Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Space and Atomic Energy, Dr Jitendra Singh said here today that “Atal Tinkering Labs”, introduced at the initiative of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, have proved to be game-changer for school children.

While inaugurating the New Delhi Municipal Council’s (NDMC) Schools Annual Science Fair at NDCC Convention Center, Dr Jitendra Singh said, “Atal Tinkering Labs, Atal Incubation Centres and Atal Community Innovation Centres are inculcating an innovative mindset in school children, besides supporting StartUps and innovators”.

Referring to Mentorship programmes of the Department of Science & Technology and Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs), Dr Jitendra Singh said, all these are guided with the Mantra of “Catch them Young”.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), which recently completed its 7th year, is complementary to the government’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas”.

Young minds will steer India’s future growth with Science & Technology and Innovation, the Minister said. India’s scientific prowess is going to have a major role in the making of Atmanirbhar Bharat, he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, our greatest asset is Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who not only has a natural predilection for science, but is also forthcoming in supporting and promoting S&T based initiatives and projects.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, Science & Technology and Innovation go hand in hand and a country with a good scientific temper and R&D structure will excel in innovation and entrepreneurship. The Minister recalled that in 2019, PM Modi at 106th Science Congress, emphasised the importance of Research by adding “Jai Anusandhan” to the famous slogan “Jai Jawaan, Jai Kisaan, Jai Vigyan”.

The S&T Minister pointed out that in the past few years, India has covered a long distance in the innovation landscape and today India has more than 1,25,000 Startups and 100+ Unicorns.

“This has been possible with the government’s various initiatives like Atal Innovation Mission and INSPIRE-MANAK Awards,” he said.

With a vision to ‘Cultivate one Million Children in India as Neoteric Innovators’, AIM is establishing ATLs in schools across India. The objective of this scheme is to foster curiosity, creativity and imagination in young minds; and inculcate skills such as design mindset, computational thinking, adaptive learning, physical computing etc.

ATL is a workspace where young minds can give shape to their ideas through hands-on do-it-yourself mode; and learn innovation skills. Young children get a chance to work with tools and equipment to understand the concepts of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). ATL contains educational and learning ‘Do It Yourself’ (DIY) kits and equipment on science, electronics, robotics, open-source microcontroller boards, sensors and 3D printers and computers.

There are 10,000 ATLs spread across the country, with 75 lakh students actively engaged. Under the AIM, 59 Atal Incubation Centres have created over 32,000 jobs and supported more than 2,900 Startups.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that the DST is also encouraging more and more students to participate in the INSPIRE– MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge) Awards scheme.

“It is heartening to note that there were 7 lakh entries from across the country for the INSPIRE Awards and more than half of them were girl innovators. Besides, 83% of the entries were from the rural areas and this is a vindication of Prime Minister’s vision to take Science, Technology and Innovation to the rural hinterland and at the doorsteps of Aspirational Districts and Blocks,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh narrated how the Jigyasa programme is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a new India and Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) of Scientific Community and Institutions.

Jigyasa is a Student-Scientist Connect Programme implemented by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in collaboration with Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS).

Dr Jitendra Singh said, these young innovators will play a crucial role in the Amrit Kaal to contribute to make India a global tech hub by 2047 when India will celebrate Hundred years of Independence.

“This 3rd Generation of post-Independence Bharat is the most fortunate as they are no longer ‘Prisoners of their Aspirations,” said Dr Jitendra Singh, adding, “These are one of the best times with India in the forefront, witnessing innovation under the dynamic leadership of PM Modi”.

The Minister expressed the hope that in the coming years, Innovation in India will play a vital role in achieving the goal of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy.

Dr Jitendra Singh also took a round of the stalls in the exhibition put up on the occasion and witnessed different kinds of science models prepared by the students. NDMC Chairman Shri Amit Yadav was also present on the occasion.

The NDMC Annual Science Fair is being held after a hiatus of three years due to the pandemic. The theme of the fair is “Technology and Toys”. Apart from NDMC Schools, some public schools in NDMC area, National Science Center, Science Magazine-Science Reporter and Avishkar are participating in the two-day Science Fair. Science Games, quiz, debate, health mela, science toys etc. are also attractions of Science Fair.

More than 60 exhibits are displayed in the Science Fair, showcasing the scientific temperament, aptitude and innovative minds of the future scientists.  Science/Mathematics inventive exhibits, displays from Palika Tinkering Lab / Atal Tinkering Lab, and interactive workshops for students on “Fun with Science,” “Science Behind Miracles,” and exploring the wonders of science with the National Science Centre are also in the science fair.

The overarching goal of the exhibition is to educate children on “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and contribute to the education of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. The Science Fair also highlights the Digital India Mission and the objectives outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020.

