PM lays foundation stone and dedicates to nation multiple development projects worth about Rs 27,000 crore in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth about Rs 27,000 crore in Jagdalpur, Bastar, Chhattisgarh today. The projects include the dedication of NMDC Steel Ltd’s Steel Plant at Nagarnar in Bastar district worth more than Rs 23,800 crores along with multiple railway and road sector projects. He also flagged off the Taroki – Raipur DEMU Train Service.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister remarked that the dream of a Viksit Bharat will come to fruition only when every state, every district and every village of the country becomes developed. He said that the projects of today worth about 27,000 crores have been initiated to accomplish these resolutions and congratulated the people of Chhattisgarh for the development projects.  The Prime Minister said for Viksit Bharat Physical, social and digital infrastructure should be as per the needs of the future. He informed that this year’s outlay for infrastructure is 10 lakh crore, a six-fold increase.

Highlighting the importance of steel in the projects of rail, road, airport, power projects, transportation, homes for the poor, and educational and healthcare institutions, the Prime Minister said that the government has taken numerous steps to make the nation self-reliant in steel production in the last 9 years. “Chhattisgarh is reaping the benefits of being a large steel-producing state”, the Prime Minister emphasized as he underlined the inauguration of one of the most modern steel plants in Nagarnar today.  He said that the steel produced in this plant will give new energy to the automobile, engineering and defence manufacturing sectors of the nation. “The steel produced in Bastar will strengthen the armed forces along with boosting defence exports”, Shri Modi said. He underlined that the steel plant will provide employment opportunities to approximately 50,000 youth from Bastar and nearby regions. “The new steel plant will give new momentum to the prioritization of development of aspirational districts like Bastar by the Central Government”, he added.

Referring to the Central government’s focus on connectivity, the Prime Minister mentioned the economic corridor and modern highways in Chhattisgarh. He also informed that as compared to 2014, railways budget of Chhattisgarh has been increased by about 20 times. He said Taroki is getting the gift of a new railway line after so many years of independence. A new DEMU train has connected Taroki on the railway map of the country which will make it easier to travel to the capital Raipur. The rail line doubling project between Jagdalpur and Dantewada will reduce logistics costs and lead to ease of travel.

The Prime Minister expressed happiness that Chhattisgarh has completed the work of 100% electrification of railway tracks. Vande Bharat Train is also operating in the state. “More than 30 stations of Chattisgarh are being upgraded under Amrit Bharat Station Yojana. Of which the foundation stone for redevelopment of 7 stations has already been done. Along with Bilaspur, Raipur and Durg station, today Jagdalpur station has been added to this list”, the Prime Minister said. “In the coming days, Jagdalpur station will become the main center of the city and passenger facilities here will be upgraded. In the last nine years, free Wi-Fi facility has been provided at more than 120 stations in the state”, he added.

“The government is making all possible efforts to make life easier for the people of Chhattisgarh”, Shri Modi said as he noted that the projects of today will further the pace of development, create new employment opportunities and encourage new industries in the state. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister assured that the government will continue its support to the development journey of Chhattisgarh and the state will play its role in changing the fate of the nation. He thanked the Governor of Chhattisgarh, Shri Biswabhusan Harichandan for representing the state on the occasion and being thoughtful about the state’s development.

Governor of Chhattisgarh, Shri Biswabhusan Harichandan, and Member of Parliament, Shri Mohan Mandavi were present on the occasion among others.

Background

In a step that will provide a major impetus to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the Prime Minister dedicated to the nation the NMDC Steel Ltd’s Steel Plant at Nagarnar in Bastar district. Built at a cost of more than Rs 23,800 crores, the steel plant is a greenfield project that will produce high-quality steel. NMDC Steel Ltd’s Steel Plant at Nagarnar will provide employment opportunities to thousands of people in the plant as well as in ancillary and downstream industries. It will put Bastar on the steel map of the world and provide a boost to the socioeconomic development of the region.

In line with the Prime Minister’s vision of improving rail infrastructure all across the country, the laying of foundation stone and dedication to the nation of multiple rail projects were done during the programme. The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation a new rail line between Antagarh & Taroki and a rail line doubling project between Jagdalpur and Dantewada. He laid the foundation stone of the Boridand – Surajpur rail line doubling project and the redevelopment of Jagdalpur Station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The Prime Minister also flagged off the Taroki – Raipur DEMU Train Service. These rail projects will improve connectivity in the tribal regions of the state. The improved rail infrastructure and the new train service will benefit the local people and help in the economic development of the region.

The Prime Minister also dedicated to the nation, a road upgradation project from ‘Kunkuri to Chhattisgarh – Jharkhand Border section’ of National Highway – 43. The new road will improve road connectivity, benefiting the people of the region.

