The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi interacted with beneficiaries of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra via video conferencing today. He also launched Pradhan Mantri Mahila Kisan Drone Kendra. During the program, the Prime Minister dedicated the landmark 10,000th Jan Aushadi Kendra at AIIMS, Deoghar. Further, Shri Modi also launched the program to increase the number of Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the country from 10,000 to 25,000. The Prime Minister announced both these initiatives, providing drones to women SHGs and increasing the number of Jan Aushadhi Kendras from 10,000 to 25,000 during his Independence Day speech earlier this year. The program marks the fulfilment of these promises.

The Prime Minister initiated the interaction with the beneficiary and operator of Jan Aushadhi Kendra at AIIMS Deoghar, Ruchi Kumari. The Prime Minister congratulated her on starting the 10,000th Jan Aushadhi Kendra, expressing happiness about this milestone being achieved in Baba Dham Deoghar.  On being enquired about her decision regarding a Jan Aushadhi Kendra, she narrated her interaction with poor and middle class and acutely felt the need for affordable medicines as medicine that is available in market for 100 rupees is often available at the Kendra for 10 to 50 rupees. He also touched upon creating awareness about Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the region and was informed by Ruchi about the use of social media for the propagation of the scheme.

Beneficiary of the Jan Aushadhi Yojna, Shri Sona Mishra informed the Prime Minister that he managed to save roughly 10,000 rupees per month by purchasing medicines at cheaper prices from the Jan Aushadhi Kendra. The Prime Minister suggested Shri Mishra put up a board at his shop about his experiences of Jan Aushadhi Kendra and emphasized spreading awareness about the availability of cheaper medicines.

The Prime Minister expressed happiness that local people are aware about the schemes. “Quality and affordable medicine is a big service”, and people should be aware about this, The Prime Minister said.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh today said that “Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra” testifies Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s people-centric work culture and added that PM Modi will always be credited for having introduced a new work culture in India wherein each of the pro-poor and public welfare schemes were designed in such a manner so as to reach the neediest or the last man in the last queue, regardless of caste, creed, religion or vote consideration.

Addressing a “Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra” program at Village Muniraka , Dr Jitendra Singh said, IEC Vans are “Modi Guarantee Vans”, where 100 percent saturation is being attempted of the 17-18 major flagship schemes introduced in the last 9-10 years for socio-economic upliftment of the weaker and marginalized sections of society. He also interacted with beneficiaries of various schemes at the camp.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, purely objective parameters were followed to deliver justice, wherever justice had been denied in the past. This, he said, was quite a departure from the past practice followed by previous opposition governments, wherein vote bank politics pre-determined the selective rolling out of State benefits.

The Minister added that Prime Minister Modi successfully raised the standards of public delivery much above the vote consideration, based on the principle of justice for all and then left to the public to decide whom they wanted to vote for, and the public too endorsed this approach by returning the Modi government for the second term with a much higher mandate than the earlier election, he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, during a short span of nine and half years, the Centre has been able to bring many schemes closer to 100% saturation and benefits are given to deserving people by following the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayaas”.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also noted that the nine and half years of Modi Government has set a new dawn and direction to ‘Yuva Shakti’ and ‘Nari Shakti’ in the country giving prominence to their aspirations, objectives and goals.

Various Jan Bhagidari events like experience sharing by beneficiaries of the schemes, interaction with progressive farmers, celebration of achievements of Gram Panchayats achieving 100% saturation of schemes like Ayushman Card, Jal Jeevan Mission, Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, ODF Plus status, on the spot quiz competitions, Drone demonstration, health camps, Mera Yuva Bharat volunteer enrolment were part of the activities at the Munirka Camp.

The Viksit Bharat Campaign, one of the largest ever outreach initiatives to be undertaken, eventually aims to cover over 2.55 lakh Gram Panchayats and over 3,600 urban local bodies by 25th January 2024 touching every district of the country.

As on 26th November 2023, 5,470 Health camps have been conducted in 995 Gram Panchayats reporting a total footfall of more than 7,82,000 people.

The entire campaign is being planned and implemented with the ‘whole of Government’ approach with active participation and involvement of the State Governments, District authorities, Urban Local Bodies and Gram Panchayats.

It may be noted that the IEC Vans have been branded and customized to enable dissemination of information through audio visuals, brochures, pamphlets, booklets and flagship standees in Hindi and state languages showcasing the major schemes, highlights and their achievements at national, state and district level.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will distribute more than 51,000 appointment letters to newly inducted recruits on 30th November, 2023 at 4 PM via video conferencing. Prime Minister will also address the appointees on the occasion.

Rozgar Mela will be held at 37 locations across the country.  The recruitments are taking place across Central Government Departments as well as State Governments/UTs supporting this initiative. The new recruits, selected from across the country will be joining the Government in various Ministries/Departments including  Department of Revenue, Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Higher Education, Department of School Education and Literacy, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and Ministry of Labour & Employment, among others.

Rozgar Mela is a step towards fulfilment of the commitment of the Prime Minister to accord highest priority to employment generation. Rozgar Mela is expected to act as a catalyst in further employment generation and provide meaningful opportunities to the youth for their empowerment and participation in national development.

The new appointees with their innovative ideas and role-related competencies, will be contributing, inter alia, in the task of strengthening industrial, economic and social development of the nation thereby helping to realise the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat.

The newly inducted appointees are also getting an opportunity to train themselves through Karmayogi Prarambh, an online module on iGOT Karmayogi portal, where more than 800 e-learning courses have been made available for ‘anywhere any device’ learning format.

The crest of Yard 12706 (Imphal), the third amongst the four Project 15B stealth guided missile destroyers, was unveiled by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, in the presence of Manipur Chief Minister Shri N Biren Singh, in New Delhi on November 28, 2023. The unveiling of Imphal’s crest, adorned with the Kangla Palace and ‘Kangla-Sa’ is a befitting tribute to the sacrifice made by the people of Manipur towards India’s independence, sovereignty and security.

