The Bharat Rakshak News Archive site is now online. Please pick your area of interest

 

Command Hospital (Eastern Command), Kolkata gets Raksha Mantri’s Trophy for Best Service Hospital

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
18-February-2016 15:57 IST

Command Hospital (Eastern Command), Kolkata gets Raksha Mantri’s Trophy for Best Service Hospital
The Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar presented the Raksha Mantri’s Trophy and citation for the Best and Second Best Service Hospital in the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) here today. The trophy for the Best Service Hospital went to Command Hospital (Eastern Command), Kolkata, which was received by its Commandant Major General TS Ahluwalia. The trophy for the Second Best Hospital was presented to INHS Asvini, Mumbai, which was received by its Commandant Surgeon Rear Admiral AA Pawar.

Speaking on the occasion, the Defence Minister praised the yeoman service being rendered by the AFMS over the years both in war and peace. He complimented all the members of Command Hospital (Eastern Command), Kolkata, INHS Asvini, Mumbai and the entire AFMS for their excellent work in provisioning of contemporary and comprehensive healthcare.

The Director General AFMS and Senior Colonel Commandant Lt Gen BK Chopra in his opening remarks highlighted the modernisation programme of the Medical Services and reassured that the AFMS is fully prepared to meet any challenge.

The Raksha Mantri’s Trophy was instituted in 1989 to create a healthy competition among the Command Hospitals of the Army and its equivalent hospitals in the Navy and Air Force. The Best and Second Best Hospital are adjudged on the basis of a number of objective criteria by a Committee headed by Director General Health Services (Armed Forces). The Joint Secretary (O/N), Ministry of Defence is also a member of the Committee.

The function was attended by all the three Service Chiefs, Defence Secretary and other senior officers from the Services and the Ministry of Defence.

NW/N Ao/Nampi/RAJ

Visit Of Indian Warships to Male, Maldives

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
14-February-2016 18:00 IST

Visit Of Indian Warships to Male, Maldives
Indian Naval ships Vikramaditya, Mysore and Deepak are scheduled to visit Male from 15 – 18 Feb 16 after participating in the International Fleet Review. The ships are part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet based at Mumbai.

INS Vikramaditya, one of the two aircraft carriers of the Indian Navy, is a state-of-the-art ship, capable of operating a versatile range of high-performance aircraft, such as the MiG 29K fighters, KM 31 AEW helicopters, multi-role Seakings and utility Chetaks. The ship is over 285 meters long and 60 meters wide. Her 23 decks scale a height of 60 meters. She is accompanied by indigenously constructed INS Mysore, a frontline missile destroyer and INS Deepak, the Fleet Tanker.

During the visit, the warships will have professional interactions with the MNDF for further enhancing the close co-operation between the two forces. In addition, a number of sports and social engagements, aimed at strengthening ties and mutual understanding between the two Navies, are also planned.

The Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, Rear Admiral Ravneet Singh, NM, is flying his flag onboard the Vikramaditya. INS Vikramaditya is commanded by Captain Krishna Swaminathan, INS Mysore is commanded by Capt M Paul Samuel and INS Deepak is commanded by Capt Sujit Kumar Chhetri.

India and Maldives are close maritime neighbours with strong and extremely cordial defence and diplomatic relations. The Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard, in conjunction with MNDF, regularly undertake surveillance in the Maldivian EEZ. The current visit highlights the importance accorded by India to bilateral relations with Maldives and seeks to strengthen the existing bonds between the two countries.

DKS/CKP

One Rank One Pension (OROP) implementation tables issued

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
03-February-2016 18:45 IST

One Rank One Pension (OROP) implementation tables issued
The Government of India had taken the historic decision to implement OROP in November, 2015. This fulfilled the long standing demand of the Defence Forces personnel after 42 years and benefited over 18 lakh ex-servicemen and war widows.

In pursuance of the order issued on 07/11/2015, detailed instructions alongwith OROP Tables have been issued today.

• The annual recurring financial implication on account of implementation of OROP at the current rate will be approximately Rs. 7500 crore.

• The arrears from 01/07/2014 to 31/12/2015 would be approximately Rs. 10,900 crore.

• 86 percent of the total expenditure on account of OROP will benefit the JCOs/ORs.

• Payment of arrears and revision of pension under OROP is to be made by the Pension Disbursing Authorities in four installments, except for family pensioners and pensioners in receipt of gallantry awards who will be paid arrears in one installment.

• The total increase in the Defence Budget for pensions is estimated to go up from Rs. 54,000 crore (BE 2015-16) to around Rs. 65,000 crore (proposed BE 2016-17), thereby increasing the Defence Pension Outlay by about 20 percent.

NW

AIR VICE MARSHAL RD MATHUR PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF AIR MARSHAL

 

 

Air Vice Marshal Rajiv Dayal Mathur  who had been Assistant Chief of Air Staff in charge of the Indian Air Force's Air Warfare Strategy Cell besides its space,  cyber,  Air Traffic Services and Media &  Public Relations Directorates,  promoted to the rank of Air Marshal on 15 Feb 16  Commissioned into the Fighter stream of the Indian Air Force in June 1982, the officer has over 5,000 hours of flying experience in a variety of operational and training roles.  He had earlier served as Air Defence commander at Ho Eastern Air Command and commanded a frontline Air Force Station and a Fighter aircraft squadron. 

 

 

Air Marshal RD Mathur has undergone post-graduate courses at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and the National Defence College, New Delhi, and holds M.Sc and M Phil degrees in Defence and Strategic Studies from Madras University

 

For his meritorious service, he has been awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2003 and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2014 by the President of India.


Air Mshl RD Mathur

Shri Kiren Rijiju addresses the All India Regional Editors Conference at Jaipur

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Home Affairs
02-February-2016 18:49 IST

Shri Kiren Rijiju addresses the All India Regional Editors Conference at Jaipur
The Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju addressed the All India Regional Editors Conference at Jaipur today. He shared with the regional editors the initiatives taken by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Disaster Management.

India is the largest country both in terms of size and population in South Asia Region. Due to this vast size there is high diversity in terms of physiography, climate, socio-economic and culture in the country. These factors make the country rank high in terms of reported number of disasters and risk to natural hazards. Keeping in view the vulnerability of India to various disasters, the Government has brought about a change in the approach to disaster management. The change is from a relief-centric to a holistic and integrated approach covering the entire gamut of disaster management encompassing prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, relief, reconstruction and rehabilitation. Following recent initiatives of the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding disaster management were shared by the Minister with the regional editors:

• The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) which was set up to provide immediate response in case of disasters, is being strengthened further both in terms state-of-the-art training and equipment, has emerged as a professional response force. NDRF is not only doing a stupendous job in addressing national disasters but responding to disasters in the region and beyond. India helped during Japan Earthquake in 2011 in disaster response. India envisages a bigger role in capacity building in the Asia-Pacific region and looking forward to build sustained regional and international partnerships under the Sendai Framework 2015-2030.

• As a part of institutional strengthening, the Government of India has constituted the NDRF Academy by merging the National Fire Service College (NFSC), Nagpur and National Civil Defence College, (NCDC), Nagpur. The NDRF Academy would provide advanced search & rescue training to personnel of Fire Service, NDRF and State Disaster Response Force. Headed by an officer in the rank of Inspector General (Training), the academy shall function under the overall guidance and control of MHA.

• The Government of India with the approval of Home Minister has approved the constitution of Disaster Response Medal for the personnel of NDRF, who have served NDRF for at least three years. This initiative is to motivate and strengthen the morale of the primary responders of the NDRF who work in the most hazardous situations. Since inception, NDRF lost 9 rescuers in different operations while trying to save the victims.

• The Government of India is firmly committed and is making consistent efforts to promote regional cooperation in the field of Disaster Risk Reduction. India hosted the SAARC Disaster Management Centre which worked upto Dec 2015 towards putting in place a comprehensive regional disaster management framework to reduce disaster risks and promoting knowledge sharing among the SAARC countries. India has plans to further strengthen this Centre.

• The SAARC Agreement on Rapid Response to Natural Disasters signed on 11th November, 2011, institutionalizes the regional cooperation on disaster response among the member countries. It provides a mechanism for rapid response to disasters to achieve substantial reduction of disaster losses in lives and in the social, economic and environmental damages through concerted national efforts and intensified regional cooperation. Besides rapid response, the Agreement requires the incumbent member countries to organise periodic mock drills/forums in rotation, wherein other Member States be invited to test the effectiveness of regional preparedness for response. Accordingly, the SADMEX 2015 was organized in Nov. 2015 by the NDRF in Delhi. The joint exercise addressed the important aspect of responding to disasters by pooling of resources and expertise and the imperative of presenting a well-coordinated response to disasters situation in any of the SAARC countries.

• India has made proactive response measures to address some of the major crisis in the region. In December 2014, when the Maldivian capital faced an acute water crisis after a fire in the city's water treatment plant, India sent an Indian Air Force transport aircraft and naval vessels carrying a large consignment of water to meet the immediate requirement of over 100,000 people.

• In a major rescue mission in April 2015 in Yemen, India evacuated about 4640 Indian nationals and nearly 960 foreign citizens of 32 countries when the country was facing the civil war like situation. During that mission, Indian Air Force and Navy were deployed.

• In July, 2015, twelve Regions and States of Myanmar have been severely affected by Cyclone Komen, which has led to widespread floods and landslides in that country. Around 250,000 people have been affected and over 500,000 acres of farmland destroyed. Government of India was specifically requested by the Government of Myanmar to send emergency supplies of rice and medicines by air to locations that are currently hard to reach through other means. In response, India had dispatched about 100-tonne load of rice and noodles and 10 tones of medicines were dispatched emergency relief supplies to Myanmar.

• In the wake of devastating earthquake in Nepal, the National Disaster Response Force was deployed within 5 hours, assisting Nepalese Government in their rescue and relief operations. Government of India provided relief materials like food, water, medicines, tents, blankets, tarpaulin amounting to about Rs.327 crores. Further, besides technical assistance, India has further committed USD 2 billion to Nepal for rebuilding Nepal.

• The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), in Hyderabad, provides early warning not only to India, but also to 28 countries in the Indian Ocean Rim.

• The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, on 6th August, 2015 in recognition of their areas of academic and administrative research, education and training in disaster management has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU will lead to enhanced academic cooperation between the institutions for establishment of a Centre for Excellence in Disaster Research and Resilience Building at JNU promoting research, capacity building and manpower development within a multi-disciplinary framework.

• In an effort to demystify the Sendai Framework for Action, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a set of priority actions to the all the State Governments. This set of guidelines is as per the goals, targets and priorities of Sendai Framework 2015-2030.

• India in pursuit of its commitment towards Sendai Framework for substantial reduction of disaster risk in the Asian region, would be hosting the First Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction in 14-17 November, 2016. The intended outcome of the conference is to develop a ‘Regional Action Plan for implementation of the Sendai Framework’. A dedicated Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR) Secretariat with adequate physical and man power resources has been set in the Ministry of Home Affairs to undertake various activities pertaining to all preparatory work of the First AMCDRR. A dedicated electronic mail id has been created i.e., This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for doing all correspondence pertaining to AMCDRR. The website and logo have been developed and launched during Asia Leadership Meeting in Nov, 2015.

• The Asia Leaders’ Meeting towards Implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction in Asia was organized by Government of India on November 17, 2015 in New Delhi. The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Kiran Rijiju, Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ms. Margareta Whalstrom, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General for Disaster Risk Reduction. The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh also graced the occasion. The meeting was attended by about 120 key dignitaries and senior ministers from the nations of China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mongolia, South Korea, and Thailand;, delegates from various countries and international organisations, and officials of Government of India and the State Governments. The aim of the meeting was to bring together Ministers from the countries that have hosted previous Asian Ministerial Conferences on Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR) to set a future policy direction towards implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015-2030 in Asia. During the meeting, the Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju was recognized as a ‘Champion for Disaster Risk Reduction’ for a series of policy decisions to strengthen disaster risk governance and partnerships in education, disaster preparedness and response in his country. The Asia Leaders Meeting was followed by second ISDR Asia Partnership (IAP) meeting, a key regional platform providing necessary consultations and technical support to implement the SFDRR 2015-2030. The focus of the meeting was to collectively set the policy direction for the implementation of SFDRR in Asia and discuss substantive preparations of the first AMCDRR, post Sendai Framework, which is scheduled to be held in India in Nov. 2016.

Shri Kiren Rijiju also interacted with the editors and answered various queries and issues raised by the editors at the Jaipur conference.