Union Minister of State for External affairs and Culture Ms Meenakshi Lekhi today participated at a programme organised as part of Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra in Shahpur Jat village of South Delhi. She administered pledge of Viksit Bharat and interacted with beneficiaries of various schemes on the occasion.  Addressing on the occasion, the minister said that the country was waiting for the past 70-75 years for a leader who can take the country towards development and it happened in 2014. She said that before 2014, there were no guarantee of anything but under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today there is a guarantee that there will be no theft. Under the Ayushman Health Scheme, Prime Minister has given a health guarantee of up to ₹ 5 lakh to the entire family and more than 55 crore people are covered under this scheme. Ms Lekhi said that Ayushman Bharat Yojana has not been implemented in Delhi because the Delhi government is not in favour of it. She said that it is our responsibility to make people aware about the schemes so that they can take advantage of those schemes. If we will be successful in doing so then our life will also be successful. She said that the Government of India is going door-to-door searching for diseases and setting up camps around the houses. The minister said the central government is trying to reach out to all those people who have not got the benefit of Modi ji’s guarantee.

She said that earlier there were 44 types of taxes but now only one GST is there, because of that the tax collection of the government is increasing and government is investing that in public welfare by fixing the broken roads, keeping people healthy. She said “We all have the same responsibility to resolve that India should become a developed country, India should progress, India should move forward and our children should have good health. We should have good doctors and engineers, there should be cleanliness everywhere, let us all contribute in making a developed India.” Ms Lekhi said that because of the efforts of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, our country got prestige at the international platform.

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra has been launched throughout the country to raise awareness through outreach activities to achieve saturation of various welfare programs launched by the Government of India. In Delhi, the campaign was launched on 28^th November by Lt. Governor V K Saxena with flagging off of urban IEC vans.

As part of the campaign 5 specially designed IEC (Information, Education, Communication) vans are travelling across 11 districts of Delhi covering more than 600 locations.  The urban campaign aims to spread awareness and achieve saturation about relevant Central Government welfare schemes like PM SVANidhi, Mudra Loans, Stand Up India and Start Up India, Digital Payments revolution, PM eBus Sewa, Ayushman Bharat, PM Awas (Urban) PM Ujjwala Yojana among others.

As part of the campaign on spot services like PM Svanidhi Camp, Health Camp, Ayushman Card camp, Aadhar updation camp, PM Ujjwala camp at various locations of Delhi is being organized by urban local bodies and district administration at different locations visited by the vans. The people of the National Capital specially women are participating enthusiastically in VBSY.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi attended the program marking ‘Navy Day 2023’ celebrations at Sindhudurg. He also witnessed the ‘Operational Demonstrations’ by Indian Navy’s ships, submarines, aircraft and special forces from Tarkarli beach, Sindhudurg. Shri Modi inspected the guard of honor.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that the historic day of 4th December along the magnificent fort of Sindhudurg on the coast of Malvan, Tarkarli, the splendor of Veer Shivaji Maharaj and the inauguration of his spectacular statue at Rajkot Fort along with the roars of the Indian Navy has filled every citizen of India with passion and enthusiasm. Shri Modi conveyed his best wishes on the occasion of Navy Day and bowed before the brave hearts who laid down their lives for the country.

Prime Minister Modi said that it is indeed a moment of unprecedented pride to celebrate Navy Day from the victorious land of Sindhudurg. “The Sindhudurg Fort instills a feeling of pride in every citizen of India”, the Prime Minister said as he underlined Shivaji Maharaj’s foresight in recognizing the importance of naval capabilities for any nation. Reiterating Shivaji Maharaj’s acclamation that those who have control over the seas hold the ultimate power, the Prime Minister said that he had drafted a powerful navy. He also bowed before warriors like Kanhoji Angre, Mayaji Naik Bhatkar and Hiroji Indulkar, and said that they remain an inspiration even today.

Inspired by the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Prime Minister said, the India of today is moving forward abandoning the slavery mentality. He expressed happiness that the epaulettes donned by the Naval Officers will now highlight the heritage and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as the new epaulettes will be similar to the naval ensign. He also recalled unveiling the Naval Ensign last year. With the feeling of taking pride in one’s heritage, the Prime Minister announced that the Indian Navy is now going to name its ranks in line with Indian traditions. He also emphasized strengthening Nari Shakti in the armed forces. Shri Modi congratulated the Indian Navy on the appointment of India’s first woman commanding officer in a naval ship.