The crest design depicts the Kangla Palace on the left and ‘Kangla-Sa’ on the right. The Kangla Palace is an important historical and archaeological site of Manipur, and was the traditional seat of the past kingdom. With a dragon’s head and lion’s body, the ‘Kangla-Sa’ is a mythical being from Manipur history, and is symbolic as the guardian/protector of its people. ‘Kangla-Sa’ is also the state emblem of Manipur.

Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, this ship is a hallmark of indigenous shipbuilding and is amongst the most technologically advanced warships in the world. The ship was delivered by the MDL to the Indian Navy on October 20, 2023.

A guided missile destroyer with a displacement of 7,400 tons and overall length of 164 meters, Imphal is a potent and versatile platform equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, including surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles and torpedoes. Powered by Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) propulsion, she is capable of achieving speeds in excess of 30 knots (56 km/hr).

The ship boasts of a high indigenous content of approximately 75% that includes the following:

• Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (BEL, Bangalore)
• BrahMos Surface-to-Surface Missiles (BrahMos Aerospace, New Delhi)
• Indigenous Torpedo Tube Launchers (Larsen & Toubro, Mumbai)
• Anti-Submarine Indigenous Rocket Launchers (Larsen & Toubro, Mumbai)
• 76mm Super Rapid Gun Mount (BHEL, Haridwar)

Imphal’s keel was laid on May 19, 2017 and the ship was launched into water on April 20, 2019. The ship had sailed out for her maiden sea trials on April 28, 2023, and has undergone a comprehensive schedule of trials in harbour and at sea, leading up to its delivery on October 20, 2023 within a record time-frame of six months.

As part of the pre-commissioning trials, the ship recently carried out successful firing of an Extended Range BrahMos missile. The time taken to build Imphal and for her trials is the shortest for any indigenous destroyer. The delivery of the ship is an affirmation of the impetus towards ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

It is a maritime tradition and a naval custom according to which many Indian Naval ships have been named after prominent cities, mountain ranges, rivers, ponds and islands. The Indian Navy is immensely proud of naming its latest and technologically most advanced warship after the historic city of Imphal. This is the first capital warship to be named after a city in the North-Eastern region, the approval for which was accorded by the President on April 16, 2019.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar and other officials of Ministry of Defence and Manipur government were also present on the occasion.

India and the US will launch the joint microwave remote sensing satellite for Earth observation, named NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) in the first quarter of next year, said Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh during a meeting with a high-level delegation of NASA led by its Administrator Mr Bill Nelson who called on him in New Delhi today.

NISAR is targeted for launch onboard India’s GSLV. Data from NISAR will be highly suitable for studying the land ecosystems, deformation of solid earth, mountain & polar cryosphere, sea ice and coastal oceans in regional to global scale.

It was informed that ISRO’s S-band SAR was integrated with NASA’s L-band SAR at JPL/NASA and integrated L & S band SAR is currently undergoing testing with the satellite at URSC, Bangalore with participation of NASA/JPL officials.

Congratulating Dr Jitendra Singh for the historic Chandrayaan-3 landing on the virgin South Polar region of the Moon, Mr Nelson urged Dr Jitendra Singh for expediting the programme related to India’s first astronaut aboard a NASA rocket to the International Space Station (ISS). During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US earlier this year, the two sides agreed to launch a two-week joint India-US Space flight next year. NASA is identifying an opportunity in the Private Astronaut Mission for Indian Astronauts in 2024.

ISRO and NASA have formed a Joint Working Group (JWG) on Human spaceflight cooperation and are exploring cooperation in radiation impact studies, micro meteorite & orbital debris shield studies; space health and medicine aspects. The 8^th meeting of India-USA Joint Working Group on Civil Space Cooperation (CSJWG) was held in Washington DC in January 2023.

ISRO/DoS is also in discussion with prominent US industries (like Boeing, Blue Origin & Voyager) on specific items of cooperation and also to explore joint collaborations with Indian commercial entities.

The Indian side informed that a concept paper on the Implementing Arrangement (IA) is under consideration between ISRO and NASA. After a few iterations, both sides arrived at a mutually agreed draft and the same is processed for intra-Governmental approvals.

ISRO is also exploring the feasibility of utilising NASA’s Hypervelocity Impact Test (HVIT) facility for testing Gaganyaan module Micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) protection shields.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, India has a booming Space sector Startups since PM Modi initiated reforms in the Space sector. Within a short span of just about four years, the number of Space Startups has gone up from a mere single digit to over 150, with some of the earlier ones having turned into lucrative entrepreneurs.

Mr Nelson, himself an astronaut who flew with the crew of the 24^th Space Shuttle flight onboard ‘Columbia’ in 1986, lauded ISRO for having launched 231 satellites from the US, onboard Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).

Mr Nelson said he was looking forward to meeting India’s cosmonaut Rakesh Sharma in Bengaluru tomorrow.

The US Ambassador to India, Mr Eric Garcetti was also present in the meeting.

Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Sports & Youth Affairs Shri Anurag Singh Thakur said that the 54^th edition of International film festival of India (IFFI 54) was a celebration of unity in diversity, embodying the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: One Earth, One Family One Future’, bringing together creative minds, filmmakers, cinema lovers, and cultural enthusiasts from across the globe. “The clarion call to embrace the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ given by our Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi is being followed in IFFI also. This edition of IFFI was truly extraordinary, filled with notable firsts and ground breaking achievements that showcased the best of filmmaking”, he said while delivering a video message at the closing ceremony of IFFI.

Shri Thakur noted that the 54^th IFFI showcased around 250 films, totaling close to 30,000 minutes of viewing, representing 68 international and 17 Indian languages from 78 countries. “The festival featured 23 Masterclasses, In-Conversation sessions, some accessible both physically and virtually. Close to 50 Gala Red carpets organised during the festival provided a boost to the whole celebration,” he said. The Minister also acknowledged the support of the esteemed jury members whose valuable time and dedicated efforts played a pivotal role in shaping this edition of the festival.

Highlighting the efforts towards inclusivity and accessibility made by IFFI, the Minister said that films were specially curated for differently abled film-lovers so that they could enjoy the beauty of cinema at big screens with the help of sign language and audio descriptions. “We made sure to include more than 40 movies directed by women, celebrating their talent”, he added.

