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Ministry of Agriculture03-February, 2015 15:01 IST

A Detailed Demand Supply Framework is of Paramount Importance for Meat Markets


Theworkshopwasfollowedbyagroupdiscussionbyasmallerworkinggroupwiththeaimto
distilthelessonsandrecommendationsemergingfrompresentationsanddeliberationsinthe
workshop.Someoftherecommendations,onstrengtheninggoatandsheepbasedlivelihoodsin
thecountry,whichhaveemergedfromthistwodaysfunctionare:
1.
Under Mahila Kishan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) of the National Rural Livelihood
Mission (NRLM) NGOs work closely with the Government and can submit proposals. Taking
this as an analogy and precedence a window may be created under National Livestock Mission
(NLM) enabling NGOs to take more interest and submit proposals to the State Government is
consultation with district level officials.
2.
NGOs are interested in building capacities in the Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) so as to
develop proposal for improvement of productivity of different kinds of common lands since this
is a very desirable activity for augmenting nutritional inputs for small ruminants. Similarly
developing water bodies in common lands along migratory route of shepherds is another
necessity. It will be helpful that desirability of Involving local NGOs by the PRIs for this purpose
is highlighted in the guidelines for NLM.
3.
A standardized training curriculum for Community Animal Health Workers (CAHWS),
clearly defining the kind of livestock to be dealt with by them may be developed under the SubMission on Skill Development, Technology Transfer and Extension. This may be further
followed up by preparation of occupational standards for CAHWS as well as specifications on
quality and performance of services provided.
4.
Separate guidelines for sheep and goat development are necessary since sheep rearing is
generally a primary vocation of the rearers while goat rearing is a supplementary activity.
5.
Design of breed improvement programme and breeding goats may be decided in
consultation with livestock keepers. Community led breed improvement programmes must focus
on formation of Breeders Association for conservation of indigenous breeds and their genetic
improvement through selection.
6.
There is need for creation of a mechanism for inter-ministerial coordination of land use
planning and policy making with respect to common land, wasteland and grazing areas. Involved
Departments may be Animal Husbandry, Forest, Rural Development, Agriculture & Cooperation,
Water Resources etc.
7.

Five Regional Workshops will follow this National Workshop.

8.
Use of ICT based tool for migratory shepherds may be encouraged and facilitated to enable
them seek assistance on livestock health and production and obtain advice and information on
related matters.

9.
Concerted efforts may be made to tap funds available under Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR) for use in animal husbandry projects.
10. Animal shelters to be designed in accordance with the local agro climatic conditions.
11. For last mile delivery of health care the role of women community health workers is critical
and requires sustained support in capacity building. Scope of their services needs to be clearly
defined and demarcated. They are to be made accountable to the service recipients anchored
within community institutions and also have linkage with local veterinary institutions.
12. Inclusion of community based livestock insurance within the framework of NLM was
strongly recommended as a strategy for risk reduction is small livestock holdings.
13. Development of infrastructure of livestock markets as well as a conducive policy
environment for livestock trading may be considered as priority areas for investment by the
Government.
14. Significant investment on development of social and human capital over a sustained period
of time would be necessary for the community based model to accrue sustainability.
Ministry of Civil Aviation03-February, 2015 17:58 IST
Minister Discusses Civil Aviation Issues with Industry Representatives
Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju discussed issues
pertaining to civil aviation with the representatives of the civil aviation industry in a
pre-budget interaction meet here today. In his keynote address, the Minister stated
that air travel has a multiplying effect on economy and, therefore, decisions should
be made to allow civil aviation sector to grow to its full potential. The different wings
of the Government would come together to find solutions for the problems faced by
the industry today, he assured. He said the deliberations and suggestions made
during the interaction would help his Ministry identify challenges posed to the
growth of civil aviation sector and , at the same time, find ways to address those
challenges.
During the interaction, issues regarding updation of standards for security
equipment, establishment of a green channel for MRO equipment and allocation
of appropriate funds for air navigation facilities were discussed among other
subjects. The industry made several suggestions for the promotion of MRO sector
including removal of service tax, reducing VAT on MRO activities, ten-year tax
holiday, abolition of central excise duty on MRO component etc. If these measures
are taken, it was represented, there would be creation of one lakh jobs with more
than a billion dollar revenues to the country on account of MRO activities. The
stakeholders also requested to treat ATF as a declared goods so that VAT on ATF
could be reduced to 4%. This would make airlines more viable as ATF constitutes
more than 45% of the cost. The airlines representatives requested that airlines

should be given the infrastructure status to enable access to funds with lower rate
of interest through external commercial borrowings. The industry stockholders also
made suggestions with regard to dedicated air cargo stations and general aviation
as a necessary force-multiplier.

