PM addresses NCC Cadets and NSS Volunteers

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the NCC Cadets and NSS Volunteers today. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister remarked that it was the first time that numerous children dressed up as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had come to the Prime Minister’s Residence. “The mantra of Jai Hind inspires one and all”, the Prime Minister said.

Recalling his interactions with the youth of the country in the past weeks, the Prime Minister noted celebrating Vir Bal Diwas a month ago where the valour and courage of Vir Sahebzades was celebrated all over the country. He also mentioned the National Youth Festival in Karnataka, his interaction with the first batch of Agniveers, young sports players at the Khel Mahakumbh in Uttar Pradesh, children at the Parliament and his residence, and Bal Puraskar Awardees. The Prime Minister also highlighted the Parkisha Pe Charcha interaction with students that is going to take place on 27th January.

The Prime Minister narrated two reasons for the importance of this dialogue with youth. First, because of the energy, freshness, novelty, and passion of youth through which all the positivity keeps inspiring him to work hard day and night. Second, said the Prime Minister, “all of you represent aspirations of dreams in this ‘Amrit Kaal’ and you are going to be the biggest beneficiary of the ‘Viksit Bharat’ and you carry the biggest responsibility of building it.”

The Prime Minister said that it is encouraging to see the increasing role of youth in various dimensions of public life. He recalled the massive participation of youth in the events of Parakram Diwas and other events of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav which is a reflection of the youth’s dreams and dedication to the country.

The Prime Minister noted the contributions of the NCC and NSS volunteers during the corona pandemic and highlighted the efforts of the government in encouraging such organisations. Throwing light on the preparations of the government to make the youth ready for the challenges faced by the border and coastal regions of the country, the Prime Minister informed that special programmes are being run in dozens of districts across the country where special training is imparted with the help of the army, navy and airforce. He noted that this exercise will not only make the youth future-ready but they will also have the capability to act as first responders during the time of need. The Prime Minister also highlighted the vibrant border programme where villages near the country’s borders are being developed. “Efforts are being made to boost the capability of the youth in border areas so that families can return to villages where better opportunities are created for education and employment”, the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister told the cadets that in all their successes, the contribution of their parents and families is present and it is ‘Sabka Saath’ Sabka Viswas, Sabka Prayas’ that is responsible for that. “The scope of your success widens when your goals are linked with the goals of the country. The world will see your success as India’s success”, the Prime Minister said. Giving examples of scientists like Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, Homi Jehangir Bhabha and Dr CV Raman, and sports personalities like Major Dhyanchand and others, the Prime Minister said that the entire world considers their milestones and achievements as India’s successes. “The world sees a new future for itself in India’s achievements”, he said. Noting the strength of the spirit of Sabka Prayas, the Prime Minister said that historical successes are those which become the steps of development for the whole of humanity.

The Prime Minister underlined one more uniqueness of the current timeframe, which is the unprecedented opportunities for the youth. He cited campaigns like Startup India, Make In India and Aatmnirbhar Bharat and India’s focus on the future of humanity as new inspirations. He said that the country is at the forefront of AI, Machine learning and other futuristic technologies. He also noted the robust system that is in place for sports and other such activities. “You have to become part of all this. “You have to search the unseen possibilities, explore unseen areas, and find unimagined solutions”, he said.

Noting the goals and resolutions of the future are extremely important for the country, the Prime Minister said that equal emphasis has to be laid on key priority areas of the present. He urged the youth to keep themselves aware of the changes taking place in the country and asked them to participate keenly in the ongoing campaigns. Mentioning the Swachh Bharat Campaign, the Prime Minister said that every youth in the country should take it up as a life mission and suggested working towards keeping their locality, village, towns and cities clean. Similarly, he asked them to read at least one book on freedom fighters during the Amrit Mahotsava. He also asked them to undertake some creative activity like poetry, story or vlogging pertaining to some freedom fighters and ask their schools to hold competitions for these activities. The Prime Minister also suggested the youth take up afforestation work near the Amrit Sarovars that are being built in their districts and also create awareness about maintaining them. He also asked the youth to take part in the Fit India Movement and persuade their family members to participate in it. He touched upon inculcating the culture of Yoga in every home. The Prime Minister also urged the youth to keep themselves updated about the G-20 Summit and engage in active conversation about India’s chairship.

Mentioning the resolution of ‘pride in our heritage’ and ‘freedom from the mentality of slavery’ the Prime Minister highlighted the role of youth in these resolutions. And suggested that in their travels they should include heritage sites.  “You are young, this is time for you to make your future. You are the creator of new thoughts and new standards. You are the trailblazer for New India”, the Prime Minister concluded.

Union Minister of Defence, Shri Raj Nath Singh, Union Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Union Ministers of Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, Union Ministers of State, Shri Ajay Bhatt, Smt. Renuka Singh Saruta and Shri Nishith Pramanik were present on occasion among others.