****

KSD/NK/KM

Prime Minister’s Speech at Inauguration of Make in India Week, Mumbai

His Excellency,  the Prime Minister of Sweden;

His Excellency, the Prime Minister of Finland;

His Excellency, the First Deputy Prime Minister of Poland;

Ministers,  Excellencies and Dignitaries  from other countries;   

Governor of Maharashtra;

Chief Minister of Maharashtra;

Minister of State for Commerce and Industry;

Invitees,  Industry Leaders, Ladies and Gentlemen! 

I am delighted  to be part of the celebrations  of the “Make in India Week.”  I welcome you all  to Mumbai,  the commercial capital of India.  I particularly welcome  our friends from abroad  and thank them  for their active participation.  I thank  the Government of Maharashtra  for hosting this event.  I also thank  other States  for their active participation.

Friends!

When I look back  at the launch  of the Make in India initiative  over a year ago,  I also recall  the aspirations  of our youth. 65 per cent  of the population of India  is under the age of 35. This youthful energy  is our greatest strength.

We launched  the Make in India campaign  to create employment  and self-employment opportunities  for our youth.  We are working aggressively towards making India  a Global Manufacturing Hub.  We want  the share of manufacturing  in our GDP  to go up to 25 per cent  in the near future.  

We were also aware that under the pressure of this campaign, the government machinery will be required to make  a number of corrections  on the policy front.  

We are committed  to make India  an easy place to do business.  

We want to present  to the world  the enormous opportunities  that India offers  as a base for manufacturing,  design,  research  and development.  

Make in India week  is an opportunity  to take stock  of how we have performed.  And what could be  the road ahead.  

This event will show-case  different aspects of the progress  that we have made.  This is the biggest  multi-sectoral event  and exhibition  ever held in India.  I encourage all of you  to see for yourselves  the direction that India is taking.

Let me take this opportunity  to share my thoughts.

In a year’s time,  Make in India has become  the biggest brand  that India has ever created.  Both within  and outside the country,  it has captured the imagination of people,  institutions,  industries,  media  and the political leadership.  

This is because:

·         It reflects  our collective desire  to engage in productive activities;

·         It also reflects  the global need  to produce things  at lower cost.

·         It is forcing us  to make corrections  and increase efficiency;  

·         It has emboldened us  to integrate with the world  on equal terms.   

Let me give you  some concrete examples  of what we have done:  

Today,  India is perhaps  the most open country for FDI.  Most of the FDI sectors  have been put  on automatic approval route.  

Our FDI inflows  have gone up by 48 per cent  since the day my Government came into office.  In fact,  FDI inflow in December, 2015  was the highest ever  in this country.  This is,  at a time,  when global FDI  has fallen substantially.

We have carried out  a number of corrections  on the taxation front.  We have said  that we will not resort  to retrospective taxation.  And I repeat this commitment  once again.  We are also  swiftly working towards  making our tax regime  transparent,  stable  and predictable.  

We have laid  all round emphasis  on Ease of Doing Business.  In the manufacturing sector,  we have taken decisive steps  to simplify processes  and rationalize provisions.  This includes licensing,  cross-border trade,  security  and environmental clearances.  We have announced  attractive schemes  in several sectors  including electronics and textiles.

We have made  substantial policy corrections  in the defence sector.  From licensing to offset regime  and export regime,  we have given what the defence industry was looking for.  

Smooth and transparent allocation of natural resources  is another example.  The advantages from this  are two-fold:  On one hand  the production  of such resources  has gone up.  On the other hand,  the transparent regime  that we have established  provides a level playing field  among users and stake-holders.  

This year,  we will record  the highest ever coal production.  Also,  2015 was the year  when India’s highest ever generation  of electricity was recorded.

On the issue  of safety of properties and rights,  we have already enacted a law  for fast tracking  of arbitration proceedings.  We are establishing  dedicated Commercial Courts  and Commercial Divisions  in High Courts.  The formation of the Company Law Tribunal is at the final stage.  

Soon  we shall be putting in place  an effective IPR Policy  and patent regime.  We hope to pass  the bankruptcy law  which has been tabled in Parliament.

Hence,  on the front of policy and procedure,  we have made  our systems cleaner,  simpler,  pro-active  and business friendly.  

I believe  in Minimum Government and Maximum Governance.  Therefore,  almost on a daily basis,  we are trying  to remove the bottlenecks   that were affecting investments and growth.

It is good to see  that changes and corrections  are taking place  not just  at the level of the Federal Government  but also at the state level.  States are now  in healthy competition  to provide ease of business  and infrastructure linkages.

The results  have been encouraging.

India has become  the fastest growing large economy  in the world.  We will end  this fiscal year  with well over seven per cent  growth in GDP.  IMF,  World Bank,  OECD,  ADB  and other institutions  have projected  even better growth  in the coming days.  

In 2014-15,  India contributed  12.5 per cent of global growth.  Its contribution to global growth  is 68 per cent higher  than its share  of the world economy.

Let me also mention  some other indicators:

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

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

·         India has improved  its UNCTAD ranking  of investment attractiveness, from fifteenth,  to ninth.

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

·         Moody’s has upgraded  the rating of India  as positive.

The momentum  of the Make in India campaign  has given us confidence.  It motivates us  to make  our policies and processes  easier and friendlier.

With this background,  I invite  and encourage you  to make India your work place;  and also your home.

Friends!

We are particularly keen  to scale up investments  in next generation infrastructure.  This includes  roads,  ports,  railways,  airports,  telecom,  digital networks  and clean energy.  

We are also investing  in our social,  industrial  and agricultural infrastructure  to give better income  and quality of life  to our people.  

So far,  it was our implementation capacity  that was the biggest bottleneck.  We have speeded up processes.  The result  is faster turn-around of projects.  India’s highest ever kilometers  of new highway contracts awarded  was in 2015.

Similarly,  the increase in railway capital expenditure  was the highest this year.  

Thus,  whether it is physical  or social infrastructure;  we are executing it  much more efficiently  than ever before.

Another bottleneck was financing.  To enhance financing,  we are trying innovative ways.  We are opening up  our Greenfield and Brownfield projects  for Public Private Partnership.  With strong fiscal discipline,  and by plugging leakages,  we are trying to provide more resources  for infrastructure.  

We have also set up  the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund.  We have come up  with the mechanism of Tax Free Infrastructure Bonds  for projects in rail,  road  and irrigation sectors.  We are working  with a number of countries,  financial markets  and funds  on these financial instruments.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

India is a land  of immense opportunities.  Fifty of our cities  are ready  for setting up Metro Rail Systems.  We have to build  fifty million houses.  The requirement of road,  rail  and waterways  is enormous.  There is no time  for incremental changes.   We want a quantum jump. 

We have also decided  to do this  in a cleaner and greener way.  That is why,  we have made a commitment  to the world community  at the recent COP-21 meeting in Paris.  Hence,  we are going for renewable energy  in a big way  - 175 Gigawatts.  

I lay great stress  on zero defect  and zero effect manufacturing.  We place high emphasis on energy efficiency,  water re-cycling, waste to energy,  clean India  and river cleaning.  These initiatives  are directed at improving  quality of life  in cities and villages.  These initiatives provide you  additional avenues for investment  in technologies,  services  and human resources.

Friends!

India is blessed  with three Ds.  These are:  Democracy,  Demography  and Demand.  To this, we have added the fourth D  that is Deregulation.  Today’s India  is this four dimensional India.  

Our judicial systems  are independent and time tested.  

You will not find  all these elements  in any other country.  

With these strengths,  India offers you  a solid platform  to test and launch  your making  and designing capabilities.  In addition,  our maritime location  makes it easy  to market products  in several other continents.

We are trying  to further enable  and harness this vast potential  with path-breaking initiatives.  Campaigns like Digital India  and Skill India  have been designed  to prepare people  to take part in this process.  We have launched  financing schemes  which are dedicated  to promote entrepreneurship.  We are giving loans  through MUDRA Bank  without any collateral.  I have also  impressed upon the Banks  to particularly finance  young entrepreneurs  belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Tribes  as well as women entrepreneurs.

·         Only this  will realize  the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi  who wanted industries  to be run in Villages and Cottages.

·         Only this  will realize  the dreams of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar  who advocated the need  to move surplus labour  from agriculture  to other occupations.  

We are soon  going to  strengthen this process further  under the banner of Stand-up India.  

I feel that  today,  our domestic industry and investors  are feeling much more confident  and optimistic  in spite of an uncertain global situation.  

When we started  the Make in India campaign,  manufacturing growth in the country  was 1.7 per cent.  This year  it has improved substantially. In the current quarter,  manufacturing growth  is expected be  around 12.6 per cent.

·         The composite PMI output index  has climbed to an eleven month high  of 53.3 per cent  in January 2016.

·         The total number  of investment proposals  during the last eight months  is higher by 27 per cent.

·         We have recorded  the highest ever production  of motor vehicles  in 2015.

·         As many as  fifty new mobile phone factories  were set up in the country  during past ten months.

·         Electronic manufacturing  has grown six-fold  to 18 million.

·         159 Electronic System Design and Manufacturing units,  popularly known as ESDM units  were established  in India in 2015.

·         As per estimates of certain agencies,  the Indian job market  is now on a strong footing.  For example,  the Monster Employment Index for India  stood at 229 in January 2016  which is up by 52 per cent  over January of last year.

Similarly,  on the trade front:

·         India’s highest ever software exports  were recorded in 2015.

·         Also in 2015,  our major ports handled  the highest ever quantity of cargo.

These are very good signs.  I would like  to give our industry  some friendly advice.  Don’t wait.  Don’t Relax.  There are immense opportunities  in India.  You should take advantage  of the renewed interest  of Global Players  to work in India.  Many of them  are looking for technological  and financial collaborations with Indian partners.  This includes high-tech sectors  and high-value areas  like defence production.  I assure you  that if you take one step;  we will walk two steps for you.

In a competitive world  improving managerial and technological capacity  is essential for survival  and growth.  From space shuttles  to pollution control;  from health to education;  from agriculture to services;  our young entrepreneurs and start-ups are showing us  newer and faster ways  for enterprise and delivery.  My Government is committed  to support them  and tap their energy fully.  We want our youth  to become job creators  rather than job seekers.  That is why,  we have launched  the Start up India Campaign.

We are keen  to find ways in which:

·         Our minds  are able to empower the hands;

·         Our hands  are able to master the machines;

·         Our machines  are able to make the best;

·         Our products  are able to beat the rest.

 

Make in India  is a drive to fulfillunmet demands  of the common man.  It is also an effort  to engage and empower  the unemployed.  I also emphasize  on Make for India;  so that human and sectoral needs  can be fulfilled.  I have heard  several global companies  talk about  their localization plans.  Thus,  this campaign  has the capacity  to boost the Indian economy  and also brighten  the global scenario.

Friends!

I have been saying  that this century  is Asia’s century.  My advice to you  is to Make India your center;  if you want this century  to be your century.  I invite everyone sitting here  and also those not here,  to be a part of India’s unfolding story.  

·         This is the best time ever  to be in India;

·         And it is even better  to Make in India.  

Thank You !

***

Gen Dalbir Singh, The chief of Army staff presents awards to participants of Army Day Parade 2016

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
01-February-2016 17:30 IST

Gen Dalbir Singh, The chief of Army staff presents awards to participants of Army Day Parade 2016
An Awards Ceremony was organized by the Indian Army today at South Block, New Delhi to felicitate the Best Contingents and Bands which had participated in the Army Day Parade held on 15 Jan 2016. Gen Dalbir Singh, the COAS complimented the participants for putting up an impressive parade.

The COAS gave away trophies for the Best Marching Contingent of the Army Day Parade to The Assam Regiment Contingent , Best Military Band to the Parachute Regimental Centre Military Band, Best Quarter Guard to Garhwal Rifle Regimental Centre Quarter Guard and the Best Pipes & Drums Band to 14 Gorkha Training Centre Pipes & Drums Band.

Col Rohan Anand, SM
PRO (Army)

Make in India Week in Mumbai

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
13-February-2016 17:53 IST

Make in India Week in Mumbai

Bilateral talks with Sweden, Finland and Poland

After inaugurating the Make in India Centre Expo in Mumbai today, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with the Prime Ministers of Sweden and Finland and Deputy Prime Minister of Poland.

In his talks with his Swedish counterpart Mr.Stefan Lofven, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi lauded Sweden as a significant participant under the Make in India initiative. He invited Swedish companies to forge partnerships in the fields of defence, electronic goods, medical equipment etc.

During his interaction with the Finnish Prime Minister Mr. Juha Sipila, Shri Narendra Modi invited Finland’s active participation in engineering, power plants, biotech and innovation. Putting technology to good use, the two Prime Ministers tele-inaugurated the new state-of-the-art manufacturing unit of Trivitron Healthcare in Chennai.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi recalled long association of his home state Gujarat with Poland through Jamnagar during his bilateral talks with the Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Piotr Glinski. Shri Modi discussed areas of cooperation in food processing, clean energy and transportation sectors.

