Bharat-Rakshak.com : India's first defence portal

Indian National Defence University (INDU) is likely to be a reality soon with Draft Indian National University Bill, 2015 going online on MyGov.in portal and MoD website for six weeks for public consultations. The Bill proposes to establish a world class fully autonomous institution of National Importance under Ministry of Defence. The University will be a teaching and affiliating University for the existing training institutions of the three Services which will develop and propagate higher education in National Security Studies, Defence Management and Defence Technology and promote policy oriented research on all aspects relating to national security, both internal and external. The Bill also caters for Open and Distance Learning Programmes for Service personnel deployed in far flung area. As is the case in existing Defence Universities across the world, Indian National Defence University is proposed to be governed by its own norms and will inculcate and promote coordination and interaction between the Armed Forces and other Government Agencies including friendly foreign countries. The comments and suggestions from the public on the draft Bill will be collated and reviewed at the Ministry of Defence following which the process for seeking approval of the Cabinet will be initiated and the Bill will be tabled in the Parliament for enactment.

NAo/DM/RAJ

TRI-NETRA system shall be made up of high-resolution optical video camera, high sensitivity infra-red video camera and additionally a radar-based terrain mapping system.

These three components of the system shall act as three eyes (Tri-Netra) of the Locomotive Pilot.

TRI-NETRA is designed to “see” the terrain ahead of the running locomotive during inclement weather by combining the images captured by the three sub-systems and to create a composite video image which shall be displayed in front of the Loco Pilot on a computer monitor.

During fog, heavy rain and also during night, the locomotive pilots face serious challenges in looking out ahead to spot any obstruction on the track such as vehicles which get stuck while crossing the track or trees or boulders which have fallen across the track etc. Because of the heavy momentum of the running train, the train driver has to always adjust the speed of the train such that he or she can stop the train on visually

seeing the obstruction. In fair weather and in daytime, this is not a problem since train driver has a clear view of the track ahead. But in poor visibility, he has to reduce the speed suitably so that the brakes can be applied in time to stop the train without hitting the obstructions.

This is where TRI-NETRA will come into picture and give the locomotive pilot a clear view of the track ahead in bad visibility conditions so that he can apply brakes well in time. Conversely, he can speed up the train even in poor visibility if the TRI-NETRA system shows that the track ahead is clear of obstruction. The system shall also map the terrain ahead so that the driver knows when he is approaching a station or a signal.

The concept of TRI-NETRA was developed by Development Cell under the guidance of Member Mechanical, Railway Board while brainstorming on how to use the technology employed by fighter aircrafts to see through clouds and operate in pitch darkness and the technology used by naval ships in mapping the ocean floor and navigating in the night. Such an “assisted vision” system is not available readily in any of the advanced railway systems but the manufacturers and technology partners who develop components of such systems for defence are very excited with the concept. “Such systems have not been used for peacetime applications and we are excited that Indian Railways have thrown such a challenge at us” said one of the foreign specialists who develops such systems for fighter aircrafts. There has been very enthusiastic response to this Expression of Interest (EoI) published by Railway Board and number of companies from Israel, Finland, USA and Austria have expressed interest in developing such a system.

*****

AKS/MKV/DK

The Speaker of Lok Sabha Smt Sumitra Mahajan will inaugurate the exhibition on the 3rd of August at 1000hrs. The 3-day long exhibition, to be held at the Parliament Library Building, will display numerous state-of-the-art defence technologies, products and systems developed by various DRDO laboratories indigenously, which includes the BrahMos missile, the ‘Arjun’ main battle tank, AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control System), Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher ‘Pinaka’, Remotely operated vehicle, NBC Recce Vehicle, Wheeled Armoured Platform (WHAP), Laser Ordnance Disposal System (LORDS), Varunastra Torpedo, Mobile Automatic Robotic System (MARS), Various type of Radars and other products.

The Members of Parliament from both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are expected to visit the exhibition to get a first-hand account of huge work undertaken by DRDO and their successful implementation.

During the exhibition, DRDO will also organise a virtual reality display of Arjun Main Battle Tank, BrahMos Missile, AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control System) & LCA-Tejas.

Established in 1958, the DRDO and its network of 52 dedicated defence laboratories all across the country have been engaged in developing critical defence technologies covering a wide array of disciplines like missile, aeronautics, armaments & combat systems, life sciences, micro electronic devices, cyber technologies, electronics & communication, radars, laser technology, naval system, material technologies for the Indian Armed Forces.

The research agency has also tied up with several academic institutions, national Science and Technology agencies, public and private-sector undertakings to carry out research and development work and fulfilling its foremost objective of making India fully self-reliant in defence technology design and production.

NAo/DM/RAJ

The Ministers exchanged ideas in a constructive, productive and positive atmosphere under the framework of the “India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership”. There was shared recognition that imperatives of a stronger bilateral strategic partnership require deep and broad based cooperation and concrete actions in defence and security fields. The two countries can work together to respond to global and regional challenges and jointly contribute to the peace, stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region. The Ministers exchanged views and ideas on a wide range of issues pertaining to the current regional and international security situation as well as deepening of bilateral defence cooperation and exchanges. The Ministers also explained to each other their respective defence policies to promote mutual understanding.

The Ministers expressed deep condolences to both Japanese and Indian victims of the terrorist attack perpetrated in Bangladesh on 1st July 2016. The Ministers resolutely condemned this brutal act of terrorism and reaffirmed that all forms and manifestations of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable under all circumstances, and noted that terrorism poses one of the most serious threats to the peace and security of the international community, as well as to the stability and development of the region. They shared their concerns about the growing threat and universal reach of extremism. They emphasized that the evolving character of terrorism called for stronger international partnership in combating terrorism.

The Ministers recognized that the security and stability of the Seas connecting the Indian and Pacific Oceans are indispensable for the peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region. The Ministers expressed concern over recent developments in this regard. They reaffirmed the importance of respecting international law, as reflected notably in the UNCLOS, of the peaceful settlement of the disputes without any threat or use of force, and of ensuring freedom and safety of navigation and over-flight as well as unimpeded lawful commerce in international waters. In this context, they noted the Award of the Arbitral Tribunal on the South China Sea under the UNCLOS on 12 July 2016, and urged all parties to show utmost respect for the UNCLOS.

The Ministers expressed grave concern over North Korea's continued development of its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. They urged North Korea to take concrete actions towards denuclearization and other goals as well as to fully comply with its international obligations, including under all relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions.

The Ministers acknowledged the importance of ASEAN-centered dialogue mechanisms including the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus).They also welcomed other efforts under its framework including ADMM-Plus Experts' Working Group (EWG) and recognized its utility. Minister Nakatani expressed his appreciation to the efforts made by Ministry of Defence of India as a chair of Humanitarian Mine Action EWG, and Minister Parrikar expressed his appreciation to the efforts made by Ministry of Defense of Japan as a chair of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief EWG. Minister Nakatani explained that legal foundation for the Self-Defense Forces to further contribute to the peace and stability of the international community was established through the enforcement of the Legislation for Peace and Security in March this year. Minister Parrikar expressed his support to such efforts by Japan.

The Ministers welcomed the signing of the bilateral Memorandum on Defence Co-operation and Exchanges between the two Defence Ministries, in September 2014, and the conclusion of Agreement concerning Transfer of Defence Equipment & Technology and Agreement Concerning Security Measures for the Protection of Classified Military Information during India-Japan summit meeting in December 2015. They expressed satisfaction at strengthening the foundation for bilateral defence cooperation and exchanges. At the same time, the Ministers underlined their intention to explore more concrete and effective cooperation and decided to prom ote cooperation and exchanges in the following areas:

(1) High-level and Working-level Exchanges

Acknowledging that high level exchanges, including those at Minister and Chief of Staff level provide impetus to bilateral defence cooperation and exchanges, the Ministers decided to continue active high level exchanges. From this standpoint, they agreed to conduct the following:

a. Annual Defence Ministerial Meeting. The Defence Minister of India will visit Japan in 2017.

b. Welcoming the visit by the Chief of Army Staff, Indian Army to Japan in 2015 and the visit by the Chief of Maritime Self-Defense Force to India in 2016, both sides will work towards realizing the visit of Chief of Naval Staff, Indian Navy to Japan in 2016 and the visit of Chief of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to India in early 2017.

c. Early meeting of the 5th Defence Vice Minister/Secretary level Defence Policy Dialogue and the 4th Vice Minister/Secretary level “2+2” dialogue.

d. Explore the setting up of a Maritime Strategic Dialogue between the two Defence Ministries.