Press Statement by PM during the visit of the President of Egypt to India

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Your Excellency, President Sisi,

Ministers and delegates from both countries

Friends of the media,

At the outset, I would like to extend a warm welcome to President Sisi, and his delegation to India. President Sisi is attending our Republic Day celebrations tomorrow as the chief guest. It is a matter of pride and joy for the whole of India. I am also happy that a military contingent from Egypt is also participating in our Republic Day parade and adding glory to it.

Friends,

India and Egypt are among the oldest civilizations in the world. We have had continuing relationship for thousands of years. More than four thousand years ago, trade with Egypt used to take place through the Lothal Port of Gujarat. And despite various changes in the world, our relations have been stable, and our cooperation has been continuously strengthened.

Our cooperation has deepened in the last few years. And for this, I would like to give a huge credit to the able leadership of my friend President Sisi.

This year, India has invited Egypt as a guest country during its G-20 Presidency, which reflects our special friendship.

Friends,

At one side of the Arabian Sea is India and on the other side is Egypt. Strategic cooperation between the two countries will help in promoting peace and prosperity in the entire region. So in today’s meeting, President Sisi and I decided to elevate our bilateral partnership to the level of “Strategic Partnership”. We have decided that under the India-Egypt Strategic Partnership, we will develop a long-term framework of greater cooperation in political, security, economic and scientific fields.

India and Egypt are worried about the spread of terrorism happening around the world. We are unanimous in the opinion that terrorism is the most serious security threat to humanity. Both countries also agree that concerted action is necessary to end cross-border terrorism. And for this, together we will continue to try to alert the international community.

There is also immense potential for enhancing security and defence cooperation between us. In the last few years, there has been a significant increase in joint exercise training and capacity building between our armies. We have also decided in today’s meeting to further strengthen cooperation between our defence industries, and enhance the exchange of information and intelligence related to counter-terrorism.

Misuse of cyber space to spread extremist ideologies and radicalization is a growing menace. We will extend cooperation against this also.

Friends,

We have closely observed the adverse effects on healthcare infrastructure and global supply chains during the Covid pandemic. President Sisi and I have remained in close contact during this challenging period, and both countries have sent each other immediate assistance in times of need.

Today, we have held extensive discussions on strengthening the food and pharma supply chains affected by the COVID and the Ukraine conflict. We also agreed on the need to increase mutual investment and trade in these areas. Together we have decided that in the next five years we will take our bilateral trade to 12 billion dollars.

Friends,

We commend Egypt for successfully hosting COP-27, and for its efforts to ensure the interests of developing countries in the climate sector.

India and Egypt have had long and excellent cooperation in the United Nations and other international forums. We both agree on the need for diplomacy and dialogue to resolve international disputes.

Excellency,

I once again extend a warm welcome to you and your delegation to India. I also wish you and the people of Egypt a very Happy New Year.

Thank you very much!

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered in Hindi.

Raksha Mantri felicitates Super 25 Awardees of ‘Veer Gatha 2.0’ contest

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On the eve of the Republic Day 2023, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh felicitated the 25 winners of Veer Gatha 2.0 at an event organised in New Delhi on 25 January 2023. Veer Gatha 2.0, the second edition of project Veer Gatha was organised in the backdrop of overwhelming success of Veer Gatha Edition-1 last year which was jointly initiated by the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Education as a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

Shri Rajnath Singh gave away the winners a cash prize of Rs 10,000, a medal and a certificate, in the presence of Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan and Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane were also present. Over 100 NCC cadets and students from Army Public Schools & Cantonment Boards were in attendance, with students and teachers from over 500 schools joining virtually.

Congratulating the young winners, Raksha Mantri commended their bravery, zeal and creativity, and expressed confidence that the young generation will provide a new and better direction not only to themselves but also to the society and the Nation.

Applauding the role of Veer Gatha in inspiring values of patriotism in the young students, Shri Rajnath Singh said, such projects will play a crucial role in infusing values of morality and bravery along with education among students. In the recent past, the Government has taken several steps, which will help in the all-round development of our children in the coming times, he added.

Highlighting the growing popularity of Veer Gatha, Shri Rajnath Singh said, in such a short span of time this project has gained immense popularity, and has become a movement in itself.

“Last year there were 8 lakhs participation, whereas this time the number of these entries has crossed 19 lakhs. Within a small span of time, it has been able to reach millions of children. This is how a movement occurs,” said Raksha Mantri.

Shri Rajnath Singh underscored that crores of children are indirectly connected with this project which is also the aim of this project. Connecting with the children of the country, and keep them motivated is what nation building is, he added.

“Integration is the first requirement for any construction, be it a building, a society, an organization, or a nation. Without the process of integration, nothing can be built. The project is connecting the children across the country with the long-standing heritage of Indian-ness, and is building their personality. The better we build the personality of the children, the better and stronger the nation-building will be,” said Shri Rajnath Singh.

