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The Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar released a booklet, here today, highlighting the efforts made by Department of Defence Production in the last two years in pursuance of self-reliance in defence sector. It is a compilation of the achievements of the Department of Defence Production in the field of indigenous production of weapon systems/platforms and policy initiatives undertaken in the past two years. With the launch of Make in India portal in September 2014 by the Government, the focus has been to improve the business environment by easing processes to do business, encourage participation of Indian public and private sector in defence production and promote innovation and indigenous development of equipment and weapon platforms.

The booklet mentions a number of policy initiatives which have been taken by the Department of Defence Production like relaxation in FDI Policy, providing Exchange Rate Variation protection to Indian industry, level-playing field to private sector in terms of excise duty/custom duty at par with public sector, liberalising licensing policy and extending the validity of Industrial Licensing to 15 years, streamlining defence offset guidelines and restoring services as an avenue for discharge of offsets, facilitating exports by putting Standard Operating Procedure for issue of NOC and list of military stores in public domain besides doing away with end-user certificate, revising Make Procedure to promote design and development etc. It mentions about Make in India Portal for defence production which is a very industry-friendly website covering all policy procedural issues.

The booklet also talks about the Ordnance Factories and DPSUs working under the administrative control of Department of Defence Production having not only enhanced their production from Rs. 43,746 crore to Rs. 51,351 crore but have also delivered many state-of-the-art platforms to the Armed Forces. During the last two years, exports have almost doubled and 119 industrial licences have been issued.

Other highlights are that all Naval ships and submarines on order are being constructed in Indian shipyards and expenditure on capital procurement from foreign vendors in the last two years has come down from Rs. 35,082 crore to Rs. 22,422 crore.

A number of steps are being taken to augment production capacity by DPSUs, e.g. warship building capacity at Mazagon Dock Ltd, infrastructure building for Mine Counter Measure Vessel at Goa Shipyard Ltd, new Helicopter manufacturing facility at Tumakuru, second production line for Dhruv at Kanpur, manufacturing capacity for T-90 and PINAKA rockets.

NW/NAo/Nampi/RAJ

Census 2011 reported 32.23 percent illiteracy rate, in 7 and above age group in rural areas of the country, compared to 41.26 percent in 2001thus showing a decrease in illiteracy rate by 9.03 percentage points. Likewise, as per Census reports, the number of non-literate girls in the age group of 7-14, in rural areas of the country, has decreased by 1.22 crore from 2.53 crore reported in 2001 to 1.31crore in 2011.

In order to improve the female literacy rate in the country, “Saakshar Bharat”, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme is being implemented in rural areas of 410 districtsin 26 States and one UTthat had adult female literacy rate of 50 per cent and below as per Census 2001, including left wing extremism affected districts, irrespective of their literacy rates, with special focus on women and other disadvantaged groups.

In order to ensure greater participation of girls in elementary education, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) has targeted interventions for girls which include opening of schools in the neighborhood to make access easier for girls, appointment of additional teachers including women teachers, separate toilets for girls, teachers’ sensitization programme to promote girls participation, gender sensitive teaching learning materials including textbooks. In addition, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas have been opened in Educationally Backward Blocks where the female rural literacy is below the national average to provide for residential upper primary schools for girls.

Under Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) several provisions viz. construction of separate toilets for girls, construction of residential quarters for teachers, curriculum reforms, conducting self defence training for the girls, special programme for empowerment of girls, stipend for girls with disabilities, vocationalisation of secondary education, girls hostel, etc. have been made for improving girls education and effectively addressing female literacy rate.

This information was given by the Union Human Resource Development Minister, Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani today in a written reply to a Rajya Sabha question.

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GG/RT/DS/RK/ RURAL ILLITERACY

Union Minister for Science & Technology Dr. Harsh Vardhan today asserted that the Government has successfully mainstreamed science & technology for the growth and development of the country.

Stating that India’s challenges are many and solutions complex, the Minister said that ambitious plans have been made in many new areas and that the need of the hour is to move ahead and scale up.

“We have moved from policy paralysis and worked with our brilliant scientific community to connect with our people and what India needs,” the Minister said while addressing a National Video-link Press Conference from New Delhi, linking 13 cities including Mumbai and Pune.

Asserting that “Science is back on track”, Dr. Harsh Vardhan listed out key initiatives taken by his ministry in the fields of scientific weather forecasting, formulation of new vaccines, biotechnology, energy research and eco-system for innovation.

The Minister said, at a time when we are witnessing climate change, a reliable and accurate forecasting system plays a vital role in the prevention and mitigation of natural hazards. “Our weather forecasting involves high-speed computing and mathematical modeling. We have become world-leaders in this area. Our Tsunami warning system is constantly being tested and will have the maximum possible warning period should there be another strike. Our fisher-folk are now better connected through an SMS warning system” he said. The Indian Tsunami Warning System, established at the Indian Centre for Ocean Information Services, Hyderabad has been recognized by the UNESCO as the Regional Tsunami Service Provider for the Indian Ocean region.

Dr. Harsh Vardhan asserted that Science & Technology has positively impacted the lives of farmers too. He said currently, over 1.1 crore farmers were receiving crop specific agro-meteorological advisories in their respective languages under the Grameen Krishi Mausam Sewa. The wheat, rice, sugarcane and cotton cultivators have been the major beneficiaries of this service. The Grameen Krishi Mausam Sewa is being provided through 130 Agro-Met zones comprising clusters of 4-6 districts.

Dr. Harsh Vardhan also added that drought and salt tolerant varieties of rice and high nutrient grains have been introduced, which would soon be scaled up for mass production.

The Minister said major advances have been made in the health sector with the introduction of three new vaccines for immunization and the rotavirus vaccine. “We have streamlined our regulatory system with the Health Ministry and this opens up huge innovation and entrepreneurship in the health sector. New entities and biotech innovations have been put in the pipeline” he noted.

The Science & Technology Minister underlined the steps taken by the Government to promote and encourage the innovation and start-up eco-system in the country through the National Initiative for Developing & Harnessing Innovation, NIDHI. This programme supports 200 student start-ups or innovative ideas to undertake viable business plans and ventures. He said attracting young talent to take up Science as career was crucial for the success of India’s innovation programme. “We have revised the fellowships for research scholars and will have a committee now to examine this regularly. Our programmes to attract the best to India and keep the best in India have been very successful,” said Dr. Harsh Vardhan.

The Minister credited the success of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Ministries to the Inter-Institutional collaboration across ministerial and departmental boundaries and the excellent work of the scientists. These clusters have become the engines of change and innovation.

The Minister further added that there are new programmes in collaboration with the departments and ministries Space, Defence and Atomic Energy.

The National Video-link Press Conference held at PIB’s National Media Centre in New Delhi was joined by almost 100 journalists from Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Guwahati, Lucknow, Chandigarh and Jammu.

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RDS/ss

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal for leasing of 73 sq. mtr. of defence land at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai to M/s. Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST) at a nominal rent of Rs.1/- per annum. The lease of the land will be initially for a period of 30 years and renewable for another two terms of 30 years each This would facilitate installation of the fourth transformer and construction of underground water storage tank with pump house at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai to provide power supply for the new Dry Dock facility under construction.

The installation of transformer will be undertaken by BEST at their own cost and there will be ‘No’ financial implications for the Indian Navy.

