrastructure is extremely important for development, and the effort of the
Union Government is to fulfil the dreams and wishes of the people. He said this bridge enhances
connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, and opens the door for economic development,
on a big scale.
He said the eastern and north-eastern parts of the country have the greatest potential for economic
development, and this bridge is just one element of the Union Government's vision in this regard.
The Prime Minister said the bridge will bring about a positive change in the lives of the common
people. He said the Union Government is placing great emphasis on the development of waterways as
well.
The Prime Minister said enhanced connectivity between the North-East and other parts of the country
is a priority for the Union Government, and work has been greatly speeded up in this regard. He said
that good connectivity in the North-East will also link the region with the economy of South-East
Asia.
The Prime Minister also spoke of the immense tourism potential of the North-East. He said the Union
Government has decided to name the Dhola-Sadiya bridge after the great musician, lyricist and poet,
Bhupen Hazarika.
****
AKT/NT
12/8/2017 Northeast organic products to be showcased outside: Dr Jitendra Singh

Government of India
Ministry for Development of North-East Region
26-May-2017 17:08 IST
Northeast organic products to be showcased outside: Dr Jitendra Singh
The Ministry of Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER) will make suitable arrangements for
showcasing the Northeast organic products outside, in the rest of India. An initiative in this direction has already
begun with the opening up, recently, of a Showroom-cum-Restaurant bearing a common brand name ONE
(Organic North East) at Dilli Haat in New Delhi. This was stated by Union Minister of State (Independent
Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances,
Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh while chairing a meeting of NERAMAC (North Eastern
Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation) at Guwahati, Assam today. The Minister is in Assam to take part
in the programmes commemorating the completion of three years of Government led by Prime Minister Shri
Narendra Modi.
Dr Jitendra Singh said, the high priority accorded to the Northeast by the present government and Prime Minister
Shei Narendra Modi is evident from the fact that the Prime Minister chose to observe the completion of three-
years of government in this region. He said, it is under the present government that Sikkim was declared as the
first Organic State of India and a roadmap for developing the entire region as an organic hub of India has been
envisaged.
Emphasizing on the importance of developing the agri-horticulture ecosystem of Northeast, Dr Jitendra Singh
said, NERAMAC must take up the responsibility of carrying forward this mission and build a modern dynamic
marketing apparatus for the purpose. He said, in the absence of organized Mandis in most parts of the North-
Eastern region, one of the priority activities of NERAMAC should be to act as an aggregator of agri-horti
produce in the region, particularly when 80-82% of the agri-horti produce from the region happens to be organic
in nature.
Dr Jitendra Singh said, people in other parts of the country are yet to be introduced to the rich and exclusive
organic produce of the North-Eastern region and once this happens, they would spontaneously come looking for
it. This will not only give a boost to trade and business, but also create opportunities of livelihood, he said.
Earlier, Managing Director of NERAMAC, Shri Pankaj Kumar Prasad made a brief presentation on the
organizations role to act as organic aggregators for Northeast. He said, the NERAMAC is confident to succeed
in its plan to promote organic farming and its marketing through different linkages at different levels.
Notwithstanding the constraints of poor connectivity and infrastructural drawbacks, the NERAMAC has
12/8/2017 Northeast organic products to be showcased outside: Dr Jitendra Singh
succeeded in pushing forward its operations, he added.
*****
KSD/NK/PK/KM
12/8/2017 Prime Minister lays the foundation stone of the country's third Indian Agricultural Research Institute in Goghmukh, Dhemaji, Assam

Government of India
26-May-2017 17:44 IST
Prime Minister lays the foundation stone of the country's third Indian Agricultural Research Institute in Goghmukh,
Dhemaji, Assam
Establishment of this institute is an important initiative in providing higher level education and research along with
increasing agricultural production and productivity
Prime Minister has taken the resolution that by 2022, the income of farmers to be doubled and we are determined
to achieve the same: Radha Mohan Singh
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today laid the Foundation Stone of the Indian Agricultural Research
Institute at Gogamukh in Assam.Addressing a large public meeting on the occasion, the Prime Minister congratulated the
State Government in Assam and Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, for the work done by them in the State.
The Prime Minister said the foundation stone of IARI laid today, had the potential to impact the entire region in a
positive way in the future. He said agriculture needs to be developed in line with the requirements of the 21st century. He
added that farmers must benefit from the changing technology.
He stressed on the need of modern agriculture and technological interventions, keeping in mind the specific needs of
the region.The Prime Minister spoke of his vision of doubling farmers' incomes by 2022, the 75th anniversary of
independence.
Speaking on the occasion, the Agriculture Minister said the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji has pledged to
double the farmers income by 2022 and we are committed to fulfil his resolve. In continuation, visualising the potential of
north eastern states in improving the production of agriculture and allied sectors and farmers knowledge enhancement,
impart appropriate agriculture information, the top level of agricultural research and education in the country, a new branch
of Indian agricultural Institute is being established in Assam. In these states of north-east we see special glimpses of
diversity and due to the agroclimatic condition cultivation of not only different types of crops but diverse types of spices are
being successfully carried out. Now we need to accelerate this further and in achieving this goal, establishment of the
agricultural institute will be a decisive step. I would like to say that establishment of this institute will be an important
initiative in enhancing agricultural production and productivity together with the high standard of education and research
and in times to come it will definitely improve the living standard of farmers of north eastern states of the country.
Shri Singh said that to bring in another round of green revolution in the north-eastern parts of the country, the Prime
Minister is laying the foundation stone of Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Assam, literally a replica of the Indian
Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi.
The key achievements of IARI and Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare are as follows:
The journey of IARI started in PUSA, Darbhangha (Samastipur) district of North Bihar in 1905. At that time it was
called the Agricultural Research Institute.
Afterwards it was renamed as Imperial Institute of Agricultural Research in 1911 and as Imperial Agricultural
Research Institute in 1919.
The institute was transferred to Delhi on 29 July 1936.
After Independence it was re-christened as Indian Agricultural Research Institute and it was given the status of
Deemed University in 1958.
This institute is the harbinger of the Green revolution. The new technologies and high yielding varieties developed
at this institute and their demonstrations at farmers farm led to the Green Revolution.
There is a web of higher education institutes like IIts, IIMs etc., in the country. On the similar pattern our
government has planned to establish agricultural research institutes like IARI, New Delhi, to promote higher
agricultural education.
In this series one IARI was established in Jharkhand and now another is being established in Assam.
12/8/2017 Prime Minister lays the foundation stone of the country's third Indian Agricultural Research Institute in Goghmukh, Dhemaji, Assam
How serious is our Government about agriculture is obvious from the fact that the agricultural budget allocation in
last four years (2014-15 to 2017-18) was of Rs 164,415 crore, which was during UPA government (2010-11 to 2013-
14) only Rs 104,337 crore, an increase of approximately 57.58% in under our Prime minister.
The country is reaping the benefits of this now, and I feel happy to announce that in the year 2016-17 there has been
a new record in the food grain production, and this is highest ever since independence.
Milk production during the three years - 2014-17 - was 465.5 MM tonnes, which is 16.9% more than that of 398
MM tonnes in 2011-2014.
Similarly fish production during the three years - 2014-17 - was 327.74 lakh tonnes, which is 20.1% more than that
of 272.88 lakh tonnes in 2011-2014.
The egg production during the three years - 2014-17 - was 248.72 billion, which is 17.92% more than that of 210.93
billion in 2011-2014.
Similarly honey production during the three years - 2014-17 - was 263,930 M tonnes, which is 20.54% more than
that of 218,950 M tonnes in 2011-2014.
Shri Singh mentioned several farmer friendly schemes and programmes initiated by the present government, which
include soil health card for improvement in the soil nutrition health, and traditional agriculture development scheme for
improvement of organic farming. Apart from that farmers are benefiting from the organic value chain development mission
with an investment of Rs. 400 crore for north-east,
development of national agriculture market or e-NAM by connecting 585 anaj mandis of the country through e-
platform,
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (Prime Minister Crop Insurance Scheme) to safeguard the farmers from the
destruction caused by natural calamities, Prime Minister Crop Irrigation Scheme etc.
Union Agriculture Minister concluded by thanking the Prime Minister and said that under his guidance we are able to
fulfil the dream of establishing Indian Agricultural Research Institute in the north eastern region of the country.
****
SS
12/8/2017 Indo-Thailand Siam Bharat 17: HADR