Underlining the importance of valour in day to day life, Raksha Mantri said, “When I talk about valour and courage, I do not only mean the valour and courage at the battlefield. These virtues are absolutely necessary in day to day life. Only using arrows and swords is not courage. If there is wrong somewhere, then raising voice against it is also an act of great bravery and courage.”

Shri Rajnath Singh further added that great personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Chandrashekhar Azad, Khudiram Bose, Ashfaq Ullah Khan kept on speaking the truth throughout their life, no matter what cost they had to pay for it.

Raksha Mantri also suggested that such felicitation should also be organised at state and district level as well, so that the project reaches out to more number of people.

Thanking the Ministry of Defence for conceptualizing  the Veer Gatha project, Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized that the joint efforts of the both the ministries  are moving in the right direction, as it has generated immense interest amongst students of all age groups across the country.

ShriDharmendra Pradhan said the Veer Gatha project is perfectly in tune with the aims and aspirations of the National Educational Policy 2020 and has been re-emphasized by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi himself through Panch Prann – to take pride in our history and culture.

“More needs to be done to highlight the acts of bravery in our history textbooks where brave heroes from several regions who even laid down their lives for the motherland have been largely ignored, and forgotten,” he added.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan called for integrating the stories of gallantry award winners in the school curriculum to inspire students.

On the occasion, Param Vir Chakra Awardee Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar narrated his real-life story of the Kargil war where he overcame all odds and played a crucial role in India’s historic victory. He encouraged the children to take inspiration from the courageous soldiers who selflessly serve the motherland without caring for personal safety.

PM lauds the achievement of 11 Crore Tap water connections under Jal Jeevan Mission

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has praised achievement of 11 Crore Tap water connections under Jal Jeevan Mission. Shri Modi also congratulated to all those who have benefitted from this initiative and compliments to those working on the ground to make this Mission a success.

In response to a tweet by Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Prime Minister tweeted;

“A great feat, indicative of the ground covered to ensure ‘Har Ghar Jal’ to the people of India. Congratulations to all those who have benefitted from this initiative and compliments to those working on the ground to make this Mission a success.”

Through ‘Adi Shaurya’, the people have caught a beautiful glimpse of the tribal culture and heritage: Arjun Munda

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Key Highlights:

  • Tableau of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs will also be featured in the Republic Day Parade
  • Tribal Communities to participate in Bharat Parv  showcasing the unique tribal culture and heritage

Shri Arjun Munda, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, and Shri Ajay Bhatt, Minister of State of Defence and Tourism graced the concluding day of the Adi Shaurya Parv today at the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. The second day witnessed the presence of a massive crowd of more than 50,000 people.

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, in partnership with the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Coast Guard, celebrated the second day of “Adi Shaurya – Parv Parakram Ka” with a colourful showcase of tribal dances,  and performances by the Armed forces to commemorate the 126th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose (Parakram Diwas).

Speaking about the Adi Shaurya festival, Shri Arjun Munda remarked, “The Hon’ble Prime Minister has declared that the liberation of India was the dream of our heroes for a new India, an India where everyone has equality of opportunity, including the poor, farmers, labourers, and tribal people.”

He added, “The Central Government, led by Shri Narendra Modi, has been working actively to promote tribal welfare and development, and highly encouraging results have been recorded. As a result, tribal people are now prominent in all spheres of life. Adi Shaurya is a part of this episode, as through this ceremony, the people of the country have caught a beautiful glimpse of the tribal culture and heritage.”

Tribal Communities will also be participating in the Bharat Parv showcasing the unique tribal culture and heritage.

 

  

The Second Day of Adi Shaurya garnered an even bigger audience with a greater response from the spectators as Tribal dances and the Military Tattoo stole the show, displaying a host of performances. The festival featured numerous energetic live performances by the Military and tribal communities highlighting the beauty of India’s diverse tribal cultures from across India and promoting the message of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat, showcasing the might of the Armed Forces in a Military Tattoo. Students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) also viewed the programme online in large numbers along with huge presence of students from other educational institutions. The event was trending at number two on Twitter on the first day.

Tribal dance troupes from states like Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Ladakh, and more, performed mesmerising vibrant dances. Spectators were witness to exquisite dances such as Gaddi Nati from Himachal Pradesh, Siddhi Dhamaal from Gujarat, Balti Dance from Ladakh, Mangho Dance from Jammu and Kashmir, Purulia Chhau from West Bengal, and many more.

 

 

 

A tableau exhibiting the tribal culture and heritage is also set to feature at the Republic Day Parade on 26th January, 2023.

Padma Shree and famous playback singer, Shri Kailash Kher gave a stellar performance and enchanted the crowd with his melodious voice.

Dignitaries from the Ministry of Defence, Indian Coast Guard and senior officials from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs also graced the special occasion.