Background:

The existing power supply is insufficient to cater for the new Dry Dock under construction and there is a necessity of installation of an additional transformer and underground water storage tank with pump house for fire safety within the premises of Dockyard. The lease of 73 sqm. of land to M/s. BEST at Dockyard will only entitle M/s. BEST to install the transformer and construct underground water storage tank with pump house, whereas the ownership of land shall continue to rest with the Navy.

The power supply to Naval Dockyard, Mumbai is provided by M/s. BEST. At present, there exist three transformers at Main Receiving Sub-Station, Naval Dockyard, Mumbai which are maintained by M/s. BEST and cater to existing facilities of the Yard only.

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AKT/VB/SH

The Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar paid an official visit to the Sultanate of Oman from 20 to 22 May 2016 at the invitation of H.E. Bader Bin Saud Bin Harib Al Busaidi, Minister Responsible for Defense Affairs of Oman.

During his visit, the Defence Minister met Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Minister of Royal Office HE Lt Gen. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Nu’amani and held bilateral talks with Minister Responsible for Defense Affairs H.E. Bader Bin Saud Bin Harib Al Busaidi. During the meetings all aspects of bilateral defence cooperation including enhanced military to military exchanges were discussed. Both sides also exchanged views on regional developments of mutual interest.

Shri Parrikar reiterated the high importance that India attaches to its strategic partnership with Oman. He conveyed his appreciation at the continued support rendered by Oman for the Operational Turnaround (OTR) of Indian Navy ships for anti-piracy patrols as well as technical support for landing and over flight of Indian Air Force aircraft.

The Minister visited the Military Technology College and the Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum in Muscat. He also attended a reception at Sultan Qaboos Port to mark the goodwill visit to Oman of INS Delhi, INS Deepak and INS Tarkash.

Four Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs)/agreements were signed during the visit. These are:

• MOU on Defence Cooperation between the Ministry of Defense of Sultanate of Oman and Ministry of Defence of Republic of India;

• MOU between the Royal Oman Police (Coast Guard) and the Indian Coast Guard in the field of Marine Crime Prevention at Sea;

• MOU between the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and the Government of the Republic of India on Maritime Issues; and

• Protocol between the Government of the Sultanate of Oman represented by Royal Air Force of Oman and the Government of India represented by the Indian Air Force on Flight Safety information Exchange.

Both sides noted that defence cooperation is a key facet of their bilateral strategic partnership, which is based on historical ties as well as mutual trust and shared interests. It was agreed that the two sides would further expand and consolidate their ongoing bilateral defence cooperation.

The Defence Minister was accompanied by a high-level official delegation comprising Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Ashok Gupta, Secretary (R&D) & DG, DRDO Dr S. Christopher, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen MMS Rai, FOC-in-C Western Naval Command Vice Admiral Sunil Lanba, Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal BS Dhanoa and other senior defence ministry officials. A defence industry delegation comprising Additional DG, Ordnance Factory Board Shri SC Bajpai and CMD, Bharat Electronics Limited Shri S.K. Sharma also accompanied the Defence Minister.

NW/NAo/RAJ

In all nuclear power plants, safety is accorded utmost priority in all phases of siting, design, construction, commissioning and operation. A systematic approach using well-defined principles is followed in the design of the nuclear power plants to provide the required safety features adopting principles of defence-in-depth, diversity and redundancy. Nuclear Power Plants are constructed in accordance with the design intent and with strict quality standards. The operations are performed strictly in accordance with laid out procedures by highly trained and licensed personnel. There is a robust regulatory mechanism in place and periodic safety reviews are carried out both by NPCIL and the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).

As far as security is concerned, nuclear installations are provided with multilayer security arrangements and are under security cover of the Central Industrial Security Force and other security agencies in the country with additional manpower and equipment, whenever necessary. Integrated security systems including Perimeter Intrusion Detection System (PIDS) and other electronic surveillance systems are in place at all nuclear power plants in the country. These security arrangements are reviewed and updated periodically based on various inputs received from Central and State Agencies.

All the safety and other plant parameters are monitored in the control room of nuclear power plants continuously. The parameters are also physically monitored at respective locations. The safety functions can be performed from supplementary control room in the unlikely event of the control room not being accessible in case of an emergency.

The various safety features are periodically tested as per laid down procedures and in line with technical specifications. Periodic safety reviews are also conducted by the regulatory authority, AERB.

Adequate funds have been allocated for installation, upgradation and maintenance of various surveillance equipment and other security measures at all the nuclear power plant sites.

This information was provided by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh in written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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KSD/NK/PK/sk

Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Tarkash and Deepak under the Command of the Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, Rear Admiral Ravneet Singh, NM are visiting Muscat from 21 – 24 May 16. The visit of IN ships coincides with the visit of the Hon’ble Defence Minister of India Shri Manohar Parrikar from 20 – 22 May 16.

During the visit, the crew of IN ships will undertake professional interactions with the Royal Navy of Oman pertaining to nuances of maritime operations, including means of combating maritime terrorism and piracy. In addition, calls on senior Government and military authorities, sporting and cultural interactions and sharing of best practices, aimed at enhancing cooperation, strengthening ties and mutual understanding between the two navies, are also planned. The visiting IN ships are also likely to conduct exercises with the Royal Navy of Oman.

Bilateral relations between India and Oman have been historically strong based on deep cultural affinity and vibrant economic linkages. In modern times, these were formally established with the 1953 Indo-Oman Treaty of Friendship, Navigation and Commerce, a first between India and any Arab country. The signing of a MoU on Defence Cooperation in December 2005 and the subsequent establishment of the Joint Military Cooperation Committee in March 2006 has set the foundation for increased defence cooperation. Since then, naval cooperation between the countries has progressed steadily with increased port visits by naval ships and training of RNO personnel by the Indian Navy in hydrography, diving, training, logistics and dockyard management. India and Oman are also members of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), a voluntary and co-operative initiative between 30 countries of the Indian Ocean Region, which has served as an ideal forum for sharing of information and cooperation on maritime issues. Oman also supports Indian Navy’s anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden by providing OTR facilities. The successful conduct of bilateral biennial naval exercise ‘Naseem Al-Bahr’ off the Indian Coast in February 2016 has reinforced the strong ties between the two navies. The Royal Navy of Oman’s participation in the recently concluded International Fleet Review at Visakhapatnam, India with two ships viz. RNOV Al Shamikh and RNOV Al Seeb, is another indicator of the close ties between the two Navies.

The current visit would be another milestone in the strong maritime relationship between the countries. It will strengthen mutual understanding, facilitate sharing of best practices and enhance interoperability. It will enable a common understanding of the security challenges in the region and contribute to security and stability of this vital part of the Indian Ocean Region.

INS Delhi is commanded by Captain Sandeep Singh Sandhu, INS Tarkash is commanded by Capt Pradeep Singh, NM and INS Deepak is commanded by Capt Sujit Kumar Chhetri.

