Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal expressed confidence that the auto component sector will reach the $100 billion export target by 2030 making the sector one of the largest job creators in the country. Hemade this statement at the 64^th Annual Session of Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) today in New Delhi.

Shri Goyal said that as India is progressing to become the third largest economy in the world in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the auto sector must also strive to become the world leader from currently being the third largest auto market in the world. He urged the industry leaders to set a roadmap to achieve the target. Shri Goyal stressed on combining organic growth with outreach across the world along with technological improvements.

The Minster encouraged the industry members to focus on Research and Development (R&D). He urged the participants to take benefit of the Rs 1 lakh crore Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) fund and utilise it to support public-private academia partnerships in the auto sector.

Shri Goyal said that India’s auto sector is well poised to attract investment from abroad and the industry can explore investment from EFTA countries. He further stated that India should be ready to capture the opportunities in new-age technologies like Electric Vehicles (EVs) and its related ecosystem along with other upcoming opportunities like bicycle sector.

The Minister invited the attendees to make use of the Government’s recent initiative industrial smart cities for their development and export promotion. He urged the industry to become indigenous suppliers and manufacturers become a leading exporter of auto components. He also spoke of the advantage India has in its 1.4 billion aspirational Indians and said that there is huge scope for auto sector to achieve economies of scale through the domestic market.

The Union Minister emphasizedthat the Government is committed towards making India ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047. Shri Goyal lauded ACMA for their theme of ‘Viksit Bharat’, fostering self-reliance and promoting global competitiveness reflecting the spirit of new India.

He said that the efforts of the government towards ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) is bringing a change. Shri Goyal urged the industry stakeholders to educate customers, especially for commercial vehicle owners, on the usage of OEM (original equipment manufacturer) products for their value for money, quality, cost-effectiveness and longevity they provide in terms of repairs and spares.

Shri Goyal praised ACMA for its participative and proactive approach in Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. He said that hosting world class mega-exhibitions like Bharat Mobilityis a testimony of our success in our entire value chain as it provides a platform to showcase India story to the world. Bharat Mobility 2025 is going to be grander, to have greater international participation presenting India’s auto sector to the world, the Minister said.

Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Shri Jitin Prasada attended the event in a session later today. He also encouraged auto component sector to promote exports. He added that component sector benefits from the growing auto sector in the country and urged the participants to create more jobs in the country. Shri Prasada further noted that their efforts will complement government’s effort in skilling and technology focused policies.

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today greeted the nation on occasion of Ganesh Chathurthi.

The Prime Minister posted on X:

“समस्त देशवासियों को गणेश चतुर्थी की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। गणपति बाप्पा मोरया!”

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with  teachers who have been conferred the National Teachers Awards at his residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg earlier today.

The awardees shared their teaching experience with the Prime Minister. They also talked about interesting techniques used by them to make learning more interesting. They also shared examples of social work being done by them along with their regular teaching work. Interacting with them, the Prime Minister commended their dedication to the craft of teaching and the remarkable zeal they have displayed over the years, which has been recognized through the Awards.

Prime Minister discussed the impact of the National Education Policy and spoke about the significance of attaining education in one’s mother tongue. He suggested that the teachers can teach local folklore to students in different languages, so that the students can learn multiple languages and also get exposure to the vibrant culture of India.

Prime Minister said that the teachers can take their students on educational tours to explore India’s diversity, which will aid their learning and also help them get to know about their country in a holistic manner. He added that this will boost tourism and give a fillip to the local economy as well.

Prime Minister suggested that the awardee teachers should connect with each other through social media and share their best practices so that everyone can learn, adapt and benefit from such practices.

Prime Minister said that teachers are rendering a very important service to the nation and the responsibility of preparing today’s youth for Viksit Bharat rests in their hands.