***

AKT/SH

India enjoys close relations with Brunei and Thailand: Vice President

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Vice President's Secretariat
01-February-2016 17:45 IST

India enjoys close relations with Brunei and Thailand: Vice President

Departs for a 5-day visit to Brunei and Thailand from today

The Vice President, Shri Hamid Ansari has said that India enjoys close and cordial relations with Brunei and Thailand. He was addressing a Press Conference on board the Air India Special Aircraft to Brunei and Thailand for a 5-day visit, today. The Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Haribhai Parathibhai Chaudhary is also accompanying the Vice President.

The Vice President outlined the history of recent bilateral exchanges with Brunei, and mentioned that the country had been the coordinator for India under the ASEAN framework. India's close economic ties were based on the purchase of crude oil and natural gas, and that India was actively exploring the possibility of partnership in the natural gas sector through setting up a fertilizer factory in Brunei, he added. The Vice President said that signing of Memoranda of Understanding with Brunei on Defence, Health and Youth Affairs and Sports was also on the cards. This will be the first ever visit by an Indian Vice President to Brunei, he added.

Touching upon the importance of India's relations with Thailand, the Vice President mentioned that wide ranging cooperation in counter-terrorism, Defense, and investment indicated the substantial nature of our ties. He noted the support that Thai authorities had extended in repatriating wanted individuals to India. Responding to a question on Defence cooperation, the Vice President mentioned that Thailand and India enjoyed a maritime boundary and that our cooperation in the field was significant. He also expressed satisfaction at the continued engagement between both sides on the counter-terrorism front.

Responding to a question on the rise of IS activities in ASEAN Countries, the Vice President highlighted the danger of an ideology that sought to achieve a political objective through terrorism. The threat of Terrorism, he said, required to be met with the most stringent response.

***

KSD/BK

President of India inaugurates Rashtrapati Bhavan’s annual “Udyanotsav”

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
President's Secretariat
11-February-2016 17:13 IST

President of India inaugurates Rashtrapati Bhavan’s annual “Udyanotsav”
The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the annual “Udyanotsav” of the Rashtrapati Bhavan (opening of Mughal Gardens) today (February 11, 2016).

The Mughal Gardens will remain open for general public from February 12 to March 19, 2016 (except on Mondays which are maintenance days) between 0930 hrs to 1600 hrs. Members of the public will also be able to visit the Spiritual Garden, Herbal Garden, Bonsai Garden and Musical Garden.

Entry and exit for the general public will be from Gate No. 35 of the President’s Estate, close to where North Avenue meets Rashtrapati Bhavan. Visitors are requested not to bring any water bottles, briefcases, handbags/ladies purses, cameras, radios/transistors, boxes, umbrellas, eatables etc. Such articles, if any, will have to be deposited at the entry point.

The Mughal Gardens will be open exclusively on March 20 to special category of visitors viz farmers, differently abled persons, defence/para-military forces and Delhi Police personnel from 0930 hrs. to 1600 hrs. This entry and exit will also be through Gate No. 35.

The Tactile Garden will be open for visually impaired people on March 20 from 1100 hrs. to 1600 hrs. Entry and exit will be from Gate No. 12, situated on Church Road (next to the North Avenue).

*****

AKT/NT/SBP

Government to Invest Rs 175 Crore for Enhancing the Competitiveness of Indian Capital Goods Sector

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises
01-February-2016 17:24 IST

Government to Invest Rs 175 Crore for Enhancing the Competitiveness of Indian Capital Goods Sector
Government of India, today approved five projects leading to further enhancement in the competitiveness of the Indian Capital Goods Sector and giving impetus to the Make in India campaign of the Prime Minister. The Government support in form of grant of about Rs. 175 crore will be given from a scheme of the Department of Heavy Industry titled ‟Enhancement of Global Competitiveness of Indian Capital Goods Sector”. Launched in November, 2014, the scheme has an outlay of Rs 975 crore including grant component of Rs 580 crore.

The first project relates to a joint venture between Government of India and Government of Karnataka. Under this, 500 acres of land has been earmarked for the first of its kind Integrated Machine Tools Park to be set up near the Japanese park in NMIZ, Tumkur. The project cost of Rs 421 crore will be partially met from the Government of India grant support of Rs 125 crore. The Government support will enable raising quality of industrial infrastructure to global levels. The park will house 117 machine tools units. When implemented fully, the park is expected to double Indian turnover of machine tools to Rs.9000 crore, with matching saving in imports/ forex. More than one lac jobs in primary and secondary manufacturing sectors as well as in commercial/ administrative arena will be created. The uniqueness of the park is the global class of industrial infrastructure in plug and play model. A number of MSME as well as start up will also come up in the space reserved for them. The initiative is expected to serve as an example and role model for global level industrial facilities amidst centre-state cooperation. A major constraint faced by the industry relating to low quality industrial infrastructure, will thus be over.

The second project relates to setting up a welding technology Centre of Excellence in PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore. In order to give fillip to the quality and numbers of welding professionals required for ‘Make in India’, PSG has proposed to set up a modern welding technology centre of excellence in collaboration with major stake holders like Welding Research Institute, Manufacturers of welding equipment/ products and FICCI etc. The Centre of Excellence will support Indian manufacturers by proving latest technologies developed by the Centre for home -made welding machine tools, consumables and locally trained manpower particularly in high-end welding jobs required by strategic sectors. The total budget excluding land and building (to be provided by PSG) is estimated to be Rs.26.7 crore. Out of this, the government will provide Rs.21.10 crore and the rest will be provided by the industry and the institute.

The third approval has been given to HMT Machine Tools Limited, a PSU, which pioneered setting up and growth of machine tool industry in India. HMT is modernizing its product portfolio through this proposal by manufacturing latest lathe and turning mill centre. For this, they are collaborating with M/s Fraunhofer of Germany, the leading industrial technology development institute of the world. As a result, HMT will be in a position to supply most modern and latest range of machines to Railways, Defence, Shipping, Aviation and Aerospace etc. A grant of Rs. 1.54 crores will be given to the company. This will be the first step by the company towards technology modernization.

The fourth proposal is from HEC, Ranchi – a central PSU in the area of manufacture of heavy engineering equipment. Set up with USSR collaboration, HEC remains the premier PSU making heavy engineering equipment, with few parallels in the world. Under the present approval, HEC has collaborated with Messrs CNIITMASH – a Russian government Industrial Technology Research Institute. The importance of the collaboration is in the fact that after several decades, closely held and strategically significant technologies will again flow to the public sector in India. The proposal is for imparting training to 1350 engineers in three years in the latest technologies relating to electro slag re-melting, welding, gear box manufacturing and non-destructive testing. The project size is envisaged at Rs 50 crores, out of which the Government component will be Rs.30 crores, which will be given to the Russian institute for their knowledge support in creating the four training centers. HEC will sign MoU with other stake holders units and run nine courses for the benefit of Indian manufacturing sector. Once implemented, the trained persons will be involved in manufacturing steel, welding, gear box and NDT saving crores of precious foreign exchange.

ST/Samir/jk

47TH Conference of Governors convened by the President concludes in Rashtrapati Bhavan

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
President's Secretariat
10-February-2016 19:27 IST

47TH Conference of Governors convened by the President concludes in Rashtrapati Bhavan
The 47th Conference of Governors concluded today (February 10, 2016) at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

In his concluding remarks, the President reiterated that all Governors have been charged with an onerous responsibility - to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution. It is, therefore, imperative that all their actions are within the framework of the Constitution and conform to the highest ideals enshrined in this living document. He said as holders of high offices they must not only be fair but also be seen to be fair.

The President said the Governors of eastern states, specially the North Eastern states, should become active participants of the Government’s ‘Act East’ policy. Connectivity of the North Eastern States must be improved by strengthening the road and rail network. There is need for a progressive policy for industrial investment and promotion in the hilly and mountainous states. The entire North-East and the Northern region of the country is highly vulnerable to seismic disturbances. The building codes and regulatory mechanisms for new construction have to be enforced strictly. It needs to be ensured that disaster management procedures are in place and regular drills are conducted.

The President said laudable initiatives taken by some Governors should be replicated in other states. As Chancellors/ Visitors of universities at the state level, Governors can play a proactive role in driving quality higher education. Governors could also examine the possibility of conducting In-residence programmes in Raj Bhavans on the lines of what is organized at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The President said strong monitoring, rigorous follow-up, and validation of progress are essential for the success of the Swachh Bharat Mission. Governors, as the live-link between the centre and the states, can catalyze initiatives. Governors may take up smart solutions in their Raj Bhavans which can serve as technology demonstrators. They may also ask the universities to make use of the Unnat Bharat Abhiyaan for developing smart villages. Governors can also sensitize states/ UTs about adopting a well-knit strategy to achieve the objectives of the Make-in-India programme.

Vice President Mohd. Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed the concluding session.

The two day Conference had as its agenda- (a) Security- Internal and External with special focus on terrorism and insurgency activities; (b) Creating jobs for youths: special focus on skill development for school dropouts; (c) Implementation of flagship programmes of the Government like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Housing for all by 2022 and Smart Cities; (d) Improving quality of Higher Education; (e) Giving impetus to “Make in India” programme and employability and (f) Act East Policy and development of North Eastern Region.

The Conference was attended by Twenty-three Governors and two Lt. Governors. Union Ministers for Home Affairs, External Affairs, Finance, Urban Development, Defence, Human Resource Development; Minister of State (I/C) of Ministry of Labour and Employment; Minister of State (I/C) Commerce and Industry; Minister of State (I/C) of Development of North Eastern Region; Minister of State (I/C) of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog and National Security Advisor addressed the gathering.

***

AKT/SH/VK

Former COAS Gen KV Krishna Rao Cremated with Full Military Honours

 

              The mortal remains of Gen KV Krishna Rao (Retired), Ex Chief of Army Staff (COAS) were cremated with full military honours  at Brar Square, Delhi Cantt, today. He passed away in Military Hospital in New Delhi on 30 Jan 2016.

 

The honorable President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee in his message stated, “Heartfelt condolences on the passing away of General KV Krishna Rao, former COAS. His exemplary services to the nation and the Army will always be remembered”. The honorable Raksha Mantri Shri Manohar Parrikar condoled the passing away of the General Rao, stating “The country has lost one of our best known military leaders. He was a visionary who led ably, inspired a generation of soldiers and initiated modernization of Indian Army in the early 1980’s. His contribution in the 1971 War and maintaining the unity and integrity of the country shall always be remembered”. General Dalbir Singh, the COAS laid a floral wreath to pay tribute to General KV Krishna Rao and expressed his deepest condolences to the family of the former Chief. He stated that “Gen KV Krishna Rao was a soldier statesman who inspired a generation of soldiers and will continue to do so even after his demise”.

 

         General KV Krishna Rao had an illustrious career spanning over four decades in the Indian Army. He served in Burma, North West Frontier and Baluchistan during the Second World War, participated in the 1947-48 war against Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir and was a founder Instructor of the National Defence Academy during 1949-51. He commanded an Infantry Division in the Jammu Region during 1969-70 and a Mountain Division engaged in Counter Insurgency Operations in Nagaland and Manipur during 1970-72. During this period his Division also participated in the 1971 India Pakistan War in Eastern Theatre and was instrumental in capture of the Sylhet Area and liberation of North East Bangladesh. General Krishna Rao commanded a Corps in the Jammu Region from 1974-78 and the Western Army Command during 1979-81. Post his tenure as 14th COAS of Indian Army, he also served as the  Governor of the North Eastern States of Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura from 1984-1989, as also of Mizoram. Later, General Krishna Rao was appointed as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir during 1989-90 and  reappointed from 1993-1998.

 

        Wreaths were laid on mortal remains on behalf of the honorable President of India and the Raksha Mantri. Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh, Minister of State External Affairs and former COAS Gen VK Singh, former Army Chiefs (General VN Sharma, General NC Vij, General Deepak Kapoor and General Bikram Singh), representatives of Chief of Naval Staff and Air Staff, representative of Government of Manipur and a host of serving and retired fraternity of Army were present on the occasion as a mark of respect to the former army Chief. 

 

 

 

 

 

Col  Rohan  Anand, SM

PRO (Army)

Medical Bulletin of Lance Naik Hanamanthappa as at 1600 Hrs on 10 Feb 2016

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
10-February-2016 18:14 IST

Medical Bulletin of Lance Naik Hanamanthappa as at 1600 Hrs on 10 Feb 2016
Braveheart Lance Naik Hanamanthappa was reviewed by the treating team of Army Hospital (R&R) comprising of Critical Care specialists, HoD Dept of Medicine, Senior Nephrologist and the Senior Neurologist and a panel of experts from AIIMS New Delhi.