DKS/CKP

Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS) a Delhi based premier laboratory of DRDO in collaboration with Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) organised a training program on Yoga for the Defence Wing Staff during 25th to 30th April 2016. The training programme was in collaboration with HQ of Integrated Defence Services, DCIDS (Medical), Ministry of Defence and Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy (CCRYN) under AYUSH. The training program was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Deputy Chief Integrated Defence Staff (Medical) & Col Commandant Lt Gen (Dr) Velu Nair, who delivered an opening lecture on the benefit of regular yoga practice and its therapeutic effects. Director, CCRYN Dr. IN Acharya who was the Guest of Honour, spoke about the basic concepts of yoga. Director, DIPAS Dr Shashi Bala Singh, in her welcome address highlighted the achievements of DIPAS in the field of yoga. Thirty-three participants from IHQ MoD (Army), Defence Wing Staff, IHQ MoD (Navy) and Air Headquarters participated in the training program. They were trained by professional yoga trainers on various aspects of asanas, breathing exercise and meditation for improving physical, physiological and mental well-being. DIPAS has already imparted training to about 8000 Army and Paramilitary personnel deployed at various locations.

DIPAS has also designed customized yoga packages for Air Force, Navy, high altitude, hot deserts, and Low Intensity Conflicts (LIC) environments. Regular yogic practice has been found to enhance muscular strength and body flexibility, promote and improve respiratory and cardiovascular function, help to reduce stress, anxiety, depression and chronic pain, improve sleep patterns, bring mind and body coordination and improve overall quality of life even under extremes of environment.

NW/NAo/RAJ

 

A mock exercise on earthquake preparedness was conducted today by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in Faridabad, Haryana for assessing the preparedness and response mechanism of all Government agencies of the district in the event of a high intensity earthquake.

 

The simulation exercise was conducted simultaneously at five select locations – Mini Secretariat - Faridabad, a private hospital (Sarvodaya Hospital), a high-rise residential complex (HEWO flats), a shopping mall (Crown Palace Mall) and Government School (Rajkiya Kanya Varishtha Madhyamik Vidyalaya) to assess and improve the response mechanism to mitigate the impact of a high-intensity earthquake.

 

NDMA expert Major General V.K. Dutta (Retd.), who led the exercise, briefed about the proceedings of the day. The exercise started with a siren indicating the occurrence of tremors. Everybody ducked under the tables while covering their heads. After few moments, evacuation instructions were issued with strict instructions not to take electrical lift and take the fire escape, and assemble in an open space. Rescue teams were then formed under Incident Commanders and dispatched to the respective locations.

 

Rescue drills were conducted in coordination with various agencies, such as Traffic Control, Fire Fighting department, Ambulances, Police and Civil Defence. Using various techniques, people buried under the rubble were rescued and sent to hospitals after administrating preliminary first aid. After the drill, a post-exercise analysis was carried out by NDMA, in which all the district officials, defence personnel and Commissioner of Police took part.

 

The National Disaster Guidelines significantly focuses on Prevention, Mitigation and Preparedness for a disastrous situation. NDMA regularly conducts such mock exercises throughout the country in its efforts to improve preparedness and response mechanisms for a given disaster. The mock exercise was part of a three-day event which began with a Coordination Conference on Tuesday followed by a Table-top Exercise on Wednesday. Senior officials from all the important departments such as NDRF, health, police, education, firefighting, Civil Defence, Public Relations, transport, etc. from the district attended these preparatory meetings and in the exercise. Located in the seismic zone IV, Faridabad is prone to an earthquake in the range of 6.9 to 8.2 on the Richter scale. An earthquake of this intensity can cause major damage in terms of lives and infrastructure. This mock drill will ensure better response in the event of a disaster to reduce loss of lives.

 

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KSD/NK/KM/PK

 

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The Annual Master General of Ordnance (MGO) Industry Cooperation Meet (AMICOM-2016) commenced with the keynote address being delivered by Lt Gen Subrata Saha, the Deputy Chief of the Army Staff (P&S) and the theme address being delivered by Lt Gen Ravi Thodge, the MGO. The AMICOM Series is an initiative of the Indian Army to engage with indigenous defence industry. AMICOM-2016 is being held from 03 to 04 May 2016 at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi under the aegis of MGO Branch and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

AMICOM-2016, with ‘Indigenisation’ as the main theme and ‘Optronics and Electronics’ as the special theme, is being attended by a large number of officers from the Armed Forces, officials from the MoD, DGQA, DRDO, academia and a large cross-section of the Indian industry. It aims to create a platform and act as a catalyst to break down the long dependence on foreign sources so as to further accelerate the pace of indigenisation in the field of defence manufacturing and making our nation self-reliant in defence production.

Col Rohan Anand, SM PRO (Army)

The Annual Conference of Relief Commissioners and Secretaries of the Departments of Disaster Management of States and Union Territories was organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs here today. The Conference was convened primarily to review the status of preparedness for dealing with any natural disaster that may arise due to South West Monsoon 2016.

The Conference was inaugurated by Shri Rajiv Mehrishi, Home Secretary. Shri R.K. Jain, Member, National Disaster Management Authority addressed the participants.

Representatives of 27 States, 6 Union Territories, National Disaster Response Force, Central Ministries, Central Armed Police Forces, Indian Meteorological Department, Central Water Commission, Indian National Center for Ocean Information Service, DRDO, GSI and other Scientific Organisations, along with Armed Forces participated in the Conference.

Issues connected with disaster preparedness, early warning systems, disaster management plans of the States and Union Territories were discussed. Advance procurement of necessary relief material, checking the readiness of the equipment & communication systems, community based disaster management and coordinated approach for disaster response at the district level were highlighted.

During the conference, it was noted that the concerted efforts of all concerned have helped in minimizing the loss of precious human lives. The need for coordination among all the Central and State Government agencies was re-emphasized.

The Indian Metrological Department, Department of Space, Snow & Avalanche Study Establishment (Defence Research and Development Organisation), Central Water Commission, Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Service, Geological Survey of India, Ministry of Defence, and National Disaster Response Force made presentations on their respective field of forecasting, warning mechanism and their future plans for enhancing capability in the field of disaster management. The Conference also discussed the measures and good practices being adopted by the State Government and Government of India to address disaster management in the country.

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KSD/NK/RS

Air Mshl PP Khandekar assumed the responsibilities of Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance at Air HQ, New Delhi on 02 May 16. The Air Marshal is a graduate of VNIT, Nagpur and was commissioned in Indian Air Force is Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) stream on 25 Jul 1977. He is a Post Graduate in Industrial Engineering from NITIE, Mumbai an alumni of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and Master in Science in Defence & Strategic Studies from Madras University.

He is a fellow of IETE and Member of AeSI, IIE, CENJOWS and CSI. Air Marshal PP Khandekar has rich experience on aircraft such as Su¬-7, MiG-¬23 and MiG-¬27. He has commanded Air Force Station High Grounds and Air Force Station Kanpur. He has held various prestigious appointments at HQ MC, HQ IDS & Air HQ and has the unique distinction of being the first Commandant and Director of MILIT, a tri-¬service technology training institute. He has held the appointment of Senior Maintenance Staff Officer of an Operational Command and ACAS (Maintenance Plans) at Air HQ. Prior to taking over as AOM, he was Senior Maintenance Staff Officer at HQ Maintenance Command.

Air Marshal PP Khandekar has presented papers at National Seminars and AeSI Chapters on topics such as Blue Print of Strategy for Ageing Aircraft, C412 perspective, Life Extension Programme and India’s Foreign Policy¬- A Case of Continuity and Change Management & Absorption of Futuristic Technologies, Public¬-Private Convergence, Higher Education Format to Feed Aerospace Industry etc. At present he is pursuing Ph D with DIAT, a deemed university.