Congratulating the efforts of National Film Heritage Mission to restore old classics, the Minister said that over 5,000 films and documentaries of multiple languages in the 4K digital format will be restored ensuring that the future generations of Bharat can appreciate, enjoy and be inspired by these great works. “A specially curated section of seven films restored under the National Film Heritage Mission were screened at the 54^th  IFFI to great appreciation of film-lovers”, Shri Thakur remarked.

The Minister also emphasized the dual mission of preserving the old and promoting the new. “The ‘Film Challenge’ under ’75 Creative Minds of Tomorrow’ showcased young talents. The films presented by the young creative minds were thought provoking and dealt with a very important topic of protecting and preserving the environment. Notably, 45 of the 75 Creative Minds have already been offered opportunities to present their ideas to leading companies in the sector. The NFDC Film Bazaar expanded its horizons, welcoming a diverse international audience and fostering cross-cultural collaborations. The introduction of the ‘VFX & Tech Pavilion’ and a documentary section showcased innovation and non-fiction storytelling,” he said.

Union Minister Thakur extended his congratulations to Mr. Michael Douglas for receiving the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award for 2023 and thanked Ms. Catherine Zeta Jones for accompanying him to make the moment special for all at IFFI. He also congratulated the winners of the Golden Peacock Awards and the first ever award for Best Web series (OTT) at IFFI.

In closing, the Minister expressed gratitude to the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) team, and the State Government of Goa, led by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, for their dedicated efforts in making the festival a success. The Minister concluded by congratulating all filmmakers, actors, and creators, urging them to carry forward the storytelling spirit, unity, and creativity beyond IFFI.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi prayed at Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh. He has also sought blessings of lord Venkateswara Swamy for the good health, well-being and prosperity of 140 crore Indians. Shri Modi also shared glimpses from Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala.

The Prime Minister posted on X;

“At the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala, prayed for the good health, well-being and prosperity of 140 crore Indians.”

“140 కోట్ల మంది భారతీయులకు మంచి ఆరోగ్యం, శ్రేయస్సు మరియు అభివృద్ధి కలగాలని తిరుమలలోని శ్రీ వేంకటేశ్వర స్వామి ఆలయంలో ప్రార్థించాను.”

My dear countrymen, Namaskar, Welcome to Mann Ki Baat. But, we can never forget this day, the 26^th of November. It was on this very day that the country had come under the most dastardly terror attack. Terrorists had made Mumbai shudder… along with the entire country. But it is India’s fortitude that made us surmount the ordeal; we are now quelling terror with full ardor. I pay homage to all of them who lost their lives in the Mumbai attack. Today, the country is in remembrance of those brave hearts who made the supreme sacrifice during the attack.

My family members, this day, the 26th of November is extremely significant on one more account. It was on this very day in 1949 that the Constituent Assembly had passed and adopted the Constitution of India. I remember… in the year 2015, when we were celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of BabasahebAmbedkar, a thought had struck the mind to observe the 26th of November as Constitution Day. And since then, every year, we have been celebrating this day as Constitution Day. I extend my best wishes to all countrymen on the occasion of Constitution Day. And together we shall certainly attain the resolve of a developed India, according priority to citizens’ duties.

Friends, all of us know that the Constitution took 2 years 11 months and 18 days for coming into being. The oldest member in the Constituent Assembly was Shri Sachidananda  Sinha Ji. The Draft of our Constitution came up after close study of the Constitution of over 60 countries; after long deliberations. After readying the Draft, before the final structure shaped up, over 2000 Amendments were re incorporated in it. Even after the Constitution came into force in 1950, till this day, a total of 106 Amendments have been carried out in the Constitution. In consonance with the times, circumstances and requirements of the country, various Governments carried out Amendments at different times. But this too has been a misfortune that the Constitution’s first Amendment pertained to curtailing the Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Expression. Whereas, through the 44th Amendment, the wrongs committed during the Emergency had been duly rectified.

Friends, it’s again inspiring that out of the same members of the Constituent Assembly who were nominated, 15 were Women. One such Member was Hansa Mehta Ji, who raised her voice for the sake of rights and justice to women. During that period, India was one of the countries whose Constitution enabled Voting Rights to women. In the process of nation building, collective development is possible only with support from everyone. It’s a matter of inner satisfaction for me that in adherence to the farsightedness of the framers of the Constitution, the Parliament of India has now passed the Nari Shakti Vandan Act. The Nari Shakti VandanAdhiniyam is an example of the Sankalp Shakti, the strength of the resolve of the Democracy. This will provide a fillip to the pace of accomplishing our resolve of a developed India.

My family members, when the people at large take charge of nation building, no power in the world can stop that country from moving forward. Today, it is clearly visible in India that many transformations are being led by the 140 crore people of the country. We have seen a direct example of this during this festive season. Last month in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ I had laid emphasis on ‘Vocal for Local’ i.e. buying local products. Within the last few days, business worth more than Rs. 4 lakh crore has been done in the country on Diwali, BhaiyaDooj and Chhath. And during this period, tremendous enthusiasm was seen among the people in buying products Made in India. Now even our children, while buying something at the shop, have started checking whether Made in India is mentioned on them or not. Not only that, nowadays, people do not forget to check the Country of Origin while purchasing goods online.

Friends, just as the very success of ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ is becoming its inspiration; the success of ‘Vocal For Local’ is opening the doors to a ‘Developed India – Prosperous India’. This campaign of ‘Vocal For Local’ strengthens the economy of the entire country. The Vocal For Local campaign is a guarantee of employment. This is a guarantee of development; this is the guarantee of balanced development of the country. This provides equal opportunities to both urban and rural people. This also paves the way for Value Addition in local products, and if ever, there are ups and downs in the global economy, the mantra of Vocal For Local also protects our economy.

