“India believes in value based health care and is continuously striving to provide high quality and cost-effective healthcare to everyone. Aligned with its philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and our philosophy of perceiving health as a service, India has offered Co-WIN platform as a digital public good to any interested country. India has offered Co-WIN  as a digital public health good to WHO through WHO’s C-TAP initiative.” This was stated by Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya as he chaired the Health Ministers’ virtual session of “Voice of Global South Summit – 2023” titled: Cooperation to build resilient healthcare systems. The session served as a platform to generate ideas from the developing world for holistic healthcare.

Welcoming all participants, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said that “it is need of the hour to focus on long-term measures to build stronger, more resilient health systems that can prevent, prepare for, & respond to future health related challenges, while maintaining essential health services.” Highlighting the significant milestones achieved by India through its journey of managing COVID-19 pandemic, he added that “we have administered more than 2.2 billion vaccines with 90% 2nd dose coverage of 12+ population & 220 million precautionary doses. India’s experience has reinforced the fact that capacity building of healthcare workers at various levels of governance, coupled with harnessing digital technology is the way forward.”

Referring to G20 India Presidency, Union Health Minister said “India endeavors to imbibe the requirements and need of Global South in its G20 health priorities. Our Prime Minister has said ‘Our G20 priorities will be shaped in consultation with not just our G20 partners, but also our fellow-travellers in the global South.” Dr. Mandaviya further reinforced “Hence, we will take the voice of the global South to G-20 and other international forums as partners in our development journey. Amalgamation of these efforts will ensure health equity at global level & particularly to Global South”. Dr. Mandaviya commended India’s efforts in providing training to support countries in terms of capacity building of their healthcare professionals. The training included COVID-19 testing, clinical practices, case management, vaccine development & delivery for participants from Asian, South-East Asian, & African countries. India also shared its medical expertise by dispatching Rapid Response Teams to Kuwait & Maldives.”

Dr. Mandaviya stated that “under the soon to be launched Heal in India initiative, India aims to provide its health infrastructure for patients abroad and make it a global hub for medical & value-based healthcare for patients from across the world. With more than 1.3 Million allopathic doctors, 3.4 Million nurses, and 800,000 AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) doctors, India would provide required care to patients from all countries including Global South through quality and affordable medical care.” He mentioned that India affirms to work with partners in the Global South to harness the potential of traditional medicine to promote health, wellness and people-centric care.

The Union Health Minister highlighted that since 2015, the world has been observing the International Day of Yoga with huge participation. 170 out of 194 WHO Member States have reported the use of traditional medicine & their governments asked WHO to support in creating a body of reliable evidence & data on traditional medicine practices and products.  Government of India in collaboration with WHO has established the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine at Jamnagar, Gujarat on 19th April 2022.

The Union Health Minister added that as a part of the Global South, India’s Presidency has a special significance. Following the notion of Aarogya Paramam Bhagyam” i.e. health is the highest fortune, investing in healthcare is investing in future, India has prioritized its health track to build consensus at global level focusing on converging on-going efforts, mapping health resources, & connecting them to most deserving areas, so health equity can be ensured at global level & particularly to Global South.

The dignitaries participating in the session emphasized the need to adopt an inclusive approach to global health security. Ways and means to develop digital public goods in healthcare, promote traditional medicine, build public capacities and develop regional hubs, and knowledge sharing were discussed. The Ministers were particularly appreciative of India’s Vaccine Maitri initiative as a substantive reflection of South-South cooperation at the height of the COVID pandemic.

The session was attended by dignitaries from Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, Royal Government of Bhutan, Republic of Cameroon, Grenada, Republic of Guatemala, Republic of Liberia, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Niger, Independent State of Samoa, Kingdom of Eswatini, Republic of Paraguay, and Dominica.

Present in the programme are Karnataka Governor Shri Thawar Chand Gehlot ji, Chief Minister Shri Basavaraj Bommai ji, my colleagues in the Union Cabinet, ministers of the state government, MPs, MLAs and my young friends of Karnataka and the country!

मूरु साविरा मठा, सिध्दारूढा मठा, इन्तहा अनेक मठागला क्षेत्रकके नन्ना नमस्कारगलू! रानी चेन्नम्मा ना नाडु, संगोल्ली रायण्णा ना बीडू, ई पुन्य भूमि-गे नन्ना नमस्कारगलू!

This region of Karnataka is famous for its tradition, culture and knowledge. Many personalities here have been honored with Jnanpith Award. This region has given the country several great musicians. I pay my respects to Pandit Kumar Gandharva, Pandit Basavaraj Rajguru, Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur, Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and Pandita Gangubai Hangal ji from the land of Hubballi today.

Friends,

The ‘National Youth Day’ in 2023 is very special. On one hand, there is this exuberant National Youth Festival, and on the other hand, ‘Amrit Mahotsav’ of freedom! “Arise, awake and stop not until the goal is reached”. Eli! Edheli!! Guri Muttuva Tanka Nildiri. This slogan of Vivekananda ji is the life mantra of the youth of India. Today, we have to take the country forward by emphasizing on our duties and understanding them in ‘Amrit Kaal’. And there is great inspiration of Swami Vivekananda ji in front of the youth of India. I bow down at the feet of Swami Vivekananda ji on this occasion. Just a few days ago, another great saint from the land of Karnataka, Sri Siddheshwar Swami ji, passed away. I also pay my respectful homage to Shri Siddheshwar Swami ji.

Friends,

Swami Vivekananda had a wonderful relationship with Karnataka. He had made several visits to Karnataka and this region during his lifetime. He also visited Hubli-Dharwad while going to Bengaluru. These visits gave a new direction to his life. The Maharaja of Mysuru was also one of the people who helped Swami Vivekananda to travel to Chicago. Swami ji’s visit across India is also proof that our consciousness was one, our soul as one nation was one for so many centuries. This is an immortal example of the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. The country is taking this spirit forward with new resolutions in ‘Amrit Kaal’.