PM addresses on occasion of Amma’s 70th birthday

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed on the occasion of Amma, Mata Amritanandamayi ji’s 70th birthday via video message today.

The Prime Minister began his address by wishing Mata Amritanandamayi ji a long and healthy life on her 70th birthday and said that she is the symbol of service and spirituality. He expressed hope that her mission to spread love and compassion worldwide continues to move forward. Prime Minister Modi also congratulated everyone who gathered from different walks of life including Amma’s followers and extended his best wishes.

Throwing light on his association with Amma for more than 30 years, the Prime Minister recalled working with her for a long time after the earthquake in Kutch. He remembered celebrating Amma’s 60th birthday in Amritapuri. “Even today, the warmth of Amma’s smiling face and affectionate nature remains the same as before”, Shri Modi said. The Prime Minister highlighted that in the last 10 years, Amma’s work and her impact on the world has grown manifold and recalled inaugurating Amrita Hospital in Faridabad, Haryana in Amma’s presence. “The aura of Amma’s presence and her blessings is difficult to describe in words, we can only feel it”, he emphasized. He reiterated that Amma is the embodiment of love, compassion, service and sacrifice and she is the bearer of India’s spiritual tradition.

“Be it the field of health or education, every institution under Amma’s guidance gave new heights to human service and social welfare”, the Prime Minister underlined as he highlighted the aspect of Amma’s work in creating and promoting institutions in the country and abroad. He mentioned the cleanliness drive which began in the country and said that Amma was among the first personalities who came forward to make it a success. Prime Minister Modi informed that she also donated Rs 100 crore to build toilets on the banks of the Ganga which gave a new boost to cleanliness. “Amma has followers all over the world and she has always strengthened the image of India and its credibility. When the inspiration is so great, the efforts also become great”, he added.

The Prime Minister remarked that personalities like Amma are a reflection of India’s human-centric approach to development that is being accepted today in the post-pandemic world.  He said that Amma has always made the humanitarian sacrifice of empowering the disabled and giving priority to the deprived. Noting the passage of Narishakti Vandan Adhiniyam just a few days ago in the Parliament, the Prime Minister underlined that India which is moving ahead with the resolve of women-led development has an inspirational personality like Amma. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that Amma’s followers will continue to do similar work to promote peace and progress in the world.

“Green Economy” is going to be the new addition to India’s future growth: Dr Jitendra Singh

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“Green Economy” is going to be the new addition to India’s future growth, said Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh in an exclusive interview during “Green Ribbon Champions” Conclave.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, the Industry stake in StartUps and Research & Development ought to be from the very beginning.

“Green Financing with a larger industrial engagement and Industry involvement is required right from the beginning because it is my considered view that otherwise you cannot move forward beyond a certain point,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said Bioeconomy is going to be a hugely lucrative source of livelihood in the times to come.

“In 2014, India’s bioeconomy stood at just about $10 Billion, today it is $80 Billion. In just 8/9 years it has gone (up) 8 times and we look forward to having $125 Billion by 2025,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), announced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, will have huge non-government resources. As a result, the demarcation between the Public and Private sector will be bridged and there will be greater synergy for future growth, he said.

“National Research Foundation will also act as a think tank, it has the mandate of even deciding the themes on which the projects have to be undertaken and funded depending on the requirements or the futuristic visions/projections, also (deciding on) the international collaborations,” he said, adding, “the NRF will have a more scientific approach so that the Innovation doesn’t get lost in the din of times.

Anusandhan NRF Act was passed by the Parliament in the recent Monsoon session, with a budget of Rs.50,000 crore over five years. NRF will promote the culture of research and innovation throughout India’s universities, colleges, research institutions, and R&D laboratories and give further impetus to Clean energy research in India and Mission Innovation. As much as 70% of its funding will come from non-governmental sources.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, one of the greatest revolutions that has been brought in by PM Modi is the National Education Policy, NEP-2020. It will allow students to switch over their stream of higher studies from Engineering to Humanities and vice versa based on their aptitude.

“It is going to have a bearing on every sphere of our life, even our mental wellbeing. As I said, the citizens or the youth will not be living all their lives as ‘prisoners of their aspirations’ which was actually nursed by their parents,” he said.

With a provision of multiple entry/exit option, one of the objectives of NEP-202 is de-linking degree from education. Academic flexibility will have a positive impact on the students related to the availing of different career opportunities at different times, depending upon their intrinsic learning and inherent aptitude.