  

On Parakram Diwas, PM interacts with youngsters under ‘Know Your Leader’ programme

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with youngsters who were selected under the ‘Know Your Leader’ programme to participate in the ceremony to honour Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in the Central Hall of Parliament earlier today. This interaction took place at his residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.

Prime Minister engaged in a candid and free wheeling interaction with the youngsters. He discussed various facets of the life of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and what we can learn from him. He also suggested that they should try to read biographies of historic personalities to learn the kind of challenges they faced in their lives and how they overcame these challenges.

The youngsters shared their excitement on getting the unique opportunity to meet the Prime Minister of the country and to sit in the Central Hall of Parliament. They added that the programme has also given them an understanding of what unity in diversity is, by coming across so many individuals from all corners of the country.

In a welcome change from the past practice wherein only dignitaries were invited to pay floral tributes to national icons in Parliament, these 80 youngsters were selected from across the country to participate in the floral tribute function in Parliament in honour of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. They were selected under the ‘Know Your Leader’ programme, which has been launched to use the floral tribute functions taking place in Parliament as an effective medium for spreading more knowledge and awareness about the lives and contributions of the towering national icons among the youth of the country. They were selected through an elaborate, objective and merit based process involving quizzes on DIKSHA portal and MyGov; elocution / speech competition at district and state level; and selection from Universities through competition on life and contribution of Netaji. 31 of them also got an opportunity to speak on the contributions of Netaji in the Floral Tributes function organised in the Central Hall of Parliament. They spoke in five languages: Hindi, English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Bangla.

The voices of unprecedented passion along with immense pain are still heard from the cells of the Cellular Jail today: PM

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On Parakram Diwas, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi participated in a ceremony to name the 21 largest unnamed islands of Andaman & Nicobar Islands after 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees today via video conferencing. During the programme, the Prime Minister also unveiled the model of the National Memorial dedicated to Netaji to be built on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister greeted everyone on the occasion of Parakram Diwas and remarked this inspirational day is celebrated countrywide on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The Prime Minister noted that today is a historical day for Andaman and Nicobar Islands and said, “When history is being made, the future generations not just remember, assess and evaluate it, but also find constant inspiration from it.” The Prime Minister informed that the naming ceremony of 21 islands from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is taking place today and they will now be recognised as the names of 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees. He further added that the foundation stone of a new memorial in honouring the life of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is being laid at the island where he stayed, and remarked that this day will be remembered by future generations as a significant chapter in the Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal. The Prime Minister underlined that the Netaji Memorial and the 21 newly named islands will be a source of constant inspiration for the young generations.

Throwing light on the history of Andaman and Nicobar islands, the Prime Minister informed that the Tricolour was hoisted for the first time here and the first independent government of India was formed. He further added that Veer Savarkar and many other heroes like him had touched the pinnacle of penance and sacrifice for the country on this very land. He said, “The voices of that unprecedented passion along with immense pain are still heard from the cells of the Cellular Jail today.” The Prime Minister lamented that the identity of Andaman was associated with the symbols of slavery instead of the memories of the freedom struggle and said, “Even the names of our islands had the imprint of slavery.” The Prime Minister recalled his visit to Port Blair four-five years ago to rename the three main islands and informed, “Today Ross Island has become Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, Havelock and Neil Islands have become Swaraj and Shaheed Islands.” He noted that the names, Swaraj and Shaheed were given by Netaji himself but no importance was given even after independence. The Prime Minister interjected, “When the Azad Hind Fauj government completed 75 years, our government reinstated these names.”

The Prime Minister observed the 21st century of India which is remembering the same Netaji that was once lost in the pages of history after India’s independence. He highlighted the sky-high Indian flag which is hoisted today at the same spot where Netaji hoisted the Tricolour for the first time in Andaman and remarked that it fills the hearts of all countrymen with patriotism who visit the place. He noted that the new museum and memorial which is going to be built in his memory will make the trip to Andaman even more memorable. The Prime Minister highlighted the Netaji Museum that was inaugurated at the Red Fort of Delhi in 2019 and said that place has become a source of inspiration for the people. He also noted the special events that were held in Bengal on his 125th birth anniversary and the day being declared as Parakram Diwas. “From Bengal to Delhi to Andaman, every part of the country salutes and cherishes the legacy of Netaji”, the Prime Minister remarked.

The Prime Minister highlighted the works related to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose which should have been done immediately after independence and informed that they have been carried out in the last 8-9 years. He underlined that the first government of independent India was formed in this part of the country in 1943 and the country is accepting it with more pride. He noted that the country paid homage to Netaji by hoisting the flag at the Red Fort on the completion of 75 years of the formation of the Azad Hind Government. The Prime Minister emphasised the demand to declassify files related to Netaji’s life for decades and noted that the work was done with full devotion. “Today, the grand statue of Netaji in front of our democratic institutions and Kartavya Path is reminding us of our duties.”, the Prime Minister said.