(2) Exchanges between Indian Army and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force

The Ministers welcomed the steady progress in the exchanges between Indian Army and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) based on their capability and experience in the field of Counter-Terrorism, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief. As part of ongoing exchanges, Indian Army and JGSDF will hold staff talks in Tokyo in 2016. JGSDF will also send officers to India's Counter-Insurgency Jungle Warfare School (CIJW) as part of experts-level exchange in the field of counter-terrorism. Minister Nakatani expressed his intention to seek future opportunities to invite observers from Indian Army to participate in HA/DR-related exercises conducted by JGSDF.

(3) Exchanges between Indian Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force

The Ministers expressed their satisfaction at close linkages between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). They noted enhanced cooperation in maritime security including through reciprocal participation in international fleet reviews held in Japan and India in October 2015 and February 2016 respectively. Minister Nakatani expressed his appreciation for India’s decision for the participation of JMSDF in India-US Malabar Exercises on a regular basis. The Ministers welcomed the successful Malabar exercise, held in June 2016 off the Japanese coast and decided to conduct India-US-Japan Trilateral Joint Maritime Exercise Malabar in 2017. The Ministers also agreed to explore the possibility for JMSDF and Indian Navy to conduct a joint bilateral exercise.

(4) Exchanges between Indian Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force

The Ministers noted the growing exchanges between Indian Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) including in the areas of flight safety, test pilots, transport aircraft units, etc. They also welcomed the holding of the inaugural Air staff talks in February 2016. The Ministers expressed their intention to work towards further strengthening of air-to-air component exchanges, especially visits by their aircraft to each other’s air bases. In addition, Minister Nakatani expressed his intention to seek future opportunities to invite the Indian Air Force to participate in HA/DR-related exercises in which JASDF would also take part.

(5) Education and academic exchanges

The Ministers noted with satisfaction the growing exchanges between the two sides in the area of professional training and development through exchanges of students and researchers for courses, including at respective staff colleges. They also noted the exchanges between Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping o f India and the Japan Peacekeeping Training and Research Centre.

(6) Cooperation in Defence Equipment and Technology

The Ministers welcomed the conclusion of agreements in this regard and reaffirmed their commitment to continue discussions to deepen the bilateral defence relationship including through technology cooperation and co-development. They agreed to hold the second round of the Joint Working Group on Defence Equipment and Technology Cooperation (DETC) between Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence, India and Acquisition, Technology and Logistical Agency (ATLA) of Ministry of Defense of Japan as early as possible in 2016 to identify specific items and areas for cooperation. The Ministers commended the effort made by both countries regarding the cooperation on US-2 amphibious aircraft which was launched in 2013.

Minister Nakatani thanked Minister Parrikar for the gracious welcome and hospitality extended to him and members of the Japanese delegation during his visit to India.

NW/NAo/RAJ

Air Marshal NJS Dhillon AVSM is a graduate of National Defence Academy, Defence Service Staff College, and National Defence College. He was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force in Dec 81. He has over 3700 hours accident free flying to his credit including 3100 hrs on all variants of MiG-21 aircraft.

He topped the Fighter Strike Leader Course at TACDE and also served as Directing Staff there as of Head of Training and Deputy Commandant. He has commanded a MiG-21 Sqn and has been the Chief Operational Officer of a premier flying base. In addition to Commanding an Operational fighter base, he also Commanded a helicopter base in DR Congo as part of UN Peace Keeping Mission. He also held the appointment of Principal Director Air Defence at Air HQ and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Inspection) at Air HQ. Prior to his present appointment, he was Air Defence Commander HQ SAC.

He was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in the year 2013. He is married to Mrs Simmar Dhillon and they have a son and daughter.

SKM/BBS

Call on PM by Mr. Gen Nakatani, Defence Minister of Japan

He is a meritorious graduate of the 'Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment' (TACDE), a graduate of the 'Defence Services Staff College' Wellington and a post graduate from Cranfield University, Shrivenham UK. He commanded No.2 Squadron – The Winged Arrows – as a Wing Commander, TACDE as a Group Captain and a strategic fighter base as an Air Commodore. He is a highly experienced fighter pilot who has flown a variety of fighter aircraft and helicopters.

He has held a number of staff appointments that include Joint Director and Director (Air Staff Inspection), Director Operations (Joint Planning), Directing Staff (TACDE), Air Assistant to Chief of Air Staff, Assistant Chief of Air Staff Operations (Air Defence) and Senior Air Staff Officer, Western Air Command.

He is a recipient of two AOC-in-C's commendations, the 'Vayu Sena Medal' and the 'Ati Vishist Seva Medal'.

Air Mshl B Suresh is married to Mrs Radha Suresh and they have a son and a daughter. He has been keen follower of sports. His other interests include reading and music.

SKM/BBS

Gen Dalbir Singh speaking on the sidelines at the Headquarters of Joint Operational Command said that both countries shared common culture of democracy, further strengthening the bond with each other. He further expressed satisfaction at the manner in which defence cooperation between the two countries has progressed. The Army Chief has also extended invitation to the Australian Army to participate in the inaugural Joint Special Forces Training Exercise being planned in India in Oct 2016.

Col Rohan Anand, SM
PRO (Army)

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
29-July-2016 20:51 IST

ATAGS is fully indigenous towed artillery gun system project undertaken in mission mode by DRDO as a part of artillery modernisation programme of Indian Army. Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune is the nodal laboratory of DRDO for design & development of ATAGS along with other DRDO laboratories. The Armament system of ATAGS mainly comprise barrel, breech mechanism, muzzle brake and recoil mechanism to fire 155 mm calibre ammunitions held by Indian Army with a longer range, accuracy and precision and provides greater fire power.

ATAGS is configured with all electric drive to ensure maintenance free and reliable operation over a longer period of time. It will have a firing range of 40 Kms with advanced features in terms of high mobility, quick deployability, auxiliary power mode, advanced communication system, automatic command and control system with night firing capability in direct fire mode.

The development trajectory of ATAGS aims at establishing indigenous critical defence manufacturing technologies with the active participation of Ordnance Factories, DPSUs and Private industries including Bharat Forge Limited, Tata Power Strategic Engineering Division and Mahindra Defence Naval System to meet the aspiration of Make in India initiative in defence sector.

DRDO is committed to develop and field ATAGS in the shortest timeframe with active participation by leading industries to meet the requirement of Indian Army. The first fully integrated gun system will be ready for user trials by early 2017.

NAo/Nampi/RAJ

Speaking on the occasion Shri Parrikar said that, “Dr. Kalam was known for his simplicity, thinking big to dream and putting energy to achieve that dream”. He said, Dr. Kalam’s scientific and nationalistic thought and his views on spirituality will always give motivation to students and youth of India. The author Dr. Unnat Pandit spoke about the contents of the book and the inputs that inspired him to chronicle the life of Dr. Kalam. Amongst others the function was attended by Shri Vinay Sahastrabuddhe, Rajya Sabha MP, Dr. G Satheesh Reddy, Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri who worked along with Dr. Kalam, Shri Atul Kothari, Secretary, Siksha Sanskruti Uttan Nyas, Shri Anil Raval, educationalist and Shri Sunil Ambekar Organizing Secretary ABVP who all addressed the August gathering.

NW/NAo/Nampi/Ranjan

Your Excellency President Uhuru Kenyatta,

Deputy President William Ruto,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you, Excellency, for your kind words.

I am delighted to be here in Nairobi. I thank President Kenyatta the warm welcome and hospitality extended to me and my delegation.I am told, Excellency, that your name "Uhuru” means "Freedom”. In a way, the journey of your life has also been the journey of an Independent Kenya. It is an honour for me to be with you today.

Friends,

Kenya is a valued friend and trusted partner of India. The bonds between the two countries are long-standing and rich. We share a common legacy of struggle against colonialism.

Our historical people-to-people ties provide a strong basis to our wide-ranging partnership, which extends:

* From agriculture and health to developmental assistance;

* From trade and commerce to investment;

* From closer contacts between our peoples to capacity building; and

* From regular political consultations to defence and security cooperation.

And, today, President and I reviewed all aspects and full range of our relationship.

Friends,

India is one of the brightest spot in the world economy. And, Kenya is a land of strong opportunities. India is Kenya's largest trading partner, and the second largest investor here. But, there is potential to achieve much more.

President and I agreed that our economies can benefit more:

- if we nurture greater intensity of commercial links;

-Take steps towards a more diversified trade basket; and

- Expand our investment ties further.