The Prime Minister said that the trust of 140 crore Indians is the biggest strength as India is setting big goals and working to achieve them with full determination. The Prime Minister said that a glimpse of positive outcomes of unity of resolutions, emotions and aspirations are visible as people of the diverse states are being driven by the spirit of ‘nation first’. “Today, the country has taken inspiration from history and is busy preparing a roadmap for a bright future. People have pledged to move forward in every field by defeating the politics of negativity. This pledge will take us towards a developed India”, he added.

Reflecting on India’s widespread history, the Prime Minister emphasized that it is not about slavery, defeats and disappointments alone, but also comprises the glorious chapters of India’s victories, courage, knowledge and science, art and creative skills, and India’s maritime capabilities. He highlighted India’s capabilities by giving the example of forts like Sindudurg which were erected when technology and resources were next to none. He mentioned the heritage of the Indus Valley Civilization port found in Lothal, Gujarat and the docking of more than 80 ships in the port of Surat. The Prime Minister credited India’s maritime strength for the expansion of trade to countries of South East Asia by the Chola Empire. Lamenting that it was the maritime power of India that first came under attack by foreign powers, the Prime Minister said that India which was famous for making boats and ships, lost control of the sea and thereby lost strategic-economic strength. As India is moving towards development, the Prime Minister emphasized regaining the lost glory and highlighted the government’s unprecedented impetus to the Blue Economy. He mentioned the port-led development under ‘Sagarmala’ and said that India is moving towards harnessing the full potential of its oceans under the ‘Maritime Vision’. He informed that the government has made new rules to promote merchant shipping, leading to the number of seafarers in India increasing by more than 140 percent in the last 9 years.

Emphasizing the importance of the present time, the Prime Minister said, “This is that period of India’s history, which is going to write the future not just of 5-10 years but for the coming centuries.” He informed that in the last 10 years, India became 5th largest economy from 10th place and rapidly moving towards 3rd spot. “The World is seeing the rise of a ‘Vishwa Mitra (friend of the world) in India”, Shri Modi said measures like India Middle East European Corridor will recreate the lost spice route. He also touched upon the strength of Made in India and illustrated that with the mention of Tejas, Kisan Drone, UPI system and Chandrayaan-3. Self-reliance in defence is also visible by the imminent start of production of transport aircraft, aircraft carrier  INS Vikrant.

Reiterating the government’s approach of treating the coastal and border villages as the first villages instead of the last, Shri Modi said “Today, it is the priority of the Central Government to improve the life of every family living on the coastal areas.” He mentioned the creation of the separate fisheries ministry in 2019 and 40 thousand crore rupees investment in the sector. He informed that after 2014 fishery production increased by 8 percent and exports increased by 110 percent. Furthermore, insurance cover for the farmers has been increased from 2 to 5 lakh and they are getting the benefit of the Kisan Credit Card.

Concerning the value chain development in the fisheries sector, the Prime Minister said that the Sagarmala Scheme is strengthening modern connectivity in the coastal areas. Lakhs of crore rupees are being spent on this and new business and industry will come to the coastal areas. Seafood processing-related industry and modernization of the fishing boats are also being undertaken.

“Konkan is a region of unprecedented possibilities”, the Prime Minister said. Highlighting the government’s commitment to the development of the region, the Prime Minister mentioned the inauguration of medical colleges in Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, Alibaug, Parbhani and Dharashiv, operations of Chipi Airport, and the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor connecting till Mangaon. The Prime Minister also mentioned special schemes being drafted for the cashew farmers here. He underlined the government’s priority is to safeguard the residential areas situated on the sea coast. In this effort, he mentioned the emphasis being laid on expanding the scope of mangroves. Prime Minister Modi informed that the many sites of Maharashtra including Malvan, Achara-Ratnagiri, and Devgarh-Vijaydurg have been selected for mangrove management.

“Heritage as well as development, this is our path to a developed India”, the Prime Minister underlined. He said that central and state governments are determined to preserve the forts and forts built during the period of Chhatrapati Veer Shivaji Maharaj where hundreds of crores of rupees are being spent on the conservation of these heritages in the entire Maharashtra including Konkan. The Prime Minister stated that it would also increase tourism in the area and create new employment and self-employment opportunities.

Concluding the address, the Prime Minister talked about the new tradition of holding armed forces day such as Army Day, Navy Day etc outside Delhi as this expands the occasion to all over India and the new places get new attention.

Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Eknath Shinde, the Union Minister of Defence, Shri Rajnath Singh, Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Shri Narayan Rane, Deputy Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis and Shri Ajit Pawar, Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, and Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R Hari Kumar among others were present on the occasion.

Background

Navy Day is celebrated on 4th December every year. ‘Navy Day 2023’ celebrations at Sindhudurg pay homage to the rich maritime heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, whose seal inspired the new Naval Ensign which was adopted last year when the Prime Minister commissioned the first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.