Friends,

Swami Vivekananda used to say that the development of a future and a nation becomes easy when we possess the power of the youth. This land of Karnataka itself has produced so many great personalities, who gave foremost importance to their duties towards the nation and reached extraordinary feats at a very young age. Rani Chennamma of Kittur was one of the leading women freedom fighters of the country. She led the freedom struggle even in the most difficult times. Rani Chennamma’s army also had brave warriors like her companion Sangolli Rayanna, whose bravery had shattered the morale of the British army. Narayan Mahadev Doni of this land became a martyr who sacrificed his life for the country at the age of just 14.

Lance Naik Hanumanthappa Koppad, the son of Karnataka, showed how the vitality and courage of a youth can even defeat death in the mountains of Siachen. He struggled for six days even in minus 55 degree temperature, and came out alive. This ability is not limited to bravery only. You see, Shri  Visvesvaraya proved that young talent is not confined to any one field by proving his mettle in engineering. Similarly, incredible examples of the talent and potential of our youth are awash in different parts of the country. Even today, the prowess of Indian youth amazes the world when competitions ranging from Maths to science are held on world forums.

Friends,

The priorities and goals of any nation change in different periods. Today, the stage at which we Indians have reached in the 21st century that appropriate time has come after centuries. And the biggest reason for this is the youth power of India, the Yuva Shakti. Today India is a young country. The huge youth population of the world is in our country.

Yuva Shakti is the driving force of India’s journey! The next 25 years are important for building the nation. Yuva Shakti’s dreams decide India’s direction. Yuva Shakti’s aspirations decide India’s destination. Yuva Shakti’s passion decides India’s path. To harness this Yuva Shakti, we need to be young with our thoughts, with our efforts! To be young is to be dynamic in our efforts. To be young is to be panoramic in our perspective. To be young is to be pragmatic!

Friends,

If the world looks to us for solutions, it is because of the dedication of our ‘Amrit’ generation. Today, when the world is looking towards India with so much hope, then credit goes to all of you, my young friends. Today we are the fifth largest economy in the world. Our target is to take it to the top-3. This economic growth of the country will bring immense opportunities for our youth. Today we are the world’s leading force in the field of agriculture. A new revolution is about to come in the field of agriculture through technology and innovation. As a result, new opportunities will emerge for the youth and new avenues will be opened to reach new heights. In the field of sports too, India is moving towards becoming a major power of the world. This is possible only because of the capability of the youth of India. Be it a village, a city or a town, the spirit of the youth is on the rise everywhere. Today you are witnessing these changes. Tomorrow you will become future leaders with its strength.

Friends,

This is a special time in history. You are a special generation. You have a special mission. This is the mission of making an impact for India on the global scene. For every mission, a foundation is needed. Whether it is the economy or education, sports or start-ups, skill development or digitalisation, in every domain, a strong foundation has been laid in the last 8-9 years. The runway is ready for your take off! Today, there is a great optimism in the world towards India and its youth. This optimism is about you. This optimism is because of you. And this optimism is for you!

Today, there are global voices saying this century is India’s century. It is your century, the century of India’s youth! There are global surveys saying the majority of the big investors want to invest in India. These investors want to invest in you, India’s youth. Indian start-ups are getting record investments. Many global companies are setting up manufacturing plants to Make In India. From toys to tourism, defence to digital, India is making headlines across the world. So, this is a historic time when optimism and opportunity are coming together.

Friends,

In our country, the Nari Shakti (women’s power) has always played an important role in awakening and increasing the potential of the nation’s power. Now women and our daughters are exhibiting bravery in this ‘Amrit Kaal’ of freedom. Indian women are flying fighter jets today and joining the army in combative roles. Our daughters are scaling heights in every field whether it is science, technology, space, or sports. It is a testimony that India is now moving towards its goal with full force.

Friends,

We have to make 21st century India’s century. And therefore, it is imperative that we think ten steps ahead of the present. Our thinking and approach should be futuristic! It is necessary that you make positive disruptions to fulfill the aspirations of the youth and move ahead of even the modern countries of the world. If we recall, there are many things which did not exist 10-20 years ago, but are an integral part of our lives today. Similarly, our world is going to change completely in the next few years, or possibly before the end of this decade. Emerging technologies like Artificial intelligence, Machine learning, Internet of Things and AR-VR would have evolved in a new form. Words like Data Science and Cyber Security would have deeply entrenched every aspect of our lives.

Everything is going to be seen in a new avatar through advanced technology from education to the security of the country and from healthcare to communication. The jobs which do not even exist today will be mainstream professions for the youth in the near future. Therefore, it is necessary that our youth prepare themselves for future skills. We have to connect ourselves with whatever new is happening in the world. We have to do the work that no one else is doing. The country is preparing a practical and futuristic education system through the new National Education Policy to prepare the new generation with this mindset. Today the focus is on innovative and skill oriented education from the school itself. Today the youth have the freedom to move forward according to their choice. This foundation will prepare future ready youth who will build India of the future.

Friends,

Today two messages of Swami Vivekananda should be a part of every youth’s life in this fast changing world. These two messages are — institutions and innovation! Institution is formed when we expand our ideas and work with team spirit. Today every youth should expand his individual success in the form of team success. This team spirit will take forward the developed India as ‘Team India’.

My young friends,

You have to remember one more statement of Swami Vivekananda. Swami Vivekananda used to say that every work has to pass through three stages – ridicule, opposition and acceptance. And this is the apt definition if innovation has to be defined in one line. For example, some people made fun of digital payments when they were introduced in the country a few years ago. Even when the Swachh Bharat campaign was launched, these people said that this is not going to work in India. They also made fun when the country came up with the scheme of getting Jan Dhan accounts opened in banks for the poor. Our scientists were also ridiculed when they came up with indigenous vaccines during Covid whether it would work or not.