PM lays foundation stone and dedicates to nation various development projects worth around Rs 19,260 crores in Gwalior, MP

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation various development projects worth around Rs 19,260 crores in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh today. The projects include the dedication of Delhi-Vadodara Expressway, Grih Pravesh of over 2.2 lakh houses built under PMAY and dedication of houses constructed under PMAY – Urban, laying the foundation stone for Jal Jeevan Mission projects, 9 health centers under Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, dedication of academic building of IIT Indore and laying the foundation stone for hostel and other buildings on campus and a Multi-Modal Logistics Park in Indore.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister remarked that the land of Gwalior is a symbol of bravery, self-respect, pride, music, taste and mustard. He underlined that the land has produced many revolutionaries for the country as well as those who serve in the armed forces. He emphasized that the land of Gwalior has shaped the policies and the leadership of the ruling party and gave examples of Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia, Kushabhau Thakre and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. “The land of Gwalior is an inspiration in itself”, the Prime Minister said as he underlined that sons of the soil sacrificed their lives for the country’s sake.

The Prime Minister said that though people of this generation did not get a chance to participate in the freedom struggle but responsibility of making India developed and prosperous surely lies with us. Referring to the projects that were dedicated or for which foundation stones were laid, the Prime Minister said that the government is bringing so many projects in a single day as many governments are not able to bring them in a year.

Prime Minister Modi said that just before Dussehra Diwali and Dhanteras about 2 lakh families are doing Grih Pravesh and many projects of connectivity are being presented.  He said Vikram Udyogpuri in Ujjain and the Multi-Modal logistics park will give a push to the industrial growth of Madhya Pradesh. He mentioned new projects in Gwalior IIT. He talked about new health centers at Vidisha, Baitul, Katni, Burhanpur, Narsinghpur, Damoh and Shajapur under Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure.

The Prime Minister credited the efforts of the double-engine government for all development projects. He underlined that the pace of development increases when the government with the same set of principles that is dedicated to the public is there in both Delhi and Bhopal. Therefore, the Prime Minister said, the people of Madhya Pradesh believe in the double-engine government. “Double-engine means double development of Madhya Pradesh”, Shri Modi said.

In the last few years, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government has transformed Madhya Pradesh from being a ‘bimaru rajya’ (backward state) to one of the top 10 states in the country. “From here on”, he said, “the government aims to take Madhya Pradesh to the top 3 states in India.”. He urged everyone to cast their vote as a responsible citizen which will drive Madhya Pradesh to the position of the top 3 states.

The Prime Minister said that the world sees its future in India. He said India became the 5th largest economy from 10th place in just 9 years. He criticized those who don’t believe in India’s moment and said “It is Modi’s guarantee that in the next tenure of the government, India will break into the top three economies of the world.”

“Modi has guaranteed pucca houses to the poor, dalits, backward and tribals families”, the Prime Minister emphasized as he noted that 4 crore families in the country have been handed pucca homes so far. In Madhya Pradesh, the Prime Minister said, lakhs of homes have been handed to poor families so far and even today many homes have been inaugurated today. Throwing light on the previous government, the Prime Minister lamented the fraudulent schemes and the poor quality of homes that were delivered to the poor. On the contrary, the Prime Minister said that the homes handed out during the present government are being constructed according to the needs of the beneficiaries and the money is directly transferred into their bank accounts after monitoring the progress with the help of technology. He also noted that the homes are equipped with toilets, electricity, tap water connection and Ujjwala Gas connection. Speaking on the Jal Jeevan Mission projects of today, the Prime Minister said that it will help in supplying water to these homes.

He said that it has been ensured that these houses are in the name of the women of the house. This has made crores of sisters ‘Lakhpati’, the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister asked the women owners of the houses to focus on the education of their children.

“Women empowerment is a mission of national reconstruction and national welfare rather than a vote bank issue” the Prime Minister emphasized. Referring to the recently passed ‘Narishakti Vandan Adhniyam’, the Prime Minister said, “Modi Guarantee means a guarantee of fulfillment of all guarantees”. He wished for greater participation of Matrushakti in the development journey of the nation.

The Prime Minister said that Gwalior and Chambal are becoming land of opportunity which is a result of the hard work of the government after earlier times of lawlessness, underdevelopment and violation of social justice. He said we can not afford to look back.

“Modern infrastructure and robust law & order benefit both farmers and industries”, the Prime Minister emphasized, “whereas both the systems collapse with the presence of an anti-development government.” He mentioned that an anti-development government also gives rise to crime and appeasement, thereby giving a free hand to goons, criminals, rioters and corrupt people leading to a rise in atrocities on women, dalits, backward classes and tribals. The Prime Minister urged the people of Madhya Pradesh to stay alert from such anti-development elements.

Referring to the government’s policy of prioritizing the deprived, the Prime Minister said “Our government is dedicated to providing development to every class and every region. Those whom no one cared for, Modi cares for them, Modi worships them.” He mentioned measures for divyangs such as modern equipment and the development of common sign language. Today a new sports center was inaugurated for divyang athletes in Gwalior. Similarly, small farmers were neglected for decades now they are being looked after. The Prime Minister informed that the government has so far sent Rs 28 thousand to the accounts of every small farmer in the country through PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. There are 2.5 crore small farmers in our country who grow coarse grains. “Earlier no one cared about the small farmers growing coarse grains. It is our government which has given the identity of millet to Indian food and is taking it to the markets across the world”, he added.