Every year, on the occasion of Navy Day, there is a tradition of organizing ‘Operational Demonstrations’ by the Indian Navy’s ships, submarines, aircraft and special forces. These ‘Operational Demonstrations’ allow the people to witness various facets of multi-domain operations undertaken by the Indian Navy. It highlights the Navy’s contributions towards national security while also heralding maritime consciousness amongst citizens.

The operational demonstrations witnessed by the Prime Minister included Combat Free Fall, High Speed Runs, Slithering Ops on Gemini and Beach Assault, SAR Demo, VERTREP and SSM Launch Dill, Seaking Ops, Dunk Demo and Submarine Transit, Kamov Ops, Neutralising Enemy Post, Small Team Insertion – Extraction (STIE Ops), Fly Past, Naval Central Band Display, Continuity Drill, Hompipe Dance, Light Tattoo Drummers Call, and Ceremonial Sunset followed by National Anthem.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi unveiled the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra. Shri Modi also paid floral tributes to the statue and took a walkthrough of the photo gallery.

The Prime Minister posted on X:
“Earlier this evening, unveiled a grand statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji at Rajkot fort. ”

“आज संध्याकाळी,  राजकोट किल्ल्यावरील छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराजांच्या भव्य पुतळ्याचे अनावरण करण्यात आले.”

Namaskar friends,

The cold, perhaps, is late and it is approaching very slowly, but political heat is rising rapidly. Just yesterday, the election results for four states were announced, and the results are very encouraging.

These results are encouraging for those who are committed to the well-being of the common man, and who are dedicated to the bright future of the country, especially for all sections of all societies, women from every village and city, youth from every village and city of all social groups, farmers from every community, and the poor people of my country. Those who follow the principles of empowering these four important castes and ensuring their bright future and last mile delivery of concrete plans received strong support. When there is good governance and consistent support for public welfare, the term ‘anti-incumbency’ becomes irrelevant. Some may call it pro-incumbency, good governance, transparency, national interest, or solid plans for public welfare, but this has been the experience that we have been witnessing consistently. And today we are meeting in this new temple of the Parliament after such an excellent public mandate.

When this new Parliament Building was inaugurated, it was a brief session, but it was a historic moment. However, this time there will be an opportunity to work in this House for a longer duration. It’s a new House, therefore, small details may still be lacking in arrangements. However, when it will function normally, then Members of Parliament, visitors and media personnel will also notice those shortcomings and it will be taken care of. I have confidence that the Hon’ble Vice President and the Hon’ble Speaker are fully vigilant towards these things. I would also suggest to you that if some small things come to your attention, do point it out. When these things (new Parliament Building) are made, there is also a need for changes according to the requirements.

The country has rejected negativity. We consistently have discussions with opposition colleagues at the beginning of each session. Our main team discusses with them and appeals for everyone’s cooperation. This time too, all these processes have been followed as well. Through you, I also publicly appeal to all our MPs that this temple of democracy is a crucial platform to strengthen the foundation of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ for the aspirations of the people.

I am urging all respected MPs to come prepared fully, discuss thoroughly on any bills presented in the House and provide the best suggestions. Because when a Member of Parliament gives a suggestion, it contains elements of practical experience. But if there is no discussion, the country misses out on those things, and that’s why I am urging (all the members for serious discussions) once again.

Based on the current election results, I would like to tell my Opposition colleagues that they have a golden opportunity. Instead of planning to vent frustration over defeat (in assembly elections) in this session, if they learn from this defeat, shun the idea of negativity that has been prevalent for the past nine years, and move forward with positivity in this session, the country’s perspective towards them will change. A new door may open for them… and even if they are in the opposition, I am giving them good advice to come forward with positive thoughts. If we take ten steps, then you should take twelve steps while making decisions.

Everyone’s future is bright; there’s no need for despair. But please, do not vent the frustration of defeat in the House. There might be disappointment. Your colleagues may have to do something to show their strength. But, at least, do not turn this temple of democracy into a platform for expressing frustration. And I say this again, based on my long experience, change your approach a bit, leave the confrontational attitude aside just for the sake of opposition, and contribute positively for the country’s benefit. Debate the shortcomings. You see, the hatred growing in the country today over certain issues might turn into love through such actions. So, there is an opportunity; don’t let it slip away.

I have been urging for your cooperation in the House. From a political perspective, I also want to say that it is in your interest to convey a message of positivity to the country. It’s not good for democracy if your image becomes associated with hatred and negativity. The Opposition is as crucial, valuable, and powerful in a democracy, and it should be equally capable. I make this statement once again for the well-being of democracy.

Now the country does not want to wait long for its goal of development. In every section of society, there is a sentiment that we just need to move forward. I urge all respected MPs to lead the House while respecting this sentiment. This is my request to them. Wishing all of you the very best!