Friends, this sentiment towards Indian products should not be limited to festivals only. The wedding season as wellhas commenced now. Some trade organizations estimate that there could be a business of around Rs 5 lakh croreduring this wedding season. While shopping for weddings, all of you should give importance to products made in India only. And yes, since the topic of marriage has come up, one thing has been troubling me off and onfor a long time… and if I don’t open up my heart’s pain to my family members, who else do I do it with? Just ponder… these days a new milieu is being created by some families to go abroad and conduct weddings. Is this at all necessary? If we celebrate the festivities of marriages on Indian soil, amid the people of India, the country’s money will remain in the country. The people of the country will get an opportunity to render some service or the other at your wedding… even poor people will tell their children about that occasion. Can you extrapolate on this mission of ‘Vocal for Local’? Why don’t we hold such wedding ceremonies in our own country? It is possible that the kind of system you want may not be there today, but if we organize such events, systems will also develop. This is a topic related to very big families. I hope this pain of mine will definitely reach those big families.

My family members, another big trend has been seen during this festive season. This is the second consecutive year when the trend of buying some goods through cash payments on the occasion of Deepawali is gradually on the decline. That means, people are making more and more digital payments now. This is also very encouraging. You can do one more thing. Decide for yourself that for one month you will make payments only through UPI or any digital medium and not through cash. The success of the digital revolution in India has made this absolutely possible. And when one month is over, please share your experiences and your photos with me. I wish you all the best in advance from now itself.

My family members, our young friends have given another significant good news to the country, which is going to swell all of us with pride. ‘Intelligence, Idea and Innovation’is the hallmark of Indian youth today. A continuous rise in their intellectual properties through the combination of technology – this in itself is an important facet of progress in enhancing the capability of the country. You will be pleased to know that there has been an increase of more than 31 percent in patent applications by Indians in 2022. The World Intellectual Property Organization has released a very interesting report. This report shows that this has never happened earlier even in the top 10 countries that are at the forefront in filing patents. I congratulate my young colleagues for this wonderful achievement. I want to assure my young friends that the country is with you at every step. After the administrative and legal reforms made by the government, today our youth are engaged in innovation on a large scale with renewed energy. If compared with the figures of 10 years ago… today, our patents are getting 10 times more approvals. We all know that patents not only increase the Intellectual Property of the country; they also open doors to newer opportunities. Not only that, it also enhances the strength and potential of our start-ups. Today the spirit of innovation is being promoted among our school children as well. Atal Tinkering Lab, Atal Innovation Mission, Incubation Centres in colleges, Start-Up India campaign… the results of such relentless efforts are in front of the countrymen. This too, is a direct example of India’s youth power; India’s innovative power. Moving ahead with this fervour, we shall achieve the vision of a developed India and that is why I say again and again, ‘Jai Jawan-Jai Kisan’, ‘Jai Vigyan-Jai Anusandhan’.

My dear countrymen, you might remember that some time ago in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ I had discussed about the large number of fairs being organized in India. Then the idea of a competition also came to mind in which people would share photos related to fairs. The Ministry of Culture had organized a Mela Moments Contest in connection with the same. You wouldbe pleased to know that thousands of people participated in it and many people also won prizes. Rajesh Dharji, resident of Kolkata, won the award for his amazing photo of a balloon and toy seller at CharakMela. This fair is very popular in rural Bengal. Anupam Singh ji received the Mela Portraits Award for showcasing Holi at Varanasi. Arun Kumar Nalimelaji was awarded for showing an attractive aspect related to ‘KulasaiDussehra’. Similarly, a photo showing the devotion of Pandharpur was included in the most liked photo, which was sent by a gentleman from Maharashtra, Shriman Rahul ji. In this competition, there were many pictures of local dishes visible during the fairs. In this, the picture by AlokAvinash ji, resident of Purulia, won an award. He had showcased the food of rural areas of Bengal during a fair. A picture by PranabBasaakji, in which women are enjoying Qulfi during the Bhagoriya festival, was also awarded. Rumelaji had sent a photo of women tasting Bhajiya in a village fair in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh – that was also awarded.

Friends, through ‘Mann Ki Baat’, today I request every village, every school, everypanchayat to organize such competitions regularly. Nowadays, the power of social media is immense… technology and the mobile have reached every home. Be it your local festivals or products, you can make them global through them as well.

Friends, just like the fairs held in every village, various dances here also possess their own heritage. There is a very famous dance in the tribal areas of Jharkhand, Odisha and Bengal which is called ‘Chhau’. ‘Chhau’ festival was organized in Srinagar from 15 to 17 November with the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. Everyone enjoyed the ‘Chhau’ dance in this program. A workshop was also organized to impart training in ‘Chhau’ dance to the youth of Srinagar. Similarly, ‘BasohliUtsav’ was organized in Kathua district a few weeks ago. This place is a 150 kilometers away from Jammu. Local art, folk dance and traditional Ramlila were organized in this festival.

Friends, the beauty of Indian culture was felt in Saudi Arabia also. This month, an event named ‘Sanskrit Utsav’ was held in Saudi Arabia. This was unique in itself, since the entire program was in Sanskrit. Dialogues, music, dance, everything in Sanskrit, in which the participation of the local people was also seen.

My family members, ‘Swachh Bharat’ has now become a favorite topic of the entire country. It of course is my favorite topic as well and as soon as I receive any news related to it, my mind veers towards it… and it is naturalfor it to certainly find a mention in ‘Mann Ki Baat’. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has changed people’s mindset regarding cleanliness and public hygiene. Today this initiative has become a symbol of the national spirit, which has improved the lives of crores of countrymen. This campaign has also inspired people from different walks of life, especially the youth, for collective participation. One such commendable effort has been observed in Surat. A team of youth has started ‘Project Surat’ there. Its aim is to make Surat a model city which becomes an excellent example of cleanliness and sustainable development. Under this effort, which commenced as ‘Safai Sunday’, the youth of Suratearlier used to clean public places and the Dumas Beach. Later, these people also got involved wholeheartedly in cleaning the banks of the Tapiriver. And you will be happy to know that within no time the number of people associated with this has risen to more than 50 thousand. The confidence of the team increased with the support received from the people, after which they also embarked upon the task of collecting garbage. You will be surprised to know that this team has cleared lakhs of kilos of garbage. Such efforts made at the grassroots level can bring huge changes.