Noting that the countries which connected their imminent personalities and freedom fighters with the public in due time and, created and shared capable ideals, are the ones that went far ahead in the race of development and nation-building, the Prime Minister underlined that India is taking similar steps in the Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal.

Highlighting the unique message of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ behind naming the 21 islands, the Prime Minister said that it is a message of the immortality of the sacrifices made for the country and the bravery and valour of the Indian Army. The Prime Minister underlined that the 21 Paramveer Chakra winners had sacrificed everything to protect  Mother India and noted that the brave soldiers of the Indian Army were from different states, spoke different languages, and dialects and lived different lifestyles but it was the service of Maa Bharti and unwavering devotion for the motherland that united them. “Like the sea connects different islands, the feeling of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat’ unites every child of Mother India”, the Prime Minister remarked. “From Major Somnath Sharma, Piru Singh, Major Shaitan Singh to Captain Manoj Pandey, Subedar Joginder Singh and Lance Naik Albert Ekka, from Veer Abdul Hameed and Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran to all 21 Paramveers, everyone had only one resolve – Nation First! India First! This resolution has now become immortal forever in the name of these islands. A hill in Andaman is also being dedicated in the name of Captain Vikram Batra from the Kargil war”, he said.

The Prime Minister underlined that the naming of the islands of Andaman and Nicobar is not only dedicated to the Paramveer Chakra awardees but also to the Indian armed forces. Recalling that our army had to face wars right from the time of independence, the Prime Minister said that our armed forces have proved their bravery on all fronts. “It is the duty of the country that the soldiers who dedicated themselves to these national defence operations should be widely recognized along with the contributions of the army”, the Prime  Minister continued,  “Today the country is fulfilling that responsibility and it is being recognized in the name of soldiers and armies.”

Throwing light on the potential of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Prime Minister said that it is a land of water, nature, environment, effort, bravery, tradition, tourism, enlightenment, and inspiration, and emphasised the need to identify the potential and recognise the opportunities. The Prime Minister highlighted the work done in the last 8 years and informed that the number of tourists visiting Andaman has doubled in 2022 when compared to 2014. He also noted the boost in employment and income related to tourism. The Prime Minister drew attention to the fact that the identity of the place is also getting diversified as curiosity about the history of independence related to Andaman is also increasing. “Now people are also coming here to know and live the history”, he said. He also noted the rich tribal tradition of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and said that the memorial related to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and honouring the bravery of the army will create a new eagerness among Indians to visit.

The Prime Minister lamented the efforts of the previous government in recognising the country’s potential due to decades of inferiority complex and lack of self-confidence, especially due to distorted ideological politics. “Whether it is our Himalayan states, especially the Northeast, or the oceanic island regions like Andaman and Nicobar, the development in such areas was neglected for decades as these were deemed remote, inaccessible and irrelevant areas”, the Prime Minister remarked. He also observed that the account of the number of islands and islets in India was not maintained. Giving examples of developed island nations like Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles, the Prime Minister noted that the geographical area of these nations is less than that of Andaman and Nicobar but they have reached new heights with the right use of their resources The Prime Minister underlined that the islands of India also have similar potential and the country is moving forward in this direction. The Prime Minister gave the example of connecting Andaman with fast internet through ‘submarine optical fibre’ which is giving rise to digital payments and other complex services and benefiting the tourists. “Now natural balance and modern resources are being taken forward together in the country”, the Prime Minister said.

Drawing an analogy with the Andaman and Nicobar Island of the past that gave a new direction to the freedom struggle, the Prime Minister concluded his address by mentioning that the region will also give a new impetus to the development of the country in the future. “I am confident, we will build an India that is capable, and will attain the heights of modern development”, the Prime Minister remarked.

Union Minister of Home Affairs, Shri Amit Shah, and Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral D K Joshi, Chief of Defence Staff,  General Anil Chauhan were present on the occasion among others.

Background

Keeping in mind the historical significance of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and to honour the memory of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Ross Islands was renamed as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep by the Prime Minister during his visit to the Island in 2018. Neil Island and Havelock Island were also renamed Shaheed Dweep and Swaraj Dweep.

Giving due respect to the real-life heroes of the country has always been accorded the highest priority by the Prime Minister. Going ahead with this spirit, it has now been decided to name the 21 largest unnamed islands of the island group after 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees. The largest unnamed island will be named after the first Param Vir Chakra awardee, the second largest unnamed island will be named after the second Param Vir Chakra awardee, and so on. This step will be an everlasting tribute to our heroes, several of whom made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.