This would also enable greater regional economic prosperity. And, in this while governments would play their part, it is the businesses of the two countries that have a key role and responsibility to drive our commercial partnership.In this context, I welcome the India-Kenya Business Forum to be held later today. India and Kenya are two developing countries. We are also two innovation societies. And, the important part is that whether it is the process, products or technologies, our innovations are relevant not just to our societies.They also help improve the lives of people in other developing countries. The success of M-Pesa is one such classic innovation that has empowered millions the world over. Both sides have been working together in commercializing innovative technologies, and some of it will be evident at the Business Forum later today.

Friends,

The multifaceted development partnership is a key pillar of our bilateral relationship. Our development priorities are more or less aligned.As true and trusted partner, India is ready to share its development experiences and expertise, and concessional credit and capacities to assist in Kenya's development objectives. We look forward to early implementation of the Indian lines of credit for projects in agricultural mechanization, textiles and the development of the small and medium sector. We are also encouraged by the progress in the power transmission project under an Indian line of credit of 60 million dollars.Kenya's highly successful geothermal sector, and energy efficiency projects such as LED based smart street lighting, are a couple of new areas where we could build our engagement. I understand that health care is President Uhuru's key priority. India's strength, especially in pharmaceuticals, can join hands with your priorities to shape an affordable and efficient healthcare system in Kenya. This would not only meet the needs of your society. It could also help Kenya become a regional medical hub. In this regard, I am happy that the prestigious Kenyatta National Hospital will soon have the state of the art made in India cancer therapy machine – Bhabhatron. We are also donating essential medicines and medical equipment for Kenya's public health system, including for the treatment AIDS.

Friends,

We recognize that without the opportunities for the success of our youth, our societies cannot grow. For this, we are ready to partner with Kenya in the fields of education, vocational education and skill development.

Friends,

While we are conscious of our development challenges, President and I also share concerns of security and stability.India and Kenya are connected by the Indian Ocean. We both have strong maritime traditions. As such, our closer cooperation in the field of maritime security occupies an important place in our overall defence and security engagement. The MoU on Defence Cooperation signed just now would strengthen our institutional cooperation between our defence establishments. This would include greater staff exchanges; sharing of expertise and experiences; training and institution building, cooperation in hydrography, and supply of equipment. President and I recognize that Terrorism and the rapid spread of radical ideologies pose a common challenge to our people, our countries, to the region and to the whole world. We have agreed to deepen our security partnership including in the fields of cyber security, combating drugs and narcotics, and human trafficking.

Friends,

Yesterday, President and I had an unforgettable interaction with the Indian diaspora in Kenya. As President Uhuru said, they are proud Kenyans even as they cherish their Indian roots. As we shape deeper contacts between our economies and societies, they form a trusted bond and a strong bridge. I am also happy to announce that the vibrant Indian culture, which is already a part of Kenya's rich society, will be showcased in a Festival of India in Kenya later this year.

Excellency, President Uhuru,

In the end, let me once again thank you, the Government of Kenya and its people for the warmest of welcomes that I have received.

And, I and the people of India look forward to welcoming you in India.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.

***

AKT/HS

The abolition of the existing JV Guidelines will provide a level playing field between DPSUs and the private sector. It will allow DPSUs to forge partnerships in an innovative manner enhancing self-reliance in defence and provide for enhanced accountability / autonomy of DPSUs in ensuring that the process of JV formation is effectively managed by them, so as to secure best outcomes in the interest of national security.

All nine DPSUs i.e. Mazagon Dock Limited, Goa Shipyard Limited, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited, Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bharat Earth Movers Limited, Bharat Dynamics Limited and Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited will be benefited through this decision.

The decision comes in the backdrop of the issues which emerged in the operationalisation of JV guidelines of DPSUs. The Department of Defence Production came to the conclusion that with the increasing participation of the private industry in defence sector and the transformation taking place in the defence acquisition eco system thereon, the requirement of having separate JV guidelines for DPSUs is no longer considered necessary. In the emerging scenario with primacy being accorded to indigenous manufacturing / Make in India, it is felt that having multiple set of guidelines may lead to ambiguity and incongruity in the environment.

Background:

Defence Production Policy promulgated in January 2011 with the objective of achieving substantive self-reliance in defence production including design and development capability had recommended that all viable approaches including JVs to be undertaken to achieve the desired self-reliance in defence production. Consequent to this, a need was felt to supplement the DPE guidelines with formulation of JV protocols / guidelines tailored for DPSUs which would address the specific requirements of the defence sector and also ensure that the interests of DPSUs were safeguarded. Accordingly the existing Guidelines for establishing Joint Venture Companies by DPSUs was approved by the Cabinet during the meeting held on 9th February, 2012 and the same was notified on 17th February, 2012. Now, the requirement for having separate JV Guidelines for DPSUs has been reviewed in the context of the increasing participation of the private industry in defence sector and the transformation taking place in the defence acquisition eco system.

*****

AKT/VBA/SH  

Shri Chaudhary Birender Singh, the new Union Minister for Steel, chaired a review meeting of the Steel Ministry’s PSU MECON Limited in New Delhi today.  Presenting a brief overview of the company its CMD Shri A. K. Tyagi said that MECON has played a significant role in the development and expansion of Indian industries. MECON is an ISO 9001 company and has technological tie‐ups with World Leaders.Speaking on the occasion, Shri Chaudhary Birender Singh said the company must increase its role in Research and Development in the areas where it can directly benefit the citizens with newer technology and better products so that PM’s “Make in India” initiative can be achieved in a big way. Secretary Steel Ms. Aruna Sundararajan also complemented MECON for its contribution towards India’s Progress in various fields in execution of projects with latest technology.

The Minister of Steel congratulated CMD A. K. Tyagi and his team members for the growth and achievements of MECON and its future potential. Chaudhary Birender Singh appreciated MECON’s pioneering contributions to the steel industry in India and abroad. MECON’s growth and diversification into energy, oil & gas and infrastructure, its contribution to the second launch pad of ISRO commissioned on turnkey basis was acknowledged for their contribution. The minister also mentioned that innovation and research should be an inherent part of a consultant like MECON and Research and development need to be the next and the fourth pillar of MECON. R & D is essential for reduction of imports and increase of import substitution and should be seriously looked into by MECON. The minster expressed that MECON was well placed to look into means of replacement of imported raw materials and provide import substitution for plant and equipment. The possibility of involvement with IITs and other such institutions can be looked into by MECON.

The CMD, MECON pointed out that there was a large untouched reserve of precious coking coal in Jharia Coal fields which needs to be extracted by dousing of the prevailing fire. MECON can provide solutions for extraction of cocking coal from Jharia field with their Polish collaborator the Central Mining Institute of Poland for which ministry of steel in collaboration with the coal ministry need to take initiative. The minister also advised MECON to put focus on wider consumption of steel particularly in bridges which have had long lives and promote extensive use of steel in infrastructure projects.

While reviewing MECON’s international contribution, the minister advised MECON to explore the possibility of utilisation of Chabahar port of Iran for the steel industry.

Hon’ble minister advised MECON to be active on social media and to exhibit higher level of visibility in planning and development of various domains of MECON’s operations.    

MECON is India’s frontline engineering, consultancy and contracting organization, offering full range of services required for setting up of Project from concept to commissioning including turnkey execution. MECON is a multi- disciplinary firm with experienced & dedicated engineers, scientists and technologists, having a network all over the country, experienced in handling consultancy assignments and EPC.

Its key areas of activities include:

METALS ‐Mining, Beneficiation & Pelletisation, Coke Oven and By-product Plants, Iron Making, Steel Making, Rolling Mills, Non‐Ferrous Metals, Beach Sand Mining, Refractories and Research & Development.

Power ‐Thermal & Hydel Power Plants, Transmission & Distribution, Renewable Energy Sources, Energy Management & Audit, Residual Life Assessment and Renovation Modernisation Upgrading (RMU) Studies.

Oil & Gas – Oil & Gas Pipelines, Petro ‐chemical & Refineries, CNG Stations & City Gas Distribution, POL Depots, LPG Bulk Storage, Handling, Bottling & Transportation, Group Gathering Station, Off‐shore Platforms & Marine Pipelines and Retail Outlets.

Infrastructure – Architecture and Town Planning, Urban Infrastructure and Smart Cities, Water Management, Desalination of sea water, Bulk Transportation through Slurry Pipelines, Defence Production, Civil & Structural Engineering, Port & Material Handling, Environmental Engineering, Hydro Engineering, Management Advisory Services and Information Technology.