Friends, another piece of information has come in from Gujarat itself. A few weeks ago, ‘BhadaraviPoonam Fair’ was organized atAmbaji.More than 50 lakh people came to this fair. This fair takes place every year. The most significant aspect about it was that the people who came to the fair conducted a cleanliness campaign across a large part of Gabbar Hill. This campaign to keep the entire area around the temples clean is very inspiring.

Friends, I always say that cleanliness is not a campaign for a day or a week but it is an endeavor to be implemented for life. We also see people around us who have devoted their entire lives to issues related to cleanliness. Loganathanji, who lives in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, is incomparable. During his childhood, he often used to getperturbedon seeing the torn clothes of poor children. After that, he took a vow to help such children and started donating a part of his earnings to them. When there was shortage of money, Loganathanji even cleaned toilets so that the needy children could be helped. He has been engaged in this task with complete dedication for the last 25 years and till now has helped more than 1500 children. I once again commend such efforts. Many such efforts taking place across the country not only inspire us but also ignite the will to do something new.

My family members, one of the biggest challenges of the 21st century is ‘Water Security’. Conserving water is no less than saving life. When we perform any work with this spirit of collectivity, we also achieve success. An example of this is the ‘AmritSarovar’ being built in every district of the country. The more than 65 thousand ‘AmritSarovars’ that India has developed during the ‘AmritMahotsav’ will benefit forthcoming generations. Now it is also our responsibility to ensure that wherever ‘AmritSarovar’ have been built, they should be regularly looked after so that they remain the main source of water conservation.

Friends, amidst such discussions on water conservation; I also came to know about the ‘JalUtsav’ held in Amreli, Gujarat. There is also a lack of perennially flowing rivers in Gujarat, hence people have to depend mostly on rain water. During the last 20-25 years, after the efforts of the government and social organizations, the situation there has definitely changed. And hence ‘JalUtsav’ has a big role there. During the ‘JalUtsav’ held in Amreli, there were efforts to enhance awareness among the people on ‘water conservation’ and conservation of lakes. In that, water sports were also promoted and brainstorming was also done with experts on water security. The people participating in the program liked the tricolor water fountain very much. This water festival was organized by the foundation of SavjibhaiDholakia, who made a name for himself in the diamond business of Surat. I congratulate everyone involved in this and wish them all the best for doing similar work for water conservation.

My family members, nowadays the importance of skill development is finding acceptance all over the world. When we teach someone a skill, we not only give the person that skill; we also provide a source of income. And when I came to know that an organization has been engaged in skill development work for the last four decades, I felt even better. This institution is in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh and its name is ‘Beljipuram Youth Club’. Focusing on skill development, ‘Beljipuram Youth Club’ has empowered around 7000 women. Most of these women today are doing some work or the other on their own. This organization has also helped the children trapped in child labor to get out of that vicious cycle by teaching them some skill or the other. The team of ‘Beljipuram Youth Club’also taught new skills to the farmers associated with Farmer ProducerOrganizations i.e. FPOs, which has empowered a large number of farmers. This youth club is also spreading awareness in every village regarding cleanliness.It has also helped in the construction of many toilets. I congratulate and appreciate all the people associated with this organization for skill development. Today, such collective efforts are needed for skill development in every village of the country.

Friends, when there is a collective effort towards a goal, the level of success also rises higher. I want to share with all of you an inspiring example of Ladakh. You certainly must have heard about the Pashmina Shawl. Ladakhi Pashmina is also being discussed a lot for some time now. Ladakhi Pashmina is reaching the markets around the world under the name of ‘Looms of Ladakh’. You will be surprised to know that more than 450 women from 15 villages are involved in weaving them. Earlier they used to sell their products only to the tourists coming there. But now in this era of Digital India, the products made by them have started reaching different markets in the country and the world. That means our local is now becoming global and on account of that, the earnings of these women have also increased.

Friends, such successes of women power are present in every corner of the country. There is a need to bring such examples to the fore as much as possible. And what could be better than ‘Mann Ki Baat’ to convey this? So you too share such examples with me as much as possible. I will also try my best to bring them to you.

My family members, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ we have been discussing such collective efforts which have brought about major changes in the society. Another achievement of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is that it has made radio more popular in every household. On MyGov, I have received a letter from Ram Singh BaudhJi of Amroha in Uttar Pradesh. Ram Singh ji has been engaged in the work of collecting radio sets for the last several decades. He says that after ‘Mann Ki Baat’, people’s curiosity about his Radio Museum has increased further. Similarly, inspired by ‘Mann Ki Baat’, TeerthdhamPrernaTeerth near Ahmadabad has organized an interesting exhibition. More than a 100 antique radios from India and abroad are displayed here. Here, all the episodes of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ done till now can be heard. There are many more examples, which show how people got inspired by ‘Mann Ki Baat’ and started their own enterprise. One such example is that of Varshaji of Chamarajanagar, Karnataka, who was inspired by ‘Mann Ki Baat’ to stand on her own feet. Motivated by an episode of this program, she started the work of making organic fertilizer from bananas. This initiative of Varshaji, who is very fond of nature, has also brought employment opportunities for other people.

My family members, tomorrow the 27th of November, is the festival of KartikPurnima. ‘DevDeepawali’ is also celebrated on this day. And I always feel like witnessing ‘DevDeepawali’ of Kashi. This time I’ll not be able to go to Kashi but I am definitely sending my best wishes to the people of Banaras through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. This time too, lakhs of lamps will be lit on the Ghats of Kashi; there will be a grand Aarti; there will be a laser show… lakhs of people from India and abroad will enjoy ‘DevDeepawali’.

Friends, tomorrow, on the day of the full moon, is also the Prakash Parv of Guru Nanak DevJi. Guru Nanak Ji’s precious messages are inspiring and relevant even today, not only for India but for the whole world. They inspire us to be simple, harmonious and dedicated towards others. Our Sikh brothers and sisters all over the world are seen following the teachings of Guru Nanak DevJi about the spirit of service and acts of service. I convey my very best wishes to all the listeners of Mann Ki Baat, on the Prakash Parv of Guru Nanak DevJi.