The Prime Minister continued and talked about PM Vishwakarma Yojana which will benefit Kumhar, Lohar, Suthar, sunar, malakar, darji, dhobi and cobblers and barbers. Pointing out that this section of the society had been left behind, the Prime Minister said, “Modi has launched a huge campaign to bring them forward.” He informed that the government will cover the costs for their training and also hand out Rs 15,000 for modern equipment. He also noted that cheap loans worth lakhs of rupees are being offered to them. “Modi has taken the guarantee of the loan of Vishwakarmas”, he said.

The Prime Minister underlined the future-oriented approach of the double-engine government and reiterated the commitment to bring Madhya Pradesh into the top states of the country.

Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Union Ministers Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Dr Virendra Kumar and Jyotiraditya Scindia, Members of Parliament and Ministers from Government of Madhya Pradesh were present on the occasion among others.

Background

In yet another initiative to boost connectivity across the country, the Prime Minister dedicated to the nation the Delhi-Vadodara Expressway, which has been developed at a cost of about Rs. 11,895 crores. He will also lay the foundation stone for five different road projects worth over Rs. 1880 crores.

Ensuring that everyone has a house of one’s own has been the constant endeavour of the Prime Minister. In line with this vision, Grih Pravesh of over 2.2 lakh houses built under PMAY – Gramin were initiated by the Prime Minister. He also dedicated houses constructed under PMAY – Urban at a cost of around Rs 140 crores.

One of the key focus areas of the government is to provide safe and adequate drinking water. Furthering this aim, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of Jal Jeevan Mission projects worth over Rs 1530 crores in Gwalior and Sheopur districts. These projects will together benefit over 720 villages in the region.

In a step that will further boost the health infrastructure, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of nine health centers under the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission. They will be developed at a cost of over Rs. 150 crores.

The Prime Minister dedicated the academic building of IIT Indore and laid the foundation stone for hostel and other buildings on the campus. Further, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the Multi-Modal Logistics Park at Indore. He also dedicated various projects inducing Integrated Industrial Township in Ujjain, the IOCL bottling plant, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee Divyang Sports Training Centre at Gwalior, among others.

PM lays foundation stone and dedicates to nation various development projects worth about Rs 7,000 crore in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation various development projects worth about Rs 7,000 crore in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. The projects include the Mehsana – Bhatinda – Gurdaspur Gas Pipeline, the LPG Plant of HPCL at Abu Road, additional storage at the Ajmer Bottling Plant, IOCL, Railway and Road projects, tourism facilities at Nathdwara and the permanent campus of Indian Institute of Information Technology, Kota.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister remembered the birth anniversaries of  Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri. He highlighted the cleanliness campaign that took place yesterday on 1st October around the country and thanked citizens for making it into a mass movement.

Highlighting the principles of Mahatma Gandhi towards cleanliness, self-reliance and competitive development, the Prime Minister said that the nation has worked towards the expansion of these principles laid down by him in the last 9 years and highlighted its reflection in the development projects of today worth more than Rs 7000 crores.

The Prime Minister said that in order to strengthen the gas-based economy, an unprecedented campaign to lay gas pipelines throughout the country is going on. Pali-Hanumangarh section of Mehsana – Bhatinda – Gurdaspur Gas was dedicated today that will push industry and employment in Rajasthan. This will also give a push to the campaign to provide piped gas in the kitchens, he said.

The Prime Minister also touched upon the railway and road related projects of today and emphasized that they will make the lives of the people of Mewar easier. He said that it would create new employment opportunities. With the development of the IIIT Campus, the Prime Minister noted, Kota’s identity as an education hub will be strengthened.

Prime Minister Modi said, Rajasthan is a state that has a legacy of the past, the strength of the present and possibilities of the future. Referring to Nathdwara tourist and cultural center, the Prime Minister said this is part of the tourist circuit comprising Jaipur’s Govind Dev Ji temple, Khatu Shyam Mandir of Sikar and Nathdwara in Rajsamand. This will enhance the glory of Rajasthan and benefit the tourism industry.

“The Sawariya Seth Temple near Chittorgarh which is dedicated to Lord Krishna is a center for spirituality”, the Prime Minister remarked as he noted that lakhs of pilgrims turn up every year to worship Sawariya Seth. Highlighting its significance among the business owners’ community, the Prime Minister informed that modern facilities have been added to the temple under the Swadesh Darshan scheme and gave examples of a water-laser show, a tourist facility center, an amphitheater and a cafeteria. He expressed confidence that these developments would add more convenience for the pilgrims.