The entire team was in agreement with the management that the patient had undergone till now, and concurred with the future plan of management for him. He continues to remain extremely critical with evidence of oxygen deprivation to the brain on CT scan. There is evidence of pneumonia in both lungs. His multi-organ dysfunction state continues unabated. His condition has deteriorated despite aggressive therapy and supportive care.

Col Rohan Anand, SM PRO (Army)

Vice Admiral Sunil Lanba Takes Over Western Naval Command

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
31-January-2016 13:58 IST

Vice Admiral Sunil Lanba Takes Over Western Naval Command
Vice Admiral Sunil Lanba took over the reins of Western Naval Command (WNC) as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) on 31 January 2016 from Vice Admiral SPS Cheema at a ceremonial parade held at INS Shikra. Later in the day, officers of the Western Naval Command accorded Vice Admiral Cheema a warm send off, with the traditional ‘Pulling Out’ ceremony. Vice Admiral SPS Cheema retires today, after completing nearly four decades of service to the nation and the Navy.

Calling the personnel on parade as his 'ship mates', Vice Admiral SPS Cheema expressed his gratitude to all personnel of the command for their support and their dedicated efforts in functioning of the command. Recounting his expanse of service he said that he has seen many changes in the Indian Navy in terms of technology, quality of man power and resources. He was however indeed very glad that the spirit of enthusiasm, ability to face all odds and above all a deep sense of patriotism has not changed among the men in uniform.

Vice Admiral Lanba, a specialist in Navigation and Direction and an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College, has very rich operational and staff experience over a career spanning more than three decades. He has served as Navigating Officer of INS Sindhudurg (Corvette) and INS Dunagiri (Frigate). During his illustrious service he commanded four frontline warships namely, INS Kakinada (Minesweeper), INS Himgiri (Frigate), INS Ranvijay and INS Mumbai (Destroyers). He is also an alumnus of the College of Defence Management, Secunderabad, where he also served as the faculty.

He has also held important staff assignments such as Fleet Operations Officer of the Western Fleet and Chief of Staff, Southern and Eastern Naval Commands. He has also been the Flag Officer Sea Training, Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra and Gujarat Naval Area, Commandant, National Defence College and Vice Chief of Naval Staff. He was Commander-in-chief of the Southern Naval Command at Kochi, prior to being appointed to head the premier operational Command of the Indian Navy.

Vice Admiral Lanba is a recipient of the Param Vishist Seva Medal and the Athi Vishist Seva Medal for distinguished service of an exceptionally high order.

Mrs Reena Lanba who will now preside over the Navy Wives Welfare Association (Western Region) is a qualified teacher and a home maker.

*****

RS/NV MB/14/16

Additional charge of DG, Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Home Affairs
09-February-2016 18:12 IST

Additional charge of DG, Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards
Consequent upon retirement on superannuation of Shri Banshidhar Sharma, IPS (WB:80), DG, SSB on 31.01.2016 (held additional charge of the post of DG, FSCD&HG), the competent authority in the Ministry of Home Affairs has approved that Smt. Archana Ramasundaram, IPS (TN:80), DG, SSB will hold the additional charge of the post of Director General, Fire Service, Civil Defence & Home Guards with immediate effect and till the appointment and joining of successor.

*****

KSD/PK/KM/RS/sk

Defence Minister Condoles the Demise of General KV Krishna Rao

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
30-January-2016 17:24 IST

Defence Minister Condoles the Demise of General KV Krishna Rao
The Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar has expressed his condolences on the passing away of the former Chief of Army Staff General KV Krishna Rao in New Delhi today. In his message, Shri Parrikar said “in the passing away of General KV Krishna Rao, the country has lost one of its best known military leaders. He was a visionary who led ably, inspired a generation of soldiers and initiated modernization of the Indian Army in the early 1980s. His contribution in the 1971 war and maintaining the unity and integrity of the country shall always be remembered”.

General Krishna Rao was appointed as Chief of Army Staff on 01 June 1981 and served in that capacity till July 1983. He was also Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, the highest appointment in the Services, during March 1982 to July 1983. From June 1984 to July 1989, General Krishna Rao was the Governor of the North Eastern States of Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura. He was also the Governor of Mizoram in June 1988 and March to July 1989. Later, General Krishna Rao was appointed as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir during 1989-90. When a Proxy War developed in Jammu and Kashmir and reached its peak, he was reappointed as Governor and served there from March 1993 to May 1998. In this capacity, he was instrumental in restoring peace and democracy in the insurgency-riven State.

Nitin/N. Ao

Significant progress made towards improving ease of doing construction business in urban areas

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Urban Development
09-February-2016 18:33 IST

Significant progress made towards improving ease of doing construction business in urban areas
Applications to AAI for height clearences in airport zones reduced by 200 per month further to CCZM

Colour Coded Zonal Maps to be developed for Defence airports used for civilian purposes also

Online approvals for construction near monuments in 72 hours

Revised National Building Code to be notified in two weeks

States and urban local bodies to be empowered to approve building plans in quick time

5 Ministers and 7 concerned Secretaries review progress

Considerable progress has been reported towards enhancing the’ ease of doing of construction business’ in urban areas by streamlining the procedures, adoption of appropriate technology and by empowering urban local bodies to accord a wide range of approvals. Progress in this regard was reviewed at a high level meeting convened by the Minister of Urban Development and Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu here today.

Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar, Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ashok Gajapati Raju, Minister of Environment, Forests & Climate Change Shri Prakash Javdekar and Minister of Tourism & Culture Dr.Mahesh Sharma also participated in the review meeting. Secretaries of respective Ministries besides those of Urban Development, Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation and Consumer Affairs besides senior officials from Prime Minister’s Office and Cabinet Secretariat too attended the hour long review.

It was informed in the meeting that Colour Coded Zonal Maps (CCZM) for 28 defence airports being used for civilian purposes will be developed for easy sanction of height clearences on the lines of what is being done for civilian airports. To begin with CCZMs will be evolved for four such airports viz., Pune, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Bagdogra by April, 2016. Ministry of Civil Aviation will assist in this regard. Such CCZMs will be shared with municipal bodies for according height clearences.

Works of Defence Act, 1903 will be suitably amended to remove hurdles for construction activities near defence establishments. Distance from the actual storage point will be considered for restricting the construction instead of from the boundary wall of ammunition storage dumps at present, which will bring down the zone of restriction. Instructions have been issued to Service Headquarters and Headquarters of all defence organisations for sharing information along with maps of restricted zones to municipal bodies.

Area Commanders will be required to decide in 30 days on clearing constructions in restricted zones failing which approvals would be taken as deemed.

Ministry of Civil Aviation has reported that applications received by the Airports Authority of India for height clearnces in airport zones have come down by over 200 per month further to development of CCZMs for 12 airports that account for 58% of total such applications and making them available to respective urban local bodies. These airports are : Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Amritsar, Bengaluru, Nagpur and Chennai. CCZM for Jaipur airport has been recently completed.

CCZMs for 9 more airports viz., Patna, Bhubaneswar, Ranchi, Aurangabad, Surat, Vijayawada, Thiruvananthapuram and Puducherry will be developed by June,2016 and for the remaining 14 major airports by December,2016. This will enable respective urban local bodies accord height clearences in respect of almost all cases, doing away with the need to approach AAI for the same.

Ministry of Civil Aviation also commissioned improved version of online NOCAS (No Objection Certificate Application System) eliminating human interface and enabling faster issue of NOC through automatic calculations of permissible heights in airport zones with applicants being able to track the status.

Ministry of Culture has come out with a mobile based app that enables online approvals for construction in the vicinity of monuments in just 72 hours through integration of websites of National Monument Authority and those of respective urban local bodies. Time taken at present is about 90 days.

Prime Minister’s Office desired that integration of websites of National Monument Authority and those of Delhi and Mumbai be completed by March this year.

In association with ISRO, Ministry of Culture is developing colour coded maps for 281 monuments that account for most of the construction related approvals using which municipal bodies can accord approvals in quick time.

Ministry of Consumer Affairs has completed revision of National Building Code enabling speedy building approvals and the same will be notified in the next two weeks.

Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change has come out with revised and simplified environmental norms and the same will be notified at the earliest after consultations with the Ministry of Urban Development. Urban local bodies and state governments will be empowered to accord approvals at their level based on their willingness and ability.

Ministry of Urban Development will soon issue Model Building Byelaws incorporating all revised and simplified norms and processes enabling urban local bodies to approve building plans in quick time there by enhancing the ease of doing construction business in urban areas.

Shri Venkaiah Naidu thanked all concerned ministers and senior officials for their enthusiastic response towards enhancing the ease of doing business.

AAR/

First Revised Estimates of National Income,

                                                                                  

 

 

 

The Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has released the First Revised Estimates of National Income, Consumption Expenditure, Saving and Capital Formation for the financial year 2014-15 (with Base Year 2011-12) as per the revised policy. Second Revised Estimates of the years 2011-12 to 2013-14 (with Base Year 2011-12) have also been released as per the calendar of revision of base year.

2.         The First Revised Estimates for the year 2014-15 have been compiled using industry-wise/institution-wise detailed information instead of the benchmark-indicator method used at the time of release of Provisional Estimates on 29th May, 2015. The estimates of GDP and other aggregates for the years 2011-12 to 2013-14 have also undergone revision due to use of latest available data on agricultural production; industrial production especially those based on the provisional results of Annual Survey of Industries (ASI): 2013-14, final results of ASI: 2012-13 and revised results of ASI: 2011-12; government expenditure (replacing Revised Estimates with Actuals for the year 2013-14) and also more comprehensive data available from various source agencies and State Directorates of Economics and Statistics.

3.         The salient features of the estimates at aggregate level are indicated below:

Gross Domestic Product

 

4.         Nominal GDP or GDP at current prices for the year 2014-15 is estimated as Rs. 124.88 lakh crore while that for the year 2013-14 is estimated as Rs. 112.73 lakh crore, exhibiting a growth of 10.8 per cent during 2014-15 as against 13.3 per cent during 2013-14.

 

5.         Real GDP or GDP at constant (2011-12) prices for the years 2014-15 and 2013-14 stands at Rs.105.52 lakh crore and Rs. 98.39 lakh crore, respectively, showing growth of 7.2 per cent during 2014-15, and 6.6 per cent during 2013-14.

 


 

Industry-wise Analysis

 

6.         The changes in the Gross Value Added (GVA) at basic prices in different sectors of the economy at current and constant (2011-12) prices are presented in Statements 4.1 and 4.2 respectively. At the aggregate level, nominal GVA at basic prices increased by 10.5 per cent during 2014-15, as against 12.7 per cent during 2013-14. In terms of real GVA, i.e., GVA at constant (2011-12) basic prices, there has been a growth of 7.1 per cent in 2014-15, as against growth of 6.3 per cent in 2013-14.

 

7.         The shares of different sectors of economy in the overall GVA during 2011-12 to 2014-15 and corresponding annual growth rates are mentioned below:

 

Sector

Percentage share in GVA at current prices

Percentage change in GVA at constant (2011-12) prices over the previous year

2011-12

2012-13

2013-14

2014-15

2012-13

2013-14

2014-15

Primary

21.75

21.35

21.18

20.04

1.2

4.0

1.3

Secondary

29.28

28.63

27.96

27.36

4.0

5.3

5.4

Tertiary

48.97

50.02

50.86

52.60

8.1

7.8

10.3

All

100.00

100.00

100.00

100.00

5.4

6.3

7.1

 

Aggregate GVA (Rs. in lakh crore)

 

at current prices

at constant prices

Total

81.07

92.10

103.81

114.72

85.47

90.84

97.27

 

8.         The growth in real GVA at during 2014-15 has been higher than that in 2013-14 mainly due to higher growth in ‘mining and quarrying’ (10.8%), ‘electricity, gas, water supply & other utility services’ (8.0%), ‘trade, repair, hotels & restaurants’ (10.7 %), ‘financial services’ (7.9%), ‘public administration and defence’ (9.8%), and ‘other services’ (11.4%), as may be seen from Statement 4.2. At constant prices, in the primary sector (comprising agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining & quarrying), ‘agriculture, forestry & fishing’ has shown a decline of 0.2 per cent while ‘mining and quarrying’ increased by 10.8 per cent during 2014-15 as against the growth of 4.2 and 3.0 per cent, respectively during the year 2013-14. The growth of secondary sector (comprising manufacturing, electricity, gas, water supply & other utility services, and construction) is 5.4 per cent and that of tertiary (services) sector is 10.3 per cent during 2014-15, as against a growth of 5.3 per cent and 7.8 per cent, respectively, in the previous year.

 

Net National Income

9.         Nominal Net National Income (NNI) at current prices for the year 2014-15 stands at Rs. 110.08 lakh crore as against Rs. 99.34 lakh crore in 2013-14, showing an increase of 10.8 per cent during 2014-15 as against an increase of 13.2 per cent in the previous year.