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
26-May-2017 17:15 IST
Indo-Thailand Siam Bharat 17: HADR
Indo-Thailand Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Table Top Exercise 2017 is in progress at
Chiang Mai, Thailand from 22 May to 26 May 17 between the Indian Air Force and Royal Thailand Air Force
(RTAF). The eleven member IAF contingent is led by Group Captain Sucharu Rai VM. This is second such
exercise to be conducted between the two Air Forces.
The aim of the bilateral exercise is to evolve SOPs for planning and executing relief missions during unforeseen
natural calamities like Tsunami, earthquakes, cyclones, floods etc. The objective is to enhance interoperability
between both the Air Forces, while conducting combined air operations triggered by a crisis. The exercise would
assist in laying down procedures and establish decision support system at various stages of relief operations.
***
AB/BRB
12/8/2017 Uma Bharti begins Ganga Nirikshan Abhiyan

Government of India
Ministry of Water Resources
26-May-2017 17:23 IST
Uma Bharti begins Ganga Nirikshan Abhiyan
Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Sushri Uma Bharti today visited
Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute located at Barrackpore, West Bengal during the first leg of her Ganga Nirikshan
Abhiyan. This institution is specialized in Fisheries Research on river Ganga. During her fortnight long tour the Minister will
visit several places from Ganga Sagar to Gangotri along the river Ganga to personally monitor the progress of Namami
Gange programme. During the 2500 km long tour the Minister will pass through Kakdweep, Kapilmuni Ashram (Ganga
Sagar), Nabadweep, Murshidabad, Farraka, Sultanganj (Bhaglpur), Munger, Patna, Arrah , Buxar, Varanasi, Allahabad,
Shringverpur, Fatehpur, Kanpur, Fatehgarh, Kasganj, Narrora, Bhrigu Ashram, Brijghat, Vidhurkuti, Haridwar and
Uttarkashi to reach Gangotri.
The Minister will travel through Boat, Road, Rail, Air and on foot. During the Ganga Nirikshan Abhiyan Water
Resources Minister will attend Ganga Chaupal at Cossipore ghat, Kapilmuni Ashram (Ganga Sagar), Gandhi ghat
(Barrackpore), Diamond Harbour, Hooghly, Nabadweep, Murshidabad, Sultanganj (Bhaglpur), Munger, Arrah, Buxar,
Shringverpur, Allahabad, Fatehgarh, Bhrigu Ashram, Fatehpur, Kanpur, Kasganj, Brijghat and Gangotri. In these Chaupals
the Minister will interact with various stakeholders such as NGOs, Government agencies, other institutions and individuals
to make Namami Gange programme a success.
Samir/JKD/jk
12/8/2017 Indias longest bridge brings Assam closer to Arunachal Pradesh

Government of India
26-May-2017 17:18 IST
Indias longest bridge brings Assam closer to Arunachal Pradesh
PM inaugurates Dhola-Sadiya bridge over river Brahmaputra: says enhanced connectivity of the North East a
priority for the Government
Highways projects worth Rs 1, 50,000 crore to be taken up in the North East in the next two years
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated India's longest bridge - the 9.15 km long Dhola-Sadiya
bridge over the River Brahmaputra, in Assam today. The bridge will ensure 24X7 connectivity between upper
Assam and Eastern part of Arunachal Pradesh, marking a major transformation from the ferry-based, day-only
connectivity that collapsed during floods. It will also reduce the distance and travel time between the two states.
The distance between Rupai on NH- 37 in Assam to Meka/Roing on NH-52 in Arunachal Pradesh will be cut
down by 165 KM. The travel time between the two places will come down from the current six hours to just one
hour a total five hour reduction.
Addressing a public meeting at Dhola on the occasion, the Prime Minister said Dhola-Sadiya bridge opens the
door for economic development in the North East on a big scale. He said the eastern and north-eastern parts of
the country have the greatest potential for economic development, and this bridge is just one element of the
Union Government's vision in this regard.
The Prime Minister further said that enhanced connectivity between the North-East and other parts of the country
is a priority for the Union Government, and work has been greatly speeded up in this regard. He said that good
connectivity in the North-East will also link the region with the economy of South-East Asia.
The Union Government has decided to name the Dhola-Sadiya bridge after the great musician, lyricist and poet,
Bhupen Hazarika.
Also speaking on the occasion the Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Shipping Shri Nitin Gadkari said
that highways and inland waterways projects worth about Rs 40,000 crores are currently being implemented in
the North Eastern states, and there are plans to spend about Rs 1,50,000 crores on projects in these states in the
next two years . He gave details about the major highways projects in the eight North Eastern states and said that
a total of about 3,000 km of roads are currently being constructed in these states. He also elaborated upon the
planned and ongoing work for development of the Brahmaputra River (National Waterways 2) and Barak River
(National Waterways-16). He said that developing road and inland waterways connectivity was a major priority
with this government as this would greatly raise prosperity in the North Eastern region of the country and bring
about development not only in these states but in the country as a whole.
12/8/2017 Indias longest bridge brings Assam closer to Arunachal Pradesh
*****
UM/NP/MS
12/8/2017 Indias First Fleet of 200 Electric Vehicles Launched in Nagpur

Government of India
26-May-2017 20:32 IST
Indias First Fleet of 200 Electric Vehicles Launched in Nagpur
The Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Shipping Shri Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Chief Minister
Shri Devendra Fadnavis launched Indias first multi-modal electric vehicle project at the Nagpur airport complex
today. This unique project brings together e-buses, e-cabs, e-rickshaws and e-autos on a single platform, the Ola
App, which will enable commuters in Nagpur to book them. The fleet of 200 vehicles consists of 100 of
Mahindras new e20 Plus vehicles, besides those from other manufacturers like Tata Motors, Kinetic and TVS.
Speaking on the occasion Shri Gadkari said that it was his Governments vision to make India a 100 percent e-
vehicle nation. Shri Gadkari said his Ministry was prepared to facilitate manufacturers and other companies to
take the Nagpur model to other parts of the country. He said e- vehicles need to be promoted in order to cut down
the huge crude oil bill, reduce pollution and create cost effectiveness in transportation. To begin with, the
emphasis would be on commercial vehicles and then on others.
Shri Gadkari informed that growing demand, coupled with R&D would gradually help to bring down the
operational costs, and especially the battery cost. He added that once the cost of batteries comes down, e-vehicles
will compete with diesel and petrol vehicles and finally phase them out.
*****
UM/NP
12/8/2017 Government focused on Integrated Development & Inclusive Growth

Government of India
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
27-May-2017 12:43 IST
Government focused on Integrated Development & Inclusive Growth
DD committed to provide truthful information & wholesome entertainment to people - Venkaiah Naidu
I&B Minister releases 14 short films produced by Doordarshan on success stories of various Flagship schemes of the
Government
Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu, Minister for Information & Broadcasting has said that the focus of the Government under
the leadership of Prime Minister has been on Integrated Development, Inclusive Growth and Good Governance. The
Government in the last three years had taken various initiatives for the welfare of the people ensuring Sabka Saath Sabka
Vikas. The 14 Short Films produced by Doordarshan showcased the success stories under various Flagship Schemes of the
Government which had positively impacted peoples lives and had brought a transformational change in the country. The
films have successfully portrayed the underlying development narrative through testimonials from the beneficiaries at the
field level all across the country. The Minister mentioned this while releasing the 14 short films produced by Doordarshan
on various flagship schemes of the Government here today.
Speaking further, Shri Naidu said that these films would be showcased on all Doordarshan channels in Hindi and all
other Indian languages with the purpose to motivate and inspire others also to use the benefits under various Flagship
Schemes of the Government. These films would also be used by all other Media units of the Ministry of I&B to enhance
outreach across media platforms. Shri Naidu also mentioned that Ministry of I&B would be facilitating the outreach
programmes of the Government through MODI (Making of Developed India) fests all across the country along with its
media units.
Speaking on the Freedish initiative of Doordarshan, Shri Naidu said that DD Free Dish was the largest free DTH
Service available to the people in the country. As per the recent estimates it has reached more than 22 million homes. The
Government has planned to further enhance the reach of DD Free Dish by distributing Free DD DTH boxes in the remote
and interior areas of the country through State Governments, especially in the LWE impacted areas. He also mentioned that
the Ministry would be giving 10,000 DTH boxes to the Government of Chattisgarh for distribution in the LWE areas.
12/8/2017 Government focused on Integrated Development & Inclusive Growth
The following themes have been covered in the short films produced by Doordarshan.
1. Mission Indradhanush
2. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna and Soil Health Card
3. Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas
4. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana
5. Skill India
6. Beti Bachao Beto Padhao
7. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojna
8. Kaushal Bharat Kushal Bharat
9. Pradahn Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna
10. National Solar Mission under Ujjwal Bharat
Shri Naidu also highlighted that Doordarshan would be organising a Sports Conclave tomorrow i.e. 28th May, 2017
at its studios at Asiad Village New Delhi. Leading sports personalities, sports federations, editors from various sports
magazines and newspapers would be participating in live discussions. DD sports would connect live with Varanasi,
Guwahati and other places to interact with local players and State Authorities. The conclave would discuss the future of
Indian sports and policy interventions required for India to become a formidable force.
CP/GV
12/8/2017 Our Country is the Largest Producer of Milk in the World: Shri Radha Mohan Singh