Today India is the world leader in digital payments. Today Jan Dhan accounts are a major force of our economy. India’s achievement in the field of vaccines is being discussed all over the world. Therefore, if the youth of India have any new idea, remember that you may be ridiculed and opposed. But if you believe in your idea then stick to it and have faith in it. Your success will prove to be bigger than the imagination of those making fun.

Friends,

Today new efforts and experiments are being carried out continuously in the country by taking the youth along. As part of this, the youth of different states of the country have gathered here to participate in various competitions in the National Youth Festival. It is somewhat like competitive and cooperative federalism. Youth from different states are showcasing their skills with a spirit of healthy competition. Here it is not important who wins, because in any case, India will emerge victorious. For, the talent of our youth will come to the fore in the Youth Festival.

Besides competing with each other you will also cooperate with each other. That is why it is said that competition can happen only when the participants cooperate with each other in following a rule. We have to continuously take forward this spirit of competition and cooperation. We have to always think that where the country will reach with our own success. Today the goal of the country is – Viksit Bharat, Sashakt Bharat (Developed India, Strong India)! We do not have to pause without fulfilling the dream of a developed India. I am sure every youth will make this dream his own dream and will shoulder this responsibility of the country. With this belief, many thanks and best wishes to all of you!

DISCLAIMER: This is the approximate translation of PM’s speech. Original speech was delivered in Hindi.

Excellencies,

Leaders of the global South, Namaskar! It is my pleasure to welcome you in this Summit. I thank you for joining us from different parts of the world. We are meeting as a new year dawns, and brings new hopes and new energy. On behalf of 1.3 billion Indians, I extend my greetings for a happy and fulfilling 2023 to all of you and your countries.

We have turned the page on another difficult year, that saw: War, conflict, terrorism and geo-political tensions: Rising food, fertilizer and fuel prices; Climate-Change driven natural disasters, and Lasting economic impact of the COVID pandemic. It is clear the world is in a state of crisis. It is difficult to predict how long this state of instability will last.

Excellencies,

We, the Global South, have the largest stakes in the future. Three fourths of humanity lives in our countries. We should also have equivalent voice. Hence, as the eight-decade old model of global governance slowly changes, we should try to shape the emerging order.

Excellencies,

Most of the global challenges have not been created by the Global South. But they affect us more. We have seen this in the impacts of COVID pandemic, climate change, terrorism and even the Ukraine conflict. The search for solutions also does not factor in our role or our voice.

Excellencies,

India has always shared its developmental experience with our brothers of the Global South. Our development partnerships cover all geographies and diverse sectors. We supplied medicines and vaccines to over 100 countries during the pandemic. India has always stood for greater role of developing countries in determining our common future.

Excellencies,

As India begins its G20 Presidency this year, it is natural that our aim is to amplify the Voice of the Global South. For our G-20 Presidency, we have chosen the theme of – “One Earth, One Family, One Future”. This is in line with our civilizational ethos. We believe the path to realizing ‘oneness’ is through human-centric development. People of Global South should no longer be excluded from the fruits of development. Together we must attempt to redesign global political and financial governance.  This can remove inequities, enlarge opportunities, support growth and spread progress and prosperity.

Excellencies,

To re-energise the world, we should together call for a global agenda of ‘Respond, Recognize, Respect and Reform’: Respond to the priorities of the Global South by framing an inclusive and balanced international agenda. Recognize that the principle of ‘Common but Differentiated Responsibilities’ applies to all global challenges. Respect sovereignty of all nations, rule of law and peaceful resolution of differences and disputes; and Reform international institutions, including the United Nations, to make them more relevant.

Excellencies,

Despite the challenges the developing world faces, I remain optimistic that our time is coming. The need of the hour is to identify simple, scalable and sustainable solutions that can transform our societies and economies. With such an approach, we shall overcome the difficult challenges- whether it is poverty,  universal healthcare or building human capacities. In the last Century, we supported each other in our fight against foreign rule. We can do it again in this Century, to create a new World Order that will ensure the welfare of our citizens. As far as India is concerned, your Voice is India’s Voice. Your Priorities are India’s Priorities. Over the next two days, this Voice of Global South Summit will have discussions on 8 priority areas. I am confident that together the Global South can produce new and creative ideas. These ideas can form the basis of our Voice in the G-20 and other forums. In India, we have a prayer- आ नो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वतः. It means, may noble thoughts come to us from all directions of the universe. This Voice of Global South Summit is a collective effort for gaining noble ideas for our collective future.

Excellencies,

I look forward to listening to your ideas and thoughts. I once again thank you for your participation. Thank you.

Dhanyavaad.

“For the first-time health is being linked with the agenda of development under a holistic approach undertaken by the Union Govt. The pandemic period has provided us an opportunity to strengthen our healthcare infrastructure and delivery systems”. This was stated by Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare Dr Mansukh Mandaviya as he chaired the eighth meeting of Mission Steering Group (MSG) of National Health Mission (NHM), here.

Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Dr Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare and Dr V K Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog were also present.

The MSG is the apex decision-making body of NHM that takes decisions on policies and program implementation under the Mission. Secretaries of Ministries of Government of India including MoHFW, AYUSH, School Education & Literacy and senior officers from WCD, Tribal Affairs, Finance & Expenditure, Panchayati Raj, Health Secretaries of State Governments and eminent public health professionals also attended the meeting.

Highlighting the achievements under NHM, Dr Mandaviya stated that “Exceeding the target of 1.50 lakh Ayushman Bharat- Health & Wellness Centres (AB-HWC) by 31 December, 2022, more than 1.54 lakh Sub Health Centres and Primary Health Centres have been transformed as AB-HWCs. In sync with the approach of the National Health Policy 2017 (NHP 2017), AB-HWCs are providing comprehensive primary healthcare closer to the communities. As many as 12 health services packages are available free-of-charge.” He further stated that more than 135 crore footfall has been witnessed at the HWCs.