MECON has a wide network with a unique blend of expertise in Design Engineering, Contracting, Procurement and Project Management Services including Design and Supply of Equipment and System, serving clients in both Public and Private sectors and keeping abreast with the latest state‐of‐the‐art‐technology.

YSK

The event was graced among others by the Minister of State for Road Transport, Highways & Shipping Shri Pon Radhakrishnan, Minister of State for Defence Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre, Minister for Labour, Govt. of Tamil Nadu Dr. Nilofer Kafeel, Minister for Information Technology, Govt. of Tamil Nadu Dr. M Manikandan and Member of Parliament, Ramanathapuram Shri A Anwhar Raajhaa. A special exhibition on the life of Dr. Kalam was inaugurated during the event.

NAo/DM/RAJ

His Excellency, President John Magufuli,
Members of the media, 
Thank you, Excellency, for your warm words of welcome.

I am also grateful for the generous hospitality extended to me and my delegation.

Today, on day four of my visit to four African countries, it is indeed a pleasure to be in this vibrant city of Dar-es-Salaam. Excellency, I am in agreement what you just said about the strengths and future potential of our relationship.

Friends,

The Eastern coast of Africa, and Tanzania in particular have enjoyed strong links with the India. We are old maritime neighbours. Together, our leaders and our people have fought colonialism and racial oppression.

Our merchants have traded since early nineteenth century. And, the vast stretch of Indian Ocean has kept our societies and our people connected. 

Friends,

I am deeply grateful to President Magufuli for agreeing to my visit on a Sunday. It is a tribute to his motto of "Hapa kazi tu”, meaning-here work only. 

President Magufuli has a vision for nation building, development and industrialization – a vision that is my dream for India too. 

Friends,

India is already a substantial economic partner of Tanzania. The whole range of our economic ties are healthy and on upswing. 

· Our two way annual trade stands at around US$ 3 billion; 

· Indian investments in Tanzania already total around US$ 3 billion; and 

· Indian businesses in Tanzania continue to grow and expand. 

We consider it our privilege to be a trusted partner in meeting Tanzania’s development priorities.

Today, President Magufuli and I held detailed discussions on the full spectrum of our partnership. 

Our focus was to shape an action oriented agenda of cooperation, so that we talk less of potential and more of achievements on the ground. 

We agreed that our common desire of economic prosperity for our societies is creating new opportunities for expanding our cooperation.

For this, both of us felt that we need to: 

· One, deepen our partnership in agriculture and food security, including through enhanced export of pulses from Tanzania to India;

· Two, work together in development and use of natural gas;

· Three, partner in building of industrial economy, capacities and institutions in Tanzania.and

· Four, deepen our trade and investment partnership by encouraging greater industry to industry ties. 

Friends,

As a developing country, India understands the need and urgency to improve the lives of our people.

And, as a friend, what you want to achieve for your people would also be the focus of our efforts.

In this regard, the completion of 100 million dollar water supply augmentation project for Dar es Salaam is a good achievement. 

We have just now also signed an agreement on water supply project in Zanzibar for a line of credit of $92 million. We are also working on a number of other water projects for 17 cities. And for this India is willing to consider an additional $500 million line of concessional credit Public Health is another important area of our engagement. 

We are ready to meet the healthcare priorities of the Tanzanian government, including of supply of medicines and equipment. I am told that an Indian radio-therapy machine is being installed at Bugando medical centre to treat cancer patients. 

Education, vocational training and skill development are other areas of your priority and where India is willing to offer all possible assistance.

I also understand that the IT Resource Centre at the Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science & Technology, Arusha is close to completion. 

India's cooperation with Tanzania will always be as per your needs and priorities. 

Friends,

Being neighbours across Indian Ocean, President and I agreed to deepen our overall defence and security partnership, especially in the maritime domain. 

Our in-depth discussions on regional and global issues reflected our considerable convergence on issues of common interest and concern. 

We agreed to work closely, bilaterally, regionally and globally, to combat the twin threats of terrorism and climate change. 

On climate change, India had led the efforts to form an International Solar Alliance at COP 21 in Paris. In this Alliance, which has the support of over 120 countries, we welcome Tanzania as a crucial partner.

Friends,

We in India have had the honour to receive every President of Tanzania. I look forward to welcoming President Magufuli in India at the earliest possible opportunity. Let me in the end thank you Excellency the President for your friendship and for receiving me so warmly. 

Thank you.
Thank you very much. 

***

AKT/SH

Tamil is an ancient classical and beautiful language, I can understand it but unfortunately I cannot speak it and am sorry for the same.

I will not take any names of the guests as the earlier speakers have all taken their names however I will take only one name in my opening and that is that of Janab APJ Maraikayar, the brother of the great Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. I welcome him.

I thank my colleague the Defence Minister Mr. Manohar Parrikar for organizing this event in memory of the great son of this country APJ Abdul Kalam.

I thank the Chief Minister Selvi Jayalalitha for allotting the land for the memorial to Dr. Kalam. And when I met her last week she assured me that whatever needs to be done for a befitting memorial will be done by the State government.

It is a solemn occasion for all of us, Today is the first anniversary, we gathered here to perpetuate the message of the life and the memory of one of the greatest sons of our motherland, Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, in the form of a memorial.

It is difficult to believe that it is already one year is over since the great man left all of us for his heavenly abode. It is difficult still, even to believe that Dr. Kalam passed away. He continues to be with us all the time by the sheer power of his thoughts, power of his ideas and power of his contributions to the greater cause of their motherland and humanity at large.

Dr. Kalam will live forever in our minds and hearts. Then one may ask as why a memorial for Dr. Kalam?

A memorial besides being a symbol of our collective gratitude to such people for what they have done for us, is also like a temple or a mosque or a church for the present and future generations to remember, that is the Indian system and culture. To remember and recall that such a great person was born and walked on this land and pay their tributes and reverence, besides drawing inspiration from their life that is the purpose of this memorial.

Why is Dr. Kalam great and a great source of inspiration? Is it because he was a renowned scientist or he was our President. There were several scientists and Presidents. But he was different because he lived differently, thought differently and acted differently.

He overcame several odds and challenges that are common to most of us. He had a mission in his life and accomplished it while most of us would have given up in the face of such challenges. He led his life in the pursuit of the cause of the nation without wavering anytime during his life even during times of crisis. He remained a bachelor but was wedded to the welfare and development of the country.

Dr. Kalam was born in a poor family of a boat maker. To support his family, he did some odd jobs but continued to pursue his studies. He had mastered the intricacies of science to strengthen the defence mechanisms of the country. He explored the contours of the space to ward off threats to his motherland that could be originating from unknown frontiers of space.

Dr. Kalam conceived Agni and Prithvi for the sake of his country and rightly came to be known as the missile man. He was the key player in the Pokhran-II nuclear test which has validated our country’s capabilities in mastering the power of invisible particles of an atom. The advantages of such nuclear advances for meeting the needs of the poor and the country at large in the form of civil nuclear energy are universally acknowledged. This is no mean contribution to the humanity in general.

The transformation of Dr. Abdul Kalam from the son of a poor boat maker in Dhanushkodi to the most accomplished scientist and to that of the most loved President of our county is a great message in itself for all of us to understand and draw inspiration.

For me, Dr. Kalam was a missile man not just because he was the architect of several nuclear missiles. He was a missile man because he set the minds of millions of our youth roaring into higher skies through the power of his words and writings. He has inspired thousand of the new generation, the youth.

The very titles of two of his most popular books were inspiring in themselves. They being –‘The Wings of Fire’ and ‘Ignited Minds’. They clearly suggest that we can fly to newer heights if only we have the fire of passion and can ignite our minds.

When Dr. Kalam’s name was being considered for the post of President of our country, quite a few were not sure if a hard core scientist with no experience of public life or even public interaction could be the right choice. However may be because he was not form politics he managed very well.

I happened to be the national President of BJP, which was in power at the Centre when the then NDA Government led by Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee was considering Dr. Kalam for the post of President of our country. He was immensely popular and all Indians loved Dr. Kalam without exception form Kashmir to Kanya kumari.

I feel honoured to be associated with the discussions on Dr. Kalam for the Presidentship and our decision in his favour, subsequently proved the best one. He emerged as the most loved President of our country.

During my tenure in the Rajya Sabha over the last 18 years, I have had quite a few occasions to meet and interact with him. Every such meeting was a huge learning for me. He was so rooted to the ground, so clear in his thoughts, so fierce in his mission and commitment to the nation, he was just awesome.

After advancing the cause of defence might of our country so successfully, Dr. Kalam was equally passionate about our country emerging as a leading economic power. He used to say that ‘strong and developed nations will take us seriously, only we become strong economically too’.