Ministry of Commerce & Industry03-February, 2015 10:07 IST


DGFT operationalises online filing of IEC applications, online processing and issue of eIECs in digital format
Directorate General of Foreign Trade has started operationalising online filing of
Importer Exporter Code (IEC) applications, online processing and issue of e-IECs in
digital format. Now new entrepreneurs/exporters/importers can apply online for
issue of new IEC from the comfort of their home/IT Kiosk with no more visits to the
Regional Authority`s office required, and upload the documents and pay the
required fee through Net banking.
Even the processing of such applications by Regional Authority of DGFT would be
done online (no paper work in the office; less storage space required and no
misplaced documents) and the digitally signed e-IEC (no more IECs in physical form)
would be issued/emailed to the applicants within two working days.
In case the application is incomplete or otherwise ineligible, the same shall be
rejected and an auto generated Rejection letter/email (with reasons for rejection)
would be sent to the applicant - within two working days only. There would not be
any `Deficiencies letters` now (no more discretion at the level of RAs and
consequent elimination of possible delays and corruption).
Efforts are underway to allow/enable payment of fee through Debit/Credit cards,
which would further facilitate this process. Once implemented the Online system
would be made mandatory. However, till such time payment through Debit/Credit
cards is enabled, the existing offline/manual system has also been allowed side by
side, in order to facilitate those applicants who do not have Net banking facility.
Efforts are also underway for message exchange/integration of our system with
Income Tax department and Ministry of Corporate Affair for verification of PAN and
DIN/CIN details respectively. Once implemented, this would further reduce the
processing time of e-IEC applications at RA level (possibly one day only).
This is an important and path breaking initiative by Department of Commerce/DGFT
towards "Digital India" vision of Prime Minister of India and "Ease of Doing
Business".

Ministry of Environment and Forests03-February, 2015 14:42 IST


India committed to issues on Climate Change - Shri Prakash Javadekar

The Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Shri Prakash Javadekar
has said that Governments initiatives, efforts, and action plans to pursue the clean
and renewable energy path had put India in a leadership position in dealing with
climate change issues. Indias Solar Energy programme which aims to generate 1
lakh MW Electricity by 2020, and other initiatives on wind energy deployment, water
conservation, and protecting coastlines and Himalayan Ecosystem, reflected
Governments commitment towards environment protection and sustainable
development. The Minister stated this while delivering the Keynote Address at the
Conference on Negotiating the Climate Cliff: Indias Climate Policy and Intended
Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) organized by Council on Energy,
Environment & Water (CEEW), a think-tank on environment issues, here today.
Regarding the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions that India has to
submit before the Paris Climate Conference 2015, Shri Javadekar said that various
modalities and frameworks for developing Indias INDCs were being worked out. The
Government would take into account the issues of accessibility of key technologies
and financial mechanisms that support Climate Change initiatives, the Minister
added. The Minister also reiterated the need to balance the efforts towards
environment protection and sustainable development.
The Conference aims at initiating discussions on Indias Climate strategy prior to
and post Paris 2015. A range of issues around nuclear energy, energy efficiency,
low-carbon transportation choices, Hydroflurocarbons (HFCs), and Carbon Capture
and Storage all of which have critical relevance in Indias Climate policy were being
deliberated upon. The Conference also intends to discuss strategies and frameworks
that would support Indias position in the Climate Change discourse in Paris 2015.

Ministry of Urban Development03-February, 2015 18:43 IST


Shri Venkaiah Naidu seeks conversion of municipal waste into energy, fuel, fertilizer,
irrigation water
Throwing light on the challenges of urban waste management and opportunities
there of, Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu has urged the
corporates and industrial and trade bodies to walk the talk in respect of ensuring
cleanliness and waste management in urban areas. He shared his concerns while
addressing the Waste to Energy Conference organized by the ASSOCHAM here
today.
Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu has called for a concerted action to recycle urban solid waste
and sewage for converting them into energy, fuel, fertilizers and irrigation water. He
stressed on reduction, recycling and reuse of solid waste and sewage . He has said
that his ministry is identifying domestic and foreign companies who can provide
cost effective solutions for solid waste and sewage management through reduction,
recycling and reuse. The minister has underlined that these two issues have been
accorded priority under all new urban development initiatives like Swachh Bharat