My family members, that’s all this time with mein ‘Mann Ki Baat’. By and by, 2023 is moving towards its end. And like every time, you and I are also thinking that look…this year has passed so quickly. But it is also true that this year has been a year of immense achievements for India, and India’s achievements are the achievements of every Indian. I am glad that ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has become a powerful medium to highlight such achievements of Indians. Next time we will talk to you again about the many successes of our countrymen. Till then, I take leave of you.

Thank you very much.

Namaskar.

Ladakh will soon have South East Asia’s first Night Sky Sanctuary, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, has said.

The Minister informed that the Sanctuary is being set up with the help of Indian Institute of Astrophysics Bengaluru, which is affiliated to the Department of Science & Technology, Govt of India. He profusely appreciated the Lt Governor of Ladakh, Brig (Retd) B.D. Mishra for his active cooperation in the project.

On behalf of the Ministry of Science & Technology and CSIR, we will request the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to inaugurate the Night Sky Reserve at Hanle, the Minister said.

The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the exhibition ‘Ladakh’s Pride’ being held here to mark the fourth anniversary of the establishment of the Union Territory of Ladakh.

The exhibition is organised by Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh at the initiative of Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) Tashi Gyalson.

The Dark Sky Reserve will be located at Hanle village in Eastern Ladakh as a part of Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. It will boost Astro-tourism in India and will be one of the world’s highest-located sites for optical, infra-red, and gamma-ray telescopes.

Spread over 1,073 square kilometres, the Night Sky Reserve is located within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary and adjacent to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, the second-highest optical telescope in the world, of Indian Institute of Astrophysics at Hanle at an elevation of 4500 metres.

“At a time when the country is celebrating the success of Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1 solar mission, this Dark Sky Reserve will fascinate the stargazers, being among only the 15 or 16 of its kind in the world,” said Dr Jitendra Singh.

The Union Minister said that a tripartite MoU was signed among the UT Administration, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) for launching the Dark Space Reserve. He said, the site will have activities to help in boosting local tourism and economy through interventions of Science and Technology.

Dr Jitendra Singh complimented the LAHDC-Leh for organising the exhibition ‘Ladakh’s Pride’ outside Ladakh. The exhibition showcases GI-tagged treasures of Ladakh, – Seabuckthorn, Raktsey Karpoapricots, Ladakh wood carvings and Pashmina wool.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, the CSIR in the Union Ministry of Science & Technology is promoting “Leh Berry’,which is an exclusive food product of the cold desert.Referring to PM Modi’s visit to Ladakh in May 2018, Dr Jitendra Singh said the Prime Minister has strongly advised for widespread cultivation of Seabuckthorn, which is the source of “Leh Berry”.

The Minister said that commercial cultivation of three medicinal plants is also being promoted at a height of above 15,000 feet. This includes “Sanjeevani Booti”, locally known as “Sola”, which has very high life saving and therapeutic properties.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that Department of Atomic Energy will set up facilities in the UT for Gamma Irradiation Technology for preservation/shelf life extension of fruits and vegetables. He was happy to note that Apricot from Ladakh is now being exported to Dubai.

“PM Modi accords highest priority to Ladakh and other remote regions of the country. For the first time under the Modi government, Ladakh has been granted a University, Hotel Management Institute, a Medical and an Engineering College,” he said.

Referring to the action plan for “Carbon Neutral” Ladakh as announced by PM Modi, Dr Jitendra Singh said, with a Rs. 50 crore Special Development Package for Ladakh, for the first time any Central government has been so liberal in funding the various projects for the region.

“This is the first of its kind roadmap devoted exclusively to the Ladakh region,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, an exclusive Examination Centre has been set up by DoPT at Leh for conducting the UPSC’s Civil Services Examination. Common Eligibility Test (CET) is also being conducted at Leh and Kargil for jobs in the Government sector through SSC, RRBs and IBPS.

“This is not only a significant Governance reform but a huge Social reform for the job aspirant youth living in remote and far flung areas,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh informed that Snow Sculpture has been introduced in Ladakh since last year in a big way from the winter season as a tourist attraction, which will also create job opportunities for the locals.

Underlining that Ladakh is “India’s youngest Union Territory, but it is also India’s oldest civilization”, Dr Jitendra Singh said, “Ladakh, the land of the Buddhist Lamas, is a peace loving region, but confronted with a history of political and other turmoil. PM Modi, for the first time, fulfilled the aspirations of the Ladakhi people by forming the UT of Ladakh on 31st October 2019.”

“Though the first Ladakh Buddhist Association delegation met then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949 seeking separate UT status for the remote region, the dream fructified only seven decades later under PM Modi,” he said.

“PM Modi walks the talk!”, said Dr Jitendra Singh, quoting PM Modi, “My efforts will be to fulfil aspirations of the neglected remote regions of the country including Ladakh and the North-East.”

In his address, Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC-Leh,Tashi Gyalson thanked Dr Jitendra Singh for his personal interest and initiatives to boost development and tourism in Ladakh. Executive Councillor (Minority/Forest), LAHDC-Leh, Shri Ghulam Mehdi also spoke on the occasion.

Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Shri Parshottam Rupala released the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2023 (milk, egg, meat and wool production 2022-23) based on Animal Integrated Sample Survey (March 2022-February 2023) during  the National  Milk Day event at Guwahati today. The main features of the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics are:

Milk, Egg, Meat and Wool Production 2022-23

Union Miniter Shri Parshottam Rupala informed that the Production of Milk, Egg, Meat and wool in the country is estimated annually based on the results of Integrated Sample Survey (ISS) which is conducted across the country in three seasons i.e., Summer (March-June), Rainy (July-October) and Winter (November-February). The estimates of milk, egg, meat and wool for the year 2022-23 have been brought out and the outcomes of this survey are summarised below:

Milk Production:

Union Minister Shri Rupala informed that the total Milk production in the country is estimated as 230.58 million tonnes during 2022-23 registered a growth of 22.81%over the past 5 years which was 187.75 million tonnes in 2018-19. Further, the production has increased by 3.83% during 2022-23 over the estimates of 2021-22. In past, the annual growth rates were 6.47% in 2018-19; 5.69% in 2019-20; 5.81% in 2020-21 and 5.77% in 2021-22.