Government of India
28-May-2017 18:55 IST
Our Country is the Largest Producer of Milk in the World: Shri Radha Mohan Singh
Under Rashtriya Gokul Mission, on the lines of Gokul Gram, Gir Cow sanctuary has been Approved
It Is the Responsibility of Veterinarians to Contribute in Keeping the Nation Healthy By Increasing Availability of
Animal Protein
By 2022 the Government of India is committed to Double Farmers' Income
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh today said that the Government of
India has undertaken several new initiatives in the field of animal husbandry in Gujarat. Under Rashtriya Gokul
Mission, on the lines of Gokul Gram Gir, Cow Sanctuary has been approved. This will be established in
Dharampur, Porbandar under Livestock insurance coverage. Earlier only two milk animals were included , now 5
milk animals and 50 small animals are included. This scheme has been implemented in all the districts of the
state, whereas earlier only 15 districts were included. During the year 2014-16, about 26,000 animals have been
insured in the state. To fulfil the shortage of veterinarians, a veterinary college has been established in Junagadh.
The Agriculture Minister was speaking at the inauguration ceremony of polytechnic at Kamdhenu University,
Sabarkantha.
The Agriculture Minister said that it is a matter of immense pride that our country is number one in milk
production in the world. In the year 2015-16, the growth rate of milk production has been 6.28 per cent due to
which total production has reached 156 million tonnes. And now, per person milk availability is 337 gram on an
average, while on the world level it is 229 gram. It is worth mentioning that in comparison to the years 2011-14,
the growth in milk production during the years 2014-17 has been 16.9 per cent.
He said that the standard of living of urban and rural families is rising, therefore, the demand for the animal
protein is increasing. So, it is necessary that we constantly make effort to increase the production of our
livestock, poultry and fish so that the country's citizens are well-nourished and healthy. That is why it is the
responsibility of veterinarians to contribute in keeping the nation healthy by increasing availability of animal
protein.
He said that the Government is committed to double farmers' income by 2022 and veterinaries play a significant
role in fulfilling the Governments resolution to double the farmers income. A healthy animal will result in
greater production which will automatically enhance the farmers income and the country will proceed on the
path of economic prosperity.
12/8/2017 Our Country is the Largest Producer of Milk in the World: Shri Radha Mohan Singh
Agriculture Minister said that India is worlds highest livestock owner at about 512.05 million out of which
199.1 million are bovines, 105.3 million buffaloes, 71.6 million sheep and 140.5 million goats. In the case of
goats, India is at the second position in the world and it is approximately 25 % of the livestock. India is second
largest poultry market in the world and it includes the production of 63 billion eggs and 649 million poultry
meat. India's marine and fish industry are growing at around 7 percent compound annual growth rate. Overall,
Indias livestock sector is growing fast and emerging as a major contributor in the global market.
The Agriculture Minister said that the Government of India is ensuring the quality of education in universities is
of international standards. In this direction, ICARs Fifth Deans Committee Report has been approved. Schemes
like Student and Arya have been started with scholarships. Students scholarship amount has been increased.
In the end, the Minister said that to see our nation prosper and agriculture sector and farmers flourish, we need to
work together. When the agriculture will grow, the farmer will be happy and the country will move forward.
*****
SS/
12/8/2017 Prime Minister announces ex gratia relief of Rs. 1 lakh to the next of the kin of E-rickshaw driver beaten to death for espousing the social cause

Government of India
29-May-2017 21:54 IST
Prime Minister announces ex gratia relief of Rs. 1 lakh to the next of the kin of E-rickshaw driver beaten to death for
espousing the social cause of Swachha Bharat
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi who is on a visit abroad has sanctioned Rs. one lakh from the
Prime Minister's National Relief Fund to the next of kin of the E-rickshaw driver Ravindra Kumar who
was beaten to death for stopping two people from urinating in the public in New Delhi. The Prime
Minister condemned the incident and directed the authorities to bring to book and punish the
culprits for committing such inhuman act.
Earlier in the day Urban Development and Information & Broadcasting Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu
visited the family of the e-rickshaw driver at GTB Nagar in New Delhi. He also handed over a cheque
of Rs. 50,000 from his salary to the family terming the act as condemnable. Shri Naidu said that the
culprits must be punished.
****
AKT/YSK/NT
12/8/2017 Special Drive to enrol left out electors giving focus on first time electors (young Indian Citizens in the age group of 18-19 (extendable to 21 years)

Government of India
Election Commission
29-May-2017 18:48 IST
Special Drive to enrol left out electors giving focus on first time electors (young Indian Citizens in the age group of
18-19 (extendable to 21 years)
The Election Commission of India has decided to launch a Special Drive from 1st June this year for
maximization of registration of eligible electors and removing the impurities in the rolls. In tune with the theme of No
voters to be left behind the ECI has decided to utilise the period of continuous updation for maximisation of enrolment of
young electors particularly 18-19 age group by launching a special drive in all States.
During the campaign, which will be completed by 31st July 2017, following activities will be undertaken by
election official in all States.
Submission of Forms shall be available to electors in following modes:-

Submission of Form 6 at EROs Office
Sending of Form 6 by Post
Online Submission of Form 6 at National Voters' Service Portal (NVSP)
Submission of online Form 6 at Common Service Centers (CSCs)
Following additional services for the purpose shall also be provided during special drive:-
Door to Door visit of BLOs: BLO shall visit door to door of the households to collect Form 6 from the applicants,
particularly 18-19 age group (extendable to 21years of age) from 1st July 2017 and 31st July 2017 (except the Special
Campaign Dates).
Mobile App.: A user can also fill the Form using mobile app "The Voter Services mobile application', available only
on the Commissions website.
National Call Centre (NCC): The ECI has also provided facility of National Call Centre for extending Citizen
Services. At the State level, CEO will provide State Call Centre (SCC) and District Contact Centre (DCC) at district
level by upgrading 1950 on the same line of National Contact Centre. A citizen making a call at NCC/SCC/DCC will
be informed about procedure of Form submission through the above modes. If a differently abled person making call
at any of these centres, expresses his inability to utilize any of the above services, then a visit by BLO concerned will
be arranged at his/her address for getting the Form filled and receiving it back from that person for further processing.
This service will be provided free of cost.
Paid Services: CSCs will provide services of making online filling and hard copy Form digitization on payment basis.
i. Special Campaign Dates: Special Campaigns will be organized on two dates in the month of July 2017, which will
be publicised through media by the Chief Electoral Officer. On these dates, Camps will be held in each polling
station where Booth Level Officer will sit with adequate number of Forms 6, to receive Forms from the applicants.
On the day of camp, entire final electoral roll, 2017 along with its supplements, if any, shall be pasted on the wall of
the polling stations. The roll shall also be read out publically by the BLO on that date. The left out eligible citizens
will fill Forms 6 and give the same to the BLO at the polling station itself, or submit through any other available
means during the Special Drive. Special camps will also be conducted in all Government and Private Educational
Institutions (colleges and Schools)/Vocational Training Institutes on at least any two different days between 1st July
2017 and 31st July 2017.
ii. Removal of names of dead electors: During the Special Drive, removal of names of dead electors will also be
taken up. For identification of such dead electors, data on registered deaths shall be collected from the Registrar of
Deaths and all registered death entries should be removed during the Special Drive.
iii. Disposal of Forms: Disposal of Forms 6 and Forms 7 (death cases), received during Special Drive will be done by
31st August 2017. However, Forms 7 (other than death cases), Form 8 and 8A received during the period will be
done only after the Special Drive.
12/8/2017 Special Drive to enrol left out electors giving focus on first time electors (young Indian Citizens in the age group of 18-19 (extendable to 21 years)
Election Commission of India