The Prime Minister emphasized that “the development of Rajasthan is a huge priority for the Government of India. We have focused a lot on modern infrastructure like expressways, highways and railways in Rajasthan. Be it Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, or Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway, these are going to give new strength to the logistics sector in Rajasthan.”   He also mentioned the Udaipur-Jaipur Vande Bharat train that was flagged off recently. Rajasthan is also one of the biggest beneficiaries of the Bharatmala project, he added.

“The history of Rajasthan teaches us that we should move forward with bravery, glory and development”, the Prime Minister underlined. He continued “Today’s India is also doing the same. With everyone’s efforts, we are engaged in building a developed India. The areas and classes which were deprived and backward in the past, today their development is the priority of the country.”  Referring to the Aspirational District Program that has been running successfully in the country for the last 5 years, the Prime Minister informed that many districts of Mewar and Rajasthan are also being developed under this campaign. He informed that going a step further, the central government is now focusing on identifying aspiring blocks and their rapid development. In the coming time, many blocks of Rajasthan will also be developed under this campaign, he said.

In order to give priority to the underprivileged, the Prime Minister informed that the Central Government has also started the Vibrant Village Programme. “The border villages which were considered the last, we are now developing them by considering them as the first villages. Dozens of border villages of Rajasthan are sure to benefit greatly from this”, Shri Modi said.

Background

In yet another step to promote a gas-based economy, the Mehsana – Bhatinda – Gurdaspur Gas Pipeline was dedicated by the Prime Minister. The pipeline has been built at a cost of about Rs. 4500 crores. The Prime Minister also dedicated the LPG Plant of HPCL at Abu Road. This plant will bottle and distribute 86 lakh cylinders per annum and will also result in a net reduction in the running of trucks carrying cylinders per annum by around 0.75 million Km, which will help reduce about 0.5 million tons of CO2 emission per annum. He also dedicated additional storage at Ajmer Bottling Plant, IOCL.

The Prime Minister dedicated a 4-lane road on NH-12 (New NH-52) on the Darah-Jhalawar-Teendhar section, which has been constructed at a cost of more than Rs 1480 crores. This project will help ease the transportation of the produce of mines from Kota and Jhalawar districts. Further, the foundation stone for constructing and widening the Railway Over Bridge (ROB) from two-lane to four-lane in Sawai Madhopur will also be laid. This project will help provide relief from the problem of traffic jams.

The railway projects dedicated to the nation by the Prime Minister include the projects involving the doubling of the Chittorgarh – Neemuch Railway line and Kota – Chittorgarh Electrified Railway line. These projects have been completed at a cost of more than Rs 650 crores and will strengthen rail infrastructure in the region. They will also boost tourism to historic sites in Rajasthan.

The Prime Minister dedicated tourism facilities developed at Nathdwara under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme. Nathdwara is the major center of faith for millions of followers of the Pushtimarg propagated by Saint Vallabhacharya. A modern ‘tourist interpretation and cultural center’ has been developed at Nathdwara, where tourists can experience various facets of the life of Shrinathji. Further, the Prime Minister also dedicated the permanent campus of Indian Institute of Information Technology, Kota to the nation.

PM performs darshan and pooja at Sanwariya Seth Temple in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi performed darshan and pooja at Sanwariya Seth Temple in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan today.

The Prime Minister posted on X:

“चित्तौड़गढ़ के ऐतिहासिक श्री सांवलिया सेठ मंदिर में दर्शन-पूजन कर अभिभूत हूं। यहां मैंने राजस्थान के अपने परिवारजनों की सुख-समृद्धि की कामना की।”

 

PM bows to Mahatma Gandhi on his Jayanti

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on the special occasion of Gandhi Jayanti.

In a X post, the Prime Minister said;

“I bow to Mahatma Gandhi on the special occasion of Gandhi Jayanti. His timeless teachings continue to illuminate our path. Mahatma Gandhi’s impact is global, motivating the entire humankind to further the spirit of unity and compassion. May we always work towards fulfilling his dreams. May his thoughts enable every youngster be the agent of change he dreamt of, fostering unity and harmony all over.”

PM remembers Lal Bahadur Shastri on his Jayanti

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has paid tributes to Lal Bahadur Shastri on his Jayanti.

The Prime Minister posted on X;

“Remembering Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji on his Jayanti. His simplicity, dedication to the nation, and iconic call for ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ resonate even today, inspiring generations. His unwavering commitment to India’s progress and his leadership during challenging times remain exemplary. May we always work to realise his vision for a strong India.”