The Air Officer is married to Mrs Manisha Khandekar, a home maker. She hails from Indore and has been President AFWWA (L) at Air Force Station High Grounds, Air Force Station Kanpur and was the first President of Defence Wives’ Welfare Association¬- Local (DWWA-¬L) at MILIT, Pune. She has keen interest in welfare of specially abled children. While performing as President AFWWA (R) at HQ MC, she was awarded Commendation by the AOC-¬in-¬C for her exceptional contribution for social services and welfare activities by building a self¬-motivated team of Sanginis. They are blessed with two daughters who are IT Engineers and married.

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AB/MKR

The Union Home Secretary Shri Rajiv Mehrishi will inaugurate the Annual Conference of Relief Commissioners and Secretaries of the Department of Disaster Management of States/UTs tomorrow in New Delhi.

The Annual Conference will review the status of preparedness for South West Monsoon, 2016 and discuss other Disaster Management related issues.

Representatives of concerned Central Ministries/Organizations rendering Emergency Support Functions, scientific organizations associated with forecasting officers of the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces will participate in the Conference.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, India Metrological Department, Indian Space Research Organization, Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE), Central Water Commission, Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services, Geological Survey of India, Ministry of Defence and National Disaster Response Force will make presentations sharing their efforts towards preparedness of dealing with disaster situations.

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KSD/NK/KM

In consonance with India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and Indian Navy’s constant endeavour to enhance maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, Indian Naval Ship (INS) Airavat arrived at Brunei on 01 May 16. The ship will participate in the ADMM Plus (ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus) Exercise on Maritime Security and Counter Terrorism(Ex MS & CT) from 01 to 09 May 16.

The Indian Navy has been a regular participant in maritime exercises conducted by the ADMM countries. ADMM Plus Ex MS & CT is a multinational exercise under the aegis of ADMM Plus consortium. The current edition will commence at Brunei and culminate at Singapore, with various drills and exercises in the South China Sea. During the exercise, the Indian Navy would engage with participating navies from Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, China, Japan, Russia, Australia, Republic of Korea and US, through professional interactions in harbour and complex operations at sea.

India has deep historic and cultural linkages with ASEAN countries which have been strengthened in the recent past by vibrant economic engagement and a growing sense of shared maritime destiny. In the recent past, ASEAN has emerged as one of the largest trading partners of India, with bilateral trade showing an upward trend with each passing year. India’s active and positive contribution in numerous ASEAN-led mechanisms, namely the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) as well as India’s support for strengthening of the East Asia Summit (EAS) has often been acknowledged by ASEAN member countries. The establishment of the Indian Mission to ASEAN in Jakarta serves as a testimony of India’s commitment towards ASEAN.

Indian Navy and the navies of ASEAN countries have a mutual interest in promoting peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean and the Western Pacific, given our shared maritime security interests. ADMM Plus Ex MS & CT is aimed at enhancing mutual understanding with respect to maritime security issues and streamlining drills on counter-terrorism operations at sea. The participation of INS Airavat aims to bolster India’s ties and enhance inter-operability with the participating navies.

INS Airavat, commanded by Commander Jayant Mahadik, is a Landing Ship Tank (Large), indigenously designed and built at GRSE, Kolkata. The ship was inducted into the Indian Navy on 19 May 09 and has a lift capability of 500 troops, 10 tanks and 11 Combat Trucks, which allows her to be effectively tasked for a variety of missions ranging from amphibious operations to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). An integral helicopter significantly enhances the capability of the ship.

The participation of INS Airavat in ADMM Plus Ex MS & CT will further strengthen the strong bilateral ties and extensive maritime interactions between India and ASEAN countries as well as contribute significantly to enhancing maritime security in the region.

DKS/CKP

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the following:

1. Extending the additional charge of the post of Secretary, Department of Rural Development, Ministry of Rural Development assigned to Shri Jitendra Shankar Mathur, lAS (MP:1982), Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj for a period of three months beyond 24.05.2016 or till the appointment of a regular incumbent to that post or till further orders, whichever is the earliest.

2. Appointment of Smt. Shobhana Joshi, IDAS(1979), Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) as Secretary (Defence Finance) with effect from 01.06.2016 vice Shri S.S. Mohanty, IDAS (1979), Financial Adviser (Defence Services) on his retirement on 31.05.2016.

3. Assignment of additional charge of the post of Secretary, Department of Heavy Industry, Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises to Shri Ameising Luikham, lAS (AM:1981), Secretary, Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises for the period from 25.05.2016 to 31.05.2016 during the absence on leave of Shri Girish Shankar, IAS (BH:1982).

4. Assignment of additional charge of the post of Chief Executive Officer, Polavaram Project Authority to Dr. Amarjit Singh, IAS (GJ:1982), Special Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation for a further period of six months with effect from 20.4.2016 or till appointment of a regular incumbent to the post or till further orders, whichever is the earliest.

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KSD/NK/RS

In the matter pertaining to acquisition of Agusta Westland helicopters, the undisputed central issue that stands out is corruption, especially bribery. Any other line of assumption, approach and effort, as is being attempted in some quarters, is misleading, tries to hide the wrong-doers and is driven by instincts of self preservation.

Ever since the new government was given the responsibility to serve the people, it has acted with speed, drive and purpose to empower the country's masses. It continues to relentlessly pursue fearless and transparent governance. One of the core goals of our governance has been to unearth and uproot corruption, and punish the corrupt.

It is indeed tragic that a small section of the Indian polity has attempted, unsuccessfully, to divert and diffuse the public discourse on this matter. They question the speed of the government processes, especially the investigation. But, they do not ask how the corrupt influenced the process of acquisition in the first place and bled the nation. They donot admit corruption; they instead boldly proclaim, "catch us if you can".

The present government has taken effective action to bring out the truth and will leave no stone unturned in pursuing all means to bring to justice the corrupt and the wrong-doers in this case.

The investigative agencies remain determined to bring to justice the key perpetrators of this misdeed, both inside and outside the country.

The government has acted proactively and with alacrity against Agusta Westland International and Finmeccanica. It is the present government which through its order dated 3 July 2014, put on hold all procurement/acquisition cases in the pipeline of six companies figuring in the FIR registered by the CBI, namely: M/S Agusta Westland International Ltd., UK, M/S Finmeccanica, Italy, and its group companies, including subsidiaries and affiliates, M/S IDS, Tunisia, M/S Infotech Design System (IDS), Mauritius, M/S IDS Infotech Ltd, Mohali and M/S Aeromatrix Info Solution Pvt Ltd, Chandigarh.

In doing so, we did not let the preparedness of our defence forces suffer. At the same time, we also ensured that no new capital procurement was made thereafter from these companies in the tenure of the present Government.

The factually misinformed have also made a mention regarding clearance of a joint venture involving Agusta Westland by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board. This proposal was approved on 2nd September 2011 based on an application by Indian Rotorcraft Ltd a joint venture of Tata Sons with Agusta Westland NV, Netherlands. This was later changed to Agusta Westland S.p.A Italy due to reorganization within the group. On 7th February 2012, an industrial licence for the manufacture of helicopters was granted by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion to Indian Rotorcraft Ltd. However, the validity of licence has since expired.