Thank you very much.

The Prime Minister,Shri Narendra Modi today congratulated Andry Rajoelina on his re-election as the President of Madagascar.

Shri Narendra Modi posted on X :

“Hearty congratulations @SE_Rajoelina on your re-election as the President of Madagascar. Look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen India-Madagascar partnership and Vision SAGAR.”

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah addressed the ‘Smriti Parv’ programme organized on the birth centenary of Shri Divyakant Nanavati in Junagadh, Gujarat today.

In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that Shri Divyakant Nanavati was one of those people who lived for the society and the people. He said that Rupayatan Sanstha has published such a book today which will definitely prove to be a guide for the leaders of the new generation. Shri Shah said that if someone remembers a person even after 100 years, it means that person’s life has been truly meaningful. Shri Divyakant ji was MLA for two consecutive terms and was also the Law and Justice Minister in the Government of Gujarat and he made numerous contributions not only to Junagadh but also to the public life of Gujarat.

The greatest personality of Bhakti Sahitya, Shri Narsingh Mehta Ji dedicated his entire life to literature and it is impossible to find an excellent litterateur like him. He said that Shri Mehta presented all the secrets of Vedas and Upanishads in front of the people in a concise manner and lucid language. He said that only Shri Narsingh Mehta Ji could have the courage to oppose untouchability at that time. Shri Shah said that if we want to know about social justice then we will have to understand Shri Narsingh Mehta Ji. He said that on this sacred land of Shri Narsingh Mehta Ji, Rupayatan Sanstha has published a book in the memory of son of the soil Shri Divyakant ji. It will definitely become an inspiration for the people working in public life of Junagadh and Gujarat.

Shri Amit Shah said that Rupayatan Sanstha is also doing very good work on various dimensions of social life for the last 75 years. He said that Shri Bhikhudan ji has done the work of transmitting the art of Gujarat and Saurashtra from the older generation to the new generation. He said that Shri Bhikhudan Gadhvi was a bridge between the generation of Shri Kaag Bapu and today’s litterateurs and he has made immense contribution to the literature of Gujarat. Shri Shah said that when Shri Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister, he recognized the contribution of Shri Bhikhudan ji and honored him with Padma Shri award. He said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has made complete arrangements so that the deserving person of the country can be honored with Padma Award.

Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, continued his engagements in Kerala on Day 2 of his visit with an address at the Satsang 2023 Mega-Conference for CA students at Nalanda Auditorium, Kozhikode. The event, organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, focused on the theme “Insight – Discover the Unseen!”

In his address, Minister Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized how New India is leveraging technology to create opportunities for young Indians and startups. He said, “As a Minister, I’ve had the opportunity to travel across the country, engaging with students, and discussing their concerns. One undeniable truth I’ve discovered is that young Indians in this generation are the luckiest in the history of Independent India. They possess unprecedented opportunities for growth and success, unlike any previous generation in the history of independent India. The older generation didn’t have these options; upon graduation, they were limited to just two or three choices.”

Highlighting the democratization of opportunities over the last decade, the Minister expressed, “Today, young Indians from cities like Calicut, Vizag, Bengaluru, Kohima, Surat, or Kashmir have tremendous opportunities. Over the last five years alone, we’ve witnessed the emergence of 1.2 lakh startups and 108 unicorns. The need for a godfather or a famous last name to succeed is obsolete. New India has democratized opportunities, building an enabling environment for success. Whether in semiconductors, Web3, electronics, HPC, or any tech-related field, Indians are excelling in all things tech, and young Indians are at the forefront of these opportunities.”

Encouraging CA students to embrace digital skills, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar stated, “Our Prime Minister emphasized the importance of skills alongside degrees and knowledge, especially in the post-Covid world of rapid digitization, digital technologies, and unprecedented electronification. I urge aspiring CAs today to acquire digital skills. Combining these skills with the existing accountancy knowledge will make you unstoppable. India is an unstoppable country. Every CA today has the potential to become catalysts for not just their own success, but the success of their profession, and the overall Indian economy.”

At an event organized by Kozhikode CSC VLE Welfare society, Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar spoke about the goal of launching Common Service Centre (CSC) 2.0 to further the objectives set by PM Vishwakarma Yojana.

The Minister said, “PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a groundbreaking scheme for artisans who have been ignored for decades. This will certify unskilled artisans, and CSCs hold immense importance in connecting these artisans to schemes. Although CSCs have been successful nationwide, they have faced some hurdles in Kerala, which we are keen on resolving. We will further expand, modernize, and broaden the scope of this initiative.”