New Delhi : 29th May ,2017
RM/VM/PS
12/8/2017 Bihar is the top litchi producing State, about 300 thousand metric tonnes of litchi is being produced from 32 thousand hectare areas: Shri Radha

Government of India
29-May-2017 15:30 IST
Bihar is the top litchi producing State, about 300 thousand metric tonnes of litchi is being produced from 32
thousand hectare areas: Shri Radha Mohan Singh
Scientists at BARC and National Research Centre on Litchi succeeds in treating litchi and preserving it for 60 days
at low temperature: Shri Singh
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister inaugurates Litchi Processing Plant, Muzaffarpur, Bihar
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh said that the main objective of the
Central Government is focused on research to develop new varieties and techniques of litchi farming to increase
its production and to share information with the Extension Division. Shri Singh said this at the inauguration and
co-training of Litchi processing plant here.
Union Minister said that Bihar is the top litchi producing State in the country. In Bihar, about 300 thousand
metric tonnes of litchi is being produced from 32 thousand hectares of area. Bihar's contribution in the
production of litchi is about 40 percent. Considering the importance of litchi, National Research Centre on Litchi
was established on June 6, 2001.
Shri Singh said that the contribution of Muzaffarpur district in litchis production is impressive, but there is a
need to increase the productivity of litchi, which is currently 8.0 tonne. For this, all the government institutions,
cooperatives and farmers will have to come forward. Union Agriculture Minister said that it is a matter of
immense pride that scientists at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and National Research Centre on Litchi have
succeeded in treating litchi and preserving it for 60 days at low temperature. One of its processing plants has also
been developed. Shri Singh said that this technique will be useful for the litchi producers and businessmen. Shri
Singh also said that to make this technique effective, litchi producers will have to produce superior quality fruits
for which National Research Centre on Litchi has developed several techniques. The National Research Centre
on Litchi is providing about 35-40 thousand plants every year to various institutions/states in the country. Union
Agriculture Minister said that the National Research Centre on Litchi is working closely with other institutions of
ICAR and agricultural universities of the state and the development centres of the Central and State Governments
like National Horticulture Board, APEDA, National Horticulture Mission etc.
Shri Radha Mohan Singh said that our scientists are working day and night to develop advanced varieties and
agricultural activities and that State Governments, KVKs and other institutions should take it to the masses.
Through its limited resources, the centre has implemented ICARs Farmers First project in East Champaran
district. As many as 1,000 families from 8 villages (Mehsi Block-Uzhilpur, Bakri Najir, Damodarpur Village,
Chakia Block- Khairwa, Ramgarha, Jishnupura, Ojha Tola- Vaishah and Chintanpur-Malahi Tola village) are
12/8/2017 Bihar is the top litchi producing State, about 300 thousand metric tonnes of litchi is being produced from 32 thousand hectare areas: Shri Radha
reaping the benefits of several new techniques. And the unique initiative by the council allows farmers to test
advanced technology themselves. And now there is a need to create awareness about it. Through Mera Gaon-
Mera Gaurav program, scientists have been successful in taking new techniques to some villages. The Centre
has initiated Health Card scheme through which orchards are being examined and farmers are being sensitised.
Not just Bihar, litchi fruit farming can be successfully done in other parts of the country too. Therefore, there is a
need to promote research in these areas too.
On this occasion, Shri Singh congratulated all the scientists and officers and hoped that this plant will help litchi
farmers, producers and traders of Bihar and the entire nation in increasing their income.
SS
12/8/2017 Swachh Bharat Mission to go all out for Darwaza Band

Government of India
Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation
29-May-2017 16:23 IST
Swachh Bharat Mission to go all out for Darwaza Band
Amitabh Bachchan led Toilet Usage Campaign set for national launch
For promotion of toilet usage across the countrys villages, the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation has
come out with an aggressive new campaign called Darwaza Band starting tomorrow, May 30th, 2017.
Iconic actor, Shri Amitabh Bachchan, who leads the campaign, is proposed to be joined by Union Minister for
Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra
Fadnavis, Secretary, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri Parameswaran Iyer, and other dignitaries at
the formal launch event in Mumbai tomorrow. Champion functionaries from the State will also be awarded on
the occasion.
The campaign has been supported by the World Bank and is being rolled out countrywide immediately after the
launch. It is designed to encourage behaviour change in men who have toilets but are not using them. The
campaign also features actor, Ms Anushka Sharma, who will be seen encouraging women to stand up for this
issue in their villages and assume a leadership role.
Shri Bachchan has been a major supporter and ambassador for the Swachh Bharat Mission and is already
associated with its ongoing campaigns. Behaviour change has been the focus of Swachh Bharat Mission, which
is being pursued through a countrywide comprehensive IEC(Information-Education-Communication)
programme. Communication campaigns have been taken up both, at the central and State levels, for promoting
sustained use of toilets and for sustaining the Open Defecation Free status achieved.
The Union Minister and the State Chief Minister will also review the working of the Swachh Bharat Mission
(Gramin) programme in Maharashtra ahead of the event.
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SNC
12/8/2017 Cyclonic Storm MORA over EastCentral Bay of Bengal

Government of India
Ministry of Earth Science
29-May-2017 13:48 IST
Cyclonic Storm MORA over EastCentral Bay of Bengal
The cyclonic storm MORA over eastcentral Bay of Bengal moved northward during past 06 hours with a speed of 11
kmph and lay centred at 0830 hrs IST of today, 29th May, 2017 over eastcentral Bay of Bengal near Latitude 17.3N and
Longitude 91.3E, about 660 km south-southeast of Kolkata and 550 km south-southwest of Chittagong. The system is
likely to intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm during next 12 hours. It is very likely to move north-northeastwards
and cross Bangladesh coast between longitude 91.0E and 92.0E near Chittagong around 30th May 2017 forenoon.
Observed and forecast track positions and intensity of the system are given below:
Date/time(IST) Position Maximum sustained Category of cyclonic

(lat. N/ long. E) surface wind speed (kmph) Disturbance
29.05.2017/0830 17.3/91.3 75-85 gusting to 95 Cyclonic Storm
29.05.2017/1130 17.9/91.3 80-90 gusting to 100 Cyclonic Storm
29.05.2017/1730 18.9/91.4 90-100 gusting to 110 Severe Cyclonic Storm
30.05.2017/1730 24.2/91.8 55-65 gusting to 75 Deep Depression
31.05.2017/0530 26.5/92.5 35-45 gusting to 55 Depression
Warning:
(i) Heavy Rainfall Warning:

29th May 2017: Rainfall at many places with heavy rainfall at isolated places very likely to commence over Tripura
and Mizoram from today evening, the 29th May, 2017.
30th May 2017: Rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places and isolated extremely
heavy rainfall very likely over Assam & Meghalaya. Rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall at
isolated places very likely over Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.
31st May 2017: Rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places very likely over Assam &
Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.
(ii) Wind warning: Squally winds speed reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph would prevail along & off Andaman
Islands and adjoining Sea areas during next 48 hours. Squally winds speed reaching 45-55 kmph gusting to 65
kmph would prevail over South Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur and Tripura on 30th May and along & off
West Bengal coast on 29th & 30th.
(iii) Sea condition: Sea condition would be rough to very rough along & off Andaman Islands during next 48 hours and
along & off West Bengal Coast on 30th.
(iv) Fishermen Warning: Fishermen are advised not to venture into sea along & off Andaman Islands during next 48
hrs. Fishermen along & off West Bengal Coast are advised not to venture into sea on 29th & 30th May and those out
at sea are advised to return to the coast.
Cyclonic Storm MORA
RDS/nb
12/8/2017 Prakash Javadekar launches UGC App to fight Ragging