Dr Mandaviya stressed that while we need to understand global healthcare systems and their best practices, “India can have its own healthcare model which would be aligned to its regional requirements, and customized to the local strengths and challenges”. Moving with the philosophy of Antyodaya, the Government aspires to provide affordable, accessible and quality healthcare services to each individual in every corner of the country, he emphasized.

The MSG was informed about the ‘Holistic Approach’ adopted by NHM encompassing change in programme design to respond to changing health care needs. This includes working with a Saturation Approach; shift from Incremental to Comprehensive approach (Ayush, Tertiary Care & Expanded package); enhancing self reliance through Diagnostics, Drugs & AI; creating a National Digital Health Ecosystem and future ready & resilient health systems; and shift from MDGs to SDGs.

The MSG was apprised about the achievements made under NHM during the past few years:

– 1 Lakh AB- HWCs have started providing teleconsultation services through the e-Sanjeevani platform.

– Technical specification and draft guidelines of HPV vaccine has been approved.

– 30 Crore ABHA IDs have been created so far and integrated with the National Digital Healthcare Ecosystem.

– Around 20 Crore AB-PMJAY cards have been created

– The Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Program (PMNDP) has been implemented in 630 Districts of 36 States/UTs.

– Tertiary services are gradually being provided in district hospitals as well.

– Over 9 lakh TB patients adopted under the Nikshay Mitra initiative.

– Jal Jeevan Mission has had a significant impact in reducing Malaria cases in the last 4-5 years.

The 8^th MSG of the NHM discussed various agenda points including confirmation of minutes of last meeting of the MSG. The Action Taken Report on decisions taken during the 7^th meeting of the MSG were discussed and it was decided to implement a saturated and thorough approach that encompasses all aspects of health and has a noteworthy reach and impact on the community. Commending the progress under the Nikshay Mitra initiative, the Union Health Minister emphasized on the need to eradicate TB by 2025 as per Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of achieving the target of TB Elimination target by the year 2025. The MSG also deliberated upon increasing focus towards preventive and promotive health approach that advocates for a holistic wellness outlook in the community. The dignitaries deliberated on the proposition of each medical college mentoring 10 AB-HWCs each which would then go on to become models for other AB-HWCs to emulate. This would assure quality comprehensive healthcare services in the primary sector. Additionally, the MSG discussed strengthening of the national healthcare ecosystem and stressed on adoption of new technologies to upgrade and strengthen the existing healthcare infrastructure as part of new initiatives under NHM.

The member Union Ministers appreciated progress made under NHM through focused programmes and support provided to states over the years. Several suggestions were offered including on the approach to elimination of diseases like cervical cancer, increasing the number of AB-HWCs under Medical Colleges, need for a more detailed analysis of the urban health sector, and enhancing synergy between Centre and States for timely matching fund allocation from the latter.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya noted that the decisions taken in meeting of MSG will help in giving impetus to delivery of healthcare services at all three levels of healthcare – primary, secondary and tertiary. The feedback and suggestions from the meeting would be considered to guide the roadmap on interventions to be taken up, he said.

India and  the United States held the 13th Ministerial-level meeting of India – United States Trade Policy Forum (TPF) in Washington, DC, on January 11, 2023.  Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal and the U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai co-chaired the meeting.

Following the conclusion of the dialogue, the following joint statement was issued:  ​​​​

The Ministers underlined the significance of the TPF in forging robust bilateral trade ties and enhancing the bilateral economic relationship to benefit working people in both countries. They appreciated that bilateral trade in goods and services continued to rise rapidly and reached about $160 billion in 2021.  While welcoming this increase, the Ministers recognized that for economies of their size, significant potential remains unfulfilled and expressed their mutual desire to further enhance engagement with the goal of continuing to increase and diversify bilateral trade.

The Ministers highlighted the work undertaken through the TPF working groups since the 12th TPF Ministerial.  They reiterated the importance to India and the United States of specific trade issues enumerated in the 2021 TPF Joint Statement and directed that work be maintained to advance those issues towards resolution, with regular stock-taking of progress by the Ministers and their senior officials.

The United States welcomed India’s participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). Ambassador Tai and Minister Goyal fully support the IPEF initiative and believe that deepening economic engagement among partner countries is crucial for continued growth, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and that the IPEF will bring tangible benefits to the region.

The Ministers welcomed the results achieved at the WTO’s Twelfth Ministerial Conference and expressed their shared intention to continue to work constructively at the WTO, including on WTO Ministerial Decisions, to achieve tangible, realistic, and meaningful outcomes.  Recalling the foundational principles of the WTO, they noted that WTO reform should build trust in the multilateral trading system and enable the WTO to better advance its foundational objectives and respond to the needs of all of our people.

Ambassador Tai welcomed India’s G20 Presidency and said the United States looks forward to working together in the Trade and Investment Working Group. She noted that the G20 can be a useful forum for initiating constructive dialogue and seeking to enhance coordination and cooperation among member countries on global trade issues.

The Ministers welcomed the recent intensification of work among their officials aimed at finding mutually agreed solutions on outstanding WTO disputes between the two countries.  They further directed officials to continue this engagement with the view of arriving at satisfactory outcomes in the coming months.

Discussion on Bilateral Trade Issues

The Ministers expressed their intent to continue to work together on resolving outstanding trade issues and highlighted upcoming engagement on a select number of those issues.

The United States appreciated India’s initial public consultation on the draft Drugs, Medical Devices, and Cosmetics Act and India noted that comments and suggestions on the draft bill are being examined as per standard procedures for introduction in the parliament.  The United States and India acknowledged the importance of continuing to engage on relevant rules and regulations going forward.

The United States also welcomed India’s commitment to provide public notice and comment periods as it considers new quality control orders and ensure that the measures shall not be more trade restrictive than necessary in line with the WTO TBT Agreement.