Minister Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar also engaged with prominent citizens of the state in subsequent meetings, where he highlighted PM’s vision of “Vikasit Bharat”.

Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, interacted with the participants from Kerala of Yuva Sangam Phase 3, currently touring Odisha, in Bhubaneswar today. Minister of State for External Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs, V Muraleedharan; Director, Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal and other dignitaries were also present at the event. The team has been hosted by IIM Sambalpur in Odisha. NIT Calicut is the nodal agency in Kerala.

Shri Pradhan interacted with the team, comprising 42 participants, to learn about their experience of witnessing Odisha’s rich culture, cuisine and artistic heritage. He said that he was happy to note that these young participants were proud of their vibrant culture and knowledge traditions and are eager to rediscover the common threads that bind us together.

Shri Pradhan expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for envisioning Yuva Sangam, which is strengthening the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.

As part of the ongoing phase of Yuva Sangam, exposure tours are being conducted throughout November and December 2023 wherein youth comprising mainly of students studying in Higher Educational institutions (HEIs) and also off-campus youngsters in the age group 18-30 years from across the nation will be travelling to their paired states. During their visits, delegates will receive multi-dimensional exposure to five broad areas: Paryatan (Tourism), Parampara (Traditions), Pragati (Development), Prodyogik (Technology) and Paraspar Sampark (People-to-people connect) in the host states.

Yuva Sangam Phase-III will have participation from 22 States and UTs with the following Higher Education Institutions paired to conduct the exposure tours: Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh-IIT Delhi; IIT Dharwad-IIT Ropar; SPPU Pune-IIT Guwahati; IIT Hyderabad-BHU Varanasi; IIM Trichy-IIIT Kota; IIM Sambalpur-NIT Calicut; IIITDM Jabalpur-IIT Kharagpur; IIIT Ranchi-NIT Kurukshetra; NIT Goa-IIT Bhilai; and IIM Bodhgaya-IIIT Surat.

Given the overwhelming response received in the first two phases of Yuva Sangam, which saw more than 2000 youth participating, Phase 3 is also expected to witness immense vigour and enthusiasm. This phase will take forth the idea behind this unique initiative under the aegis of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat by the Government of India which intends to not just expand the intellectual horizons of young agents of change but to also sensitise them to diversity across India so as to channelize their knowledge for a more connected, empathetic and technologically robust India of the future.

Addressing the first-ever meeting of the BRIC Society after its registration on 10th November, 2023 after getting the Cabinet approval, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh said here today that time has come for defining “Bio-vision” for Bharat.

Dr Jitendra Singh today said that the new Apex Autonomous Society called Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) will fulfil Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Vision for Atma Nirbhar Bharat in areas like healthcare, food and energy needs by scaling biotech research and innovation.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, Indian Bio-economy recorded 13 times increase in the last ten years.

The Minister quoted PM Modi as saying, “India is not too far from reaching the league of top-10 countries in Biotech’s global ecosystem”. He added that BRIC is going to be a testimony to this and again by inculcating the spirit of Sabka Prayas, the government is bringing together the best minds on a unified platform.

Dr Jitendra Singh informed that the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology is functioning as the nodal agency for promotion of Biotechnology in the country. It was accorded the Cabinet approval for rationalization of its 14 Autonomous Institutions (AIs) by subsuming them under one Apex Autonomous Society viz. Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), for centralized and unified governance to maximize impact of biotech research across the country.

Dr Jitendra Singh described the BRIC meeting as a historical event in India’s Biotech Ecosystem, where elite institutions are consolidating their efforts to impact the biotech R&D ecosystem. He expressed hope that BRIC will prospectively enrich India’s progress in every front including economy and employment. The Minister said, as accomplished institution-builders, he would like to seek their views for defining the Bio-Vision for Bharat in this significant meeting, as they are supposed to bring in tremendous value to this noble mission.

Dr Jitendra Singh also pointed out that this is one of the first Departments in the Government of India to have successfully executed “Rationalization of Autonomous Bodies” for process and performance enhancement of its Autonomous bodies.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, some of the significant changes that will be driven by BRIC include that each of the 14 subsumed BRIC Institutions will maintain their distinct research mandates, governed by one Governing Body, at BRIC. He said, Institutes would be allowed utilization of institutional lab space, not exceeding one third, for researchers from outside DBT institutes and their collaborators (from industry or other institutes) to carry out R&D for start-ups emerging out of institutional research.

Dr Jitendra Singh also underlined that BRIC and its Institutes can engage in public-private research partnerships and receive endowments including funds from non-Governmental resources for research-related activities.