 

Gross National Disposable Income

10.       Gross National Disposable Income (GNDI) at current prices is estimated as Rs. 127.46 lakh crore for the year 2014-15, while the estimate for the year 2013-14 stands at Rs. 115.29 lakh crore, showing a growth of 10.6 per cent as against 13.2 per cent in the year 2013-14.

 

Saving

11.       Gross Saving during 2014-15 is estimated as Rs. 41.17 lakh crore as against Rs. 37.25 lakh crore during 2013-14. Rate of Gross Saving to GNDI for the year 2014-15 is estimated as 32.3 per cent, the same as in 2013-14.

 

12.       The highest contributor to the Gross Saving is the household sector, with a share of 57.8 per cent in the year 2014-15. However, the share has declined from 63.4 per cent in 2013-14 to 57.8 in 2014-15. This decline can be attributed to the decline in household savings in physical assets, which has declined from Rs. 14.61 lakh crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 13.79 lakh crore in 2014-15. On the other hand, the share of Non-Financial Corporations has increased from 32.7 per cent in 2013-14 to 37.2 per cent in 2014-15. The share of Financial Corporations increased marginally from 7.9 per cent in 2013-14 to 8.2 per cent in 2014-15, while the dis-saving of General Government has decreased from 4.0 per cent in 2013-14 to 3.2 per cent in 2014-15.

 

Capital Formation

13.       Gross Capital Formation (GCF) at current and constant prices is estimated by two approaches – (i) through flow of funds, derived as Gross Saving plus net capital inflow from abroad; and (ii) by the commodity flow approach, derived by the type of assets. The estimates of GCF through the flow of funds approach are treated as the firmer estimates, and the difference between the two approaches is taken as “errors and omissions”. However, GCF by industry of use and by institutional sectors does not include “valuables”, and therefore, these estimates are lower than the estimates available from commodity flow approach.

 

14.       Gross Capital Formation (GCF) at current prices is estimated as Rs.42.76 lakh crore for the year 2014-15 as compared to Rs. 39.12 lakh crore during 2013-14. The rate of GCF to GDP declined from 34.7 per cent during 2013-14 to 34.2 per cent in the year 2014-15. The rate of GCF excluding valuables to GDP stands at 33.3 per cent and 32.7 per cent for the years 2013-14 and 2014-15 respectively. The rate of capital formation in the years 2011-12 to 2014-15 has been higher than the rate of saving because of net capital inflow from Rest of the World (ROW).

 

15.       In terms of the share to the total GCF (at current prices), the highest contributor is Non-Financial Corporations, with the share rising steadily from 45.7 per cent in 2011-12 to 52.0 per cent in 2014-15 (Statement 9). Share of household sector in GCF is also significant, but has declined from 43.4 per cent in 2011-12 to 33.9 per cent in 2014-15. The share of General Government in GCF has increased from 9.6 per cent in 2011-12 to 12.9 per cent in 2014-15.

 

16.       Within the Gross Capital Formation at current prices, the Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) amounted to Rs. 38.44 lakh crore in 2014-15 as against Rs. 35.64 lakh crore in 2013-14.  The rate of GFCF to GDP at current prices was 30.8 per cent in 2014-15 as compared to 31.6 per cent in 2013-14. The change in stocks of inventories, at current prices, increased from Rs. 1.80 lakh crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 2.21 lakh crore in 2014-15, while the valuables increased from Rs. 1.63 lakh crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 1.93 lakh crore in 2014-15.

 

17.       The rate of Gross Capital Formation to GDP at constant (2011-12) prices has decreased marginally from 36.2 per cent in 2013-14 to 35.9 per cent in 2014-15.

 

Consumption Expenditure

18.       Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) at current prices is estimated at Rs. 71.93 lakh crore for the year 2014-15 as against Rs. 65.08 lakh crore in 2013-14. In relation to GDP, the rates of PFCE at current prices during 2013-14 and 2014-15 are estimated at 57.7 per cent and 57.6 per cent respectively.

 

19.       At constant (2011-12) prices, the PFCE is estimated as Rs. 55.20 lakh crore and Rs. 58.64 lakh crore, respectively for the years 2013-14 and 2014-15 respectively. The corresponding rates of PFCE to GDP for the years 2013-14 and 2014-15 are 56.1 per cent and 55.6 per cent respectively.

 

20.       Government Final Consumption Expenditure (GFCE) at current prices is estimated as Rs. 13.65 lakh crore for the year 2014-15 as against Rs.11.53 lakh crore during 2013-14. At constant (2011-12) prices, the estimates of GFCE for the years 2013-14 and 2014-15 stand at Rs.9.77 lakh crore and Rs.11.03 lakh crore respectively.

 

Estimates at per capita level

21.       Per Capita Income, i.e., Per Capita Net National Income at current prices, is estimated as Rs.79,412 and Rs. 86,879 respectively for the years 2013-14 and 2014-15.  Correspondingly, Per Capita PFCE at current prices, for the years 2013-14 and 2014-15 is estimated at Rs. 52,022 and Rs.56,772 respectively.

 

22.       More details of these estimates are available in Statements 1-9 appended with this Press Note.

 

Summary of Revision in the GDP Estimates

23.       The use of latest available data from various agencies and company-wise revalidation of the industry-wise and institution-wise (public/private) classification of companies in the MCA21 database have resulted in some changes in both the levels of GVA and growth estimates for all the years. The reasons for revision in the estimates of the years 2011-12 to 2013-14, released on 30.01.2015 and the Second Revised Estimates are mentioned in the Annexure.

 

Revision in the estimates of 2014-15:

24.       The following statement gives the major reasons for variation between the Provisional Estimates (released in May 2015) and the First Revised Estimates of GVA for 2014-15.


 



Sector

GVA growth in 2014-15

Major reasons for  variation

Prov. Estimate, May 2015

First Revised Estimate,

Jan 2016

Primary

0.6

1.3

Revision in estimates of production of some crops, livestock products, fish and forestry products; and use of annual financial reports of public & private sector companies, in place of IIP in the case of ‘mining & quarrying’.

Secondary

6.5

5.4

Actual analysis of financial reports of a larger sample of public & private sector companies instead of key financial indicators derived from advance filings of a small sample of Companies used earlier.

Tertiary

10.2

10.3

Use of Revised Estimates of sales tax and other items in central & state government budget documents instead of Budget Estimates; and replacement of key financial indicators derived from advance filings of a small sample of Companies with actual analysis of financial reports of a larger sample of public & private sector companies.

Total

7.2

7.1

 

 

 

Upcoming Releases

25.       The upcoming releases on GDP are indicated below:

        i.            Advance Estimates for the year 2015-16, along with quarterly estimates for Q1, Q2 and Q3 of 2015-16 on February 8, 2016; and

      ii.            Provisional Estimates for the year 2015-16, along with estimates for all the four quarters of the year on May 31, 2016.

 

 

*****************

 


 

 

1.     List of Statements

1.      Statement 1.1: Key aggregates of national accounts at current prices

2.      Statement 1.2: Key aggregates of national accounts at constant (2011-12) prices

3.      Statement 2: Per Capita Income, Product and Final Consumption

4.      Statement 3.1: Output by economic activity and Capital Formation by industry of use at current prices

5.      Statement 3.2: Output by economic activity and Capital Formation by industry of use at constant (2011-12) prices

6.      Statement 4.1: Gross Value Added by economic activity at current basic prices

7.      Statement 4.2: Gross Value Added by economic activity at constant (2011-12) basic prices

8.      Statement 5: Finances for Gross Capital Formation

9.      Statement 6.1: Gross Capital Formation by industry of use at current prices

10.  Statement 6.2: Gross Capital Formation by industry of use at constant (2011-12) prices

11.  Statement 7.1: Gross Fixed Capital Formation by asset & institutional sector at current prices

12.  Statement 7.2: Gross Fixed Capital Formation by asset & institutional sector at constant (2011-12) prices

13.  Statement 8.1: Private Final Consumption Expenditure at Current Prices

14.  Statement 8.2: Private Final Consumption Expenditure at Constant (2011-12) Prices

15.  Statement 9: Institutional Sectors – Key economic indicators at current prices

Annexure: Reasons for revision in the estimates of the years 2011-12 to 2013-14


 

NOTES ON THE STATEMENTS

ACRONYMS USED IN THE PRESS RELEASE

CE:      Compensation of Employees

CFC:    Consumption of Fixed Capital

CIS:     Changes in Stock

GCF:    Gross Capital Formation

GDI:    Gross Disposable Income

GDP:    Gross Domestic Product

GFCE:  Government Final Consumption Expenditure

GFCF: Gross Fixed Capital Formation

GNDI: Gross National Disposable Income

GNI:    Gross National Income

GVA:   Gross Value Added

MI:       Mixed Income

NDP:    Net Domestic Product

NNDI:Net National Disposable Income
NNI:    Net National Income

OS:      Operating Surplus

PFCE: Private Final Consumption Expenditure

ROW: Rest of the World

 

FORMULAE

1.      GVA at basic prices = CE + OS/MI + CFC + Production taxes less Production subsidies

2.      GDP = ∑ GVA at basic prices + Product taxes - Product subsidies

3.      NDP/NNI = GDP/GNI - CFC

4.      GNI = GDP + Net primary income from ROW (Receipts less payments)

5.      Primary Incomes = CE + Property and Entrepreneurial Income

6.      NNDI =NNI + other current transfers from ROW, net (Receipts less payments)

7.      GNDI = NNDI + CFC = GNI + other current transfers from ROW, net (Receipts less payments)

8.      Gross Capital Formation= Gross Savings+ Net Capital Inflow from ROW

9.      GCF = GFCF + CIS + Valuables + “Errors and Omissions”

10.  Gross Disposable Income of Govt. = GFCE + Gross Saving of General Government

11.  Gross Disposable Income (GDI) of Households = GNDI – GDI of Govt. – Gross Savings of All Corporations

 

REMARKS ON THE FORMULAE:

1.      Production taxes or subsidies are paid or received with relation to production and are independent of the volume of actual production. Some examples are:

Production Taxes - Land Revenues, Stamps and Registration fees and Tax on profession

Production Subsidies - Subsidies to Railways, Subsidies to village and small industries

2.   Product taxes or subsidies are paid or received on per unit of product. Some examples are:

Product Taxes: Excise Tax, Sales tax, Service Tax and Import and Export duties

Product Subsidies: Food, Petroleum and fertilizer subsidies

7.   Other Current Transfers refers to current transfers other than the primary incomes

8.   Estimate of GCF derived from this formula is taken as the “firmer” estimate and the difference between this estimate and the sum of GFCF, CIS and valuables is taken as “errors and omissions”, as referred in 9 above.


Annexure

REASONS FOR REVISION IN THE ESTIMATES OF THE YEARS 2011-12 TO 2013-14

 

Revision in major aggregates

 

The level of revisions in the major aggregates at current prices is given in the following table:

Changes at the aggregate level

 

 

 

 

(Amount in Rs. lakh crore)

S.No.

Item

(at current prices)

2011-12

2012-13

2013-14

Old

New

%  change

Old

New

%  change

Old

New

%  change

1

GVA at basic prices

81.96

81.07

-1.1

92.52

92.10

-0.5

104.77

103.81

-0.9

2

GDP

88.32

87.36

-1.1

99.89

99.51

-0.4

113.45

112.73

-0.6

3

GNI

87.55

86.59

-1.1

98.72

98.35

-0.4

112.05

111.33

-0.6

4

NNI

78.47

77.42

-1.3

88.42

87.75

-0.8

100.57

99.34

-1.2

5

GNDI

90.60

89.64

-1.1

102.22

101.85

-0.4

116.01

115.29

-0.6

 

The reasons for revision in GVA/GDP are as under:

 

Base Year 2011-12

·         Revision in the results of Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), 2011-12

·         Use of separate scaling factors for ‘Public Limited Companies’ and ‘Private Limited Companies’ in the MCA21 database, instead of a common scaling factor used earlier. (This method applies to the subsequent years as well)

 

Year 2012-13

·         Use of final results of ASI, 2012-13 in place of provisional results

·         Use of updated information on local bodies and autonomous institutions

 

Year 2013-14

·         Use of updated information on production & prices of agricultural commodities

·         Use of provisional results of ASI, 2013-14

·         Replacement of ‘Revised Estimates’ of different items of expenditure and receipts in the central & state government budgets by ‘Actuals’

·         Use of updated information on local bodies & autonomous institutions

·         Use of updated MCA21 database received from the Ministry of Company Affairs

 

Click here to see PDF Version with Statements:

 

********************************

Text of PM's address at International Fleet Review 2016

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
07-February-2016 19:05 IST

Text of PM's address at International Fleet Review 2016

Honourable Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Chief Ministers

My Cabinet colleagues;

Delegates of Foreign Navies;

Brave and proud men and women of the Indian Navy; and

The resolute people of this great city- Visakhapatnam.