Government of India
Ministry of Human Resource Development
29-May-2017 15:39 IST
Prakash Javadekar launches UGC App to fight Ragging
The App Streamlines the process of registering complaints and concerns
Union Human Resource Development Minister Shri Prakash Javadekar today launched an Anti-Ragging Mobile
App introduced by the University Grants Commission (UGC) here in New Delhi. Speaking on this occasion Shri
Javadekar said this mobile app will help students register complaints to counter the menace of ragging.
The Minister said earlier one had to visit the website for registering a complaint of ragging and our record shows
that timely action was taken which in turn had resulted in the decrease of such instances. But still this ill has to
be eliminated completely, he said.
Shri Javadekar said as per his knowledge in campuses majority of senior students actually help guide their
juniors and properly mentor them, but in few cases ragging happens which needs to be completely eliminated
from campuses. He said physical or mental torture of a new student is ragging which we wont allow, this is
unacceptable and therefore this app will become a handy tool to any student who goes through such experience.
The Minister said this app will work on android system on which students can log in and register their
complaints immediately. Accordingly all concerned will be informed immediately and action will start
immediately.
He said it is a good step for protection and will give a feeling of security to students. The Minister categorically
cautioned that those who are involved in ragging will not be tolerated and they will not be allowed to continue
their education in that institution. At the same time they will meet severe penalty and punishment as per the law.
However the Minister expressed hope that good senior students will act as mentors for their juniors.
*******
GG/ST/IA
12/8/2017 Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu visits the family of deceased e-rickshaw driver and gives Rs.50, 000 in his personal capacity

Government of India
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
29-May-2017 18:51 IST
Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu visits the family of deceased e-rickshaw driver and gives Rs.50, 000 in his personal capacity
Speaks to LG; LG to provide Rs. 5, 00,000 as relief
Minister for Urban Development, Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation and Information & Broadcasting Shri M.
Venkaiah Naidu today visited the family of the deceased e-rickshaw driver Shri Ravindra Kumar who was beaten to death in
northwest Delhi's Mukherjee Nagar area on Saturday after he stopped two people from urinating in public. The Minister
gave a cheque of Rs 50,000 in his personal capacity to the family of the driver as a temporary relief. After speaking with
Lieutenant Governor, Shri Naidu said that the LG has agreed to give a grant of Rs.5, 00,000 as a relief, to the family of
deceased on behalf of Delhi administration. The Minister also spoke to Municipal commissioner of North West Delhi and
asked him to provide employment to the spouse of the deceased driver, as per norms. Municipal Commissioner promised to
give a temporary job, Shri Naidu added.
Earlier in the day, the Minister expressed grief over the whole incident and tweeted, "Sad that an e-rickshaw driver
was beaten to death for stopping 2 people from urinating in public in Delhi. He was promoting Swachh Bharat." He has also
spoken to Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik and asked him to take "strongest action possible" against the culprits.
Shri Naidu visited the place of incident and said that the Sulabh Shauchalaya was barely few metres away from it.
CP/GV
12/8/2017 40 crore workers from unorganized sector to be covered under social security schemes: Shri Bandaru Dattatreya

Government of India
Ministry of Labour & Employment
29-May-2017 18:29 IST
40 crore workers from unorganized sector to be covered under social security schemes: Shri Bandaru Dattatreya
Labour Code on Wages to be sent to cabinet for approval: Labour & Employment Minister
3.87 crore candidates & 14.8 lakh establishments registered on National Career Service Portal
The Minister of State for Labour & Employment (IC), Shri Bandaru Dattatreya has announced that the 40 crore
workers from unorganized sector will be covered under social security schemes such as ESIC & EPFO. The
Minister said that the Government is committed to ensure wage, jobs and social security for all workers including
unorganized sector. Shri Dattatreya was addressing a function on the 3 years achievements of the his ministry in
New Delhi today. He said that the Ministry is implementing reforms and new ways and means for employment
generation. India is the only country which has launched Shram Suvidha Portal for effective compliance and ease
of doing business. The Ministry is implementing the National Career Service (NCS) project as a vibrant platform
for transforming and strengthening the public employment services in the country.
Shri Dattatreya said that the Ministry got the following Acts passed by the Parliament during last 3 years.
1- The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 which ensures complete prohibition on
employment of children below 14 years and also prohibited the adolescents (14-18 years ) to work in hazardous
occupation/processes
2- The Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017 under which maternity benefit to woman has been increased
from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for two surviving children and 12 weeks for more than two children
3- The Payment of Wages(Amendment) Act,2017 enables the employers to pay the wages to their employees by
cash or cheque or crediting it to their bank account.
4- The Employees Compensation (Amendment) Act, 2017 has the provision to increase the penalty for
contravention of Act from present Rs.5000/- to Rs. 50,000/- extendable to Rs.1 Lakh.
5- Payment of Bonus Amendment Act, 2015 has enhanced the eligibility limit under section 2(13) from Rs.
10,000/- to Rs.21,000/- per month.
6- The Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946 has been amended by notification to include fixed
term employment for textile (apparel) sector as a part of textile package to enhance employment.
The Labour & Employment Minister said that the Ministry is working on the proposed codification of existing
Labour Laws into 4 Labour Codes.
(i) Labour Code on Wages

(ii) Labour Code on Industrial Relations
(iii) Labour Code on Social Security and Welfare
(iv) Labour Code on Occupational Safety and Working Conditions
The Group of Ministers has approved the Labour Code on Wages and it will be sent to cabinet for approval.
The Minister said that the Minimum wage (per day) for non-agricultural worker in the C area category
increased from Rs.246/- to Rs.350/-, Rs437/- in B Area category and Rs.523/- in A area category. He also
informed that the Shram Suvidha Portal is a single unified web portal for submissions of common Annual Return
under 9 Central Acts and monthly common Electronic Challan Cum Return (ECR) for EPFO and ESIC. He also
informed that Unique Labour Identification Number (LIN) is allotted to Units and 19,23,162 Lakhs LIN allotted
as on on 22nd May, 2017. Total 2,95,423 inspections have been assigned and out of that 2,76,931 inspections
have been uploaded as on 22nd May, 2017. Common registration under EPFO and ESIC has been facilitated on
the Shram Suvidha Portal since 30th April, 2017.
Shri Dattatreya said that Registers/Forms to be maintained under various labour laws are simplified. 56
Registers/- Forms under 9 Central Labour Laws and Rules made thereunder have been replaced with 5 common
Registers/Forms. The notification has been issued on 28th March, 2017 for reducing Forms under certain Labour
Law Rules from 36 to 12. It is applicable to the establishments under the jurisdiction of Central as well as State
Governments.
He said that employers can apply for EPF code number online by uploading of digitally signed documents. As on
06th December, 2016 around 1.52 Lakhs establishments have been obtained online registration on OLRE portal.
Universal Account Number(UAN) has been made compulsory and online credit system introduced. Minimum
pension under Employees Pension Scheme, 1995 has been revised to Rs. 1000/- in perpetuity per month w.e.f.
April 2015. Time limit for claim settlement has been reduced to 10 days from 20 days. No documents required
and only self-certification is necessary for withdrawal under the EPF scheme for the accounts linked with
Aadhaar.
The Minister informed that ESIC is now covering complete districts instead of targeted industrial clusters.
Coverage expanded to all 393 districts where these clusters are located. 301 districts have been fully covered. In
the second phase, the target is to cover all the remaining districts of the country. One IP-Two Dispensaries
scheme has been launched for the benefit of migrant workers. Now Insured Persons can choose two dispensaries,
one for self and another for family through an employer.
Shri Bandaru Dattatreya said that over 3.87 crore candidates, 14.8 lakh establishments are registered on the
National Career Service (NCS) Portal and it has mobilized over 6 lakh vacancies. Around 540 job fair were
organised in 2016-17. The NCS project also involves setting up of 100 Model Career Centre to deliver quality
employment services and these centres are being set up in collaboration with States and Institutions. NCS has
partnered with Department of Posts and common services centre to extend registration of job seekers through the
Post Offices.
Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY) scheme has been announced to incentivize employers for
new employment. Government will be paying the 8.33% EPS contribution for these new employment for the
period of 3 years. For the textile (Apparel & made up) sector, Government will also pay the 3.67% EPF
contribution of employers for these new employees. Till now benefit have been transferred to 1,954
establishments covering 75,848 beneficiaries under the scheme with an expenditure of Rs. 6 crores (approx.).
Rehabilitation of Bonded Labour Scheme has been revised with effect from 17th May, 2016 where financial
assistance has been increased from Rs.20,000/- Rs.1,00,000/- per adult male beneficiary, Rs 2 Lakh for special
category beneficiaries such as children including orphans or those rescued from organized & forced begging
rings or other forms of forced child labour and women. Rs 3 Lakh in cases of bonded or forced labour involving
extreme cases of deprivation or marginalization.
The Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, Ms. M. Sathiyavathy in her welcoming address said that the
Government is creating environment to facilitate employment with quality and fair wages. For this number of
initiatives and programmes have been undertaken.
On this occasion, Shri Dattatreya inaugurated Centre of Excellence (Ophthalmology) of ESI PGIMSR & Model
Hospital and Physiotherapy & X-ray units of ESIC on PPP model for beneficiaries for Delhi region. He also
inaugurated EPFO Regional Office, Delhi (West) and Regional Office, Delhi (Central). The Minister Felicitated
six model employers and also released a book on 3 years achievements and initiatives of the Ministry of Labour
& Employment.
****
BCK/AK
12/8/2017 Petroleum Minister, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan meets Mr. Shigeru Aoyagi, Country Head of UNESCO