Dr Jitendra Singh also added that new Ph.D programs across BRIC institutions with a common course curriculum at RCB and immersion training for field or experimental studies for validating research hypotheses prior to thesis work. During the Immersion phase (for about 3 months) students will get additional fellowships from Grand Challenges India program. Additionally, to enhance the scientific character of the institutions, additional 120 scientific positions are being brought in. Parity across levels and cadres are also being pursued. Further improving service prospects for scientists are also being taken up, the Minister added.

The DBT initiated this restructuring activity as per the directives on “Rationalization of Autonomous Bodies” issued by Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance. However, they have used it as an opportunity to introspect and overhaul the way research is conducted across the DBT institutions. It is envisioned to improve governance, efficiency, encourage collaborations through greater interdisciplinary interactions and democratize resources. The compliance to governmental processes and administrative issues will be centrally managed in a coordinated effort thereby achieving “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance”.

The 14 institutes to be governed by the Society of the new Apex Body of BRIC are: :i) National Institute of Immunology (NII, New Delhi); ii) National Center for Cell Science (NCCS, Pune); iii) Institute of Life Sciences (ILS, Bhubaneshwar); iv) Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB, Thiruvananthapuram); v) Centre for DNA Fingerprinting & Diagnostics (CDFD, Hyderabad); vi) National Brain Research Centre (NBRC, Manesar); vii) National Institute for Plant Genome Research (NIPGR, New Delhi); viii) Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD, Imphal); ix) National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB, Hyderabad); x) Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem, Bangalore); xi) National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG, Kalyani); xii) Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI, Faridabad); xiii) National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI, Mohali); xiv) Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB, Mohali). NABI and CIAB have been merged into one administrative unit with one Director.

Dr. Jitendra Singh today also launched the ‘Zero Waste Life on Campus’ program on the occasion of first Society Meeting of BRIC.

The ‘Zero Waste Life on Campus’ program is aimed at achieving sustainability through application and adoption of knowledge and technologies, and promotion of management models focused on co-responsibility, on each BRIC campus. The diverse locations, cultures and climatic conditions of the 13 BRIC campuses will provide an opportunity to understand the benefits and challenges related to recycling technologies and techniques. This program will forge a new direction for research towards integrated waste management by the community at large.

The Minister in his remarks said that this is a people centric movement that will serve as a beacon leading India into sustainable waste management. This programme will strengthen collaborations among all these institutions and also serve a catalyst for other institutions across India to follow the concept of Zero Waste.

This program is aligned with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Mission LiFE movement said, Dr Jitendra Singh.

Your मजेस्टीस,
Your हाईनेस,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

140 क़रोड़ भारतीयों की ओर से आप सभी को मेरा नमस्कार!

आज सबसे पहले मैं आप सभी का आभार व्यक्त करूंगा।

मेरे द्वारा उठाए गए क्लाइमेट जस्टिस, क्लाइमेट फाइनेंस औऱ ग्रीन क्रेडिट जैसे विषयों को आपने निरंतर समर्थन दिया है।

हम सभी के प्रयासों से ये विश्वास बढ़ा है कि विश्व कल्याण के लिए सबके हितों की सुरक्षा आवश्यक है, सबकी भागीदारी आवश्यक है।

Friends,

आज भारत ने Ecology और Economy के उत्तम संतुलन का उदाहरण विश्व के सामने रखा है।

भारत में विश्व की 17 percent आबादी होने के बावजूद, ग्लोबल कार्बन emissions में हमारी हिस्सेदारी only 4 percent से भी कम है।

भारत विश्व की उन कुछ economies में से एक है जो NDC टार्गेट्स को पूरा करने की राह पर है।

Emissions intensity सम्बन्धी टार्गेट्स को हमने ग्यारह साल पहले ही हासिल कर लिया है।

Non-fossil fuel टार्गेट्स को हम निर्धारित समय से 9 साल पहले ही प्राप्त कर चुके हैं।

और भारत इतने पर ही नहीं रुका है।

हमारा लक्ष्य 2030 तक emissions intensity को 45 परसेंट घटाना है।

हमने तय किया है कि Non-fossil fuel का शेयर हम बढ़ा कर 50 परसेंट करेंगे।

और, हम 2070 तक net zero के लक्ष्य की तरफ भी बढ़ते रहेंगे।

Friends,

भारत ने अपनी जी-20 प्रेज़िडेन्सी में One Earth, One Family, One Future की भावना के साथ क्लाइमेट के विषय को निरंतर महत्व दिया है।

Sustainable Future के लिए, हमने मिलकर Green Development Pact पर सहमति बनाई।

हमने Lifestyles for Sustainable Development के सिद्धांत तय किए।

हमने वैश्विक स्तर पर Renewable Energy को तीन गुना करने की प्रतिबद्धता जताई।

भारत ने Alternate fuels के लिए Hydrogen के क्षेत्र को बढ़ावा दिया औऱ Global Biofuels Alliance भी लॉन्च किया।