In their drive to divert the public attention from their own corruption, some have said that the Modi government permitted Augusta Westland to bid for 100 Naval Utility Helicopters in April, 2015. The fact is that a techno-commercial Request for Proposal (RFP) for Naval Utility Helicopters was issued to eight vendors on 4 August 2012. In response to the RFP, M/S Eurocopters, France and M/S Agusta Westland S.p.A Italy submitted their techno-commercial proposals on 4 March 2013. RFP of the procurement case was retracted by the Government on 13 October 2014.

The Indian Navy has hosted on the website a Request for Information for more than 100 Naval Utility Helicopter in October 2014. No Request for Proposal has been issued, therefore the question of permitting Agusta Westland to bid for the Naval Utility Helicopter in April 2015 does not arise. The government is exploring whether their manufacturing can be pursued under "Make in India".

On the core issue of corruption, the timeline of actions taken by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate clearly shows due rigour and diligence with which these agencies have pursued all aspects of their investigations, including the arrest and extradition of three foreign nationals namely Mr. Carlo Gerosa, Mr. Guido Haschke Ralph and Christian Michel James.

CBI has so far investigated over 100 witnesses. In September and November 2014, couple of accused have been arrested and their property attached. A criminal complaint was also filed. Letter of Requests were sent out by ED and CBI to Mauritius (July 2013), Tunisia and Italy (December 2013), British Virgin Islands, Singapore and U.K. (September 2014), UAE and Switzerland (December 2014). The agencies are continuing to pursue responses to the LRs from the countries concerned.

Further, an open ended non bailable arrest warrant was issued by CBI against Mr. Christian James Michel on 24 September 2015. Red Corner notices were issued in December 2015 and January 2016 through Interpol under Prevention of Money Laundering Act and Prevention of Corruption Act on charges of conspiracy and abuse of official position in giving favours to M/s AWIL.

Extradition request has also been made for Christian Michel James. A request for provision arrest for the purpose of extradition was made to the U.K. authorities on 4 January 2016 by CBI. Enforcement Directorate, another autonomous agency to handle private money laundering and Foreign Exchange irregularities, has also separately sent a Red Corner seeking arrest and a request for his extradition from the U.K. on 29 February 2016.

By asking why did Prime Minister and BJP government not take any action on the alleged offer dated 08.11.2015 made by James Christian Michael to be questioned by CBI and ED including on Indian soil, some have even tried to side with a wanted criminal.

It is well known that any understanding/agreement with an accused outside the frame of law is a criminal act in itself. James Christian Michael is a criminal wanted by the Indian law enforcement agencies. We are pursuing all legal means to arrest him and have him extradited to India. Mr. Michel should submit himself to the Indian legal system rather than make elliptical references to offers that are suspect in intent and reality. We are determined that the law must take its course against Mr. Michel and his associates in this matter.

Those who cannot see Prime Minister succeed even hint at him cutting a deal. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Prime Minister Modi did not cut any deal of any sort. His only goal and priority is the development of comprehensive national power, and empowerment of our masses.

A few have even sought to link one of the accused with Shri Ajit Doval, present NSA, as also Shri Nripendra Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister. This is a totally baseless assertion, devoid of reason and logic, and indicative of malicious intent. In reality, there is no such connection.

Individuals in some quarters have even gone to the extent of ascribing intent to the technicalities of the CAG audit of the state governments of Rajasthan and Chattisgarh. They ask as to whey did Modi government not take any action against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister, Dr. Raman Singh despite an indictment of Chhattisgarh government by CAG in purchase of Agusta Westland Helicopter, which led to loss to public exchequer (according to CAG) of Rs.65 lakh?

But, the government has been proactive in seeking response from the State governments also. As per the State Government of Chattisgarh, the Public Accounts Committe of the Chattisgarh Vidhan Sabha took cognizance of the CAG report regarding the acquisition that was done in 2007, and took the evidence of State Government officials. After analyzing the evidence of officials and the report of the State Government, the PAC closed the matter.

Similarly, as per the State Government of Rajasthan, the alleged loss to public exchequer according to CAG was not on account of any irregularity in the procurement process, but due to the expenditure incurred on account of lack of planning and basic infrastructure prior to procurement, such as pilot training and maintenance. In this case too, the acquisition was done in 2005.

The Government appeals to the countrymen to recognize the nature and depth of corruption in Agusta Westland case. The investigative agencies will stay their course in unveiling the corrupt and holding them accountable to our public.

CP/GV

A group of Probationers of the Indian Civil Accounts Service, Indian Defence Accounts Service, Indian Postal & Telegraph Finance & Accounts Service and Indian Railway Accounts Service called on President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan today(May 14, 2016).

Addressing the Probationers, the President said as public servants, a huge responsibly rests on their young shoulders. They have to shape a modern nation out of a 5000 year old civilization. This is a unique opportunity for young and agile minds to make their contribution.

The President said though an ancient civilization, India is a young nation trying to build its future after suffering 190 years of colonial exploitation, drain of resources, poverty and deprivation. Establishing a modern and common system of administration for a nation of extraordinary diversity like India, comprising 128 crore people, 122 languages, 1800 dialects and seven religions is no easy task.

The President said the motto of the National Institute of Financial Management (NIFM) -'Manushyavati Bhoomirarthah’ explains that of all resources, the most important resource is human resources. Developing good human resources will enable full utilization of all other natural resources. Creation of high quality human assets is the most important task before us. He congratulated NIFM for choosing this motto.

The President said the economy is assuming new dimensions. Decision making is not confined within the geographical territory of any one country today. He told the Probationers that in order to cope with this situation, they should be flexible in their thinking and adopt new techniques, instruments and devices. They should always apply their mind and intellect. Rather than be carbon copies of each other, each activity should have an imprint of their ingenuity. In the process, they will be successful and make contributions to the building of our country and society.

The President concluded quoting Gandhiji and asking them to be the change that they wish to see in the world.

AKT/NT

One Indian Navy Advanced Light Helicopter MK III has been deployed at Maldives on 27 Apr 16. The helicopter will be based at Kadhdhoo Island in Laamu Atol of Maldives.The helicopter will assist MNDF for undertaking Search And Rescue, Casualty Evacuation, Coastal Surveillance, Maritime Reconnaissance, Communication and Logistic Duties.

The Indian Naval Contingent headed by Cdr Rohit Gupte, who is an experienced helicopter pilot comprises four officers and 21 sailors. The technical support team comprises 13 technicians and is headed by Lt Cdr Jithu K Joy. The support team with the spares and support equipment have already reached Male on 25 Apr 16. The ALH MK III landed at Male at 1630 hrs local time on 27 Apr 16 and was received by The Minister of Defence and National Security His Excellency Mr Adam Shareef and High Commissioner of India to Maldives His Excellency Shri Akhilesh Mishra .

The Advanced Light Helicopter (MKIII) has been manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and has state of the art avionics and is powered by Shakti engines.

The detachment of the ALH would further strengthen the robust maritime cooperation between our two nations.

DKS/CKP
29/16

Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Tarkash and Deepak under the Command of the Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, Rear Admiral Ravneet Singh, NM have entered Kuwait on a four day visit. During the visit, the Indian Naval officers and sailors would undertake professional interactions with the Kuwait Naval Force pertaining to nuances of maritime operations, including means of combating maritime terrorism and piracy. In addition, calls on senior Government and military authorities, sporting and cultural interactions and sharing of best practices, aimed at enhancing cooperation and strengthening mutual understanding between the two navies, are also planned. The visiting IN ships are also likely to conduct exercises with the Kuwait Naval Force.