Background

The purpose of the National Teachers Awards is to celebrate and honour the unique contribution of some of the finest teachers in the country who through their commitment and hard work have not only improved the quality of the education sector but also enriched the lives of their students. For the awards this year, 82 teachers from across the country were selected which includes 50 teachers selected by the Department of School Education & Literacy, 16 teachers by the Department of Higher Education and 16 teachers by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today met with Mrs. Abe, wife of former Japanese Prime Minister, Late Shinzo Abe. During the meeting, Shri Modi fondly recalled his close personal friendship with the late Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe and highlighted Abe San’s strong belief in the potential of India-Japan relations.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi also expressed deep appreciation for Mrs. Abe’s continued association with India.

The Prime Minister posted on X;

“Pleased to meet Mrs. Abe this afternoon. Recalled my close personal friendship with former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan. Abe San’s belief in the potential of India-Japan relations will remain a source of enduring strength for us. Deeply appreciate Mrs. Abe’s continuing association with India.”

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the program marking the launch of the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative at Surat, Gujarat via video conferencing today. Under this program, approximately 24,800 rainwater harvesting structures are being constructed across the state to enhance rainwater harvesting and ensure long-term water sustainability.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that an important campaign is commencing from the land of Gujarat by the Ministry of Jal Shakti today. Talking about the havoc wreaked by the monsoon season, Shri Modi said that almost all regions in the country had to face the adversities due to it. The Prime Minister pointed out that he had not seen or heard such torrential rainfall in almost every tehsil during his time as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. He said that Gujarat had to face an extreme crisis this time and the departments were not fully equipped to handle the situation, however, the people of Gujarat and the country stood shoulder to shoulder in such dire situations and helped each other. He further added that many parts of the country are still reeling under the effects of monsoon season.

The Prime Minister remarked that water conservation is not just a policy, it’s an attempt and a virtue as well; it has generosity as well as responsibilities too. “Water will be the first parameter on which our future generations will assess us”, added Shri Modi. This, he said, was because water was not just a resource but a question of life and the future of humanity. He added that water conservation was, thus, the foremost among the 9 resolutions towards a sustainable future. Shri Modi expressed happiness towards the inception of public participation in the meaningful efforts of water conservation. He extended his best wishes to the Ministry of Jalshakti, Government of Gujarat and all the stakeholders in the initiative.

Highlighting the necessity of environment and water conservation, the Prime Minister pointed out that India is home to only 4 percent of the freshwater in the world. He explained, “Even though the country has several magnificent rivers, large geographical regions remain bereft of water and the water table is also receding at a fast pace.” He underlined that water scarcity combined with climate change has had a huge impact on the lives of people.

Despite the challenging conditions, the Prime Minister emphasized that only India has the potential to find solutions for itself and the world. He credited the understanding of India’s ancient scriptures and said that water and environment conservation is not considered bookish knowledge or something that arose out of a situation.  “Water and environment conservation is part of India’s traditional consciousness”, PM Modi exclaimed. He said that the people of India belong to a culture that considers water as a form of God, rivers as Goddesses and Sarovars as the abode of the Gods. “Ganga, Narmada, Godavari and Kaveri are revered as mothers”, he said. Quoting ancient scriptures, the Prime Minister explained that saving and donating water is the highest form of service as all life forms began from water, and are dependent on it. He underlined that India’s ancestors knew the importance of water and environmental conservation. Referring to a couplet by Rahim Das, the Prime Minister highlighted the farsightedness of the nation and expressed the need to take the lead when it comes to water and environment conservation.

The Prime Minister highlighted that ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative was kicking off from Gujarat and has witnessed many successful efforts towards ensuring accessibility and availability of water to the last of the citizens. Shri Modi reminisced about the situation of Saurashtra two-and-a-half decades ago when the previous governments lacked the vision of water conservation. He added that he resolved to overcome this grave crisis and ensured the completion and commission of Sardar Sarovar Dam, pending for decades. He further added that Sauni Yojna was also started by drawing water from areas of excess and discharging it to areas facing shortages. Shri Modi expressed happiness that the results of the efforts made in Gujarat are today visible to the world.