The Ministers welcomed the finalization of the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) design with the technical support of NOAA. The collaboration between India and the United States to expedite the TED trials will ensure that the TEDs are effective in minimizing the impact of fishing on sea-turtle populations.  They highlighted that ongoing work to complete the TED trials in India will continue in early 2023.

The United States welcomed the efforts to streamline regulations on certain electronic devices under Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE) and Compulsory Registration Order (CRO) in order to reduce the compliance burden and facilitate the ease of doing business. Both sides highlighted their interest in exchanging information on the use of international standards, conformity assessment procedures, and the Common Criteria Recognition Arrangement (CCRA) in the electronics sector.

The Ministers welcomed continued engagement on intellectual property (IP) and reiterated that the protection and enforcement of IP contributes to the promotion of innovation as well as bilateral trade and investment in IP-intensive industries.  They appreciated sustained work of the TPF IP Working Group and reviewed its recent progress on engaging on issues related to IP enforcement.  The United States welcomed India’s ongoing domestic consultations regarding the administration of its IP regime, including on the treatment of business confidential information related to working of patents, procedures for patent application oppositions, and streamlining of trademark infringement investigations.  The United States and India underlined the importance of continuing to engage on the  copyrights provisions in view of commitments under the World Intellectual Property Organization Copyright Treaty and World Intellectual Property Organization Performance and Phonogram Treaty.

The Ministers acknowledged the positive impact of Trade Margin Rationalization (TMR) on patient access to affordable medical devices during the Covid Pandemic.  They also agreed to continue to exchange views on pricing issues for cardiac stents and knee implants that would facilitate access to cutting edge medical technology at affordable prices to the patients.

India appreciated the resumption of inspections by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and asked the U.S. side to also resume inspections of new facilities and non-priority areas at the earliest.

India highlighted its interest in restoration of its beneficiary status under the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences program.  The United States noted that this could be considered, as warranted, in relation to the eligibility criteria determined by the U.S. Congress.

The United States and India also exchanged views on potential targeted tariff reductions.

The Ministers acknowledged the remaining work to be done to finalize access for certain agricultural products of interest to both sides.  The Ministers also intend to increase dialogue on food and agricultural trade issues in 2023 and to continue work to address bilateral issues in the relationship through the Agriculture Working Groups, as well as the relevant sub-groups.

The Ministers acknowledged the constructive engagement of the Services Working Group under the Trade Policy Forum and emphasized that issues of mutual interest in services sectors will continue to be pursued through the Working Group.

The Ministers noted that the movement of professional and skilled workers, students, investors and business travelers between the countries contributes immensely to enhancing bilateral economic and technological partnership. India acknowledged the steps being taken by the United States to augment processing of visa applications. Both sides decided to continue close monitoring of visa issues with the shared resolve to facilitate the movement of professionals, skilled workers, experts, and scientific personnel.

The Ministers acknowledged the ongoing discussions on a Social Security totalization agreement and, upon the receipt of additional information from India,  encouraged further engagement in order to establish a stronger basis for a future agreement. The Ministers supported intensifying the work to achieve early outcomes in the matter.

Recognizing the key role of the digital economy in both the United States and India, the Ministers affirmed the importance of a conducive ecosystem for digital trade that supports economic growth and innovation. They also agreed to enhance engagement through the TPF and ICT Working Groupon policies impacting digital trade.

The Ministers noted the potential of enhancing trade in professional services between the two countries. They acknowledged that well-functioning pathways for recognition of qualifications in professional services, and deeper dialogue between the professional bodies of the two countries can facilitate this growth. They intend to encourage their regulatory bodies to engage in discussions on exchanges of knowledge, capacity building, and recognition of qualifications to further enhance trade in professional services.

The Ministers also noted that greater co-operation in the Fintech sector could contribute to further expansion of the bilateral trade relationship, and intend to continue engagement in this area.  They also discussed the importance of electronic payment services to furthering the trade relationship and both sides expressed their intention to continue engagement in this area.

The Ministers recalled their mutual interest in the particular importance of resilient supply chains in fostering effective responses to health emergencies.  Minister Goyal highlighted India’s interest in the potential of digital health, particularly telemedicine services as an element in continuity of care during the health emergencies.

Creation of a new TPF Working Group on Resilient Trade

Reflecting their shared objective of deepening and broadening the U.S.-India trade relationship, the Ministers launched a new TPF Working Group on Resilient Trade.  This new Working Group will enable officials to deepen bilateral dialogue on a range of issues that can enhance the resiliency and sustainability of the trade relationship so that it is better able to withstand current and future global challenges.  The Ministers noted that, in advance of the next TPF Ministerial meeting, the Resilient Trade Working Group will initially focus on the following areas:

• Deepening engagement on trade facilitation, which is particularly relevant to the construction of durable and sustainable supply chains. The Ministers welcomed plans for a dedicated working session on trade facilitation in the coming months, including on digitization of customs procedures, and that officials will also identify additional areas for future cooperation;
• The importance of benefitting workers and promoting sustainable and inclusive growth, including cooperative engagement to promote labor rights and workforce development;
• Expanded dialogue on good regulatory practices and pursuing cooperation in areas of mutual interest with an initial focus on respective procedures for developing rules and regulations in advance of the next TPF Ministerial meeting;
• The role that trade can play in contributing to environmental protection and responses to common sustainability challenges including issues related to mobilization of sustainable finance and scaling up of innovative clean technologies. Further, both sides may also engage on issues of mutual interest related to circular economy approaches and promotion of sustainable lifestyle choices;
• Additional means of strengthening the resilience in our global supply chains, especially in the critical sectors that underpin our economies, as well as further work on these issues in coordination and cooperation with our trusted partners.