Bilateral relations between India and Kuwait have been traditionally friendly based on strong foundations of cultural affinity and trade links dating back to ancient times. These have been strengthened in recent times by a vibrant economic relationship and growing convergence on security issues. Indians are the largest expatriate community in Kuwait. High level visits in the recent past have provided further impetus to our strong bilateral relationship.

Defence cooperation between the two countries has been steadily growing through high level visits, training exchanges and port visits by naval ships. India and Kuwait are also members of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), a voluntary and co-operative initiative between 30 countries of the Indian Ocean Region, which has served as an ideal forum for sharing of information and cooperation on maritime issues. IN ships Delhi, Deepak, Trishul and Tabar last visited Kuwait in September 2015. A delegation from the Kuwait Naval Force participated in the recently concluded International Fleet Review at Visakhapatnam, India.

The current visit will further bolster the strong bonds of friendship between India and Kuwait and contribute significantly to security and stability in this vital part of the Indian Ocean Region. INS Delhi, an indigenous guided missile destroyer, is commanded by Capt Sandeep Singh Sandhu, INS Tarkash, a stealth frigate is commanded by Capt Pradeep Singh, NM and INS Deepak, fleet replenishment tanker, is commanded by Capt Sujit Kumar Chhetri.

****

DKS/CKP 34/16

Union Ministers Shri Manohar Parrikar and Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy here today applauded the completion of a pilot project to skill and train IAF personnel post their retirement. This was the first ever placement ceremony for retiring India Air Force personnel through Skill Certification.

The skill certification and placement ceremony was held at IAF auditorium, wherein 56 retired IAF personnel were handed over skill certificates conforming to the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) and placement letters.

These efforts are in line with the MoU signed between the two Ministries Viz MSDE and MOD in July 2015 to partner in various skill development initiatives. The MoU seeks to provide additional skills to around 60,000 service personnel who retire every year at a comparatively young age in the ranks of Officer, JCO, NCO or Jawans. There is a need to facilitate their resettlement through a financially viable career serving the civil society and adequate skilling will ensure gainful employment of these personnel

The ceremony was presided over by Minister of Defence, Shri Manohar Parrikar and Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (I/C) and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy. Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Rohit Nandan, Air Chief Marshal, Arup Raha and NSDC CEO, Mr. Jayant Krishna were also present on the occasion.

As part of the pilot project, these 56 retiring Air Force Personnel were mobilized to undergo training programs post mapping of their trades to National Occupational Standards. Sector Skill Councils provided them training as Trainers and Assessors in three sectors – medical, electronics and automotive, which was followed by their Assessment & Certification. The 3 pilot Institutions identified for these trainings were Mechanical Transport Training Institute, Electronics Training Institute and Medical Training Centre.

Congratulating the IAF on the success of this pilot, Shri Manohar Parrikar said, “There is a huge shortage of skilled workforce in the country. Skill development and identification is a huge focus for our Hon’ble Prime Minister and we together will ensure that we deliver to his vision. I thank my colleague Rajiv Pratap Rudy for recognising this opportunity where we can collaborate.”

“Our personnel are not only fighting for the security of the nation at the borders but will contribute in securing the economy of the nation as well. We are certain to accelerate this partnership in the next couple of years and not even one single ex-servicemen will have to worry about his career post retirement,” he further added.

Applauding the success, Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy said, “Every year 5,000 air warriors retire from the Indian Air Force who are between the ages of 32 to 47. There is a keen focus for utilising the services of these retirees as trainers and assessors in skill development ecosystem, considering the acute scarcity of experienced trainers in the country. Retired defence personnel with their discipline, leadership qualities and technically sound capacity are a great resource to fill this gap across sectors.”

“The Hon’ble Prime Minister himself has emphasised on the knowledge and experience that an armed force personnel has and how they should be utilised for nation building. Our efforts will be towards recognising and quantifying their skills to create opportunities equivalent to their current capacity, not only in India but internationally as well,” he added.

Shri Rudy also said, “Last year has been the year where we signed number of MoUs and partnered with various ministries and organisations. Today’s event is yet another milestone in seeing the implementation of the Skill India mission.”

National Skill Development Corporation has been working in this direction and has developed a model to roll out Skill Development courses on National Occupational Standards at the Services Training Establishments and Institutions through the existing setup of trainers, classrooms, laboratories, assessors etc.

NW/AD

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence celebrated National Technology Day, here today, which was organised by the Defence Science Forum.

Presiding over the function, Dr. G Athithan Distinguished Scientist & Chief Controller R&D (SAM), DRDO presented a road map on DRDO technology innovation. The occasion was also marked by a National Technology Day Oration, where Prof. VK Singh, eminent scientist (Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awardee) and Director IISER, Bhopal delivered a lecture titled ‘Role of Science Education and Technology for 'Make in India': Challenges’. National Technology Day signifies the glorious achievements of Indian science and technology. DRDO observes this day in all its laboratories/ establishments. Lectures by selected DRDO scientists, Open House Session, Quiz, etc. marked the occasion.

The day also saw release of a DRDO Technology Spectrum (compendium of innovative technological contributions/ methodologies of scientists). The function was attended by Directors, Scientists from DRDO Headquarters and Delhi based laboratories.

NAo/DM/RAJ

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is mandated towards design and development of strategic, complex and security sensitive systems for the Defence Forces. Over the past three years, DRDO has developed a number of products/systems which have either been inducted in the Defence Forces or in the process of trials/production/induction. Some of them are given below.

 

o   81 mm Anti Thermal Anti Laser Smoke Grenade

o   Active Antenna Array Unit

o   Air Defence Fire Control Radar

o   Airborne Early Warning & Control System

o   Akash Weapon Systems

o   Anti G Suit Mk-III

o   Aslesha Radar

o   Auto injector Atropine Sulphate

o   Bi Modular Charge System

o   Bomb 120 mm ILLG

o   Bomb 120 mm Mortar HE

o   Bomb 81 mm Mortar HE

o   Bomb 81 mm Mortar PWP

o   Bomb Mortar 51 mm HE Mk-II

o   Bomb Mortar 51 mm ILLG

o   Bomb Mortar 51 mm Smoke

o   Bomb Mortar 81 mm ILLG

o   Bridge Layer Tank T-72 (BLT-72)