“Water conservation is not just a matter of policies but also social commitment”, the Prime Minister said, highlighting the importance of a conscious citizen, public participation and people’s movement. He pointed out that even though water-related projects worth thousands of crores have been initiated in the past, the results are only apparent in the past 10 years. “Our government has worked with a Whole of Society and Whole of Government approach”, PM Modi remarked. Throwing light on the work done in the past 10 years, the Prime Minister said that silos were broken on issues related to water for the first time and the Ministry of Jal Shakti was created to fulfil the commitment of the whole of the government approach. He touched upon the resolve of tapped water supply to every home through Jal Jeevan Mission and informed that tapped water connection was available in only 3 crore households earlier compared to more than 15 crore today. He credited the Jal-Jeevan Mission for clean tap water reaching more than 75 percent of the households in the country. He lauded the local Jal Samitis for their contributions  to Jal-Jeevan Mission and said that women are doing wonderful work in paani samitis all over the country just like the women who did wonders in the paani samitis of Gujarat “At least 50 percent of the participation in this is of village women”, he added.

Highlighting how Jalshakti Abhiyan has become a national mission today, the Prime Minister said that be it renovation of traditional water sources or construction of new structures, individuals from all walks of life, ranging from stakeholders to civil society to panchayats are involved in it. Explaining the strength of public participation, Shri Modi underlined that the work on Amrit Sarovar started in every district during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and has resulted in construction of more than 60 thousand Amrit Sarovars in the country today. Similarly, he added, the Atal Bhujal Yojana also involved the responsibility of villagers in managing water resources for recharging groundwater. Further, he added, ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign started in 2021 has a large number of stakeholders involved today. Speaking of ‘Namami Gange’ initiative, Shri Modi underlined that it had become an emotional resolution for citizens and people were giving up old traditions and irrelevant customs to ensure the cleanliness of rivers.

Referring to his appeal to the citizens to plant one tree under the ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ campaign, the Prime Minister stated that groundwater level rapidly increases with afforestation.  He highlighted that crores of trees have been planted under ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ in the past few weeks. Shri Modi further stressed the need for public participation in such campaigns and resolutions and said that the water conservation efforts are turning into a public movement with the participation of 140 crore citizens.

The Prime Minister called for urgent action on water conservation and emphasized the need to adopt the mantra of ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recharge, and Recycle’ to secure the nation’s future regarding water-related issues. He stated that water can only be saved when its misuse ends, consumption is reduced, water is reused, water sources are recharged and contaminated water is recycled. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of embracing innovative approaches and modern technologies in this mission. He pointed out that around 80 percent of India’s water needs are met through agriculture, making water-efficient farming crucial for sustainability. He stated that the government is continuously promoting techniques like drip irrigation in the direction of sustainable agriculture. He also spoke about campaigns like ‘Per drop more crop’ and said that it is helping conserve water while also increasing farmers’ incomes in water-scarce regions. Shri Modi highlighted the government’s support for the cultivation of crops that require less water such as pulses, oilseeds, and millets. Furthering the discussion on state-level efforts, Shri Modi encouraged states to adopt and accelerate water conservation practices. Acknowledging that some states provide incentives to farmers for growing alternative crops that consume less water, the Prime Minister urged all states to come together and work in mission mode to drive these efforts forward. He said, “We must promote traditional knowledge, like creating ponds near fields and recharge wells, alongside new technologies.”