Government of India
Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
29-May-2017 19:16 IST
Petroleum Minister, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan meets Mr. Shigeru Aoyagi, Country Head of UNESCO
ONGC in partnership with UNESCO has developed long term and short term plans for conservation of Chilika Lake
Shri Pradhan said special focus should be given to improvement of livelihood of people associated with Chilika Lake
Minister assured to seek support from all stakeholders for nomination and selection of Chilika Lake as UNESCO
World Heritage Site
Minister of State (I/C) for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan met Mr. Shigeru Aoyagi, Country
Head of UNESCO here today. UNESCO in association with ONGC is planning to support development of Chilika Lake as a
UNESCO World Heritage Site.
ONGC in partnership with UNESCO has developed long term and short term plans for conservation of Chilika Lake;
protection of the animals and birds; improving livelihood of fishing community; tourist guides and local population; direct
income generation and welfare activities at Mangalajodi, etc.
Shri Pradhan stressed upon a holistic view on conservation and protection of Chilika Lake and the ecosystem
associated with it. He said that special focus should be given to improvement of livelihood of people associated with the
Lake. He advised ONGC to associate local partners in implementation of the various projects.
The Minister assured that he will seek support of Government of Odisha, Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change & Ministry of Culture in the context of nomination and selection of Chilika Lake as UNESCO World
Heritage Site.
******
12/8/2017 Petroleum Minister, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan meets Mr. Shigeru Aoyagi, Country Head of UNESCO
RG
12/8/2017 Darwaza Band for open defecation

Government of India
Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation
30-May-2017 17:55 IST
Darwaza Band for open defecation
MDWS launches a fresh national campaign led by Amitabh Bachchan
The centre today launched an aggressive new campaign titled 'Darwaza Band' to promote toilet use and freedom
from open defecation across the country's villages. The campaign produced by the MDWS under Swachh Bharat
Mission was launched in the presence of iconic actor, Shri Amitabh Bachchan, Union Minister for Drinking
Water and Sanitation, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis,
Secretary, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri Parameswaran Iyer, and other Centre and State
dignitaries in Mumbai. The event was widely attended by officials from all the State Districts and selected Gram
Panchayat Members.
The Union Minister and the State Chief Minister also reviewed the working of the Swachh Bharat Mission
(Gramin) programme in Maharashtra ahead of the event. Champion functionaries from the State of Maharashtra
were awarded during the event. An exhibition displaying various toilet technologies was also put up.
The 'Darwaza Band' campaign has been supported by the World Bank and is being rolled out countrywide
immediately after the launch. It is designed to encourage behaviour change in men who have toilets but are not
using them. A part of the campaign also features actor, Ms Anushka Sharma, who will be seen encouraging
women to stand up for this issue in their villages and assume a leadership role.
Shri Narendra Tomar said that achievement of 64% ODF status is a tribute to the Prime Ministers commitment.
He also congratulated Maharashtra on its significant achievement of 80% ODF. He further said that all attempts
are being made to make this into a true Jan Andolan. He said the goal for India should be to become a showcase
country for cleanliness by 2019. He thanked Shri Amitabh Bachchan for his constant support.
Shri Devendra Fadnavis thanked MDWS for choosing Maharashtra to launch the Darwaza Band Campaign. He
thanked Sri Bachchan for taking on the mandate of raising awareness about Swacchta and endorsing the new
campaign. He emphasised that Maharashtra is committed to become ODF by March 2018. dSpeaking at the
event Shri Bachchan gave a brief background to the development of the campaign and mentioned that the
campaign talks about a safe space for people to defecate. He also congratulated the State Champions and assured
the audience of his support to the cause of Swacchta. He assured the audience of his constant support of the
Swachh Bharat Mission as and when needed.
12/8/2017 Darwaza Band for open defecation
Shri Bachchan has been a major supporter and ambassador for the Swachh Bharat Mission and is already
associated with its ongoing campaigns.
Behaviour change has been the focus of Swachh Bharat Mission, which is being pursued through a countrywide
comprehensive IEC(Information-Education-Communication) programme. Communication campaigns have been
taken up both, at the central and State levels, for promoting sustained use of toilets and for sustaining the Open
Defecation Free status achieved.
Shri Iyer announced that the number of people defecating in the open has reduced from 55 crores in May 2014 to
35 crores in May 2017. He highlighted that the program is not just a toilet construction program but focuses on
behaviour change promoting sustainable usage, at both community and village levels. In his presentation Shri
Iyer showcased visual examples of some behaviour change communication being done at the grassroots.
Introducing the campaign, he said that it focuses on the need to shift peoples paradigm from open to closed
especially for men.
The Amitabh Bachchan series of ads encourages behaviour change in men who have toilets but are not using
them. The Anushka Sharma series of ads is a clarion call for women who are more affected by this problem to
stand up for this issue in their village and influence a positive change. These have been developed by Lowe
Lintas, Mumbai under a World Bank Project.
<><><><><>
SNC
12/8/2017 Ministry of Earth Sciences to launch Deep Ocean Mission by January 2018

Government of India
Ministry of Earth Science
30-May-2017 18:34 IST
Ministry of Earth Sciences to launch Deep Ocean Mission by January 2018
Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India is all set to launch Deep Ocean Mission by January 2018.
This will improve Indias position in ocean research field. Shri M Rajeevan, Secretary, Ministry of Earth
Sciences announced today. Secretary was speaking through video conference in the workshop arranged by
National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula. Shri M S Nagar, Member Standing Committee, Ministry of
Earth Science, Dr VSN Murthy, Director, National Institute of Oceanography were also present at the
inauguration of the workshop on Three decades of India acquiring Pioneer Investor Status- Achievements and
way forward. India achieved a lot in the field of ocean research; still it is long way to go, said Secretary M
Rajeevan on this occasion.
The program on Poly metallic nodules was initiated at CSIR-NIO with the collection of the first nodule sample
from Arabian Sea on board the first Research Vessel Gaveshani on 26 January 1981. India was the first country
in the world to have been given the Pioneer Area for exploration of deep-sea mineral viz. Polymetallic nodules in
the Central Indian Ocean Basin in 1987. This was based on the extensive surveys carried out by the scientists of
CSIR-NIO, on several research ships leading to the allocation of an area of 150,000 sq km to the country with
exclusive rights under the UN Law of the sea.
Subsequently, Environment Impact Assessment studies for nodule mining by CSIR-NIO, development of metal
extraction process by CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur and CSIR- Institute for Minerals and
Metals Technology, Bhubaneswar and development of mining technology by National Institute of Ocean
Technology, Chennai, have been taken up under the national program on Polymetallic nodules funded by
Ministry of Earth Sciences.
Based on the resource evaluation, India has now retained an area of 75,000 sq km with an estimated resource of
about 100 million tons of strategic metals such Copper,Nickel, Cobalt besides Manganese and Iron. A First
Generation Mine-site (FGM) with an area of 18,000 sq km has been identified. Latest technologies for extraction
of metals from the minerals have also been developed under the programme. Detailed environmental data has
been collected for compliance with International Seabed Authorities requirements. Besides identifying the
mineral resource and developing technologies for mining and extraction, the programme has also resulted in high
impact research as well as manpower development.
***
12/8/2017 Ministry of Earth Sciences to launch Deep Ocean Mission by January 2018
RDS/nb
12/8/2017 MoS (Home) Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir flags off Bicycle Patrols launched by Delhi Police