o   Cartridge ERU for aircraft with Package

o   Cartridge Primary for 120 mm Mortar

o   Cartridge SA 5.56 mm Ball

o   Cartridge Signal 16 mm 1A

o   Cartridges 105 mm IFG NC

o   Cartridges 22” RF Ball

o   CBRNe Remotely Operated Vehicle

o   Chemical Agent Monitor

o   Coastal Surveillance Radar

o   Commander’s Thermal Imager for  T-90

o   Commander’s Thermal Imager for BMP Tanks

o   Commander’s Thermal Imager Mk-II for T-72

o   Communication Link Controller

o   Digital Radar Warning Receiver

o   Display Processor

o   E1 Link Encryptor

o   Electronic Support Measure (ESM), Varuna

o   EW Programme  - Samudrika

o   Explosive Detection Kit

o   Explosive Reactive Armour Mk-II

o   Fuze 213 Mk-V M2

o   Heavy Drop System

o   Helmet Mounted Thermal Imaging Camera

o   Holographic Sights for Small Weapons

o   Identification of Friend and Foe System

o   Integrated Multi-function Sight

o   Laser based Directed Energy System

o   Mine AP M16 and AP NM-14

o   Mission Computer

o   Mobile Autonomous Robotic System

o   Mountain Foot Bridge

o   NBC Canister

o   NBC Filter

o   Optical Target Locator

o   Personal Decontamination Kit

o   Phase Control Module

o   Pinaka Launcher Mk -II

o   Radar Computer I & II

o   Radar Warning Receiver

o   Resin based Combustible Cartridge Case for 120 mm FSAPDS Mk-II Ammunition

o   Revathi Radar

o   Rotating Telemetry System

o   Secure Adapter for Frame Relay Encryptor

o   Secure Multi Interface Link Encryptor

o   Shell 105 mm IFG BE Smoke

o   Shell 105 mm ILG Mk-I

o   Short Range Laser Dazzler

o   Three Colour Detector

o   Through Wall Imaging Radar

o   Weapon Locating Radar (WLR)

o   Wheeled Armoured Platform

o   X-Band Microwave Power Module

 

DRDO has designed and developed a large number of products/systems for Defence Forces. Many of the products, originally developed for Defence Forces, can also be used by CAPF’s and State Police Forces in addition to other agencies, like NDRF. DRDO has organised visits of CAPF’s to various laboratories/establishments to show case DRDO’s products and capabilities. MHA has shortlisted about 146 items for trials, out of which trials of 78 products have already been completed. Large number of products which can provide protection, day/night situational awareness and support/mobility have been identified for induction in to Services (MHA) after trials.

 

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar in a written reply to Shri KC Tyagi in Rajya Sabha today.

DM/NAMPI/RAJ

 

 

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the following :-

(a)  Shri Sanjay Awasthi, IRS (IT:1989) as Member Secretary, National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) under the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Human Resource Development from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Ms. R. Jaya, IAS (TN:1995).

(b)  Shri Ashok, IFS (UL:1983), Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, as Joint Secretary, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), Ministry of Tribal Affairs on lateral shift basis, from the date of assumption of the charge of the post upto his superannuation on 31.07.2017 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri Santosh Kumar IDAS (1990).

(c)  Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS (MH:1989), Joint Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, as Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs on lateral shift basis, from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of overall five year central deputation upto 19.01.2020 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri Ashok, IFS (UL:1983).

(d)  Ms. Anna Roy, IES (1992), Joint Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, as Adviser, Knowledge & Innovation Hub (KIH), NITI Aayog on lateral shift basis, from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of overall five year central deputation upto 31.10.2017 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, against an existing vacancy of Adviser (JS level), Knowledge & Innovation Hub (KIH) of NITI Aayog.

(e)  Shri Suchindra Mishra, IDAS(1992) as Joint Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, from the date of assumption of the charge of the post, on or after 09.06.2016, for a period of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS (MH:1989).

(f)   Shri Madnesh Kumar Mishra, IRS (IT:1990) as Joint Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Ms. Anna Roy, IES (1992).

(g)  Ms. Anju Nigam, 1PostalS (1988) as Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri Puneet Kansal, IAS (SK:1996).

 

(h)  Shri Arun Baroka, IAS (UT:1990) as Joint Secretary, Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri Saraswati Prasad, IAS (AM:1985).

(i)   Shri Sudhir K. Saxena, IPS (MP:1987) as Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home affairs from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri Shailesh IAS (AM:1985).

(j)   Shri R.K. Mitra, CSS(1998), Joint Secretary(in situ), Ministry of Home Affairs as Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home affairs from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period upto his superannuation on 31.03.2018 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri V. Vualnam, IAS (MN:1992).

(k)  Ms. Kalpana Awasthi, IAS (UP:1990), Joint Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion, Ministry of Commerce & Industry as Director General, National Productivity Council (NPC) under the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion, Ministry of Commerce & Industry by downgrading the post from AS to JS level for two years under CSS on lateral shift basis, from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of overall five year central deputation upto 13.12.2020 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri Harbhajan Singh, IAS (UP:1983).

(l)   Shri Jayant Sinha, IA&AS (1990) as Joint Secretary, Department of Defence, Ministry of Defence, on completion of his tenure in the Seventh Central Pay Commission, from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of overall five year central deputation upto 04.04.2019 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri Sanjeev Ranjan, IAS (TR:1985).

(m) Ms. Meenakshi Sharma, IA&AS (1988) as Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Ms. Usha Sharma, IAS (RJ:1985).

(n)  Shri Sanjeeb Kumar Patjoshi, IPS (KL:1991) as Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of combined seven year central deputation upto 25.06.2020 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri lqbal Singh Chahal, IAS (MH:1989).

(o)  Premature repatriation of Shri G Venugopal Reddy, IRSEE (1985), Joint Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment to his parent cadre with immediate effect.

(p)  Shri Rajiv Arora, IAS (HY:1987) Joint Secretary, NATGRID under the Ministry of Home Affairs as Joint Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment on lateral shift basis, from the date of assumption of the charge of the post for a period of overall five year central deputation upto 14.11.2017 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Shri G Venugopal Reddy, IRSEE (1985).

****

KSD/NK/PK/KM/SK

The National Defence College, New Delhi held a panel discussion on 22 April 2016 to discuss a soon to be released book ‘India’s Wars: A Military History 1947-1971’ written by one of its faculty members Air Vice Marshal Arjun Subramaniam. Opening the proceedings, the Commandant of NDC Lt Gen NS Ghei expressed his satisfaction that the NDC was emerging as a research and intellectual hub within the strategic domain. The eminent panel comprised veterans of all three services who were witness to and participated in the momentous wars that India fought in 1962, 1965 and 1971. Vice Admiral Subhash Chopra Lt Gen Satish Nambiar and Air Marshal Patney shared their perspectives of land, maritime and air operations during the period with an audience that comprised the NDC course participants, officers from the three service HQs and a few think tanks.

DM/RAJ

In a new initiative, the government has decided that as a mark of respect and to extend honour to the parents of the posthumous gallantry awardee, the mother/father of the awardee can accompany the Next of Kin (NoK) when she/he receives the award from the President of India during the Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The government’s new initiative was introduced during the Defence Investiture Ceremony (Phase-II) which was held at Durbar Hall in Rashtrapati Bhawan, here today. Out of 14 Gallantry awards presented at the ceremony, two Kirti Chakra and four Shaurya Chakra were conferred posthumously.

Accordingly, at the ceremony, Smt. Monalisha Borah Koch, wife of Constable Gautam Koch, Assam Armed Branch, was accompanied by his mother Smt. Putuli Koch and Smt. Nisha Devi, wife of Naib Subedar Rajesh Kumar of Mahar Regiment/30th Battalion, the Rashtriya Rifles was accompanied by his father Shri Rup Chand to receive the Kirti Chakra award from the President Shri Pranab Mukherjee. Similarly, in one case of Shaurya Chakra, Smt. Timu Devi, wife of Sepoy Dharma Ram of Mahar Regiment/1st Battalion, the Rashtriya Rifles was accompanied by his mother Smt. Amru Devi.