These islands have been named after the 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees. Major Somnath Sharma; Subedar and Hony Captain (then Lance Naik)  Karam Singh, MM; 2nd Lt. Rama Raghoba Rane; Nayak Jadunath Singh; Company Havildar Major Piru Singh; Capt GS Salaria; Lieutenant Colonel (then Major) Dhan Singh Thapa; Subedar Joginder Singh; Major Shaitan Singh; CQMH. Abdul Hamid; Lt Col Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore; Lance Naik Albert Ekka; Major Hoshiar Singh; 2nd Lt. Arun Khetrapal; Flying Officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon; Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran; Naib Subedar Bana Singh; Captain Vikram Batra; Lt Manoj Kumar Pandey; Subedar Major (then Rifleman) Sanjay Kumar; and Subedar Major Retd (Hony Captain) Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav.

Today, by naming 21 islands after bravehearts, PM Narendra Modi has honored their valor: Amit Shah

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The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in ceremony to name 21 largest unnamed islands of Andaman & Nicobar Islands after 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees today through video conferencing. During the programme he also unveiled model of National Memorial dedicated to Netaji to be built on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep. On this historic occasion, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah participated in a special function organized at Port Blair. He honored the family members of Param Vir Chakra awardees Subedar Major Retired (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav, Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar, Naib Subedar Bana Singh and family members of other soldiers. Several dignitaries including Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Admiral DK Joshi, were also present in the programme.

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In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that today is a very important day for all the tri-forces of the country because before this no other country in the world has honored the valor of soldiers by naming islands after them. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s effort to create a forever memory of our Param Vir Chakra Awardees is very encouraging for all the three forces. He said that today, the 126th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is being celebrated as Parakram Divas across the country. On this occasion, it has also been decided to make a memorial for Netaji at Subhas Dweep in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he stayed during the freedom movement. Shri Shah said that these two decisions taken by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi will connect the memories of the independence of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands with the whole country and through these decisions, patriotism, bravery and valor will be instilled in the young generation of India for ages.

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The Union Home Minister said that sometimes a land has such an element that it attracts everyone’s attention time and again. After the revolution of 1857, when the British started mercilessly torturing the freedom fighters, then on this land of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, our revolutionaries were kept in Cellular Jail, at that time this land of Andaman and Nicobar, consoled the freedom fighters like a mother. He said that Cellular Jail is a great place of pilgrimage for the freedom struggle and due to Netaji’s efforts to liberate the country, ‘Azad Hind Fauj’ honored this part of country with freedom and Netaji hoisted the tricolor for the first time on this island.

The Union Home and Cooperation Minister said that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands had already become a place of pilgrimage for freedom due to the Cellular Jail, then Netaji liberated and hoisted the tricolor on this holy land. Following the footsteps of Netaji, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi named Shaheed Dweep, Swaraj Dweep and Subhas Dweep and today, named 21 islands in the name of those who fought for the freedom and sovereignty of the country by sacrificing their lives. Shri Shah said that today, by naming 21 islands after these bravehearts, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has honored their valor. Whenever the history of entire India will be written, then this incident will be written in golden letters.

Shri Amit Shah said that today, on the 126th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who made unparalleled contribution in the country’s freedom struggle, a Subhas memorial has also been announced. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose traveled 15,000 kilometers from Kolkata to Berlin through minus 45 degree temperature and adverse weather conditions to liberate the country, but unfortunately many efforts were made to suppress his contribution for the cause of freedom. But it is said that heroes are not dependent on anyone for their memory, the memory is linked with their bravery. He said that after Shri Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister, the statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the pride of our nation, is installed on ‘Kartavya Path’. Home Minister said that 23rd January was declared as Parakram Divas and on this very day it is declared that Subhas Dweep is going to be developed as Subhas Chandra Bose’s memorial so that people can pay homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose for generations. Shri Shah said that he would like to thank the Prime Minister on behalf of the whole country for these two decisions.

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The Union Home and Cooperation Minister said that the Amar Jyoti to be built in the memory of the revolutionaries who were in the Cellular Jail, was left incomplete, it was completed by the Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to pay tribute to them for ages. He said that today, from Major Somnath Sharma to Subedar Major Yogendra Singh Yadav, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has made these brave soldiers of country forever memorable from which many generations will take inspiration and imbibe these values of patriotism and bravery.

Shri Amit Shah said that the Netaji memorial has been announced at Subhas Island, today. Apart from this, a museum, rope-way, laser light and sound show, amusement park and arrangements for eateries will also be made. He said that it is the effort of the Government of India to develop this memorial in such a way that many generations to come can take inspiration and imbibe the values from the bravery of freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose.

The Union Home and Cooperation Minister said that after the formation of Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, many steps have been taken for the Defense Forces since 2015. The issue of One Rank One Pension was resolved, historical changes were made in the administrative structure of the army, efforts were made to make the system self-sufficient and many steps were taken to equip all the three forces with modern weapons and modern communication system. Today, an important step has been taken to honor the 21 Paramveer Chakra awrdees by naming the 21 islands after them. Shri Shah said that both of these decisions will give message and values of patriotism and bravery to the young generation of India for ages.