I am privileged to visit Visakhapatnam. The city has a special place in the heart of all Indians.

My last visit to Vishakhapatnam was in October of 2014.

At that time, Cyclone Hudhud had left the city shattered in pieces.

But, the people of Vishakhapatnam smiled in the face of adversity.

It is a tribute to the city that within 14 months, you have risen against all odds to welcome the Navies from across the continents in this International Fleet Review.

A little over a year ago, we saw the full fury of the ocean. Today, thanks to the spirit of the people of Visakhapatnam, we are discussing how the oceans can be a source of economic prosperity for all of us.

For its courage and resolve, we all salute the city of Visakhapatnam.

My profuse thanks to the men and women of the Indian Navy for their tireless dedication for making this Fleet Review a truly historic success.

My sincere gratitude also to Chief Minister Chandrababu Naiduji for his strong support for this international event.

For me personally, witnessing the harmony among the best of International Navies here has been a rewarding experience.

Just over three months earlier in October, we welcomed in Delhi, for the first time ever, all the 54 African nations, including over 40 Heads of State for the 3rd India-Africa Summit.

A few weeks earlier in August 2015, India had hosted in Jaipur 14 Heads of the State for the Second Forum for India-Pacific Island Cooperation.

Just day before yesterday, we welcomed all the SAARC countries for the 12th South Asian Games in Guwahati.

And today it is our pleasure to welcome 50 foreign Navies from every corner of the globe at India's second International Fleet review- the first one on India's East Coast.

Your participation is a message of cooperation and friendship that we deeply cherish.

On behalf of my countrymen, I thank you all for accepting our invitation and joining in this event with such spirit.

To build on the gains from today's gathering, India would host the first ever Global Maritime Summit in April this year.

Its priority would be to scale up and strengthen the vibrant trade / investment / technology and commercial linkages between India and other maritime nations.

Friends,

The oceans and world’s waterways are global commons. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam– the concept of whole world as a family – is perhaps most vividly witnessed on the oceans of the planet, that connect us all.

The last time India hosted the International Fleet Review was in the year 2001, in the city of Mumbai.

The world of 2016 is vastly different.

Its politics is turbulent, and its challenges complex.

At the same time, the oceans are the lifelines of global prosperity. They present us with great economic opportunities to build our nations.

Over 90% of global merchandise trade is carried on the oceans.

Over the last 15 years, its value has grown from about 6 trillion dollars to about 20 trillion dollars.

Oceans are critical for the global energy security as over 60% of world’s oil production moves through sea routes.

Our ability to reap economic benefits from the oceans rests on our capacity to respond to the challenges in the maritime domain.

The threat of sea borne terror, of which India has been a direct victim, continues to endanger the regional and global peace and stability.

Piracy too remains a strong challenge.

The threat of natural disasters like tsunamis and cyclones is ever present.

Manmade problems such as oil spills, climate change continue to risk the stability of the maritime domain.

A peaceful and stable maritime environment is, therefore, critical for the regional and global security. It is also a must to harvest the riches of the oceanic ecosystems.

Given the scale and complexity of modern day challenges, the international maritime stability cannot be the preserve of a single nation.

It has to be a shared goal and responsibility of all the seafaring countries.

To this end, the Navies and maritime agencies of the world need to work together, and engineer virtuous cycles of cooperation.

But, where necessary, they also need to act to secure the international sea lanes of communication.

I believe that if oceans were to propel our economies, then we must:

• Use seas to build peace, friendship and trust, and curb conflict;

• respect and ensure freedom of navigation; and

• cooperate, not compete in responding to the challenges in the seas.

The large presence of foreign Navies at this Fleet Review is a confirmation of our shared urge to walk the pathways of peace and cooperation to keep the maritime domain safe and secure.

Friends,

India is, and has always been, a maritime nation.

India's ancient Sanskrit texts also refer to the oceans as the storehouse of Chaturdashanam Ratnanam, the 14 gems.

Surrounded by sea from three sides, India has a long coastline of over 7500 kilometres.

We have been blessed with a rich maritime heritage ever since .Lothal in Gujarat became one of the earliest sea ports of the world.

India’s central location in the Indian Ocean has connected us with other cultures, shaped our maritime trade routes, influenced India’s strategic thought, and defined our maritime character.

Since the days of the Indus Valley Civilization, India has maintained an extensive network of maritime links, including with Africa, Western Asia, the Mediterranean region, the West, South East Asia and the Far East.

We are delighted that the Navies from all these regions have joined in this Fleet Review.

The Photo Essay book on the ‘Maritime Heritage of India’, that I have just released, showcases this glorious maritime tradition.

Friends,

In moderntimes too, the oceans, especially the Indian Ocean, occupy a vital place in India’s national security and economic prosperity.The waters of the Indian Ocean touch the shores of over 40 countries.

About half of world's container traffic; and close to one-third of world's cargo traffic passes through this region.

90% of our trade by volume and 90% of our oil imports are carried on the seas.

India’s 1200 island territories, and our huge Exclusive Economic Zone of 2.4 million square kilometers makes clear the economic significance of the Indian Ocean.

For us, it also serves as a strategic bridge with the nations in our immediate and extended maritime neighbourhood.

In March last year, in Mauritius,I had spelt out our vision for the Indian Ocean.

The Indian Ocean Region is one of my foremost policy priorities. Our approach is evident in our vision of “Sagar”, which means “Ocean” and stands for – Security And Growth for All in the Region.

We would continue to actively pursue and promote our geo-political, strategic and economic interests on the seas, in particular the Indian Ocean.

To this end, India's modern and multi-dimensional Navy leads from the front. It is a force for peace and good.

A network of growing political and economic maritime partnerships, and strengthening of regional frameworksalso helps us pursue our goals.

Friends,

India’s quest for economic prosperity through oceans is a part of our larger efforts to transform India.

We are not just a bright spot in the global economy. Regionally and internationally, we are a pillar of stability and an important growth centre.

India's rise is in harmony with the goal of maintaining the regional and global peace and security.

Within the country, there is great optimism, enthusiasm and a “can do” mindset.

This optimism comes from the energy and enterprise of our confident youth.

It also comes from our bold and sustained measures to transform our country, improve our laws, processes and institutions.

We are launching new initiatives and creating opportunities to empower people, and give them a sense of ownership in nation's progress.

“Make in India”
Defence manufacturing and ship building are among its focus areas.

In a week from now, on 13 February, we would hold 7 days of global engagement under "Make in India" in Mumbai.

During this time, the best in the global industry would link up with the innovation, design and manufacturing opportunities of India- the world's fastest growing economy.

We want to invite the world to Make in India, Make for India, and Make for the World.

We take pride in the fact that of all the Indian Naval ships participating in this Fleet Review, at least 37 are “Made in India” – a number that will surely rise in the coming years.

Our “Skill India” program is building institutions that train, support, encourage and guide our 800 million youth on the path of entrepreneurship.

Our skilled youth are ready to respond to the national and global manpower demands of the 21st century.

An important part of India’s transformation is my vision of “Blue Economy”
The Blue Chakra – or the wheel – in our National Flag, represents the potential of the Blue Economy.

An essential part of this pursuit is the development of India's coastal and island territories: but, not just for tourism.

We want to build new pillars of economic activity in the coastal areas and in linked hinterlands through sustainable tapping of oceanic resources.

Strengthening our marine research, development of eco-friendly, marine industrial and technology base, and fisheries are other elements of our goal.

In this endeavour, I see youth in the coastal areas as our true assets. They have a natural and deep understanding of the Oceans.

They could lead the way in the development of blue economy in India.

In partnership with all the coastal states of India, I want to shape a special program of skilling India's youth in the coastal areas of the country.

Friends,

In the end, let me once again congratulate the Indian Navy for the flawless conduct of this grand event.

For the homeward journey of all our Naval friends from across the world, may you always have fair winds, following seas, and many a fathom below your keel.

Thank You.

Jai Hind!

*****

AKT/AK

Curtain Raiser – Beating the Retreat 2016

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
28-January-2016 18:44 IST

Curtain Raiser – Beating the Retreat 2016
This year for the first time bands from the State Police and Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) will perform at the ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony here tomorrow. The bands comprising Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibet Border Police (ITBP) and Delhi Police will play the tunes ‘Samvidhan’, ‘Abhinandan’ and ‘Carriappa’. The Tri-Services Military Band, Indian classical instruments Sinfonietta and Jazz Symphonic Orchestra playing the tune ‘Agyat Youvana’ and the Indian Classical Instruments Sinfonietta playing the tune ‘Bharat Humko Jaan Se Pyara Hai’ will add flavour to the ceremony. As many as 20 out of 26 performances have been composed by Indian musicians. Other tunes are ‘Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja’, ‘Senani’, ‘Lounden’s Bonnie Woods and Braes’, ‘the High Road to Linton’, ‘Mili Juli’, ‘Grandeur’, ‘Redetzky’, ‘Pankhida’, ‘Galaxy Raiders’, ‘Inspirato’, ‘Air Born’, ‘Admirals Ensignia-II’, ‘Jai Bharati’, ‘Sam Bahadur’, ‘Dhola Re Dhola’, ‘Taqat Watan Ki Hamse Hai’, ‘Salam To The Soldiers’, ‘Marching Through Georgia’, ‘Drummers Call’, ‘Abide With Me’ and lastly the ever-popular ‘Sare Jahan Se Acha’.

The ceremony at the Vijay Chowk on January 29th every year marks the culmination of the four-day-long Republic Day celebrations. This year, 15 Military Bands, 18 Pipes and Drums Bands from Regimental Centres and Battalions are participating in Beating the Retreat ceremony. Besides one each of Indian Navy and Indian Air Force band will also form part of the event.

The principal conductor of the Beating Retreat ceremony will be Cdr VC D’Cruz while military bands conductor will be Subedar Major Ramesh Singh and the Navy and Air Force bands commander will be Master Chief Petty Officer (Musician-I) Ramesh Chand and Junior Warrant Officer Ashok Kumar respectively. Buglers will perform under the leadership of Nb Sub Jagdish Giri and pipes and drums bands will play under the instructions of Sub Maj EV Vijayan.

‘Beating the Retreat’ has emerged as an event of national pride when the Colours and Standards are paraded. The ceremony traces its origins to the early 1950s when Major Roberts of the Indian Army indigenously developed the unique ceremony of display by the massed bands. ‘Beating Retreat’ marks a centuries old military tradition, when the troops ceased fighting, sheathed their arms and withdrew from the battlefield and returned to the camps at sunset at the sounding of the Retreat. Colours and Standards are cased and flags lowered. The ceremony creates a nostalgia for the times gone by.

NAo/RAJ

Rescue Operation in Siachen continues

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
06-February-2016 12:08 IST

Rescue Operation in Siachen continues
The rescue operation is continuing with additional specialised equipment and teams deployed at the site of avalanche of 03 Feb 16. The details of the ten soldiers buried in the avalanche is as follows :-

• Subedar Nagesha TT r/o vill Tejur, Hassan Dist, Karnataka.

• Havildar Elumalai M r/o vill Dukkam Parai, Vellore Dist, Tamil Nadu.

• Lance Havildar S Kumar r/o vill Kumanan Thozhu, Teni Dist, Tamil Nadu.

• Lance Naik Sudheesh B r/o vill Monroethuruth, Kollam Dist, Kerala.

• Lance Naik Hanamanthappa Koppad r/o vill Betadur, Dharwad Dist, Karnataka.

• Sepoy Mahesha PN r/o vill HD Kote, Mysore Dist, Karnataka.

• Sepoy Ganesan G r/o village Chokkathevan Patti, Madurai Dist, Tamil Nadu.

• Sepoy Rama Moorthy N r/o vill Gudisatana Palli , Krishna Giri Dist, Tamil Nadu.

• Sep Mustaq Ahmed S r/o vill Parnapalle, Kurnool Dist, Andhra Pradesh.

• Sepoy Nursing Assistant Suryawanshi SV r/o village Maskarwadi, Satara Dist, Maharashtra

Nitin/RAJ

Indian Coast Guard Investiture Ceremony

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
28-January-2016 18:07 IST

Indian Coast Guard Investiture Ceremony
The Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar today awarded gallantry and meritorious service medals to the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at an impressive investiture ceremony here today. Senior officers of the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Coast Guard along with their families also graced the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion the Defence Minister extended his heart felt appreciation to the awardees and their families. Lauding the commendable efforts of the ICG in maintaining safety of the nation’s vast maritime frontiers he said that the ICG is on a progressive path of expansion by way of augmentation of surface and air assets for keeping pace with the role envisaged. Shri Parrikar appreciated the ICG initiative for employment of lady officers in combat, with the successful all women dornier flight and also the soon to be afloat platform the ACV (Air Cushion Vessel), for which they are undergoing training at ICGS Mandapam.