The Ministers concluded by directing the TPF Working Groups to reconvene quarterly, either in person or virtually, and identify specific trade outcomes to ensure that trade relationship begins to reach its full potential.  They also instructed senior officials to hold an inter-sessional TPF meeting by mid-2023 and agreed to reconvene the TPF at the Ministerial level before the end of 2023.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Global Investors’ Summit in Indore, Madhya Pradesh via video message today. This summit will showcase the diverse investment opportunities in Madhya Pradesh.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister extended a warm welcome to all the investors and entrepreneurs and highlighted the role of Madhya Pradesh in building a developed India. He said, “From faith and spirituality to tourism, from agriculture to education and skill development, Madhya Pradesh is a wonderful destination.” The Prime Minister pointed out that the summit is taking place at a time when the golden age of India’s Amrit Kaal has begun and we are all working together to build a developed India. “When we talk about a developed India, it is not just our aspiration, but it is the resolve of every Indian”, the Prime Minister remarked as he expressed happiness for the confidence that every organisation and expert in the world are showing in Indians.

Giving examples of trust shown by global organisations, the Prime Minister highlighted the IMF which sees India as a bright spot in the global economy, and the World Bank which has expressed earlier that India is in a better position to deal with global headwinds than many other countries. The Prime Minister credited India’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals and mentioned OECD which claimed that India will be among the fastest-growing economies in the G-20 group this year. Quoting Morgan Stanley, the Prime Minister said that India is moving towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy in the next 4-5 years. He further added that the CEO of McKinsey has declared that not just the present decade but the century itself belongs to India. “Institutions and credible voices that track the global economy have unprecedented confidence in India”, the Prime Minister continued, “Global investors also share the same optimism.” The Prime Minister further informed about a survey conducted by a prestigious international bank which found that a majority of the investors preferred India as their investment destination. “Today, India is receiving record-breaking FDI. Even your presence among us reflects this sentiment”, the Prime Minister added. He credited the strong democracy, young demography and political stability of India for the strong optimism that is shown towards the nation and highlighted India’s decisions that boost ease of living and ease of doing business.

Throwing light on the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign, the Prime Minister noted that India has become an attractive destination for investment where the path of ‘Reform, Transform and Perform’ has been undertaken by India since 2014. “Even during a once-in-a-century crisis, we took the path of reforms”, the Prime Minister said.

“A stable government, a decisive government, a government running with the right intentions, shows development at an unprecedented pace”, the Prime Minister remarked as he threw light on the last eight years where the speed and scale of reforms have only increased continuously. The Prime Minister gave examples of reforms related to recapitalization and governance in the banking sector, creating a modern resolution framework like IBC, creating a system like One Nation One Tax in the form of GST, making corporate tax globally competitive, exempting sovereign wealth funds and pension funds from tax, allowing 100% FDI through the automatic route in many sectors, decriminalising minor economic mistakes, and getting rid of hurdles in the path of investment through such reforms. He also emphasised India’s equal reliance on the strength of its private sector and informed that many strategic sectors like defence, mining and space have opened up for private players. He further added that dozens of Labor Laws have been incorporated into 4 codes which is a major step in itself. The Prime Minister further noted the unprecedented efforts that are underway at both the Center and the State levels to reduce the burden of compliance and informed that about 40,000 compliances have been removed in the last few years. “With the onset of the National Single Window System, about 50 thousand approvals have been given under this system so far”, the Prime Minister added.

Highlighting the modern and multimodal infrastructural developments in the nation that give rise to investment possibilities, the Prime Minister informed that the speed of construction of National Highways has doubled in the last 8 years along with the number of operational airports in the country. The Prime Minister also touched upon the unprecedented improvement in the handling capacity and turnaround time of India’s ports. “Dedicated freight corridors, industrial corridors, expressways, logistic parks, these are becoming the identity of New India”, the Prime Minister said.  Throwing light on PM Gatishakti, the Prime Minister remarked that it is a national platform for infrastructure building in India which has taken the form of the National Master Plan. He further added that updated data related to the governments, agencies, and investors are available on this platform. “We have implemented our National Logistics Policy with an aim to make India the world’s most competitive logistics market”, the Prime Minister added.

The Prime Minister also touched upon the digital infrastructure of the country and informed that India is ranked 1 in smartphone data consumption, Global Fintech, and IT-BPM outsourcing distribution. He also noted that India is the world’s third-largest aviation and auto market. Underlining the importance of the next phase of global growth, the Prime Minister said that on one hand, India is providing optical fiber network to every village, while on the other hand, it is rapidly expanding the 5G network. He noted that new opportunities are being created for every industry and consumer with the help of 5G, the Internet of things and AI and said that it will only accelerate the pace of development in India.

Shining the spotlight on the rapidly growing strength of India in the world of manufacturing, the Prime Minister credited the Production linked Incentive schemes where incentives worth more than Rs 2.5 lakh crore have been announced. Noting its popularity among manufacturers around the world, the Prime Minister informed that production worth Rs 4 lakh crore has taken place in different sectors so far where hundreds of crores of rupees have been invested in Madhya Pradesh. He noted the importance of the PLI scheme in making Madhya Pradesh a big pharma and textile hub. “I urge the investors coming to MP to take maximum advantage of the PLI scheme”, the Prime Minister appealed.

Laying emphasis on India’s aspirations regarding green energy, the Prime Minister informed that the government has approved Green Hydrogen Mission a few days ago which will usher investment possibilities of about Rs 8 lakh crore. He observed that this is not just an opportunity for India to attract investments but also to meet global demands for green energy. The Prime Minister urged the investors to explore their role in this ambitious mission as incentives worth thousands of crores have been arranged under this campaign. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister highlighted the new possibilities in the field of health, agriculture, nutrition, skill and innovation while stressing the need to build a new global supply chain along with India.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke on telephone today with His Excellency Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel.

Prime Minister conveyed his warm congratulations to H.E. Netanyahu for his election as the Prime Minister of Israel for a sixth time, and wished him a very successful tenure.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the rapid progress in the India-Israel Strategic Partnership in recent years, and agreed on the potential for further strengthening strategic cooperation in a variety of areas.