Piyush Goyal asks businesses to adopt a sustainable and green approach in business practices

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Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Textiles, Shri Piyush Goyal asked businesses to adopt a sustainable and green approach in business practices. He asked them to use the forum of B20 along with G20 to look at how we can collectively work towards a sustainable and equitable future agenda. He was addressing the Inception Meeting of Business 20 (B20), the official G20 dialogue forum with the global business community in Gandhinagar today.

Shri Goyal paid his tributes to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on his birth Anniversary today and said that he was one of the leading lights of our freedom struggle. The Minister said that Netaji envisioned a nation where every single citizen of the nation had a share in its prosperity.

The Minister applauded the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, of peace and dialogue, orderly and inclusive growth and humane approach and said that India wanted to be a responsible global citizen, be it in the sphere of climate change or digital public infrastructure. Shri Goyal said that through the theme of G20 in India- ‘one earth one family one future’ – we wished to inspire the world to care for each other, to have a greater degree of dialogue and greater concern for the planet and the future of our children.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he said that we had inherited this world as trustees and it is our duty to leave behind a better world for next generation. We have to respect intergenerational equity- we do not have the right to use up all the resources of this planet, he added.

The Minister highlighted that India had always stood for sustainable development. He mentioned that it was one of the top 5 countries in the world in terms of adopting and implementing environmental goals. India regularly files UNFCCC report and has already exceeded its goal for 2030, of having a 40 percent share of renewable energy in its installed capacity in 2021. India takes each sustainable development goal very seriously, he said.

Speaking of India’s amazing journey of growth, Shri Goyal said that India had grown almost 12 times in the last three decades inspite of several black swan events. He added that transformational steps had been taken by the government to take inclusive growth to every section of society without discrimination and to the remotest corners of the nation.

The Minister noted that the Prime Minister had relentlessly focussed on 4 ‘I’s of investment in infrastructure, integrity, inclusive development and international outlook to lend wings to Indian economy. He spoke of some of the transformational initiatives of the government. He said that the Digital India  Mission had ensured that the levels of connectivity we have in telecom today and what is being planned over the next 2 years would catapult us to amongst the top 5 or 6 countries in terms of technology. It will help us achieve inclusive economic growth smartly.

He stressed that the government had succeeded in securing the basic needs of life such as food, shelter, clothing, education, healthcare etc. to people, enabling, empowering and inspiring them to aspire for the better things in life. He noted that even during the heights of the pandemic, no death due to starvation had taken place in the country, thanks to several government initiatives including the mission to provide more than adequate foodgrains to almost 800 million across the country. He underscored that India had the world’s largest and successful free healthcare program, covering 500 million people. He said that 35 million families who were at the bottom of the pyramid, who were the most deserving, yet the most deprived, have been given homes with all the basic amenities. He added that the government had also succeeded in raising farmers’ income.

Shri Goyal noted that the while the world was worried about how India would cope with the pandemic, it had converted that fear into hope and emerged as a bright spot in the global economy. No other market in the world as large as the India opportunity today, he said and added that India hoped to power the world economy through collaborations and cooperation amidst competition and asked both Indian and foreign companies to serve the world using India as the base.

The Minister said that businesses that come to India have always succeeded because of our competitiveness. He opined that India offered the rule of law, inspiring and decisive leadership, transparent government policies, no opaque models and no hidden subsidies. He cited the example of a British Company that was manufacturing in UK, supplying to a few countries, and achieving a modest turn over. A few years ago, this company set up manufacturing in India and due to the competitiveness of Indian manufacturing and our ability to launch newer products through design and innovation, the company now supplies products to over 110 countries around the world from India at affordable and competitive prices, he said. He also spoke of another tech-giant which already has 5-7 percent of manufacturing happening in India and plans to scale it upto 25 percent.

He expressed hope that by August, we would have a robust framework for B20 and we succeed in taking a message of responsibility, care and concern, a message of togetherness and oneness, a message that we will all work together for a better future for our children, from India to the world.

India assumed the Presidency of the G20 from 1 December 2022. G20 is a premier forum for international economic cooperation. Established in 2010, B20 is among the most prominent Engagement Group in G20, with companies and business organizations as participants. B20 leads the process of galvanizing global business leaders for their views on issues of global economic and trade governance and speaks in a single voice for the entire G20 business community.

B20 will operate through 7 Task Forces and 2 Action Councils entrusted to develop consensus-based policy recommendations to the G20.

Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Communications and Electronics & Information Technology; Shri Amitabh Kant, G20 India Sherpa and Shri N Chandrasekaran, Chairman Tata Sons, who is the Chair of B20 India, Shri Anurag Jain, Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry and other dignitaries were present at the gathering. More than 200 overseas delegates including CEOs and business executives, from G20 member countries and invitee countries apart from more than 400 delegate from within the country took part in the B20 India Inception Meeting.
B20 deliberations would see discussions on broad areas of climate action, innovation, digital global cooperation, resilient global value chains, fostering financial inclusion, empowering societies etc. The B20 Inception Meeting will culminate on 24 January 2023.