He was so full of ideas in this regard that when he was the President, he came out with an idea of ‘Providing Urban Amenities in Rural Areas – PURA’. Our government is carrying forward this vision of Dr. Kalam. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is committed to fulfilling the vision of Dr Kalam.

For such a great man, we are building a memorial here. This memorial will be a grand monument to perpetuate the memory of Dr. Kalam who lived not for himself but for all of us and for our country. He was so inspired by his passion for the advancement of his country that his life is a true definition of nationalism. Unfortunately, this word ‘nationalism’ is sought to be distorted and even ridiculed by some these days. I am confident that such people would be the eventual losers.

Friends,

While Dr. Kalam’s Memorial would stand on a piece of land here, we have decided to improve the state of affairs in the town of Rameswaram, which was an important of his life.

The twin words of ‘Kasi’ and ‘Rameswaram’ have a huge significance for the cultural legacy of our country. It would be the dream of millions of our countrymen to visit both these historic cities at least once as a fulfillment of their lives.

Thousands of years ago, Lord Rama is believed to have built a bridge here across the sea to Lanka. This land boasts of such great legacy. This is the land which was the karmabhoomi of Dr. Abdul Kalam.

Keeping in view the historic significance of Rameswaram and the fact that this town is a part of the life of such a great man, we have included this town in the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) by relaxing the norm of eligibility. While cities with a population of one lakh and above are included in AMRUT, though this town has a population of only about 45,000, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi included it in AMRUT as a tribute to Dr. Kalam.

Recently, we have approved projects with an investment of about Rs.48 cr for Rameswaram under AMRUT. Sewerage networks will be improved at a cost of Rs.45 cr and parks and open spaces will be developed with another Rs.3 cr. This is a token of what the minimum we could do for the memory of Dr. Kalam.

We are to build a 53 room guest house here in Rameshwaram to facilitate visitors to this historic place. It will be called the APJ Abdul Kalam holiday home. I once again take this opportunity to thank the honourable Chief Minister Ms. Selvi Jayalalitha for giving the land to build the memorial.

While Dr. Kalam, a Karmagogi was associated with Rameswaram, another Karmayogi Shri Narendra Modi, our Prime Minister represents Kasi (Varanasi) in the Lok Sabha. Prime Minister has been taking personal interest in the memorial for Dr. Kalam.

Like Dr. Kalam, Shri Narendra Modi ji is thinking of making our country economically strong and striving for the same day and night. It is a matter of destiny that two Karmayogis are associated with the twin emotional cities of Kasi and Rameswaram.

Friends,

We die the way we live. Dr. Kalam always thought of igniting the minds of the students and the youth so that they could reach great heights by breaking all shackles. He relentlessly pursued this for five years as President and thereafter. He finally breathed his last while talking to a group of students in Shillong, this day a year ago.

We can never repay our debt to Dr. Kalam for what he did to our nation. The best way of seeking to do so is to be guided by his life and his vision. The memorial that will come up here is a small tribute to the great man.

I once again thank the Defence Minister Mr. Parrikar for the DRDO having taken charge of the project. It was originally to be done by the CPWD which comes under the Urban Development Ministry but Mr. Parrikar said that Dr Kalam had spent a large part of his career with DRDO and that DRDO wanted to build the memorial and it was agreed.

I thank all the concerned for their cooperation in this regard.

The vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is federal cooperation where the centre and states work in harmony, this memorial is an example of this vision where the Union and the state government are working together to build a fitting memorial to Dr. Abdul Kalam. I thank the Chief Minister for her cooperation.

I urge all political parties and their representatives to cooperate and work towards completion of this memorial as Dr. Kalam belonged to the nation and not any political party.

Long live Dr. Abdul Kalam !

Thank you all!

CP/GV

During his four day tour the COAS will be visiting important defence establishments of the Australian Armed Forces and is scheduled to meet a number of high ranking defence officials including the Australian Army Chief and officials of Ministry of Defence of Australia.

The COAS will be visiting Her Majesty’s Australian Ships Kuttabul and Adelaide, Headquarters Force Command, Headquarters Joint Operation Command, School of Military Engineering, Royal Military College, Land Network Integration Centre (LNIC) and Land Systems Division.

Col Rohan Anand, SM PRO (Army)

The MoU broadly consists of the performance evaluation parameters and targets for Cochin Shipyard for the ensuing year. The MoU will be reviewed by the Ministry on a regular basis and the performance of PSU would be evaluated and ratings awarded at the end of the financial year. The targets agreed in the MoU are in line with the aggressive growth plans of CSL in line with the Ministry of Shipping’s ambitious plans and the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ policies.

CSL has posted an excellent performance during the last financial year, despite very difficult market conditions. In the year ended 31st March 2016, CSL has posted a record turnover of Rs.1995 crores (provisional) surpassing the MoU target for the year. This is an increase of 7.3% over the previous year. The provisional PBT and PAT figures are Rs. 424 crores and Rs. 275 crores respectively representing an increase of 15.4% and 17 % respectively over the previous year.

In 2015-16, CSL has won new building contracts for building 5 vessels. The contracts for two 1200 pax cum 1000 T Cargo Vessels and two 500 pax cum 150 T Cargo Vessels for the A&N Administration and one Technology Demonstration Vessel for Defence Research & Development Organisation are worth about 1675 Crores.

CSL is proceeding with two major expansion projects at a total cost of Rs.2800 Crores. An International Ship Repair Facility based on a 6000T shiplift and allied transfer facilities in approx 42 acres of land leased from Cochin Port Trust in Kochi is being setup. When commissioned, this facility will help the yard substantially increase its ship repair capacities and position Kochi as a major ship repair hub. A new Large Dry Dock of 310x 75/60 m size will be constructed within CSL’s premises in Kochi, which will provide the yard the capability to build large modern vessels like LNG vessels, large aircraft carriers etc in addition to undertaking repairs/ construction of jack up rigs, semi submersibles etc. Government approval has been accorded for both the projects.

*****

UM/NP/MS

His Majesty the King of the Zulu Nation,
King Goodwill ZwelithinikaBhekuzulu
Hon'ble Premier of the KwaZulu Natal Proince 
Your Worship the Mayor of eThekwini Municipality,
Distinguished guests, Brothers and sisters,
Namaste, Vanakkam,
Sanibonani

Thank you very much, for your wonderful welcome to this beautiful city. Today is my day two in South Africa.It is indeed a great pleasure to be in Kwazulu Natal.It’s the land of Zulu warriors.It is the land to which Albert Luthuli belonged.A land where Gandhi became a Mahatma.

And a land with which India has nurtured:
• strong historical links;
• deep bonds of culture;
• flourishing economic engagement; and 
• strong sporting contacts. 
One of the hallmarks of this beautiful nation is its vibrant diversity.

And, no city celebrates this diversity better than the city of Durban and the province of Kwazulu Natal. This celebration of plurality:
• Of dialects and languages;
• of belief in multiplicity of faiths; and
• of cultural traditions.
is an integral part of this city's heritage.

With warm waters of the Indian Ocean on one side, and the Drakensburg mountain range on the other, even the nature rejoices in your rich diversity. And, by protecting your plurality you help preserve and advance Mandela's dream of a Rainbow nation. Your worship,For me, it is a matter of privilege to be given a public welcome by the city of Durban.You have not just honoured me. You have also recognized 1.25 billion of my countrymen. I say this because it was here in 1860 that the first Indians landed in South Africa. On 16 November 1860, the ship TRURO touched the shores of port Natal with 342 Indians. I learn that the first four to get down from that ship were Davarum, his wife and two small daughters. Today, over a century and a half later, Durban is the largest Indian city outside India.It is home to the largest population of people of Indian origin in South Africa. The sufferings of early generations of Indians under the apartheid and colonial rule are well known.But, against all odds, they preserved their culture and values. 

And, today, they are proud, successful and loyal citizens of this country.They are contributing to their country: 
• in education and scientific research;
• as entrepreneurs and leaders of businesses: 
• as lawyers and judges; and
• as bankers, doctors and engineers. 

But, they do not live only for themselves.
On their own, and alongwith community organisation, they are leading efforts to uplift the poor and under privileged, and for the care of sick and the elederly.They are running old age home, centres for the terminally ill, AIDS and cancer patients, and orphanages. Friends,The history of our people to people ties provides a strong foundation to build our modern day partnership. Today, India is undergoing an economic transformation. And, South Africa is one of the leading economies of Africa. Our trade and investment partnership is already substantial.