PM lays foundation stone and dedicates to nation multiple developmental projects worth more than Rs 13,500 crore in Mahbubnagar, Telangana

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation, multiple developmental projects worth more than Rs 13,500 crore in Mahbubnagar, Telangana today. The development projects include important sectors like road, rail, petroleum and natural gas and higher education. During the programme, the Prime Minister also flagged off a train service through video conferencing.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister underlined the advent of the festive season and said that the passage of Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in the Parliament had established the spirit of Shakti Puja before the onset of Navratri.

The Prime Minister expressed happiness in laying the foundation stone of many road connectivity projects today which will transform life in the region. Nagpur – Vijayawada Economic Corridor will ease transportation and business in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Giving a push to trade, tourism and industry in these states. He informed that key economic hubs have been identified in the corridor, including 8 Special Economic Zone, 5 Mega food parks, 4 fishing seafood clusters, 3 pharma and medical clusters and 1 textiles cluster. This will open many avenues for the youth of Hanamkonda, Mahabubabad, Warangal and  Khammam districts.

The Prime Minister highlighted the need for rail and road connectivity for a land-locked state like Telangana for taking the goods manufactured here to the ports. He said many key economic corridors of the country are passing through Telangana. All these will become a medium to connect the state with the East and West Coast. The Suryapet-Khammam section of the Hyderabad Visakhapatnam corridor will also help in this. It will help in reaching the East Coast. Besides, logistics costs of industries and businesses will also be reduced. The railway line being built between Jaklair and Krishna section will also be very important for the people here, he said.

The Prime Minister announced the formation of the National Turmeric Board by the Central Government for the benefit of turmeric farmers of Telangana. He underlined that the National Turmeric Board will focus on value addition to the supply chain and help in infrastructure improvement for the farmers. Prime Minister Modi congratulated all the turmeric-growing farmers from Telangana and the entire nation on the formation of the National Turmeric Board.

Speaking about the recent developments around the world in the energy and energy security sector, the Prime Minister highlighted that the Government has secured energy not only for the industries but also for the household. He gave the example of an increase in the number of LPG cylinders from 14 crores in 2014 to 32 crores in 2023 and also mentioned the recent reduction in gas prices. “Government is giving impetus to the expansion of the LPG distribution network in the country”, the Prime Minister said as he noted that the Hassan-Cherlapalli LPG Pipeline Project will play a crucial role in providing energy security to people in the region.  He also touched upon laying the foundation stone for the Multiproduct Petroleum Pipeline between Krishnapatnam to Hyderabad which will help in the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs in Telangana.

Earlier, the Prime Minister inaugurated many buildings at the Hyderabad Central University.   The Central Government has given Hyderabad University the status of ‘Institution of Eminence’ and provided special funding. The Prime Minister announced, “The Government of India is going to establish a Central Tribal University in Mulugu district. This university will be named after the revered tribal goddesses Sammakka-Sarakka. About Rs 900 crore will be spent on Sammakka-Sarakka Central Tribal University.” Shri Modi congratulated the people of Telangana for this Central Tribal University.

Governor of Telangana, Ms Tamilisai Soundararajan, Union Minister Shri G Kishan Reddy and Member of Parliament, Shri Bandi Sanjay Kumar were present on the occasion among others.

Background

In a step that will provide impetus to the Prime Minister’s vision of the development of modern road infrastructure across the country, foundation stone and dedication to the nation of multiple road projects were done during the programme. The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of key road projects that are part of Nagpur – Vijayawada Economic Corridor. The projects include – 108 km long ‘four-lane access controlled Greenfield highway from Warangal to Khammam section of NH-163G’ and 90 km long ‘four-lane access controlled greenfield highway from Khammam to Vijayawada section of NH-163G. These road projects will be developed at a total cost of about Rs 6400 crores. The projects will reduce travel distance between Warangal and Khammam by about 14 km; and between Khammam and Vijayawada by about 27 km.

The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation a road project – ‘four laning of 59 km long Suryapet to Khammam section of NH-365BB’. Built at a cost of about Rs 2,460 crore, the project is a part of Hyderabad – Visakhapatnam Corridor and is developed under Bharatmala Pariyojana. It will also provide better connectivity to Khammam district and coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh.

During the project, the Prime Minister dedicated ‘37 Kms of Jaklair – Krishna New Railway Line’. Built at a cost of more than Rs 500 crore, the new rail line section brings areas of the backward district of Narayanpet for the first time onto the Railway Map. The Prime Minister also flagged off the inaugural Hyderabad (Kacheguda) – Raichur – Hyderabad (Kacheguda) train service from Krishna station via video conferencing. The train service will connect Hyderabad, Rangareddy, Mahabubnagar, and Narayanpet districts in Telangana with Raichur district in Karnataka. The service will provide first-time rail connectivity to several new areas in the backward districts of Mahabubnagar and Narayanpet, benefiting students, daily commuters, labourers, and the local handloom industry in the region.