Government of India
30-May-2017 20:30 IST
MoS (Home) Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir flags off Bicycle Patrols launched by Delhi Police
The Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir flagged off the Bicycle Patrols
launched by the Delhi Police at a function here today. The Chief Guest flagged off the first batch of 65 bicycles
allotted to the Eastern Range of Delhi Police in the presence of the Guest of Honour, Shri Manoj Tiwari, MP,
Shri Amulya Patnaik, Commissioner of Police, Delhi and a large number of police officers and residents
including Police Mitras of the three districts of Eastern Range.
As a 'green' initiative for patrolling the parks, congested lanes and by-lanes, the cooperative societies etc, the
Delhi Police has introduced bicycle patrols to complement and supplement its existing motorcycle and PCR
patrols which focus mainly on crime prevention along the arterial and main roads of Delhi.
Cycle patrols can go where traditional patrol vehicles cannot. The bicycle patrols will reach the narrow and
heavily congested areas where mechanized vehicles find it difficult to reach and maintain a steady presence.
They will also be utilized for patrolling during odd hours when the residents are taking rest, since they are less
disturbing.
One of the main areas of focus of these bicycle patrols will be parks where citizens including senior citizens and
women go for morning and evening walks. The bicycle patrols will also be introduced in the University campus
areas and near schools/colleges where the police officers can have a friendly interface with the student
community.
With zero environmental costs and additional health benefits for the riders, the bicycle patrol parties will also
bring the concept of 'Policing by community involvement close to the largely immigrant and working class
population which inhabits several areas of these three districts. The credibility and legitimacy of policing largely
depends on the community support that follows from transparency in police functioning, integrity in exercise of
its functions/services, and the accountability in doing so. The camaraderie developed by the bicycle patrol
officers will further strengthen the strong community-oriented policing practised by Delhi Police.
The bicycle patrols will mostly be in 'buddy pairs' and will normally cover a distance of 2 to 5 kilometres per
patrol. The patrolling officers are equipped with standard police communication equipment which will operate in
'hands-free mode' and function like mobile police posts of the local Police Station. Each bicycle has been fitted
with cell phone docks and equipment for keeping other accessories.
12/8/2017 MoS (Home) Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir flags off Bicycle Patrols launched by Delhi Police
While focusing on the Policing by community involvement model, the bicycle patrols will, apart from assuring
the law abiding citizenry of their friendly and protective presence, also play the role of area domination, sending
out a message of deterrence to the law breakers in the vicinity. Being slow paced, the spectrum of observation of
bicycle patrol officers will be qualitatively much more meaningful in detecting unwarranted movements and
questionable/suspicious presence in the areas of patrol. The officers are being specifically trained to make a note
of the happenings around them for sharing and validation.
As a beginning, a total of 65 high-end bicycles have been operationalized, - 30 for North East district, 20 for East
district and 15 for Shahdara district. The scheme will be extended to other areas of Delhi in due course.
****
KSD/NK/PK/KM
12/8/2017 New National Commission for Backward Classes to be constituted in the same manner as National Commissions for SCs & STs

Government of India
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
30-May-2017 17:19 IST
New National Commission for Backward Classes to be constituted in the same manner as National Commissions for
SCs & STs
Rs. 242.36 Crores Loans Sanctioned to 65 SC Entrepreneurs till date under venture capital fund for Scheduled
Castes Scheme
2.5 Lakh Beneficiaries trained under Skill Development Programmes of M/O SJ&E Corporations & Scheduled
Castes sub plan during last three Years
Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot interacts with media on 3 Years Achievements Of M/O Sj&E
The new National Commission for Backward Classes will be constituted under Article 338B and will commence functioning
as a constitutional authority, in the same manner as the National Commission for Scheduled Castes under article 338 and the
National Commission for Scheduled Tribes under Article 338A. This was stated by Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for
Social Justice and Empowerment while interacting with media persons on the three years achievements of his ministry here
today. The new Commission will exercise the function of hearing the complaints/grievances of socially and educationally
backward classes. It will have the powers of a Civil Court for this purpose. It will have the duty of advising of the socio
economic development of the socially and educationally backward classes and evaluate the progress of their development,
unlike the present Commission which does not have this role.
The Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, Shri Ramdas Athawale, the Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice
and Empowerment, Smt. G. Latha Krishna Rao and the Principal Director General (M&C), Press Information Bureau, Shri
A.P. Frank Noronha and senior officers of M/o SJ&E were also present.
He informed the media persons that the objective of Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Castes is to promote
entrepreneurship amongst the Scheduled Caste and to provide concessional finance to them. The projects/units are promoted
in manufacturing and services sector ensuring asset creation. The Scheme provides higher level of loans ranging from Rs. 50
lakhs to Rs. 15 crores. Till date loans amounting to Rs. 242.36 crores were sanctioned to 65 Scheduled Cast entrepreneurs
and Rs. 118.99 crores has been disbursed.
The Minister said that the Skill Training is under taken by the three corporations of the Ministry viz. National Scheduled
Caste Finance and Development Corporations (NSFDC), National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation
(NBCFDC) and National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC). During the last three years
i.e. from 2014-15 to 2016-17, 2.5 lakh beneficiaries have been trained under the skill development programme of the
Corporations and the Scheduled Castes Sub Plan. Out of these beneficiaries, 48.42% have got wage/self-employment.
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has released scholarships to 3.45 crore students through Direct Benefit Transfer
(DBT) providing direct benefit to the students. Amount released is Rs. 18000 crores in the last 3 years.
He said that the five places relating to Dr. Ambedkar such as Janam Bhoomi, Mhow; Shiksha Bhoomi 10, King Henry Road,
London; Deeksha Bhoomi, Nagpur; Chaitya Bhoomi, Mumbai; and Parinirvan Bhoomi, 26 Alipur Road, New Delhi were
declared Panchtirth by the Government of India. Besides this, the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation under Ministry of Social
Justice and Empowerment had sponsored 100 students for study tour to Universities of Columbia and London School of
Economics (UK) where Dr. Ambedkar studied.
The Minister informed that the Government of India declared 26th November as Constitution Day. Various programmes by
Ministries/Departments/ State Governments were organised throughout the country and Indian Mission abroad. It has been
decided to increase income limit from Rs. 1.00 Lakh to Rs. 2.50 Lakh on yearly basis to provide assistance to families under
Dr. Ambedkar Medical Aid Scheme. Under Dr. Ambedkar Scheme for Social Integration through inter-caste marriage, 126
Married couple benefitted during the last three years. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has enhanced
Overseas Scholarship for boys and girls belonging to SC/ST community from 60 to 100 for pursuing higher studies aboard.
He said that his Ministry has launched the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana for the welfare of Senior Citizens, which aims at
providing Senior Citizens, belonging to BPL category and suffering from any of the age related disabilities/infirmities viz.
Low vision, Hearing impairment, Loss of teeth and locomotor disabilities, with such assisted-living devices which can
restore near normalcy in their bodily functions, overcoming the disability/infirmity manifested.
The Minister said that the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities has created 4 Guinness World Records,
during the year 2016-17, as detailed in the list below: -
1. First record, created by Biggest Wheelchair Logo/Image by 1000 PwDs at Navsari, Gujrat;
2. Second world record, created by fitting 1200 Hearing Aids to 600 persons within 8 hours at a single location at
Navsari, Gujrat;
3. Third world record, created in Gujrat by lighting most oil lamps simultaneously at a single venue by Divyangjans; and
4. Fourth Guinness World Record was created when 3911 persons with hearing impairment were fitted with hearing aids
in 8 hours in Manipur.
The Minister informed that the financial assistance under Voluntary Organisations working for Welfare of SCs is released to
NGOs/VOs to provide an environment for Socio-Economic up-liftment and overall development of Scheduled Castes (SCs).
Also, the Ministry introduced the Self Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS) in January
2007, with the objective to rehabilitate the remaining manual scavengers and their dependents in alternatives occupations
He said that Scheme for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drugs) Abuse aims at creating awareness and educate
people about the ill-effects of alcoholism and substance abuse on the individual, the family, the workplace and society at
large. There are 431 Drug-de-addiction centres functioning through NGOs, supported by the Ministry.
*****
Sanjay Kumar/jk/M/o-SJ&E (PC)/30-05-2017
12/8/2017 Committee to Enquire Serious Issues Against ST Employees Should Have Minimum of Two Members from ST Community