Prime Minister invited H.E. Netanyahu to visit India at an early date.

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the cabinet’s decision to form three national level multi-state cooperative societies.

In a series of tweets, Shri Amit Shah said that cooperative is the only sector that touches crores of people and has the potential to bring about a positive change in their lives. But it was ignored for so many years and for the first time the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi started strengthening it. Today the cabinet has taken three important decisions in the interest of this sector.

The Union Home and Cooperation Minister said that “the Government of India has decided to form three multi-state cooperative societies at the national level:

1. Multi State Co. Seed Society

2. Multi State Co. organic society

3. Multi State Co. Export Society

This decision will give new power to the cooperative sector. I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this decision.”

Shri Amit Shah said that the National Society for Organic Products will provide unlimited opportunities to Indian farmers to fulfill the growing demand for organic products in the world. Along with this, it will act as an umbrella organization for testing and certification of products and for storing, branding and selling them.

The Union Home and Cooperation Minister added that the Multi State Cooperative Seed Society will help farmers in production, purchase, branding, packaging and selling of quality seeds and will also help in new research and development. Through this society, arrangements will also be made for the protection of indigenous natural seeds which are becoming extinct.

Shri Amit Shah said that the Multi State Cooperative Export Society will help around 8.45 lakh societies in the country to sell their products across the globe, enhance their capabilities and make them a successful commercial enterprise. This will not only increase the income of the farmers, but will also generate employment opportunities.

National level multi-state cooperative seed society

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved a historic decision to set up and promote a national level multi-state seed cooperative society under Multi State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 which will act as an apex organization for production, procurement, processing, branding, labelling, packaging, storage, marketing and distribution of quality seeds; strategic research & development; and to develop a system for preservation and promotion of indigenous natural seeds; through various cooperative societies across the country with support from relevant ministries especially Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) and national Seed Corporation (NSC) through their schemes and agencies following the ‘Whole of the Government Approach’.

Hon’ble Prime Minister has observed that all efforts should be made to leverage the strengths of cooperatives and transform them into successful and vibrant business enterprises to realize the vision of “Sahakar-se-Samriddhi’ as cooperatives hold the key to rural economic transformation in the country in agriculture and allied sectors.

PACS to APEX: Primary to national level cooperatives societies including primary societies, district, state and national level federations and multi state cooperative societies can become its member.  All these cooperatives will have their elected representatives in the Board of the society as per its bye-laws.

The national level multi state seed cooperative society would act as an apex organization for production, procurement, processing, branding, labelling, packaging, storage, marketing and distribution of quality seeds; strategic research & development; and to develop a system for preservation and promotion of indigenous natural seeds; through various cooperative societies across the country with support from relevant ministries especially Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) and National Seed Corporation (NSC) through their schemes and agencies.

The proposed society will help to increase the seed replacement rate, varietal replacement rate, ensuring the role of farmers in quality seed cultivation and seed variety trials, production and distribution of certified seeds with a single brand name, by utilizing the network of all levels of cooperatives.  The availability of quality seeds will help in increasing agricultural productivity in strengthening food security and also increasing the income of the farmers. The members will benefit both by realization of better prices by production of quality seeds, higher production of crops by use of High Yielding Variety (HYV)seeds and also by dividend distributed out of the surplus generated by the society.

The seed cooperative society will involve all forms of cooperative structures and all other means to increase the SRR, VRR by ensuring the role of farmers in quality seed cultivation and seed variety trials, production and distribution of certified seeds with a single brand name.

Quality seeds production through this national level seed cooperative society will increase the agriculture production in the country thereby leading to more employment in the agriculture and cooperative sector; reducing the dependence on imported seeds and provide boost to rural economy, promoting “Make in India” and leading to Atmanirbhar Bharat.

National level multi-state cooperative organic society

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved a historic decision of setting up and promoting a national level cooperative society for organic products under the Multi State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 with support from relevant Ministries especially the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (M/Doner) through their policies, schemes & agencies following the ‘Whole of the Government Approach’.

The Prime Minister has observed that all efforts should be made to leverage the strengths of cooperatives and transform them into successful and vibrant business enterprises to realize the vision of “ Sahakar-se-Samriddhi”.  It is thus imperative for the cooperatives to think globally and act locally to leverage their comparative advantage.

Therefore, there is a felt need for a national level cooperative society to be registered under Second Schedule of MSCS Act, 2002 for providing thrust to organic products from cooperative sector by acting as an umbrella organisation for managing various activities related to the organic sector.

PACS to APEX: Primary to national level cooperatives societies including primary societies, district, state and national level federations, multi state cooperative societies and Farmers Producer Organisations (FPOs) can become its Member.  All these cooperatives will have their elected representatives in the Board of the society as per its bye-laws.

The cooperative society will manage various activities related to organic sector by providing certified and authentic organic products.  It will help in unlocking demand and consumption potential of organic products in domestic as well as in global markets.  This society will also help cooperatives and ultimately their farmer members in getting benefits of high price of organic products through aggregation, branding and marketing on large scale by facilitating testing and certification at affordable cost.

The cooperative society will also provide institutional support for aggregation, certification, testing, procurement, storage, processing, branding, labelling, packaging, logistic facilities, marketing of organic products and arranging financial assistance to the organic farmers through is members cooperatives including Primary Agricultural Credit Societies/Farmers Producer Organisations (FPOs) and will take up all promotion and development related activities of organic products with the help of various schemes and agencies of the Government.  It will empanel accredited organic testing labs and certification bodies who mee the criteria specified by the society to bring down the cost of testing and certification.

The society will manage entire supply chain of organic products produced by cooperatives and related entities through member cooperatives It will utilize the services of national cooperative export society being set up under MSCS Act, 2002 for export marketing and thereby enhance reach and demand of organic products in global market.  It will also facilitate in providing technical guidance, training and capacity building of organic producer and developing and maintaining dedicated market intelligence system for organic produce.  While promoting organic farming, balanced approach will be maintained between regular mass farming and organic farming.