Yesterday in Pretoria, President Zuma and I agreed to advance our strategic ties across the whole range of social and economic sectors, including:
• trade and investments;
• development of small and medium businesses;
• Information and communication Technologies; and 
• Capacity and institution building.

Several of these are core strengths of Kwazulu Natal, and would hence reinforce our traditional ties with Durban. We also agreed to work together for stronger security and defence relations.Friends,Being in South Africa, and especially in Durban, If I don’t talk about cricket it would be a no ball. The passion and love for this game runs wide and deep in our societies. And, cricket has been an important part of our relations. The Kingsmead ground has been home to many memorable matches, several of them between India and South Africa.

Friends, 

In conclusion, let me say this.Today, in our inter-dependent world India's growth story is one of the brightest spots. But, India's economic advance is not for the benefit of our society alone. The embrace of our partnership is open to the larger good of Africa and our friends like South Africa. Earlier today, I visited Pheonix. Pheonix was Gandhi’s home during his stay in South Africa.The concerns of his fellow South Africans were foremost in Gandhi’s mind.While our challenges in the twenty first century may have changed, are developmental concerns are common.It would be my efforts, that the outcome of our development partnership reaches those sections of our society who needed the most, specially its youth.

Come, let us partner with each other and take advantage of the great opportunities that occupy our bright future.Thank you, once again, for this welcome and honour.

Thank you,
Thank you very much.

***

AKT/SH

This includes the foundation stone-laying for a National Memorial of Dr. Kalam, unveiling his life-size statue and a 3-D model of the memorial. An exhibition named “Mission of Life” depicting the life of Dr. Kalam and his achievements towards nation building will also be inaugurated.

The Minister for Urban Development and Information & Broadcasting Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu and Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar will grace the occasion by unveiling the statue and the memorial model, in the presence of a host of dignitaries including other Union Ministers, Ministers of the Govt. of Tamil Nadu and local Member of Parliament.

NW/DM/RAJ

His Excellency Mr Jacob Zuma,

President of the Republic of South Africa,

Hon'ble Minister of International Relations and Cooperation,

Hon'ble Minister of Trade and Industry,

Captains of South African and Indian Industry,

Ladies and Gentlemen!

I am happy to be with you today.

India-South Africa relations are built on a strong foundation of history.

·         We were directed together by destiny;

·         We are driven together by dreams.

Our history had many common chapters.

With struggle and sacrifice, we changed the course of history.

Fortunately, in this process,

we had the guidance of the greatest leaders which the human race has seen.

Friends,

Our leaders like Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi brought political freedom for us.

Now, it is the time to work for economic freedom.

Thus, our relations rest upon our common desire to fulfil the aspirations of our people.

·         We have been friends in adversities ;

·         Now we should franchise in opportunities

With the blessings of our great leaders, both the countries have marched on the path of development.

Both South Africa and India are important players in the BRICS economies.

Our people at home and the world at large are looking at us with great expectations.

We can join handsto fulfil these twin expectations.

It is heartening that we have had very active and fruitful engagement on all possible fronts.

This august gathering is also an important part of the same process.

Friends,

I admit that I am little late in visiting this great country.

However, President Zuma and I have met several times in last two years.

South Africa is India's key trade and investment partner.

In the last ten years, bilateral trade has grown almost 380%.

The story of investments also continues to be bright.

There is continuous flow of investments both ways.

More than 150 Indian companies are operating in South Africa.

Similarly, many companies of South Africa are doing excellent work in India.

However,

the scope is tremendous.

The potential is increasing day by day.

This is because both countries are strengthening their economic fundamentals.

Therefore, we must look at ways to diversify our trade basket, to complement our needs and to serve the people.

Our active partnership across various facets and forums is a testimony to the fact that such engagement is possible.

Friends,

For Indian companies, South Africa is a home in this continent.

Many leading Indian companies have a foot-print here.

They are engaged in a wide range of activities.

Many Indian CEOs are here with us.

My advice to them is to see that their business results into socio--economic transformation of this great country.

I have been advocating three Ps for India.

(Public Sector, Private Sector and People’s Partnership).

I have been emphasising on the Personal Sector.

The same applies here.

Skill development and community empowerment should be central to your business plans.

The spirit of African humanism , UBUNTU , should reflect in your business ethos.

This is equal to our philosophy of

सर्वेभवन्तुसुखिनः

This is what Mahatma Gandhi stood for.

We have always believed in nurturing and nourishing not in exploiting.

Encouraging fact is that our business engagement is not one way.

South African companies are also active in India.

Many of them have presence on ground.

We have learnt from your knowledge and benefited from your innovative products.

South African business excellence and Indian capacities must leverage each other; for growth and development in our two countries.

Friends,

In last two years we have worked very hard on all fronts to set the economy right.

We have got very encouraging results of our sincerity and hard work.

Today, India is a bright star in the global economy.

We are being seen as the engine of global growth.

India has become the fastest growing large economy in the world.

At a time of global slowdown, we have registered 7.6% growth in GDP.

World Bank, IMF and other institutions have projected even better growth in the coming days.

Not only that, in 2014-15, India contributed 12.5% of global growth.

Its contribution to global growth is 68% higher than its share of the world economy.

The FDI in this year has been the highest ever.

The ratings agency Moody's has said that FDI inflows were all-time high in 2016, highlighting the success of our 'Make in India' initiative.

Make in India has become the biggest brand that India has ever had.

Both within and outside the country, it has captured the imagination of people, institutions, industries, businesses, media and the political leadership.

As part of the Make in India exercise, we have given emphasis on Ease of Doing Business.

We have taken decisive steps to ease the licensing processes and rationalize the provisions relating to clearances, returns, and inspections.

If I talk of some other indicators:

·         India has consistently been ranked as the most attractive investment destination by several global agencies and institutions.

·         We have jumped 12 ranks in the latest global ranking by the World Bank on ease of doing business.

·         India has also improved its UNCTAD ranking of investment attractiveness.

·         Against 15th so far, now we are at 9th place.

·         India has also jumped 16 places on the World Economic Forum’s global competitive index.

Due to positive impact of our policies and practices, our confidence has gone up.

This also gives us motivation to further simplify our processes to become an easier place to do business.

An innovative Start-up India programme has also been launched to incubate ideas and develop them into enterprises.

All this is having a good impact on expansion of job market and rise in purchasing power of the people.

This finally leads to India becoming a place with better quality of life and higher living standards.

We have ensured that our growth is inclusive and embraces both rural and urban communities.

We are taking a leap towards next generation infrastructure in both core areas and social sectors.

Friends,

Socio-economic challenges of both our countries are more or less same.

My advice is that the wheels of development should not be re-invented.

Our two countries are very uniquely positioned to complement each other.

For example:

· Nature has been kind on both of us.

We have immense natural resources.

The need is to properly harness them and to use them sustainably for welfare of the common man.

We can learn a lot from each other in this.

· We particularly want to engage with your world class mining companies.

Some of them are already active in India.

But we want strategic engagements on this front.

Our interest in this sector is not one sided.v · Secondly, the challenge of climate change and the need of fast track development is before both of us.

We are both committed to clean and green pathways to progress.

At the same time, we need energy resources.

· With the help of a number of countries, we have formed the International Solar Alliance.

I hope that we will enrich and take advantage of this forum.

· Our two countries have the unique benefit of opposite seasons

When it is summer or mango season in India, it is winter here, and vice versa.

We can leverage this geographic advantage to market each other's fruits, vegetables and other perishables

· India with its huge domestic market offers massive opportunities for your food processing industry.

Our collaboration in this sector will bring value for our farmers and our villages.

· We in India are working on very ambitious plans of infrastructure.

The task which is pending from the days of independence has to be completed fast now.

Together, we can do a lot to fill these gaps.

· India is best suited to help you in technology and skills.

Efforts are already underway in these areas.

At the India Africa Forum Summit held in New Delhi last year, we under-took to educate and train 50,000 Africans in India over the next five years.

These are just a few examples.

We can work together in a number of areas.

· From Defence to Dairy;

· From Hardware to Software;

· From Medicines to Medical Tourism;

· From Soft Skills to Science and Technology.

There are opportunities for us.

India today is among the most open economies.

We have liberalised our FDI regime in most of the areas and in all possible ways.

We have rationalised our norms and made it simple for businesses to establish and grow.

Friends,

To conclude, I would like to say that we have added institutional depth to our partnership.

Our BRICS business engagement and CEOs Forum have helped to expand and enrich our partnership.

Today, we have successfully held the 3rd Meeting of the India-South Africa CEOs Forum.