Government of India
Ministry of Tribal Affairs
30-May-2017 18:04 IST
Committee to Enquire Serious Issues Against ST Employees Should Have Minimum of Two Members from ST
Community
Important Decision of NCST
National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has asked the Department of Personnel and Training to
constitute a committee having minimum of two members from ST community to investigate any matter requiring penalty on
employees belonging to Scheduled Tribes community. The decision was taken in a meeting of the commission held in New
Delhi today under the chairmanship of Shri Nand Kumar Sai.
The Joint Secretary of the commission Shri Sisir Kumar said that commission has taken the decision so that natural
justice is not denied to any ST employee. As per the recommendations of the commission if ST officers are not available in
the Department or Ministry than ST officers from other Departments may be included in the committee.
The commission has also asked the Department of Personnel and Training to issue instructions to all Departments
and Ministries so that they take necessary action on the recommendations of NCST. If the Department face any problem
than before approaching the High Court they should take permission of the concerned Ministry.
In another case NCST took suo motto cognizance of admission of malnourished ST children of Poriahur village of
Kanker District of Chhattisgarh in hospital. The commission has sought the detail report from the State Government.
Expressing concern over the incidents of mal nutrition among ST children the commission has recommended a detailed
study of the issue. The commission has asked Union Rural Devolvement Ministry to link Tribal areas with road connectivity
on priority basis so that necessary medicines and food products could be supplied in time to Tribal dominated areas.
12/8/2017 Committee to Enquire Serious Issues Against ST Employees Should Have Minimum of Two Members from ST Community
*****
Samir/JD/JK
12/8/2017 Online APAR for Indian Trade Service SPARROW-ITS Launched

Government of India
31-May-2017 17:23 IST
Online APAR for Indian Trade Service SPARROW-ITS Launched
In accordance with the Government of Indias policy to introduce online Annual Performance Appraisal Report
(APAR) for Group A services, Smt. Rita Teotia,Commerce Secretary launched the SPARROW-ITS (Smart
Performance Appraisal Report Recording Online Window) today, to enable the Indian Trade Service (ITS)
officers to fill their APAR online for the year 2016-17 onwards. The event was attended by Sh. Ajay Bhalla,
DGFT and othet senior officers of DGFT.
The APARs would be generated and transmitted online to the concerned officers for filling up of the self
appraisal. The officer can then submit the self appraisal online through Digitally Signed Signature (DSC) or
through E-sign. The subsequent processes of reporting and reviewing would also be done online by the
Reporting and Reviewing Officer by using DSC or E-sign. The timelines have been drawn up for each stage of
the process. The entire process of filling up of APAR would have to be completed by 31st December and no
remarks can be added after that date.
The very idea of switch over from manual to online system is to ensure ready access of APAR dossier by the
authorized users, preventing loss of APARs in transition, address the issues of ante-dating, remarks recorded by
the Reporting Authorities without dates, etc. Above all, it brings in transparency into the APAR management
system. This would, in turn, ensure that the APAR dossiers arereadily available for promotions at various levels
which used to get delayed for want of updated APARs. This is another step towards Digital India in the
government, where various administrative processes are being moved to IT platform leading to transparency and
ease of administration. The 150 officers of ITSwould, thus, get benefited by timely promotions and all other
benefits dependent upon the evaluation of their APARs.
MJPS
12/8/2017 Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Punjab National Bank (PNB) sign $100 million loan to finance Solar Rooftop projects

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
31-May-2017 17:24 IST
Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Punjab National Bank (PNB) sign $100 million loan to finance Solar Rooftop
projects
This is the first tranche loan of the $500 million multi tranche finance facility Solar Rooftop Investment Program
(SRIP)
Indias solar rooftop market expanding fast with an estimated total capacity potential of 124 GW
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Punjab National Bank (PNB) yesterday signed a $100 million loan
to be guaranteed by the Government of India that will finance large solar rooftop systems on industrial and
commercial buildings throughout India. The PNB will use the ADB funds to make further loans to various
developers and end users to install rooftop solar systems.
This is the first tranche loan of the $500 million multi tranche finance facility Solar Rooftop Investment Program
(SRIP) approved by ADB in 2016. The financing includes $330 million from ADBs ordinary capital resources
and $170 million from the multi donor Clean Technology Fund (CTF) administered by ADB. The first tranche
loan of $100 million would be financed entirely from the CTF.
With a sharp drop in the price of solar panels, India has a huge potential to expand its use of solar rooftop
technologies, said Mr. Kenichi Yokoyama, ADB Country Director in India who signed the loan on behalf of
ADB. The program will contribute to the governments plans to increase solar power generation capacity, and
also help India meet the carbon emission reduction target in line with its commitment at the recent global climate
change agreement. Indias solar rooftop market is expanding fast with an estimated total capacity potential of
124GW.
The project is aligned with the goal set by Government of India to increase the countrys solar rooftop capacity
by 40 GW by 2022, and would also contribute to Government's efforts to promote solar energy solutions as
affordable and sustainable energy sources, said Mr. Raj Kumar, Joint Secretary to the Government of India,
Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, who signed the Guarantee Agreement for Government of
India. The loan agreement was signed by Mr. H.K. Parikh, General Manager on behalf of PNB.
The entire Solar Rooftop Investment Program will cost $1 billion, inclusive of ADB $500 million funding, and
the projects financed under the program will install solar rooftop system of around 1 GW capacity. This will
contribute to the climate change goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by about 11 million tons of carbon
dioxide equivalent over the typical 25-year lifetime of rooftop solar systems.
12/8/2017 Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Punjab National Bank (PNB) sign $100 million loan to finance Solar Rooftop projects
*****
DSM/VKS/KA

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12/8/2017 Commerce and Industry Minister Smt.

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Following are the Param Vir Chakra recipients:

Major Somnath Sharma, 4 Kumaon, (Posthumous), 1947

Lance Naik Karam Singh, 1 Sikh, 1948

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GG/ST/IA/ VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAAN

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New Policy - A reflect of long term Vision

Key features of the NSP 2017:

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Major initiatives undertaken by Ministry of Culture during Swachhata Pakhwada are :-

Sanjay Kumar/jk/Culture & Tourism/03.05.2017

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Col Aman Anand

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Five-Country International Delegation meets Health Secretary

The integrated solution combines:

Technology: to facilitate evidence-based decision-making by making available online real-time

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Tirupati cleanest in medium cities category; Ambikapur in small cities group

List of Cleanest and Fastest Mover Cities at Zonal Level

Winners of Cleanest and Fastest Mover Awards at Zonal level are:

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12 Gujarat ci es, 11 from MP, 8 from AP among the top 50 Clean Ci es

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A: Solid Waste Management including Door-to-Door collection, Processing and Disposal,

B: Citizen feedback : 30% i.e 600 of total marks

C: Independent observation : 25% i.e 500 marks

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S.No State/UT and no.of ci es Ci es/Towns with rankings

Results and conclusions of Swachh Suvekshan-2017:

S.No City Rank in 2017 Rank in 2016 Rank in 2014

Comparison of rankings of bo om 10 ci es of 2017 with that of 2014:

S.No City/Town 2017 ranking 2014 ranking

Composi on of top and bo om 50 rankings:

City/Town 2017 Ranking 2017 Ranking 2016 Rankings of 2014 Rankings of

Comparison of swachh rankings of ci es/towns in Cha sgarh:

North MCD 279 65 53 397

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Its footprint that extends all over South Asia.

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The draft CAR is available on the following link:

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GI help-desk to be set up in every office of handicrafts and handlooms: Textiles Minister

Textiles Minister launches Helpline for Handicraft Artisans

The Union Textiles Minister Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani

Noting that many of the challenges in GI are faced

Minister of State, Textiles, Shri Ajay Tamta said that

Besides Secretary, Textiles, Smt. Rashmi Verma;

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IWAI ship carries cement from Kolaghat on NW-86 to Bhagalpur on NW-1

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