“A huge water economy is linked with availability of clean water & success of water conservation”, emphasized Shri Modi. Explaining further, he said, Jal Jeevan Mission had provided employment as well as self-employment opportunities to lakhs of people like engineers, plumbers, electricians and managers. The Prime Minister pointed out that, as per WHO estimate, about 5.5 crore human hours of the citizens of the country will be saved by providing piped water to every home. He added this initiative would help save the time and efforts of our sisters and daughters, which in turn would strengthen the country’s economy. Shri Modi pointed out that health was also an important aspect of the water economy. He added that, according to reports, while untimely deaths of more than 1.25 lakh children can be prevented, more than 4 lakh people can be saved from diseases like diarrhea every year by Jal Jeevan Mission, which would lead to a significant reduction in out of pocket expenditure.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the significant role that industries have played in India’s mission for water conservation and thanked them for their contribution. He expressed gratitude to the industries that have met Net Zero Liquid Discharge Standards and Water Recycling Goals and highlighted the efforts of various sectors in addressing water sustainability. He also noted that many industries have initiated water conservation projects as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility. Shri Modi praised Gujarat’s innovative use of CSR for water conservation, describing it as a record-setting effort. “Gujarat has set a new benchmark by utilizing CSR for water conservation. Approximately 10,000 borewell recharge structures have been completed in places like Surat, Valsad, Dang, Tapi, and Navsari” Shri Modi emphasized. He further added that these initiatives are helping address water scarcity and recharge groundwater resources in critical regions. Further emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector, Shri Modi announced, “Through the ‘Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan,’ the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Gujarat government have now launched a new mission to create 24,000 more such structures.” He described this campaign as a model that will inspire other states to undertake similar initiatives in the future.

Concluding the address, Prime Minister Modi expressed the belief that India would become a global inspiration in water conservation. “I believe that together, we will make India a beacon of water conservation for all of humanity,” he said, extending his best wishes for the continued success of the mission.

Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel and Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C R Patil were virtually present on the occasion among others.

Background

To further the Prime Minister’s vision of water security, the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative seeks to conserve water with a strong emphasis on community partnership and ownership. It is driven by a whole-of-society and a whole-of-government approach. Building on the success of the Jal Sanchay initiative led by the Government of Gujarat, the Ministry of Jal Shakti, in collaboration with the State Government, is launching the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative in Gujarat. The Government of Gujarat has endeavored to mobilize citizens, local bodies, industries and other stakeholders to ensure a water-secure future.

Under this program, approximately 24,800 rainwater harvesting structures across the State are being constructed with community partnerships. These recharge structures will be instrumental in enhancing rainwater harvesting and ensuring long-term water sustainability.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met H.E. Mr. Lawrence Wong, Prime Minister of Singapore today. Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Parliament House by Prime Minister Wong.

At their talks, both leaders reviewed the progress of India – Singapore bilateral relations. Given the breadth and depth of bilateral ties and immense potential, they decided to elevate the relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This would also give a major boost to India’s Act East Policy. Taking stock of the robust progress in economic ties, the leaders called for further expanding trade and investment flows between the two countries. Prime Minister highlighted that Singapore with an investment of around USD 160 billion in the Indian economy, is a leading economic partner for India. He further noted that rapid and sustained growth in India has opened up immense investment opportunities for Singaporean entities. They also reviewed existing cooperation in the fields of defence and security, maritime domain awareness, education, AI, Fintech, new technology domains, science and technology and knowledge partnership. The two leaders called for strengthening connectivity between the countries to enhance economic and people-to-people ties. They also called for acceleration in green corridor projects.

The two leaders discussed the outcome of the 2nd India – Singapore Ministerial Roundtable held in Singapore in August 2024. Noting that the Ministerial Roundtable is a unique mechanism, the leaders appreciated the work done by senior ministers from both sides in deliberating and identifying a new agenda for bilateral cooperation. The leaders called for accelerated action under the pillars of cooperation identified during the Ministerial Roundtables – Advanced Manufacturing, Connectivity, Digitalization, Healthcare & Medicine, Skills Development and Sustainability. The leaders underscored that the cooperation under these pillars, particularly in the areas of semiconductors and critical and emerging technologies, opens a new chapter in bilateral relations making our ties future oriented.