In line with the Prime Minister’s vision of improving logistics efficiency in the country, the foundation stone and dedication to the nation of important oil and gas pipeline projects were done during the programme. The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation ‘Hassan-Cherlapalli LPG Pipeline Project’. Built at a cost of about Rs 2170 crore, the LPG pipeline, from Hassan in Karnataka to Cherlapalli (suburb of Hyderabad), provides a safe, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly mode of LPG transportation and distribution in the region. He also laid the foundation stone of the ‘Multiproduct Petroleum Pipeline of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) from Krishnapatnam to Hyderabad (Malkapur)’. The 425-kilometer pipeline will be built at a cost of Rs 1940 crore. The pipeline will provide a safe, faster, efficient and environmentally friendly mode of petroleum products in the region.

The Prime Minister also inaugurated ‘five new buildings of University of Hyderabad’ i.e. School of Economics; School of Mathematics & Statistics; School of Management Studies; Lecture Hall Complex – III;  and Sarojini Naidu School of Arts & Communication (Annexe). The upgradation of infrastructure at the University of Hyderabad is a step towards providing improved facilities and amenities to the students and faculty.

SSC aims to conduct competitive examinations in all the 22 Indian Languages : Dr Jitendra Singh

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Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Space and Atomic Energy, Dr Jitendra Singh today said that in the times to come, the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) aims to conduct competitive examinations in all the 22 Indian Languages mentioned in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution. The intention is to provide a language-neutral, level playing field to all the aspiring candidates, he said.

Addressing the Valedictory Session of ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav and Technology & Bharatiya Bhasha Summit’ in New Delhi, Dr Jitendra Singh said, it was at the behest of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi that from this year onward, SSC examinations are being conducted in 13 languages, that is 11 regional languages in addition to already existing Hindi and English, while before 2014, candidates had no option, but to choose either Hindi or English as the medium of examination. He also underlined that before 2014, the translation of English into Hindi was also done very poorly, putting the students at a disadvantageous position.

Dr Jitendra Singh informed that the JEE, NEET and UGC exams are also being conducted in 12 Indian Languages and this historic decision will give impetus to participation of local youth, improve their selection prospects and encourage regional languages.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, notable progress has been made in the last more than nine years under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to promote the Indian regional languages besides the Official Language, Hindi.

Dr Jitendra Singh emphasised that all should take pride in the “esteem of the language” for its proper growth and development. He gave examples that all the developed countries including the European Nations take pride in speaking, writing and promoting their own languages and India should also do the same.

The Minister also informed that PM Modi has given a call to provide Medical and Engineering education in regional languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Gujarati & Bengali.

Dr Jitendra Singh said the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has taken a very historic decision in the new National Education Policy (NEP) by giving importance to the mother tongue of students in Primary, Technical and Medical education. Terming NEP as the biggest path-breaking reform in India since Independence, he said, it will transform India’s education system to match global benchmarks.

Dr Jitendra Singh hoped that the journey of Indian Languages in the AmritKaal of next 25 years will truly usher in the Celebrations of Indian Languages in 2047, which he described as “Bhartiya Bhashaon Ka Utsav”.

“Guided by the vision of the Prime Minister, NEP 2020 was launched with a view to groom the youth and prepare them for leading the country in AmritKaal, said Dr Jitendra Singh. The NEP aims to prepare them for meeting the challenges of the future while keeping them grounded in traditional Indian ethos, he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh said the NEP 2020 promotes the use of regional languages and development of eContent by all States in all regional languages. The eContents/programme uploaded under PM eVidya are based on NCERT curriculum. Besides this, many states have also offered and uploaded their eContents for PM eVIDYA, in line with the curriculum of their education boards/SCERTs.

Dr Jitendra Singh said the ‘Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing for School Education’ (DIKSHA) is the One Nation, One Digital Platform, which provides support for delivery of quality education to students of classes 1-12 through QR coded textbooks and various specialized e-Contents in 33 Indian languages. 18 online courses under NISHTHA are delivered through DIKSHA platform in 11 languages for teachers.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, as a follow-up of the NEP 2020, development of four National Curriculum Frameworks, viz., NCF for School Education, NCF for Early Childhood Care and Education, NCF for Teacher Education and NCF for Adult Education has been initiated. NCF for Foundational Stage was brought out last year and launched by the Ministry of Education on 20 October 2022 while the NCF for School Education was released on 23 Aug 2023.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, in order to provide the Engineering course material in Indian Languages, the AICTE has introduced the Technical Book Writing and Translation in 12 Scheduled Indian languages namely Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Gujarati, Kannada, Punjabi, Odia, Assamese, Urdu and Malayalam for 1st & 2nd year curriculum.