We value your recommen- -dations and look forward to putting them into practice.

We are thankful to the South African government for introducing 10 year BRICS (ब्रिक्स) visa for regular business travellers.

The Indian Industry is quite encouraged by the move.

In February this year, we launched our e-Visa programme for South Africa.

This is valid for short term tourist and business travellers.

You can now get your visa for India sitting at home in your email, and that too free of cost!

Friends,

·         Let us join hands once more;

·         Let us commit ourselves together once again;

·         This is necessary to fight the enemy of poverty;

·         This is perhaps much more challenging;

·         But we have to succeed;

·         And this only can be our real tribute to our great leaders.

Thank you.

*****

AKT/SH/SBP

Following is the text of Vice President’s message:

“I am shocked by the terrorist attack against defenceless and innocent civilians in Kabul, Afghanistan.

There can be no justification for such barbaric and reprehensible act. The perpetrators need to be brought to justice by concerted international action.

We stand with the people and Government of Afghanistan in their moment of grief and pray for the bereaved families and early recovery of the injured.”

***

KSD/BK

Friends,

Thank you, Excellency, for your warm words of welcome and for your generous hospitality. Even though this is my first visit to this great country, my delegation and I already feel at home in this Rainbow Nation. For this, Excellency,we are deeply gratefulto you. For me personally, this visit is an opportunity to pay homage to two of the greatest human souls to have ever walked this Earth - Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.

Friends,

Through centuries, India and South Africa have nurtured strong people to people ties.We stood together in our common fight against racial subjugation and colonialism.It was in South Africa that Gandhifound his true calling.He belongs as much to India as to South Africa.

Friends,

Our shared values, suffering and struggles provide a strong foundation to our strategic partnership. And,its success is visibleacross a range of sectors.In our discussions today, President Zuma and I reviewed the full spectrum of our engagement.We agreed that in the last two decades, our relationship has been a story of strong advances and concrete achievements. Two way trade has grownby over 300 percent in last ten years. Indian companies hold strong business interests in South Africa. About one fourth of our investments in Africa are in this country.

And, there is potential to expand our business and investment ties further, especially in the areas of:

• Minerals and mining;
• chemicals and pharmaceuticals;
• high-technology manufacturing; and
• information and communication technology.

I am convinced that Industry to industry ties can not only bring rich economic gains to our societies.They can give a new shape to our partnership, and drive it to new levels.And, in the process, also help both our nations to play a more robust regional and global role.Later today, the President and I will sit down with the business leadership of the two countries to identify synergies in our engagement.

Friends,

The nature of our developing economies demands that our engagement should also focus on improving our human capital. Our capacities and needs in the fields of vocational, technical and professional education complement each other, and can benefit both our people. India is also ready to share it's expertise and capacities for the development of small and medium business in South Africa. Beyond economic ties, and links of business, trade and investment, we can also partner in the field of defence and security. Both, at the level of industry and for our strategic and security needs. In India, this is one of the sectors witnessing a complete transformation. It offers exciting opportunities in defence trade. Our companies can also pool their capacities to jointly develop or manufacture defence equipments and platforms. And, not just to meet our defence needs, but also to respond to regional and global demand.

Friends,

President Zuma and I also agreed on the need to work more closely on international issues and emerging global challenges. I thanked the President for South Africa's support to India's membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group. We know that we can count on the active support of our friends, like South Africa. Climate change, and its impact on the world, is our shared concern. We agreed that a large scale effort and focus on renewable energy is needed to address this challenge. It was with this in mind that India had led the efforts to form an International Solar Alliance at COP 21 in Paris. I believe that it can be the most effective platform for access to knowledge, technology and finance for promoting solar energy.I am thankful to President Zuma, for South Africa’s partnership in this Alliance, which already has the support of over 120 countries. Terrorism is another shared threat that puts at risk the safety and security of our people. It attacks the very foundations of our society. The President and I agreed that our two nations need to stay vigilant and cooperate actively to combat terrorism, both in our region and in the world.

Friends,

The waters of the Indian Ocean are our common sea frontiers. And, the Indian Ocean Rim Association has emerged as a key platform of engagement for the maritime neighbours connected by the Indian Ocean. I welcome South Africa’s chairmanship of the organization for 2017-19. India and South Africa are also working together to shape priorities of international agenda through IBSA [India, Brazil and South Africa] and BRICS. I look forward to welcoming President Zuma in Goa for the BRICS Summit later this year, in October.

Friends,

Let me say this in the end:

• From the Satyagraha of Gandhi to the forgiveness of Madiba;
• From ports of Gujarat to the shores of Durban;
• United by our shared values and common struggles;
• In the vast opportunities of our oceans and economies; and
• through the spirit of Vasudaiva Kutumbakum and Ubuntu.

Our relationship has been a story of resolve, determination, justice and the excellence of human endeavour.It is truly exceptional and unlike any other.

Thank you,

Thank you very much.

*****

AKT/SH/SBP

The Vice President said that building of a science based, innovative and developed society requires development of a scientific temper in the general public, a focus on the study of the basic sciences for meeting our domestic requirements and a conducive environment where enquiry and evidence form the basis of rational choices. The value of Scientific Temper as the basis of all social interaction was well understood in India and it was enshrined in our Constitution under Article 51A (h), he added.

The Vice President said that it is important for India to be a science innovation hub to achieve technological self-sufficiency, and devise local solutions to our numerous problems like poverty, agricultural productivity, water conservation and climate change. We cannot hope to be a great power without a qualitatively superior scientific and technological prowess, he added.

The Vice President said that an environment conducive to dissent and critical thinking -challenging established knowledge and dogmas - is required to pursue bigger questions in science and encourage innovation. Criticism is the basis of all advancement in sciences and this approach precludes imposition of any ideology, he added.

Following is the text of Vice President’s address:

"I am happy to be here to inaugurate the JSS Science and Technology University. This university is the most recent example of the philanthropic and educational services being rendered by Shri Suttur Math. Since 1954, following the vision of his Holiness Dr. Sri Shivarathi Rajendra Mahaswamiji, the Math has played an important role, through its educational arm, in furthering ‘quality education for all’.

With over 350 institutions, covering all aspects of education- from primary to professional and technical- the Mahavidyapeetha has an iconic position in the field of education. The launch of the JSS Science and Technology University, renews the commitment of the Mahavidyapeetha to the making of a modern and developed India.

This University, by its very name, professes to teach both Science and Technology. Science is a deepening of the human understanding of the universe, while Technology is anything that enhances human capacity. The two share a benevolent cycle- a better understanding of the universe allows us to improve technology; and as our technology improves, so does our ability to understand the universe.

Science and technology have, today, become the most powerful drivers of growth and development. No aspect of human life remains untouched. The answers to humanity’s greatest challenges- be it disease, hunger, environmental degradation or energy requirements- all rest in our better understanding of sciences, and finding better technologies to address those challenges. In a competitive economy, there will be much greater demands on the scientific and technological capabilities of the country. We will need more, and better, innovations in order to remain competitive as we aspire for faster, sustainable and inclusive growth.

The building of a science based, innovative and developed society, however, requires certain essential prerequisites. These include;

• Development of a scientific temper in the general public;

• A focus on the study of the basic sciences for meeting our domestic requirements; and

• A conducive environment where enquiry and evidence form the basis of rational choices.

Allow me to dilate on each of these:

Scientific temper was perhaps best defined by Jawarharlal Nehru in his book, ‘The Discovery of India’:

‘the scientific approach, the adventurous and yet critical temper of science, the search for truth and new knowledge, the refusal to accept anything without testing and trial, the capacity to change previous conclusions in the face of new evidence, the reliance on observed fact and not on pre-conceived theory, the hard discipline of the mind — all this is necessary, not merely for the application of science but for life itself and the solution of its many problems.’

Scientific Temper is not the content or extent of the scientific knowledge corpus, but rather the pursuit of rational enquiry. It is a world-view characterized by traits like healthy skepticism, universalism, freedom from prejudice, objectivity and rationality. It is an attitude which involves the application of logic. Discussion, argument and analysis are vital parts of this approach. Elements of fairness, equality and democracy are built into it. The value of Scientific Temper as the basis of all social interaction was well understood in India and it was enshrined in our Constitution under Article 51A (h).

Despite this, and notwithstanding significant achievements in many fields, there is little evidence of scientific temper in noticeable segments of our society, including the elite. Irrational beliefs and practices persist.

It is not without significance that today we have a large number of faith-based television channels but not a single Indian science channel. It seem paradoxical, that after much efforts to inculcate a rational outlook and scientific thinking among citizens for many years, we find that even scientists who practice science do not necessarily possess a scientific temper.