Minister stated that the highest milk producing State during 2022-23 was Uttar Pradesh with a share of 15.72 % of total milk production followed by Rajasthan (14.44 %), Madhya Pradesh (8.73 %), Gujarat (7.49 %), and Andhra Pradesh (6.70 %). In terms of annual growth rate (AGR), the highest AGR recorded by Karnataka (8.76%) followed by West Bengal (8.65%) and Uttar Pradesh (6.99%) over the previous year.

Egg Production:

Shri Parshottam Rupala stated that the total Egg production in the country has estimated as 138.38 billion nos. during 2022-23 registered a growth of 33.31% growth over the past 5 years as compared to the estimates of 103.80 billion numbers during 2018-19. Further, the production has increased annually by 6.77%during 2022-23 over 2021-22. In past the annual growth rate was9.02% in 2018-19; 10.19% in 2019-20; 6.70% in 2020-21 and 6.19% in 2021-22.

Shri Rupala informed that the Major contribution in the total Egg production comes from Andhra Pradesh with a share of 20.13 % of total Egg production followed by Tamil Nadu (15.58 %), Telangana (12.77 %), West Bengal (9.94%) andKarnataka (6.51 %). In terms of AGR, the highest growth rate was recorded by West Bengal (20.10%) and followed by Sikkim (18.93%) and Uttar Pradesh (12.80%).

Meat Production: 

Union Minister stated that the total Meat production in the country is estimated as 9.77million tonnes during 2022-23 registered a growth of 20.39 % over the past 5 years as compared to the estimates of 8.11 milliontonnes in 2018-19.Further, the production was increased by 5.13 % in 2022-23 over 2021-22.In the past the growth rate was 5.99 % in 2018-19; 5.98 % in 2019-20; 2.30% in 2020-21 and 5.62 % in 2021-22.

He further stated that the Major contribution in the total meat production comes from Uttar Pradesh with 12.20 % share and followed by West Bengal (11.93 %), Maharashtra (11.50 %), Andhra Pradesh (11.20 %) and Telangana (11.06 %). In terms of annual growth rate, the highest Annual Growth Rate (AGR) has recorded in Sikkim (63.08%) followed by Meghalaya (38.34%) and Goa (22.98%).

Wool Production:

Shri Rupala inormed that the total Wool production in the country is estimated as 33.61 million kg during 2022-23 registered a negative growth of 16.84% over the past 5 years as compared to the estimates of 40.42 million kg during 2018-19. However, the production has increased by 2.12% in 2022-23 over 2021-22. In past the growth rates were -2.51% in 2018-19; -9.05% in 2019-20, – 0.46% in 2020-21and-10.87% in 2021-22.

He informed that the Major contribution in the total Wool production comes from Rajasthan with a share of 47.98% followed by Jammu & Kashmir (22.55%), Gujarat (6.01%), Maharashtra (4.73%) and Himachal Pradesh (4.27%). In terms of annual growth rate, the highest AGR has recorded by Arunachal Pradesh (35.75%) followed by Rajasthan (6.06%) and Jharkhand (2.36%).

In a significant step towards a pollution free Varanasi, the city’s second floating Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mobile Refueling Unit (MRU) station at Ravidas Ghat was inaugurated today by Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Hardeep Singh Puri. This is the country’s second such station built to fill CNG in boats, after the Namo Ghat CNG station here.

Both the stations have been developed by GAIL (India) Limited, a Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. GAIL Chairman & Managing Director Shri Sandeep Kumar Gupta, Director (Human Resources) Shri Ayush Gupta, Director (Marketing) Shri Sanjay Kumar and a host of dignitaries were present on the occasion.

With this, floating CNG stations for boats are now operational on both sides of the main Ghats of Varanasi. The floating stations have been developed by GAIL at a cost of approx. Rs 17.5 crore.

In a world grappling with environmental challenges and the urgent need to transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources, the inauguration of the second floating infrastructure in Varanasi is a significant step towards viable sustainable energy solutions, Shri Puri said.

“The decision to set-up this floating CNG station is a testament to our belief in the transformative power of clean energy,” the Minister said.

Speaking about the significance of CNG station at Ravidas Ghat, Shri Puri noted that this will provide great convenience to boatmen as they will not have to go all the way to NaMo Ghat for refueling, thus saving time and money. “On an average, it is estimated that each boatman can potentially save over  Rs.36,000 per year by using CNG as fuel”, said the Minister.

For many years, the boatmen at Varanasi Ghats have been using old and less efficient petrol and diesel engines which are now being replaced by new CNG engines along with kits leading to improved fuel efficiency. Under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, GAIL has entered into an agreement with Varanasi Nagar Nigam (VNN) for conversion of boats to the environment-friendly fuel CNG.

Till date, 735 such boats out of 890 registered with VNN have been converted to CNG under GAIL’s CSR program at a cost of Rs 18 crore.

The floating CNG Mother station at Namo Ghat, the first of its kind in the world, has been operational since December 2021. The compression capacity of this station is around 15,000 kg/day of CNG which can fill approximately 1,000 – 1,500 boats per day. Boats presently plying in Varanasi have a seating capacity of 15 to 80 persons with engine power 5 to 20 HP. GAIL recently won the prestigious ‘Midstream Project of the Year – India’ award at the Asian Oil and Gas Awards event for this project.

The new station at Ravidas Ghat is a CNG Mobile Refueling Unit (MRU), i.e., CNG will be filled in cascades from Namo Ghat and transported by water ways to Ravidas Ghat for fueling boats. This is also first of its kind in the world. It has a capacity of 4,000 kg/day, which can cater to 300 to 400 boats per day.