The Minister inspected the ceremonial guard prior to awarding the medals. A total of 34 officers were bestowed with gallantry and meritorious service medals which included one President’s Tatrakshak Medal (PTM) (Gallantry), four PTM (Distinguished Service), 19 Tatrakshak Medal (TM) (Gallantry) and 10 TM (Meritorious).

The award of medals is a recognition to the selfless devotion, exemplary courage and acts of valour under extreme conditions of the officers and men of the Coast Guard. The highest award for act of bravery in the ICG is the PTM followed by the TM.

Nampibou/RAJ

World Navies United through Ocean During IFR 2016

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
06-February-2016 17:09 IST

World Navies United through Ocean During IFR 2016
Hon’ble President and the Supreme Commander of the armed forces of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, reviewed the Fleet comprising naval warships from Indian as well as frontline foreign navies this morning (06 Feb 16). This was the eleventh Fleet Review after Independence and the second with participation of foreign navies.

After a 21-Gun salute and ceremonial Guard of Honour, the President embarked INS Sumitra, an indigenously built Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) designated as the ‘Presidential Yacht’. The President was received by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Manohar Parrikar and Admiral RK Dhowan, Chief of the Naval Staff. On leaving harbor, the President’s Yacht weaved through the 70 ships at anchorage off Visakhapatnam port. A spectacular fly-past was conducted as a part of the static review of the Fleet. During the final stage of the review, a mobile column of warships and submarines carried out high speed steam past alongside the Presidential yacht.

Addressing the Fleet during the Review, the Hon’ble President said that IFR 2016, while showcasing the prowess of the Indian Navy, has brought together navies from across the globe here on Indian shores, signifying our common desire to use the seas to promote peace, cooperation and friendship, as also to develop partnerships for a secure maritime future ( full transcript of the address by the Hon’ble President during the review is attached).

In addition to 65 Indian Naval warships and three IN Submarines, the Review also included 24 foreign ships, two ships from the Indian Coast Guard and three from Mercantile Marine. Several enthralling waterfront activities by sail boats, water skiing, display by Marine Commandos and helicopter demonstrations held the public mesmerised.

As the presidential yacht passed between the review anchor columns, each ship dressed in full regalia, saluted the President. Each ship was manned by her ship’s company, dressed in white ceremonial uniform. In a moment that stood still in time, white caps were doffed in unison in a grand salutation. The resounding sound of ‘Three Jais’ by the ships’ crew echoed over the waves symbolising the spirit of camaraderie and bonhomie across the seas.

Along the way, the Hon’ble President also witnessed demonstrations in the form of breathtaking fly-past by Naval Air Arm and a daring display by the elite Marine Commandos. The fly-past comprised 15 formations of 45 aircraft including two formations from the Indian Coast Guard. It also showcased the latest acquisitions of the Indian Navy such as MiG 29K, Long Range MR aircraft P8I and AEW helicopter KM-31.

DKS/CGR

Defence Minister Presents Rakshamantri Award for Excellence for 2012-13 and 2013-14

The Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar gave away the RakshaMantri Awards for Excellence for the years 2012-13 and 2013-14 here today in recognition of exemplary performance amongst Ordnance Factories and the nine Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs). Speaking on the occasion Shri Parrikar call upon the DPSUs to compete with the private sector. He emphasised that the government’s efforts are to indigenise production. He further stated that based on his experience government is a powerful institution which can effectively deliver in a restricted timeframe, while following the procedures.

      The awards were given in three major categories, i.e., ‘Institutional Awards’, ‘Best Performing Division/Factory/Shipyard Awards’ and ‘Group/Individual Awards’. Under the Institutional awards, there are two sub-categories for which DPSUs and OFB can compete i.e. overall performance and performance in exports.  In the second category, there are three awards; for the best performing division of DPSUs, the best performing factory of OFB and the best performing shipyard.  In the third category, there are three sub-categories – one on indigenization, one on design effort and one on innovation for which both OFB and DPSUs can compete.

The List of  theAwardees are as follows:

For the year 2012-13:-

 

(a)  INSTITUTIONAL AWARDS

 

      (i)  Excellence in performance

HAL

      (ii) Best performance in Exports

BEML

(b)DIVISION /FACTORY /SHIPYARD AWARDS

 

      (i)  Best Performing Division of DPSUs

BEL,(S&CS), Bengaluru

      (ii) Best performing Factory of OFB

Ordnance Factory, Kanpur

(iii) Best performing Shipyard

GRSE

(c) GROUP /INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

 

     (1) Indigenisation

 

(i)   Design & Development of Retrofit   Security Solutions for ‘Shakti’

Network Communication System-BEL, Bengaluru

(ii)  Indigenisation of AK 630 Gun Drive Units

 

AK 630 GUN Drive Indigenisation Group – D&E Division, BEL, Chennai

(iii) Indigenisation of Special Tools Test Equipments & fixtures for Milan-2T warhead

Milan Group, BDL, Hyderabad

(2) Design Effort

 

(i)   L-70 Gun Upgradation

 

Gun upgrades Group – BEL, Chennai

(ii)Systems of IACCS Networks

BEL, Ghaziabad


(3) Innovation(Jointly)

 

(i)  Electro-Plasticity Assisted Incremental   Forming (EPAIF)

(ii)  Deployable Flight Data Recorder System

Transport Aircraft Division, HAL, Kanpur

Avionics Division, HAL, Korwa

 

For the year 2013-14:-

 

(a)  INSTITUTIONAL AWARDS

 

 

      (i)  Excellence in performance

BEL

      (ii) Best performance in Exports

BEL

(b)DIVISION /FACTORY /SHIPYARD AWARDS

 

 

      (i)  Best Performing Division of DPSUs

HAL, Avionics Division, Hyderabad

      (ii) Best performing Factory of OFB

Ordnance Equipment Factory, Kanpur

(iii) Best performing Shipyard

GRSE, Kolkata

(c) GROUP /INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

 

     (1) Indigenisation

 

(i)   Floating Deck High Voltage (FDHV) Module for PAR 2080 C

SLRDC, HAL, Hyderabad

(ii)  Configuration, Developing and Engineering Weapon Control Modules (WCM 176) for AK 176 Gun Mount

 

D&E, FCS/SBU-NS (Radar & FCS) Group – BEL, Bengaluru

(iii) BHARANI RADAR

BEL, Ghaziabad

(2) Design Effort

 

(i)  EOFCS – U1 for Control of Medium Calibre 76 mm Gun Mount and High Rate
of Fire AK 630 Gun Mount

D&E, FCS/SBU-NS (Radar & FCS) Group – BEL, Bengaluru

(ii)Design & development of 50 knots Interceptor Boat

 

Ship Design Group – Goa Shipyard Ltd (Under own initiative)

(3) Innovation

 

(i)  Development of composite Armour Panels for MI-17 Helicopters

MI-17 Team – MIDHANI, Hyderabad.

The function was attended by the Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Arup Raha, Chief of the Army Staff General Dalbir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral RKDhowan, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri AK Gupta and Secretary Department of Defence R&Dand DG DRDO Dr S Christopher.

NAo/DM/Ranjan

 

The two day National Technical Seminar & Technical Exhibition organized by the Institution of Permanent Way Engineers (India) (IPWE) concludes in New Delhi today

 

The two days National Technical Seminar & Technical Exhibition organized by the Institution of Permanent Way Engineers (India) (IPWE) concluded today. The topics for deliberation during the Seminar were as under :

 1.  Design Construction & Maintenance of Station Yards,

2.  Accelerated construction of New Lines/Doubling Project

3. Fast Track Construction of ROBs/RUBs.

Shri Manoj Kumar Sinha Minister of State for Railways was the Chief Guest at the Valedictory Function.  Member Engineering Railway Board Shri V.K. Gupta, R. K. Agarwal, Principal Chief Engineer, Northern Railway and Secretary, IPWE were also be present on the occasion.

            Speaking on the occasion Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha said that Indian Railways are the largest Railway System in the world under a single management. Next to the Defence Forces, Railways have the largest strength of man power in the Government sector. Out of about 13 lakh of staff on roll on Indian Railways, about 2.75 lakh are from Engineering department who are responsible for construction, maintenance and upkeep of fixed assets like track, bridges etc on the Railway. Indian Railways cover entire length and breadth of country meeting the transport needs of country. To meet the challenges, the system is trying to keep abreast with the largest technological developments in the world but there are areas where we need to improve. The increase in speeds of trains and operation of higher axle loads on existing network in safe and efficient manner are major challenges before P-way Engineers.

          Shri Manoj Sinha further said that proper inspection and maintenance of track including station yards are very important as many derailments happen in station yards. The capacity constraint on Indian Railways has to be overcome, if Railway wants to meet the ever growing traffic demands. Construction of New lines, Doubling/ 3rd line Projects are planned to enhance the capacity. Till recently Projects were starving for funds. But with roping in Finance Institutions like LIC, Railways have overcome the problems of raising finances to a considerable extent. However, there is a pressing need to accelerate the progress of works by adopting innovative methods to realize benefits on investments.

          Shri Sinha pointed out that unmanned level crossing are a safety hazard on the Railway System. Railways keep getting unending demands for provision of ROBs/RUBs from MPs, MLAs and public. There is definitely a felt need to replace Level Crossings with ROBs/RUBs. The Minister said that there are already 1399 nos. ROBs and about 7500 non RUBs works sanctioned on the Railway. Taking up and completing these works though challenging, should be a priority area for the Railways.

          The Minister hoped that fruitful discussion have taken place and appropriate solution would be arrived at. He complimented the Institution of Permanent Way Engineers (India) for providing technical platform for thought and knowledge sharing by P. Way engineers. The outcome of this seminar will go a long way in improving efficiency of Indian Railways to meet the organization goal, he also advised that efforts should also be made to get system rid off unscrupulous contractors as and when noticed.

          Speaking on the occasion Member Engineering Shri V.K. Gupta said that  Towards the goal for fast tracking the construction of New Lines and Doubling Project ROB/RUBs s railways have already adopted certain system in improvement which are praiseworthy. The undue procedural delays which do not add value have been curtailed.  As a result of measures already taken, this is perhaps the first time that tenders for 37 projects out of 77 sanctioned during current year could be invited and for some of them the contracts have been awarded within 9 to 10 months of their inclusion in the Budget to further reduce the time.   In the current year, we are poised to exceed even higher target of construction of 2500 KM of New Lines/doubling and gauge conversion.

Considering the urbanization all around the country is increasing fast and thus need for rail over and under bridge cannot be over-emphasized.  However, there are severe fund constraint for that and so we have to economize the design and adopt innovative methods of construction. We have kept ambitious target to construct about 1000 RUB/ROBs every year.

Railways yards are very critical to efficient railway operation. The yard remodelling works are real challenges. Every yard is a unique structure in itself and pose a unique problem in fixing the layout. The main responsibility for design proper layout rest with the Engineers and we have to fulfil this requirement effectively and economically.

This seminar adopted several recommendations.

 

                                                *********

AKS/MKV/MN/DK

Republic Day Parade – 2016 Awards Announced Assam Regiment Adjudged Best Marching Contingent amongst Services

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
27-January-2016 20:43 IST

Republic Day Parade – 2016 Awards Announced Assam Regiment Adjudged Best Marching Contingent amongst Services
The results of different competitive presentations in the Republic Day Parade – 2016 have been announced by the Ministry of Defence. Among the Services category, Assam Regiment has been adjudged the best marching contingent. In the category of Para-Military Forces and other auxiliary marching contingents, Border Security Force contingent has been adjudged the best contingent.

In the tableau category, in total 23 tableau including six from Union Ministries / Departments took part in this year’s Republic Day Parade, out of which first position has gone to West Bengal tableau, which depicted the famous Baul folk singers rendering the songs based on Bhakti and Sufi movement. While Tripura’s tableau on beautifulUnakoti sculptures, seen in a Shiva pilgrimage site was adjudged the second best, third position has gone in favour of Assam tableau showcasing the popular Rongali Bihu festival.

This year a special prize has been awarded to the tableau of Ministry of Communication and Information Technology on the theme ‘Digital India’.

In the competitive category of school children items, the dance presented by South Central Zone Culture Centre, Nagpur (Maharashtra) has been adjudged the best children item for performing the folk dance ‘SongiMukhota’ of Maharashtra. A Consolation Prize has also been awarded to SarvodayaKanyaVidyalayaand RajkiyaPratibhaVikasVidyalaya, Gandhi Nagar, Delhi, for their beautiful portrayal of traditional Folk Dance ‘Dal Khai’ seen in Western Odisha.