हम मिलकर इस नतीजे पर पहुंचे कि क्लाइमेट फाइनेंस commitment को बिलियन्स से बढ़ा कर कई ट्रिलियन तक ले जाने की आवश्यकता है।

साथियों,

ग्लासगो में भारत ने ‘आइलैंड स्टेट्स’ के लिए इन्फ्रास्ट्रक्चर Resilience initiative की शुरुआत की थी।

भारत 13 देशों में इससे जुड़े प्रोजेक्ट्स तेजी से आगे बढ़ा रहा है।

ग्लासगो में ही मैंने, मिशन LiFE – Lifestyle for Environment का विजन आपके सामने रखा था।

इंटरनेशनल एनर्जी एजेंसी की स्टडी कहती है कि इस अप्रोच से हम 2030 तक प्रति वर्ष 2 बिलियन टन कार्बन एमिशन कम कर सकते हैं।

आज मैं इस फोरम से एक और, pro-planet, proactive और positive Initiative का आवाहन कर रहा हूँ ।

यह है Green Credits initiative.

यह कार्बन क्रेडिट की कमर्शियल मानसिकता से आगे बढ़कर, जन भागीदारी से कार्बन sink बनाने का अभियान है।

मैं उम्मीद करता हूं कि आप सब इससे जरूर जुड़ेंगे।

साथियों,

पिछली शताब्दी की गलतियों को सुधारने के लिए हमारे पास बहुत ज्यादा समय नहीं है।

मानव जाति के एक छोटे हिस्से ने प्रकृति का अंधाधुंध दोहन किया।

लेकिन इसकी कीमत पूरी मानवता को चुकानी पड़ रही है, विशेषकर ग्लोबल साउथ के निवासियों को।

सिर्फ मेरा भला हो, ये सोच, दुनिया को एक अंधेरे की तरफ ले जाएगी।

इस हॉल में बैठा प्रत्येक व्यक्ति, प्रत्येक राष्ट्राध्यक्ष बहुत बड़ी जिम्मेदारी के साथ यहां आया है।

हम में से सभी को अपने दायित्व निभाने ही होंगे।

पूरी दुनिया आज हमें देख रही है, इस धरती का भविष्य हमें देख रहा है।

हमें सफल होना ही होगा।

We Have to be Decisive:

हमें संकल्प लेना होगा कि हर देश अपने लिए जो क्लाइमेट टार्गेट्स तय कर रहा है, जो कमिटमेंट कर रहा है, वो पूरा करके ही दिखाएगा।

We have to work in Unity:

हमें संकल्प लेना होगा कि हम मिलकर काम करेंगे, एक दूसरे का सहयोग करेंगे, साथ देंगे।

हमें Global carbon budget में सभी विकासशील देशों को उचित शेयर देना होगा।

We have to be more Balanced:

हमें ये संकल्प लेना होगा कि Adaptation, Mitigation, Climate finance, Technology, Loss and damage इन सब पर संतुलन बनाते हुए आगे बढ़ें।

We have to be Ambitious:

हमें संकल्प लेना होगा कि एनर्जी transition, Just हो, इन्क्लूसिव हो, equitable हो।

We have to be Innovative:

हमें ये संकल्प लेना होगा कि इनोवेटिव टेक्नोलॉजी का लगातार विकास करें।

अपने स्वार्थ से ऊपर उठकर दूसरे देशों को टेक्नोलॉजी ट्रांसफर करें। क्लीन एनर्जी सप्लाई चेन को सशक्त करें।

Friends,

भारत, UN Framework for Climate Change Process के प्रति प्रतिबद्ध है ।

इसलिए, आज मैं इस मंच से 2028 में COP-33 समिट को भारत में host करने का प्रस्ताव भी रखता हूँ।

मुझे आशा है कि आने वाले 12 दिनों में Global Stock-take की समीक्षा से हमें सुरक्षित और उज्ज्वल भविष्य का रास्ता मिलेगा।

कल, Loss and Damage Fund को operationalise करने का जो निर्णय लिया गया है उससे हम सभी की उम्मीद और बढ़ी है।

मुझे विश्वास है, UAE की मेजबानी में, ये COP 28 समिट, सफलता की नई ऊंचाई पर पहुंचेगी।

मैं मेरे Brother, हिज हाइनेस शेख मोहम्मद बिन जायद और संयुक्त राष्ट्र संघ के सेक्रेटरी जनरल His Excellency गुटरेस जी का, मुझे ये विशेष सम्मान देने के लिए विशेष रूप से आभार व्यक्त करता हूँ।

आप सभी का बहुत बहुत धन्यवाद।