As CNG is more efficient fuel than diesel, it leads to significant savings for the boatmen who estimate that they are getting 35-40% more mileage due to replacement of old diesel engines with efficient CNG engines (1 kg of CNG is energy equivalent to 1.39 litres of petrol and 1.18 litres of diesel). On an average, it is estimated that each boatman can save potentially Rs 36,000 year by using CNG as fuel.

CNG is safer and less polluting and generates significantly less nitrous oxides (NOx) and sulphur oxides (Sox) as compared to diesel. It produces less smoke from exhaust as compared to diesel and is almost odourless, providing health benefits and comfort to boatmen and tourists while decreasing pollution in the holy river Ganga and atmosphere. Reduction in engine noise compare to diesel engine due to less vibration of the boats adds to the stability and comfort for the tourists enjoying the boat rides.

GAIL has invested over Rs 350 crore for creating CGD infrastructure in Varanasi and another Rs 100 crore will be spent by 2024. The Varanasi CGD project is part of the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga project and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2018.

Apart from these two floating CNG stations, GAIL also operates 24 CNG stations and another 13 CNG stations work is in progress for supplying the environment friendly fuel to more than 8,000 four-wheelers, 17,000 three-wheelers and around 100 buses. GAIL is also providing piped natural gas (D-PNG) to over 32,000 households, 61 commercial units like hotels and restaurants and 13 industrial units. PNG connectivity to another 40,000 households is in progress.

Later, Shri Puri interacted with the students at the Varanasi centre of GAIL Utkarsh, a CSR initiative of the company to provide to all-expenses paid residential coaching to 60 meritorious girls from economically weaker sections to compete for Engineering and Medical entrance examinations.

The Varanasi centre, started in 2021-22, inspired by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’, is the GAIL’s first ‘all girls’ centre and the first such centre to provide coaching for dual streams of Engineering and Medical Entrance examinations to 60 girls from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. In 2022-23, 28 out of 30 girls qualified JEE Mains exam and 29 out of 30 girls qualified NEET exam.

In a world grappling with environmental challenges and the urgent need to transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources, the inauguration of the second floating infrastructure in Varanasi is a significant step towards viable sustainable energy solutions, said Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs. He inaugurated the Varanasi’s second floating CNG dispensing station at Ravidas Ghat today. “The decision to set-up this floating CNG station is a testament to our belief in the transformative power of clean energy”, the Minister said.

Speaking about the significance of CNG station at Ravidas Ghat, Shri Puri noted that this will provide great convenience to boatmen as they will not have to go all the way to NaMo Ghat for refueling, thus saving time and money.

Talking about the benefits of CNG boats for the fishermen and for the environment, Shri Puri said that the CNG boats not only reduce pollution but also operating their boats on CNG is leading to significant savings for boatmen as CNG is more efficient fuel than liquid fuel. They are getting 35-40% more mileage due to replacement of old engines with efficient CNG engines (1 kg of CNG is energy equivalent to 1.39 litres of petrol and 1.18 litres of diesel), he mentioned.

“On an average, it is estimated that each boatman can potentially save over  Rs.36,000 per year by using CNG as fuel”, said the Minister.

First-ever Khelo India Para Games 2023 logo and mascot Ujjwala was launched in New Delhi today by Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports and several eminent athletes and para athletes.

‘Ujjwala’- a sparrow, was unveiled as the official mascot of Khelo India – Para Games 2023. The little sparrow is a symbol of the pride of Delhi and its uniqueness portrays determination and empathy. Ujjwala, as the mascot of Khelo India – Para Games 2023, is a reminder that strength comes in many forms and the human spirit is unbreakable.

Among the attendees, former Indian Women’s Hockey Team Captain Rani Rampal, Indian freestyle wrestler and Olympian bronze medallist, Yogeshwar Dutt, Indian professional wrestler Sarita Mor along with Indian professional boxer Akhil Kumar were present.

The presence of star para athletes like Pramod Bhagat, Bhavina Patel, Avani Lekhara, Sumit Antil added to the special occasion.

Reflecting on the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of an inclusive sports ecosystem, Shri Anurag Thakur said, “On the occasion of the launch of the inaugural edition of the first-ever Khelo India Para Games, I would like to congratulate everyone. It is because of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision, that Khelo India has become a household name. It has become a movement and Khelo India was missing the Para Games for the last few years. From 2018 till date, we have had 11 Khelo India Games, we are delighted to add Para Games this year.”

The Union Minister also added that for the last four years, the budget for Khelo India was Rs 3,000 crores sanctioned by the Prime Minister of IndiaShri Narendra Modi and today, I am elated to announce that for the next five years, it has been increased to more than Rs 3300 crores.

Since 2018, a total of 11 Khelo India Games have been successfully held. This includes 5 Khelo India Youth Games, 3 Khelo India University Games and 3 Khelo India Winter Games. Thakur expressed that these Games have been instrumental in identifying talent across the country and has aided in India’s performance at the prestigious multi-discipline events. Now, with the first-ever Khelo India Para Games, talented para athletes keen on pursuing a career in para sports can be identified and further assisted in bringing desirable results for the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Indian freestyle wrestler and Olympian bronze medallist, Yogeshwar Dutt said, “It is great to see the Government of India coming up with such a wonderful initiative. I am looking forward to see all these athletes in action. I would like to wish all the players participating in Khelo India Para Games best of luck.”

Sharing his excitement post the unveiled event of Khelo India Para Games, Para Athlete Pramod Bhagat, who won a gold medal at the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Para-badminton, said, “I believe that the Para Games currently have a very promising future, particularly for young people and para athletes. Also, for the coaches who would be able to use their training to boost efforts on enhancing athletic talents and preparing them for India to witness increased participation in national and international tournaments beginning with the Khelo Para Games. It is one of the most significant initiatives launched by Khelo India.”

Over 1400 participants from across 32 states and union territories including Services Sports Control Board are expected to participate in the maiden Khelo India Para Games which will witness para athletes vie for honours in 7 disciplines including para athletics, para shooting, para archery, para football, para badminton, para table tennis and para weight lifting. The events will be held across 3 SAI stadiums – the IG Stadium, Shooting Range in Tughlaqabad and the JLN Stadium.