Secondly, we need a strong emphasis on teaching and research in basic science. When it comes to science, ‘no national scientific enterprise can be sustainable in the long term if it does not contain generous room for curiosity-driven research’. While the technological outcomes and social benefits of basic science are ‘almost always long-term and rarely predictable, such science creates and consolidates overall competence and intellectual diversity.’

A regressive trend has been observed in the past few years in universities, as science seems to be losing out to other disciplines, particularly the professional courses. Universities are becoming mere teaching centers, with the research function being neglected.

We are proud that India is recognized as an Information Technology hub. But it is equally important for India to be a science innovation hub to achieve technological self-sufficiency, and devise local solutions to our numerous problems like poverty, agricultural productivity, water conservation and climate change. Our failure to develop manufacturing capacity in critical segments of the defence industry is a case in point. Even the Light Combat Aircraft ‘Tejas' is equipped with an engine manufactured by the General Electric Company in the United States.

We cannot hope to be a great power without a qualitatively superior scientific and technological prowess. Basic science education needs to be given due respect to foster a scientific temper and culture. We need an atmosphere where bright and independent minds can create great ideas in garages as well as in laboratories.

Thirdly, an environment conducive to dissent and critical thinking - challenging established knowledge and dogmas- is required to pursue bigger questions in science and encourage innovation. Institutions must develop the ability and courage to critically evaluate traditional knowledge, inculcate concepts of scientific and mathematical inquiry in their research and teaching and promote critical thinking and reasoning amongst their students. This is what the Governor of Reserve Bank of India, in a talk last year at IIT Delhi, alluded to, when he suggested that “to keep the idea factory open”, it is essential to “foster competition in the market place for ideas” by “encouraging challenge to all authority and tradition, even while acknowledging that the only way of dismissing any view is through empirical tests.”

The search for truth is a tireless striving towards perfection. The authority of teacher and text is always provisional. Gandhiji said that “Persistent questioning and healthy inquisitiveness are the first requisite for acquiring learning of any kind.” Criticism is the basis of all advancement in sciences. Every iota of knowledge, traditional or new, must be put through a critical testing process in order to assess its validity. This approach precludes imposition of any ideology. There can be no ‘cherry picking’ of scientific concepts in the interests of particular social, cultural, political or religious belief system.

I wish the management, the faculty and the students of this university all the very best for the future. I am confident that this university will become a true wisdom workshop; nurturing both curiosity and creativity amongst its students and equip them with the necessary skills to play a productive role in the progress and development of our nation.

Jai Hind."

***

KSD/BK

Text of PM’s statement to the media, in the joint media briefing with President of Mozambique (July 07, 2016)

To mark the beginning of this journey towards ‘Swachh Bharat’, Ministry of Railways is inaugurating ‘First Green Train Corridor-Rameswaram-Manamadurai’ free from human waste discharge from trains tomorrow i.e. 24.07.2016. The inauguration will be done from Chennai station by Railway Minister Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu through video conferencing between Chennai and Rameswaram station.

The Rameswarm-Manamadurai (114 Kms) track was identified to make it Green Train Corridors- free from human waste discharge from trains. Accordingly, 10 passenger trains consisting of 286 coaches moving over this section have been provided with bio-toilets.

After Rameswarm-Manamadurai, Okha-Kanalas Junction(141 Kms), Porbandar-Wansjaliya (34 Kms) and Jammu-Katra(78 Kms) would also be taken up for making them free from human waste discharge from trains. For this around 35 trains consisting of nearly 1110 coaches would be further provided with bio toilets and the work is underway. These sections and stations were chosen, because the number of trains originating and terminating at these stations and sections are few, thus making it operationally easier and faster to make them human-discharge free.

Indian Railways in its commitment to provide hygienic environment to passengers and to keep station premises/tracks clean, have developed environment-friendly Bio-toilets for its passenger coaches. The technology has been developed jointly by Indian Railways (IR) and Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO) for railway passenger coaches through an MoU. This environment friendly, low cost and robust technology, is the first of its kind in Railway Systems in the world. In the bio-toilet fitted coaches, human waste is collected in tanks below the toilets and the same is decomposed by a consortium of bacteria.

*****

AKS/PS

Underlining some of the welfare measures for Ex-Servicemen and their dependents, the Minister announced that the Government has revised the marriage grant for two daughters of Ex-Serviceman from Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 50,000 with effect from April 01, 2016. The Education Grant and Orphan Grant have been revised from Rs. 400-600 per month to Rs. 1000 per month. The amount of one-time Penury Grant of Rs. 30,000 has now been revised to Rs. 1000 per month for life.

He said that the amount under Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme for boys has been hiked from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 24,000 per annum while for girls the same has been revised from Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 27,000 per annum.

He also pointed out few issues on Ex-Servicemen welfare, which require direct engagement with other stakeholders like States and Union Territories, Local Administration and Rajya Sainik Board. These include provision of land for polyclinic buildings in non-military stations, augmentation of opportunities for employment of ESM in State / Union Territories, monitoring implementation of reserved seats in government educational institutions for admission of wards of war widows/disabled soldiers and ESM and construction of integrated ‘Sainik Sadan’ in States for war-widows and ESM and their dependents.

NW/NAo/DM/RAJ

1.

Shri Rao Inderjit Singh

Planning (Independent Charge)

Urban Development

Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation

2.

Shri Bandaru Dattatreya

Labour and Employment (Independent Charge)

3.

Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy

Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (Independent Charge)

4.

Shri Vijay Goel

Youth Affairs and Sports (Independent Charge)

Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation

5.

Shri Shripad Yesso Naik

AAYUSH (Independent Charge)

6.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

Petroleum and Natural Gas (Independent Charge)

7.

Shri Piyush Goyal

Power (Independent Charge)

Coal (Independent Charge)

New and Renewable Energy (Independent Charge)

Mines (Independent Charge)

8.

Dr. Jitendra Singh

Development of North Eastern Region (Independent Charge)

Prime Minister’s Office

Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

Department of Atomic Energy

Department of Space

9.

Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman

Commerce and Industry (Independent Charge)

10.

Dr. Mahesh Sharma

Culture (Independent Charge)

Tourism (Independent Charge)

11.

Shri Manoj Sinha

Communications (Independent Charge)

Railways

12.

Shri Anil Madhav Dave

Environment, Forest and Climate Change (Independent Charge)

13.

General V.K. Singh

External Affairs

14.

Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar

Finance

15.

Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste

Health & Family Welfare

16.

Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi 

Minority Affairs

Parliamentary Affairs

17.

Shri S.S. Ahluwalia

Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

Parliamentary Affairs

18.

Shri Ramdas Athawale

Social Justice & Empowerment

19.

Shri Ram Kripal Yadav

Rural Development

20.

Shri Haribhai Parthbhai Chaudhary

Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises

21.

Shri Giriraj Singh

Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises

22.

Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir

Home Affairs

23.

Shri G.M. Siddeshwara

Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises

24.

Shri Ramesh Chandappa Jigajinagi

Drinking Water & Sanitation

25.

Shri Rajen Gohain

Railways

26.

Shri Parshottam Rupala

Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

Panchayati Raj

27.

Shri M.J. Akbar

External Affairs 

28.

Shri Upendra Kushwaha

Human Resources Development

29.

Shri Radhakrishnan P.

Road Transport & Highways

Shipping

30.

Shri Kiren Rijiju     

Home Affairs

31.

Shri Krishan Pal     

Social Justice & Empowerment

32.

Shri Jasvantsinh Sumanbhai Bhabhor

Tribal Affairs

33.

Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Balyan

Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation

34.

Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Steel

35.

Shri Sudarshan Bhagat

Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

36.

Shri Y.S. Chowdary

Science and Technology

Earth Science

37.

Shri Jayant Sinha

Civil Aviation

38.

Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore

Information & Broadcasting

39.

Shri Babul Supriyo

Urban Development

Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation

40.

Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti

Food Processing Industries

41.

Shri Vijay Sampla

Social Justice & Empowerment

42.

Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal

Finance

Corporate Affairs

43.

Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey

Human Resource Development

44.

Shri Ajay Tamta

Textiles       

45.

Smt. Krishna Raj

Women & Child Development

46.

Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya

Road Transport & Highways, Shipping,

Chemicals & Fertilizers

47.

Smt. Anupriya Patel

Health & Family Welfare

48.

Shri C.R. Chaudhary

Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution

49.

Shri P.P. Chaudhary

Law & Justice

Electronics & Information Technology

50.

Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre

Defence