Their discussion also covered celebration of 60th anniversary of bilateral relations in 2025. Highlighting that cultural connect between the two countries is an important component of these ties, Prime Minister announced that India’s first Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre would be opened in Singapore. The leaders also exchanged views on important regional and global issues of mutual interest, including India – ASEAN relations and India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific.

Both leaders witnessed exchange of MoUs for cooperation in Semiconductors, Digital Technologies, Skill Development and Healthcare. These are the outcomes of the deliberations during the two rounds of India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtables held so far. Prime Minister invited Prime Minister Wong to visit India which he accepted.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted today with a group of leading Singaporean CEOs from diverse sectors including investment funds, infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, sustainability and logistics. Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Gan Kim Yong and Minister for Home Affairs and law H.E. Mr. K Shanmugam of Singapore participated in the event.

Appreciating their investment footprint in India, Prime Minister acknowledged the role played by the Singaporean industry leaders in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting economic cooperation between India and Singapore. To further facilitate their collaboration with India, Prime Minister announced the setting up of an INVEST INDIA office in Singapore. He further added that the elevation of India-Singapore ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership would give a major thrust to bilateral economic relations.

Prime Minister noted that India had made transformative progress in the last ten years and would continue on the same path given its strengths of political stability, policy predictability, Ease of Doing Business, and its reform oriented economic agenda. It is set to become the third largest economy in the world over the next few years. Talking of India’s impressive growth story, its skilled talent pool, and expansive market opportunities, he highlighted that India is contributing 17% to global economic growth. Prime Minister spoke about various initiatives to enhance India’s participation in global value chains through programs such as Production Linked Incentive scheme, India Semiconductor Mission and establishment of 12 new Industrial Smart Cities. He called upon the business leaders to look at opportunities in India in the field of skill development. For businesses looking for resilient supply chains, Prime Minister noted that India is the best alternative given its strengths. PM assured that India will increase the pace and scale of infrastructure development in his third term and apprised the CEOs of new opportunities in the fields of Railways, Roads, Ports, Civil Aviation, Industrial Parks and Digital connectivity.

Prime Minister invited Singaporean business leaders to look at investment opportunities in India and to increase their presence in the country.

Following business leaders participated in the Business Round Table:

Respected dignitaries, distinguish guests and my dear friends, my warm greetings to all of you. I am glad to welcome you all to the first International Solar Festival. I congratulate the International Solar Alliance for this wonderful initiative.

Friends,

The Vedas were texts composed thousands of years ago. One of the most popular mantras of the Vedas each about the sun. Even today millions of Indians chant it daily. Many cultures across the world have respected the sun in their own ways. Most regions also have festivals related to the sun. This International Solar Festival brings the whole world together to celebrate the Sun’s impact. This is a festival that will help us build a better planet.

Friends,

In 2015, the ISA began as a small sapling, it was a moment of hope and aspiration. Today it is growing into giant tree inspiring policy and action. In such a short time, the Membership of ISA have reached a milestone of hundred countries. Additionally, 19 more countries are ratifying the framework agreement for attaining full membership. The growth of this organization is important for the vision of ‘One World, One Sun, One Grid.’

Friends,

In the past few years, India has taken many massive strides in green energy. We were the first G20 Nation to achieve the Paris commitments in renewable energy. The remarkable growth of solar energy is a key reason in making this possible.  Our solar energy capacity has increased 32-fold in the last 10 years. This speed and scale will also help us achieve five hundred (500) gigawatt non-fossil capacity by 2030.

Friends,

India’s growth in the solar sector is the result of a clear approach. Whether in India or in the world, the mantra to increase solar adoption is awareness, availability and affordability. The increased awareness about the need of sustainable energy sources by encouraging domestic manufacturing in the solar sector we increase availability. Through specific schemes and incentives, we also made the solar option affordable.