“29 institutes across ten states in seven Regional Languages namely Bengali, Hindi, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Tamil & Telugu have been identified for imparting Engineering education in one or more disciplines,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that under the ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ resolution, the Bhasha Sangam Programme has been initiated for the familiarisation and promotion of mother tongue and Indian Languages.

“Incidentally, the first event at the Bharat Mandapam after its formal inauguration was the inauguration of Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam by PM Modi on 29 July 2023,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, today, around 40 million Indians are in higher education, more than the figure for the US and EU combined and the ambitious NEP seeks to double that number.

“NEP-2020 supplements the Start-Up ecosystem with the promise to open new career and entrepreneurship opportunities for students and youth in India,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, in order to promote the Public-Private Partnership in R&D efforts, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi came out with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, passed by the Parliament in the recent Monsoon session, with a budget of Rs.50,000 crore over five years.

“NRF will promote the culture of research and innovation throughout India’s universities, colleges, research institutions, and R&D laboratories and give further impetus to Clean energy research in India and Mission Innovation. As much as 70% of its funding will come from non-governmental sources,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, India has been harnessing new technologies, including the increasing use of drones, big data analytics, artificial intelligence, block-chain and other innovative technologies. He pointed out that India has created a massive jump in its global ranking of Global Innovation Index (GII) from 81st in the year 2015 to 46th in 2021 among 130 economies of the world.

“India ranks 2nd among 34 lower middle-income economies and 1st among 10 Central and Southern Asian economies in terms of GII. The consistent improvement in the GII ranking is owing to the immense knowledge capital, the vibrant start-up ecosystem, and some outstanding work done by the public and private research organisations,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, PM Modi has paved the way for India to emerge as a Developed Nation in the next 24 years of AmritKaal.

“A generation free from the bondage of slavery, eager for innovations and ready to bring laurels in fields from Science to Sports, willing to skill themselves as per the needs of the 21st century, a generation filled with a sense of duty,” he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said PM Modi spoke about the responsibility that growing global curiosity in a strong India places on us.  “Our youth need to reignite themselves with the virtues of Yoga, Ayurveda and ancient art and literature. The current generation of students will be the torchbearers in India’s journey to a ‘Viksit Bharat’ in 2047,” he said.

Prime Minister takes part in cleanliness drive

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Today as nation is observing cleanliness drive on the clarion call by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. Everyone has dedicated one hour towards cleanliness which will help to build bright future for the country.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi also took part in this cleanliness drive along with Ankit Baiyanpuria. Ankit is a fitness influencer.

Prime Minister shared a video on his X post in which he can be seen talking about the importance of cleanliness and fitness in our daily life. PM also talked about his daily life routine and asked about Ankit’s fitness funda.

In a X post, the Prime Minister said;

“Today, as the nation focuses on Swachhata, Ankit Baiyanpuriya and I did the same! Beyond just cleanliness, we blended fitness and well-being also into the mix. It is all about that Swachh and Swasth Bharat vibe! @baiyanpuria”

Swachhata Hi Sewa: Raksha Mantri leads cleanliness & plantation activities at Delhi Cantt

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As part of ‘Swachhata Hi Sewa’ campaign, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh presided over a special cleanliness programme ‘Ek Taarikh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ organised by Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) at its premises in Delhi Cantt. on October 01, 2023. The Raksha Mantri led the shramdaan activities, which included a cleanliness drive, beautification of common area and a plantation drive.

The Raksha Mantri also interacted with the Safai Karamcharis and lauded their efforts in ensuring cleanliness in the premises. He motivated them to continue working with zeal & dedication and carry forward the mass social movement launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government to realise the dream of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi of a ‘Clean India’. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Financial Adviser (Defence Service) Smt Rasika Chaube and CGDA Shri SG Dastidar also participated in various cleanliness activities on the occasion.

Shri Rajnath Singh also interacted with the Principal Controllers and Controllers of Defence Accounts heading the offices of PCDA (Army) Jammu, PCDA (Air Force) Dehradun, PCDA (Army) Jaipur, PCDA (Pensions) Prayagraj, CDA (Army) Meerut, CDA Guwahati, CDA Jabalpur, CDA (Regional Training Centre) Bengaluru & CDA Chennai and reviewed the implementation of the ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ campaign in their respective jurisdictions.

The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, which began on September 15, 2023, will culminate on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on October 02, 2023. As part of the campaign, shramdaan activities are being undertaken through community participation as a prelude to the Swachh Bharat Diwas on Gandhi Jayanti.

Over 20,000 officers & staff of Defence Accounts Department across more than 1,100 offices and residential colonies across the country have been undertaking cleanliness activities including removal of garbage, weeding out of files & awareness campaigns on the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene. Similar cleanliness drives have been launched at various other establishments of Ministry of Defence, Services and related organisations all over the country as part of the ‘Swachhata Hi Sewa’ campaign.