As in previous years, this year also Ministry of Defence had appointed three panels of judges for assessing the marching contingents from three Services, Para-Military Forces and Tableau from various States/Ministries/Departments and School Children items from Schools of Delhi as well as outside Delhi. The panels of judges today announced their results here. All these above winning contingents, tableau and schools will be awarded trophies and prizes by the Defence Minister later in separate functions organised by the Ministry of Defence.

NAo/DM/Ranjan

Visit of COAS Nepalese Army to School of Artillery from 04-05 February 2016

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
05-February-2016 17:26 IST

Visit of COAS Nepalese Army to School of Artillery from 04-05 February 2016
General Rajendra Chhetri, Chief of Army Staff, Nepalese Army and ‘Honorary General of Indian Army’ visited School of Artillery, Devlali from 04-05 February 2016. The Nepalese Army Chief is a ‘Gunner’ Officer himself and has done the basic Artillery courses of Young Officers and Advance Gunnery at this establishment.

He was given a brief on the training being conducted at the School of Artillery and he further interacted with the Nepalese Army Student Officers currently undergoing training there.

It had been a nostalgic visit for the General Officer as he fondly remembered his association with gunners of the Indian Army.

Col Rohan Anand, SM
PRO (Army)

Two Separate Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) signed between Ministry of Railways and Governments of Kerala and Andhra Pradesh for “Formation of Joint Venture Companies for Development of Railway Infrastructure in these States

 

In the august presence of Minister of Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu two separate Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) between Ministry of Railways and State Governments of Andhra Pradesh and Kerala for “Formation of Joint Venture Companies for Development of Railway Infrastructure in the States of Kerala and Andhra Pradesh” were signed.  On the event of Signing Ceremony, Railway Board’s officials namely Member/Mechanical Shri Hement Kumar, Member/Staff Shri Pradeep Kumar, Financial Commissioner Shri S. Mookerjee were also present among others. On behalf of the Railway Ministry Shri Ved Prakash Dudeja, Executive Director/Works signed the MoUs whereas on behalf of Government of Andhra Pradesh Shri P. K. Srivastava OSD/Govt. of A.P. and Shri Sivasankar M./Secretary, Transport Department, Govt. of Kerala signed the MoUs.  The MoUs were signed in the background of Railway Minister’s Budget announcement regarding setting up of Joint Ventures with States for focused project development, resource mobilization, land acquisition, project implementation and monitoring of critical rail projects.

 

 Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu said that the Indian Railways is happy to have a dream come true today i.e. of Cooperative Federalism.  He said that there are few activities which are directly administered by the Central Government i.e. Defence, Foreign Policy and currency etc. and Railways is one of those which directly administered by the Central Government. He said that it is always necessary that we must have partnership in other ground level sectors whether it is State Govt., Local Self Govt, PSUs and others. Railway Minister thanked those 17 State Governments who have consented for formation of Joint Venture Companies in collaboration with the Ministry of Railways for development of rail infrastructure in their respective States.  Emphasizing the need of working together, Railway Minister said that the relationship with the State Governments is beyond a project and not a transactional relationship. Railways has introduced decentralized decision making formula which is completely remarkable change. The current moves will improve the initiative of the State Governments which will help implementation of rail projects in a speedy manner.  

Railway Minister said that Railways is creating more companies and ultimately we are going to leverage the funds.  Railways has started revamping of 400 Railway Stations which is a very massive activity and this will mobilize large resources for the Railways. Massive investment effected in road transport sector while railway has not invested so much despite this Railways have been the cheapest mode of transportation.  He said that Rail and Road will have to work together and Indian Railways is also committed to develop a Multi-Modal Transport Cooperation.

Shri Suresh Prabhu further said that today’s MoUs are very important MoUs which will help in developing infrastructure in the States of Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. Railway Minister said that Railways have a large shelf of ongoing New Line, Gauge Conversion and Doubling projects needing about Rs.3.5 lakh crores to complete and thus Formation of Joint Venture Companies with these State Governments will go a long way in faster commissioning of critical rail infrastructure projects as it will not only help in mobilization of funds but also in facilitating various clearances and land acquisition.

In his Welcome Address, Member Staff, Railway Board Shri Pradeep Kumar stated that the Signing of Memoranda is going to be a stepping stone for formation of JV companies.  He stated that on earlier occasions also Memoranda have been signed for formation of JV companies with Maharashtra and Odisha. The MoUs envisages formation of a Joint Venture company having 51% stakes of state Govt and 49% stakes of Ministry of Railways. Thus, the JV company shall be fully owned by the Government. The company will primarily identify projects and possible financing avenues in addition to Govt of India and the state Govt. After finances for a project are tied up, a project specific SPV or special purpose vehicle shall be formed. This SPV can have other stake holders from Industries, Central PSUs, State PSUs etc. However, the JV company shall be a mandatory stake holder with minimum 26% shares in the SPV.  The Ministry of Railways will sign a concession agreement of 30 years with the project SPV for safe and sound operation, revenue sharing and providing technical & marketing logistics to the SPV. The revenue sharing shall be based on already established formula being used for inter zonal apportionment of revenue.

Member Staff, Railway Board also stated that the most important aspect of the MoU is that the ownership of the land shall vest with the SPVs which is a departure from previous practice. This will give financial leverage to the company to exploit commercial potential of the land.

Vote of Thanks was proposed by Shri Laj Kumar, Additional Member, Works, Railway Board.

 

Silent Features of the MoU:-  

·          In view of the growing demands for railway lines in various states and huge requirement of funds to execute them, Hon’ble Minister for Railways announced in his budget speech regarding setting up of Joint Ventures with states for focused project development, resource mobilization, land acquisition, project implementation and monitoring of critical rail projects.

·         17 State Governments consented for formation of Joint Venture Companies in collaboration with the Ministry of Railways for development of rail infrastructure in their respective States. Draft MoUs were sent to these State Governments and discussions were also held with them to clarify various provisions of the MoU. 

·         MoUs have already been signed by the Ministry of Railways with the State Governments of Odisha and Maharashtra.

·         Today, MoUs are being signed with the State Governments of Kerala and Andhra Pradesh. This signing of MOU is going to be a stepping stone for formation of JV companies.

·         The MoU envisages formation of a Joint Venture companies having 51% stakes of the respective State Govrnment and 49% stakes of Ministry of Railways. Thus, the JV companies shall be fully owned by the Government. The companies will primarily identify projects and possible financing avenues in addition to Govt of India and the State Governments. After finances for a project are tied up,  project specific SPVs or special purpose vehicles shall be formed. These SPVs can have other stake holders from Industries, Central PSUs, State PSUs etc. However, the JV companies shall be  mandatory stake holders with minimum 26% shares in the SPVs.

·         The ministry of Railways will sign a concession agreement of 30 years with the project SPV for safe and sound operation, revenue sharing and providing technical & marketing logistics to the SPV. The revenue sharing shall be based on already established formula being used for inter zonal apportionment of revenue.

·         The most important aspect of this MoU is that the ownership of the land shall vest with the SPVs which is a departure from previous practice. This will give financial leverage to the company to exploit commercial potential of the land. This is likely to result in making project viable which are otherwise not viable.

·         At the end of concession period, the railways will have option to take over the assets at a nominal price. This is largely in line with average codal life of the assets as most of the assets will need large scale replacement after 30 years.

·         Indian Railways has been playing a major role in national integration by connecting the remotest places and bringing people closer to each other. Railways receive a large number of demands for network expansion as a railway line acts as an engine of growth for the area it serves.

·         However, Railways have a large shelf of ongoing New Line, Gauge Conversion and Doubling projects needing about Rs 3.5 lakh crores to complete. We have been trying to meet the aspirations of public within limited availability of funds.

·         To expedite the projects, Railways have been trying to mobilize resources through other than Gross Budgetary Support. However, on the initiative of Hon’ble Minister for Railways Sh. Suresh Prabhu ji, Indian Railways have tied up funds for critical capacity enhancement project of doubling, third line , electrification etc. An MoU was signed with LIC of India and we have already taken first tranche of Rs 2000 Cr for these projects. This tied up loan will ensure dedicated and assured funding for such critical projects.

·         Indian Railways have targeted to commission 2000 Km New Lines, 4000 Km Gauge Conversion and 11000 Km Doubling/Tripling/ Quadrupling projects over 5 years i.e. from 2015-16 to 2019-20. In 2015-16, we had kept quite ambitious target of commissioning 2500 Km Broad Gauge track. It is a matter of great satisfaction that we are poised to not only achieve these targets but to surpass them. We have already commissioned about 1300 Km Broad Gauge track till December, 2015 against 800 Km track commissioned in the corresponding period of the previous year (Due to monsoons, major commissioning takes place in the last quarter of the financial year).

·         Formation of Joint Venture Companies with the State Governments will go a long way in faster commissioning of critical rail infrastructure projects as it will not only help in mobilization of funds but also in facilitating various clearances and land acquisition.

 

****

 

AKS/MN/DK

 

Indo-Nepal Battalion Level Combined Exercise Surya Kiran to commence from 08 Feb

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Defence
05-February-2016 17:25 IST

Indo-Nepal Battalion Level Combined Exercise Surya Kiran to commence from 08 Feb
The Ninth Indo-Nepal Combined Battalion level Military Training Exercise SURYA KIRAN will be conducted at Pithoragarh from 08 February to 21 February 2016 under the aegis of Panchshul Brigade of Central Command. During the exercise, an Infantry battalion each from Indian Army and the Nepalese Army would be training together and sharing their experiences of Counter Terrorism operations and Jungle Warfare in mountain terrain.

The Surya Kiran series of exercises is a bi-annual event which is conducted alternatively in Nepal and India. The aim of this combined training exercise is to enhance interoperability between the Indian and the Nepalese Army units in Jungle Warfare and Counter Terrorism operations in mountainous terrain. The training will also focus on Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief including medical and aviation support. Both the Armies will stand to benefit mutually from shared experiences.

The combined training, mutual interaction and sharing of experiences between both the countries shall further strengthen the historical military and strategic ties giving further fillip to the bilateral relations and existing strong bonding between both countries.

Col Rohan Anand, SM

PRO (Army)

First batch of Smart Cities to be announced tomorrow

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Urban Development
27-January-2016 18:11 IST

First batch of Smart Cities to be announced tomorrow

Urban development without equity has national security implications, says Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu

Minister asserts new urban sector initiatives seek inclusive urban development

Shri Naidu opposes using vehicles for even buying milk and vegetables

Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu today announced that the first batch of winners of Smart City Challenge Competition will be made public tomorrow i.e January 28,2015. He said so while addressing participants of a Course on ‘National Security and Strategic Studies’ at National Defence College in the national capital. 100 senior officers including 25 from foreign countries belonging to Army, Navy, Air Force and civil service are attending the course.

Speaking on Urban Development Challenges and Way ahead, Shri Naidu said that perpetuation of inequities in urban areas has serious implications for national security and hence, the government is committed to ensure inclusive development under new initiatives like Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Smart City Mission, Swachh Bharat and Prime Minister’s Awas Yojana (Urban). The Minister further stressed on the need for inclusive urban development noting that “ it was the need of the hour with ‘Young India’ becoming more and more aspirational”.

Shri Naidu expressed concern over the well to do sections of the people exploiting urban spaces at the cost of the poor and the marginalized. He said that “inclusivity should be ensured while taking decisions regarding urban governance, citizen participation, public transport and infrastructure etc. and the Government is endeavoring in this direction”.

Emphasizing the need for sustainable urban development, Shri Venkaiah Naidu said “cities should be water positive through water harvesting, recycling and reuse of water, energy positive with each household resorting to renewable sources of energy and community positive facilitating interactive neighborhoods”.

The Minister informed that the Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation earlier this week approved a Rs.253 cr plan for enabling 10,000 houses of economically weaker sections in Tamil Nadu produce solar power through roof mounted solar panels. He referred to the growing impacts of climate change and urged the citizens not to use vehicles to buy a milk packet, buy vegetables and go to the nearby park for morning walk. The Minister advocated living in harmony with nature through green friendly construction and llving.

Shri Venkaiah Naidu said that the Government has reoriented urban development approaches to ensure inclusive development through mandatory citizen participation in urban planning and project identification, provision of basic infrastructure to the poor like water and sewer connections, affordable houses for 2 cr urban poor, promotion of cycling and pedestrian pathways, provision of open spaces, transparent and responsive governance, adoption of technology for efficient service delivery and infrastructure use etc.

The Minister further informed that project based and ad hoc urban development approach hitherto followed has been substituted by area based development and project formulation after detailed gap analysis. States and urban local bodies have been empowered to identify, appraise and approve projects with his two urban ministries withdrawing from appraisal and approval of individual projects.

AAR