Friends,

ISA is an ideal platform for exchanging ideas and best practices for solar adoption. India has a lot to share as well. let me give you an example for a recent policy intervention. A few months ago, we launched the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. We are investing Rupees 750 billion in this scheme. Our target is to help 10 million households to install their own rooftop solar panels. We are transferring financial assistance directly to the people’s bank accounts. Low interest, collateral free loans are also being enabled in case additional finance is needed. Now, these households are generating clean electricity for their needs. Moreover, they will also be able to sell excess power to the grid and earn money. Due to the incentives and potential earnings, this scheme is becoming popular. Solar energy is being seen as an affordable and attractive option. I am sure many nations have similar valuable insights derived from their work on energy transition.

Friends,

In a short time, the ISA has made a lot of progress. In 44 countries, it has assisted in developing nearly 10 gigawatt of electricity. The Alliance has also played a role in bringing down the global prices of solar pumps. Private sector investment is being enabled, especially in African member countries. A number of promising solar startups from Africa, Asia-Pacific, and India are being encouraged. This initiative will also be expanded to Latin America and the Caribbean soon. These are noteworthy steps in the right direction.

Friends,

To ensure an energy transition, the world must collectively discuss some important matters. The imbalance in concentration of green energy investments need to be addressed. Manufacturing and technology need to be democratised to help developing countries. Empowering Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States should be a top priority. Inclusion of marginalised communities, women and youth is crucial. I am confident that the International Solar Festival will enable discussions in such

matters.

Friends,

India is committed to work with the world for a green future. During the

G20 last year, we led the creation of the Global Biofuels Alliance. We are also one of the founding members of the International Solar Alliance. Every effort to build an inclusive, clean and green planet will have India’s support.

Once again, I welcome you all to the International Solar Festival. May the Sun’s energy guide the world towards a sustainable future. Thank you, Thank you very much.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh presided over the maiden Joint Commanders’ Conference in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh on the second and final day of the apex-level military leadership meeting on September 05, 2024. He commended the Armed Forces for their invaluable contribution in safeguarding national interests and advancing the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, and appreciated the efforts being undertaken for furthering jointness and integration among the three Services.

In line with the theme of the conference, ‘Sashakt aur Surakshit Bharat : Transforming the Armed Forces’, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that India is a peace loving nation and the Armed Forces need to be prepared for war in order to preserve peace. He stressed upon the significance of evolving joint military vision and preparing for the type of challenges the country may face in future wars, while emphasising on synergised, swift and proportionate response to provocations.

Referring to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine & Israel-Hamas conflicts and the current situation in Bangladesh, the Raksha Mantri exhorted the Commanders to analyse these episodes, predict the problems that the country may face in the future, and stay prepared to deal with the “unexpected”. He emphasised on the need of a broader & deeper analysis by the top military leadership in view of the situation along the Northern border and the happenings in neighbouring countries, which are posing a challenge to peace & stability in the region.

“Despite global volatility, India is enjoying a rare peace dividend and it is developing peacefully. However, due to the increasing number of challenges, we need to remain alert. It is important that we keep our peace intact during Amrit Kaal. We need to focus on our present, keep an eye on the activities happening around us at present, and focus on being future-oriented. For this, we should have a strong and robust national security component. We should have fail-proof deterrence,” Shri Rajnath Singh said.

The Raksha Mantri called upon the Commanders to identify and include the right mix of traditional and modern warfare equipment in the Armed Forces arsenal. He stressed on capability development in space and electronic warfare, describing them as integral to tackle modern-day challenges. He also urged the military leadership to focus on increasing the use of latest technological advancements in the fields of data and artificial intelligence. “These components do not participate in any conflict or war directly. Their indirect participation is deciding the course of warfare to a great extent,” he added.

Shri Rajnath Singh enumerated the steps being taken to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence and reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthen the sector, and equip the Armed Forces with state-of-the-art indigenous weapons & platforms. He once again voiced the Government’s resolve towards the welfare and well-being of the soldiers, both serving and retired, and their families.