National level Multi-state cooperative export society

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved setting up and promoting a National Level multistate cooperative export society under the Multi State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 with support from relevant Ministries especially Ministry of External Affairs and Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry through their export related policies, schemes & agencies by following the ‘Whole of Government Approach’ for undertaking exports of all goods and services produced by cooperatives and related entities..

The proposed society will provide thrust to exports from cooperative sector by acting as an umbrella organisation for carrying out and promoting exports. This will help unlocking export potential of Indian cooperatives in global markets. This proposed society will also help cooperatives in getting benefits of various export related schemes and policies of different ministries of Government of India in a focussed manner through ‘Whole of Government Approach’. This will also help in achieving the goal of “Sahakar-se-Samriddhi” though the inclusive growth model of cooperatives where the members would benefit both by realization of better prices through export of their goods and services and also by dividend distributed out of the surplus generated by the society.

Higher exports through the proposed society will increase production of goods and services by the cooperatives at various levels thus leading to more employment in the cooperative sector. Processing of goods and enhancing the services to match international standards will also generate additional employment. Increased export of cooperative products would, in turn, also promote “Make in India” thus leading to Atmanirbhar Bharat.

In an important decision taken in a high-level review meeting chaired by the Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar in New Delhi today regarding the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, it was decided to make full payment of the pending claims of Kharif 2021 to the farmers of Barmer. At the initiative of the Government of India, the Agriculture Insurance Company last week said it had settled partial claims amounting to Rs 311 crore. Following the review meeting held today, the insurance company will pay additional claim amount of Rs 229 crore to the farmers. Claim payment of a total of Rs 540 crore to the eligible farmers of Barmer will be expedited. Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Kailash Choudhary, senior officials of the Ministries of Finance and Agriculture, Chairman and Managing Director of Agriculture Insurance Company and Agriculture Commissioner of Rajasthan were present in the meeting.

Addressing the review meeting, the Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar said that the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has provided better financial security cover to crores of farmers in case of crop loss. By taking decisions in the interest of the farmers, the Government of India is trying to make it easier for the farmers so that they do not face any problem while taking crop insurance. Under the Crop Insurance Scheme, the Central Government will soon initiate prompt steps to give proper benefits to the farmers on the issue of small claims after discussing with the State Governments and insurance companies.

During the meeting there was comprehensive discussion on the ease of crop insurance scheme and the proposed solutions for small claims, in which it was also decided to make consolidated payment for all eligible applications while paying claims to farmers in future.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 26th National Youth Festival in Hubbali, Karnataka on 12th January 2023 at around 4 PM. The programme is being held on National Youth Day, which is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekanand, to honour and cherish his ideals, teachings and contributions.

The National Youth Festival is held every year to provide exposure to our talented youth at the national level, along with galvanising them towards nation building. It brings diverse cultures from all parts of the country on a common platform and unites the participants in the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. This year, the Festival is being held in Hubballi-Dharwad in Karnataka from 12th to 16th January, with the theme being “Viksit Yuva – Viksit Bharat”.

The Festival will witness the Youth Summit, which will witness plenary discussions on five themes stemming from G20 and Y20 events viz. Future of work, Industry, Innovation and 21st Century Skills; Climate change and disaster risk reduction; Peace building and Reconciliation; Shared future-youth in democracy and governance; and Health & Well-being. The Summit will witness participation of more than sixty eminent experts. Several competitive and non-competitive events will also be held. Competitive events will include folk dances and songs, and will be held to provide an impetus to local traditional cultures. Non-competitive events will include Yogathon which aims to mobilise close to 10 lakh people to do Yoga. Eight indigenous sports and martial arts will also be presented during the event by national level performers. Other attractions include Food Festival, Young Artist Camp, adventure sports activities, special Know Your Army, Navy and Air Force camps, among others.

The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda today stated that India’s vision is to promote a universal sense of oneness and work together to shape a new paradigm of human-centric globalisation where no one will remain behind. While addressing the plenary session of the first meeting of G20 working group on Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion at Biswa Bangla Convention Centre, Shri Munda stressed on the necessity of just and equitable development of all. Addressing a gathering of more than 1,800 students from various corners of the State, the Union Minister spoke on India’s vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, he said, we strive for a human centric globalisation, where no one is left behind. Shri Munda said, the process of financial inclusion paves the way for currency management, which enhances the saving potential, leading to social security and ensuring quality life. He urged the students to have financial literacy in the proper way, so that they don’t get duped in the long run. He also spoke in favour of a concept of globalisation, where no one will be left behind.

The minister highlighted the sacrifices of our forefathers to liberate India from the shackles of British tyranny and help the country shine. He said, when the country attains 100 years of independence (Amritkal), let there be no differences at all. Hosting the G20 Summit, he said, is an historic opportunity for our country, being the premier forum for international economic cooperation representing around 85% of the global GDP.

Earlier, addressing the G20 working group meeting in presence of delegates from other G20 nations and senior officials from Department of Economic Affairs, Union Ministry of Finance and Reserve Bank of India, Shri Munda stated that India has rich ancient sustainable traditions to nudge consumers and in turn markets to adopt environmentally conscious practices. He said, in the last many years we have destroyed our earth and environment. This had an adverse impact on our climate and ecology. There must be a global vision for ecological safeguard, or else, we will sink together.

Mentioning the visions of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and focusing on the brighter sides of women empowerment, Shri Munda stated that it is time for the world to reorient the focus from women development to women led development.

Union Minister also stressed on the necessity of financial inclusion for people’s economic empowerment and pointed out that it is a bedrock of our development strategy, and delivering financial services to the last mile, the poorest of the poor has been one of the key priorities of the Indian government right from the outset.