Sarbananda Sonowal lays foundation stones of projects worth Rs. 270 crore at Deendayal Port, Kandla

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Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated and laid foundation stones of projects worth Rs. 270 crore at Deendayal Port, Kandla, Gujarat . The Minister inaugurated Oil jetty no. 7 worth Rs.73.92 crore at Deendayal Port, Kandla in the presence of Shri Shantanu Thakur, MoS, MoPSW, Shri Shripad Naik, MoS, MoPSW and other senior dignitaries.

The jetty will enhance the liquid handling capacity, by 2.00 MMTPA, of mainly edible oil, and fulfil the future requirements and will reduced the Turn-around time of the vessels. This T-shaped Jetty is 110 m long and 12.40 m wide and can handle the large size of vessel upto 65000 DWT and 14 m depth. The project has led to an indirect employment of around 1000 plus and direct employment of around 250 plus, during the construction phase.

The foundation stone of three Projects namely Development of back up area from oil jetty 8 to 11 worth Rs. 98.41 crore; Development of 4 lane road from LC236B to C.J- 16 worth Rs. 67 crore; Construction of dome shaped storage shed in cargo jetty worth Rs. 39.66 crore was also laid by Shri Sonowal.

During this occasion Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, ‘these Projects will enhance Port Infrastructure along with boosting its Logistics performance as well as the overall Economic Growth for its entire hinterland. They will also improve the cargo handling capacity of the port along with further improvement in the turnaround time of the ships and faster evacuation of the cargo’’. He said ‘‘Deendayal Port is the number one port of the country in terms of cargo handling and through these projects its capacity will be increased which will be beneficial for the entire region.’’

Highlights of other Projects

  1. Development of back up area from oil jetty 8 to 11
  • Addition in the storage capacity of liquid cargos
  • Fast evacuation of liquid cargo as back-up area proposed for liquid terminal is behind the Oil Jetty’s, hence, reduce turn-out time
  1. Development of 4 lane road from LC236B to C.J- 16
  • Better connectivity
  •  Reduction in traffic at port
  1. Construction of dome shaped storage shed in cargo jetty
  • Sheds can provide unobstructed clear span of 30 m. and height of 9 to 12 m.
  • .Roofing panels are mechanically seamed (Interlocked) and free from holes, nuts, bolt overlaps and sealants, ensuring almost zero maintenance
  • This structure is upto 50% Economical compared to Conventional Roofing System.

 

It is to be noted that, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways as part of its commitment for the development of Port Sector in India has identified 74 projects worth Rs. 57,000 Crore under Sagarmala Programme in the state of Gujarat. Out of which, 15 projects worth Rs. 9,000 Crore have been completed; 33 projects worth more than Rs. 25,000 Crore are under implementation and 26 projects worth Rs. 22,700 Crore are under development. These projects are being implemented by central line ministries, major ports, state maritime board and other state agencies.

PM pays homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on Parakram Diwas

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has paid homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on Parakram Diwas.

In a tweet, the Prime Minister said;

“Today, on Parakram Diwas, I pay homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and recall his unparalleled contribution to India’s history. He will be remembered for his fierce resistance to colonial rule. Deeply influenced by his thoughts, we are working to realise his vision for India.”

PM attends All India Conference of Director Generals/ Inspector Generals of Police

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi attended the 57th All-India Conference of Director Generals/ Inspector Generals of Police on 21st and 22nd January in New Delhi.

Prime Minister suggested making the police forces more sensitive and training them in emerging technologies. He emphasised on the importance of National Data Governance Framework for smoothening of data exchange across agencies. Prime Minister suggested that while we should further leverage technological solutions like biometrics etc., there is also a need to further strengthen traditional policing mechanisms like foot patrols etc. He recommended repealing obsolete criminal laws and building standards for police organisations across states.  He suggested prison reforms to improve jail management. He also discussed strengthening of border as well as coastal security by organising frequent visits of officials.

Prime Minister emphasised on enhanced cooperation between state police and central agencies to leverage capabilities and share best practices.  He suggested replicating the model of the DGsP / IGsP Conference at the state/district levels for discussing emerging challenges and evolving best practices among their teams.

The Conference was concluded after Prime Minister distributed Police Medals for Distinguished Services.

The Conference covered various aspects of policing and national security, including Counter Terrorism, Counter Insurgency and Cyber Security. Union Home Minister, Ministers for State for Home, National Security Advisor, Union Home Secretary, DGsP/IGsP of States/UTs and Heads of the Central Police Organisations/Central Armed Police Forces were also present in the Conference. Around 600 more officers of various levels attended the Conference virtually from States/UTs.