The conference, which commenced on September 04, 2024, brought together the combined apex-level military leadership of the country, who deliberated upon the current and future challenges to the nation in the context of national security. The focus of the conference was on future capability building including organisation structures for joint and integrated response and ushering in efficiency, transparency and accountability in work process during peace and war. Deliberations spanned across a broad spectrum of contemporary issues such as theaterisation, indigenisation and technological developments including those in the field of robotics and Artificial Intelligence enabled autonomous weapon systems.

Special attention was given to the strategic importance of cyber and space-based capabilities in modern warfare, underlining the necessity of preparing for future conflicts that will increasingly span multiple domains. The conference provided an opportunity for the commanders to review national and international developments that impact India, while discussing measures to further improve the country’s defence capabilities.

The Raksha Mantri also launched eight innovative applications including e-Museum and e-Granthalaya along with one publication on ‘Colonial Practises and the Armed Forces – A Review’ marking a significant step towards greater cohesion and synergy among the three Services.

The conference was also attended by Rajya Raksha Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) Dr Niten Chandra, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, Financial Advisor (Defence Services) Shri Sugata Ghosh Dastidar and other senior civil and military officials of Ministry of Defence.

Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya chaired the valedictory session of the Two-Day National Convention of District Youth Officers in New Delhi today.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mandaviya set a visionary tone for the event, emphasizing the vital role of youth in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India — ‘Viksit Bharat’ — by 2047. He highlighted that India’s youth hold the key to unlocking a future of unprecedented growth, urging DYOs to foster youth empowerment through innovative solutions, technology-driven platforms and ground-level engagement.

The recently launched MY Bharat platform was showcased as a tool for youth development, offering a range of features to enhance skill-building and leadership abilities in youth, thus serving as a ‘single window system’ for diverse youth engagement opportunities. Dr. Mandaviya underscored the significance of the platform in amplifying youth outreach, youth development and youth-led development. He further urged the District Youth Officers to leverage the full potential of MY Bharat platform, utilizing its features to bridge the gap between youth and government initiatives, and thereby driving collective progress.

Encouraging District Youth Officers (DYOs) to inspire the youth in their regions, Dr. Mandaviya urged them to connect with young people and motivate them toward national service. “We must guide the youth to participate in various activities on the MY Bharat platform, which will open up new avenues for their growth,” he added.

Over the course of two days, the convention fostered rich dialogue on pressing themes, including India’s growth trajectory, youth-led initiatives, and the role of technology in governance and civic engagement. Engaging sessions encouraged DYOs to share innovative ideas and best practices on a range of themes, including Viksit Bharat 2047, Health, MY Bharat & Budget for Viksit Bharat Outreach, Youth in Public Life, FIT India Clubs, Swachh Bharat Mission, Urban Governance, Cyber Security, Entrepreneurship, Youth Exchange and Science Mela (National Youth Festival).

The National Convention was organised by the Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports on 4^th and 5^th September 2024 at Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi with the aim to harness the dynamic potential of youth and channel it towards national progress.

National Convention of DYOs proved to be a landmark event that set a clear direction for the future. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and digital integration, the convention laid the groundwork for harnessing the potential of India’s youth for unprecedented growth, sustainability, and social progress. The shared ideas and strategies will undoubtedly propel the nation towards achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Today, I am embarking on a first ever bilateral visit to Brunei Darussalam. As we celebrate the 40 years of our diplomatic relations, I look forward to my meetings with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and other esteemed members of the Royal family to advance our historical relationship to new heights.
​
​From Brunei, I will travel to Singapore on 4 September. I look forward to the opportunity to meet President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. I will also meet with leaders of the Singapore’s vibrant business community.

​I look forward to my discussions to deepen our Strategic Partnership with Singapore, particularly in new and emerging areas of advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and sustainable development.

​Both countries are important partners in our Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific Vision. I am confident that my visits would further strengthen our partnership with Brunei, Singapore and the larger ASEAN region.