As per the dispensation till the last Investiture Ceremony, the NoK of the posthumous awardee alone received the award from the President. The new dispensation to honour the parents of the posthumous awardees was appreciated by one and all.

A total of 42 distinguished Service Awards namely, 13 Param Vishisht Seva Medals, two Uttam Yuddh Seva Medals, two Bar to Ati Vishisht Seva Medals and 25 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, which were announced on Republic Day – 2016 were also given to officers of the three Services during the function.

NW/NAo/MKT

The Army Commander’s Conference will be held from 25 April to 30 Apr 2016, in New Delhi to appraise current and emerging strategic security scenario, review of operational preparedness of the Indian Army and aspects pertaining to training, administration, military technology and force modernisation. Hon’ble Raksha Mantri will be addressing this high level Army Conference on 25 April at Manekshaw Convention Centre, Delhi Cantt. Subsequent to the address of the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, the Conference will be chaired by Gen Dalbir Singh, The Chief of the Army Staff. The VCOAS, all Army Commanders and other senior Army Officers will attend the conference. As part of the five day conference there will be a structured interaction with senior officials of the MoD including the Defence Secretary.

Col Rohan Anand, SM

PRO (Army)

In a demonstration of India’s commitment to maritime relations with countries in the Gulf, Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Tarkash and Deepak under the Command of the Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, Rear Admiral Ravneet Singh, NM have arrived at Dubai on a four day visit. INS Delhi is commanded by Capt Sandeep Singh Sandhu, INS Tarkash is commanded by Capt Pradeep Singh, NM and INS Deepak is commanded by Capt Sujit Kumar Chhetri.

During the visit, the crew of IN ships will undertake professional interactions with the UAE Navy towards enhancing co-operation between the two forces. In addition, calls on senior Government and military authorities, sporting and cultural interactions and sharing of best practices, aimed at strengthening mutual understanding between the two navies, are also planned. The visiting IN ships are also likely to conduct exercises with the UAE Navy.

Bilateral relations between India and UAE are characterised by strong bonds of friendship based on cultural and economic ties dating back to nearly 3000 BC. These have been further strengthened in recent times by a vibrant economic relationship and growing convergence on security issues. UAE is India’s second largest trading partner and Indians are the largest expatriate community in the UAE. The visit of Shri Narendra Modi, the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India to UAE in August 2015 heralded the beginning of a comprehensive strategic partnership, wherein both nations agreed to cooperate in maritime security and strengthen defence relations. Shri Manohar Parrikar, the Hon’ble Defence Minister of India is scheduled to visit UAE from 18 – 19 May 16.

Maritime cooperation between the two countries has increased steadily since the inaugural Navy-to-Navy Staff Talks in January 2007. Reciprocal port visits, high-level delegations and training exchanges have further bolstered naval cooperation between the two countries. IN ships last visited UAE in September 2015 wherein Delhi, Deepak, Trishul and Tabar berthed at Dubai. India and UAE are also members of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), a voluntary and co-operative initiative between 30 countries of the Indian Ocean Region, which has served as an ideal forum for sharing of information and cooperation on maritime issues. UAE hosted the 2010 edition of IONS at Abu Dhabi.

The current visit seeks to bolster the strong bonds of friendship between India and UAE and contribute to security and stability in this vital part of the Indian Ocean Region.

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DKS/CKP

32/16

A three day Naval Commanders’ Conference is scheduled to be held at New Delhi from 21 Apr 2016. The conference is being held in the wake of the very successful International Fleet review (IFR) held by the Navy at Visakhapatnam in Feb 2016, apart from a number of other notable operational activities such as the first Combined Commanders’ Conference on board Vikramaditya in Dec 15.

The Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral RK Dhowan will chair the conference to review various aspects involving operations, acquisition of assets, personnel and logistics issues. The conference (spread over three days) will primarily focus on reviewing the combat readiness and operational preparedness of the Navy including coastal security, to address the dynamic security challenges in the IOR.

Hon’ble Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar would address and interact with the Naval Commanders on the opening day of the conference. The conference will also provide an opportunity to the Naval Commanders’ to interact with MoD officials wherein relevant issues to further military synergy will be discussed.

During the conference, Naval Commanders’ will review the timelines for capital inductions of the Navy in consonance with the ‘Make in India’ initiative which is aligned with the Indian Navy’s guiding principles of self-reliance and indigenization. The major infrastructure upgrades of the Navy with special emphasis on Aviation assets will also be reviewed. The Commanders shall also delve on various aspects of the Navy’s roadmap for the future such as the key technology enablers, improving logistics and the numerous initiatives to further strengthen cyber security in the Navy.

An important focus issue of the conference would also be to review the numerous measures taken to improve the service and living conditions of sailors and civilian personnel. The year 2016 has been earmarked as the ‘Year of the Civilian Personnel’ and accordingly, schemes to improve quality of life and service conditions within the Navy will be reviewed during the conference.

DKS/CKP

Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting, Col. Rajyavardhan Rathore has participated in a live Facebook Q&A with the public and replied to questions fielded by people from different parts of the country. Emphasizing the need to stay connected, the Minister requested the citizens to interact with the government on Mygov.in and NaMo App on a regular basis, to send questions and topics to Prime Minister’s Mann Ki Baat, and to stay connected with all Ministers on their respective social media pages.

Sharing with the citizens Government’s vision on development and communication, Col. Rathore reiterated that the present government under the visionary leadership of Shri Narendra Modi strives to reach out to every individual through every means possible, to empower them with relevant information on Government policies and schemes, and to bring their feedback to the government to make schemes more effective.

During the one-hour interactive session which began at 9.30 in the night, Col. Rathore answered questions on various aspects of information and broadcasting, media ethics, crisis communication, public policy, Defence preparedness, border security, cyber threats, Olympics, skill development and employment generation. The Minister also received many suggestions and ideas from people on a wide variety of subjects during the live interaction.

At the end of the session, the Minister appeared Live on Facebook Video and thanked all the people who interacted with him. He also said that as it was an interesting and important means of reaching out and staying connected with the people, he would request other Ministers also to use social media platforms for similar real time interactions.

In his first Facebook Q&A, the Minister could answer 65 questions in English and Hindi out of a total of 1453 queries received during the hour-long session. Col. Rathore’s live video on Facebook received more than 12 thousand views and around 6 thousand likes within a short span of time.

The Q&A event was jointly organized by the social media team of Press Information Bureau, New Media Cell of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and Facebook. The entire Q&A event is accessible on the following link:

https://www.facebook.com/Rathore/posts/1783832128506184

CP/GV

The Union Home Secretary has convened a meeting, here today, of senior officials from Intelligence Bureau, Ministry of Defence, Central Armed Police Forces and the Ministry of Home Affairs to review the situation and assess the requirements of Jammu and Kashmir Government to bring the situation under control without any further loss of lives. It was decided to send additional Central Armed Police Forces to strengthen the security grid in the Kashmir Valley.

The Ministry of Home Affairs is in regular touch with senior officials of Government of J&K and has been monitoring the situation on a regular basis. MHA has assured full cooperation and support to the Government of J&K to ensure that there is no further loss of lives.

Furthermore, the development package announced by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi during his visit to Kashmir in November last year is being expeditiously implemented for the overall development of J&K, which will generate employment for the local youth and bring overall prosperity in the State.

The Central Government is concerned over the loss of human lives in J&K during the last four days.

***

KSD/BK