Mission, Smart Cities, Infrastructure development in 500 citites, Heritage City


Development etc.
Shri M.Venkiah Naidu informed that 1,33,000 metric tonnes of municipal solid waste
is being generated every day in Class-I and II cities out of which 32% is being
littered. Of the total waste being collected, 72% (6,55,000 metric tonnes) is being
landfilled. He further said that through proper collection and reuse and recycling of
solid waste, 440 MW of power can be generated every year and consumption of
chemical fertilizers can be reduced by 30% by using compost made out of solid
waste from urban areas. Further elaborating on the cash value of trash, Shri Naidu
said that Refused Derived Fuel is another potential solution for treatment of solid
waste which is comparable to coal in terms of costs and calorific value.
Stating that about 38,500 million litres of sewage is being generated per day by
Class-I and II cities, Shri Naidu said effective recycling of it would help in irrigating
about one to three lakh hectares depending on the crop. He expressed concern over
discharge of about 61% of sewage without being treated.
Welcoming trade and industrial bodies like ASSOCHAM organizing seminars and
conferences on urban challenges, Shri Naidu urged them and their members to
walk the talk by effectively partnering in initiatives like Swachh Bharat Mission,
Municipal Waste Management, Housing for All and urban infrastructure development
by making a success of PPP model.

President's Secretariat04-February, 2015 12:25 IST


Recognize global trends, lead transformation process of Indias higher education system,
President tells Central University Vice Chancellors
President of India Pranab Mukherjee opened a Conference of Vice Chancellors of
Central Universities (CUs) at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (February 4, 2015). This is
the third such Conference of Central University Vice Chancellors convened by the
President since assumption of office. The Vice Chancellors of 40 Central Universities
to which the President is the Visitor are attending this Conference.
Speaking on the occasion, the President said it is important to recognize emerging
global trends which are likely to bring sweeping changes in higher education
worldwide. Rising costs of higher education and the changing profile of education
seekers, aided by technological innovation are leading to the creation of alternative
models of knowledge dispensation. Central universities have the responsibility to
lead the transformative processes of Indias higher education system.
The President said students passing out from the Indian higher education system
will have to compete with the best in the world. There is a need to imbue young
minds with competitive spirit and a sense of pride in their alma mater. In addition to

international rankings, the universities should attempt ratings on a National Ranking


Framework which needs to be expeditiously developed.
The President said the vacancy position in Central Universities remains alarmingly
high - in terms of percentage, vacancies have increased from 37.3 percent as on
March 31, 2013 to only 38.4 percent as on December 1, 2014. Non-availability of
Visitors nominees in the Selection Committee of faculty has been addressed. Each
Central University will now have a panel of five names of nominees who can be
called as per extant instructions. Efforts aimed at engagement of central
universities with industry and alumni need far greater focus and direction than at
present. Only four universities have so far established centres of excellence while
another five are working towards these.
The President said during his visit to Norway and Finland, he called upon
academicians and experts to come and teach in India. Under the Global Initiative of
Academic Networks (GIAN), the HRD Ministry has asked Central Universities for a list
of eminent scholars and researchers for inviting them as guest speakers or scholars.
An e-platform needs to be developed to facilitate scholars from within and outside
the country to log in their details. It shall, in due course, lead to creation of a robust
database of global experts for the Indian higher education system. The recently
launched Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya National Mission on Teachers and Teaching
will set performance standards and create world-class facilities for innovative
teaching.
The President said Visitors Awards for Best University, Innovation and Research
will become a driving force in promoting research and innovation in our universities
in future. There is an urgent need to put ICT Networks to effective use. Through the
video-conferencing facility of NKN, he interacted with faculty and students of
Universities three times. When he delivered his New Year Message 120 institutions
of higher learning were connected through the National Knowledge Network and
another 900 locations through web-cast. He urged the Ministry and all leaders in
research and education institutions to use NKNs reach to transform the quality of
higher education system.
The President said because of the diversities in evaluation systems, students have
suffered in the acceptance of their credentials across the university system and in
accessing employment opportunities. The initiative of Choice Based Credit System
(CBCS) will ensure seamless mobility of students across higher education
institutions in the country as well as abroad. The credits earned by students can be
transferred and would be of great value to them in the event of their seeking
migration from one institution to the other. 23 central universities have already
implemented CBCS. He urged remaining universities to consider implementing this
system from next academic year.

The President said the university is a role-model for society at large. Its persuasive
power extends beyond the classroom and teaching. Its influence must be tapped for
greater good. The Central Government has launched several initiatives having
enormous socio-economic significance. The Swachh Bharat Mission aims at a Clean
India by the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in 2019. The Saansad
Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) envisages the integrated development of selected
villages through community participation. He called upon Central Universities to
start working with at least five villages each under SAGY to transform them into
model villages.
The President said due to limitations of public funding, costs of creation of physical
infrastructure and academic facilities get transferred to students in terms of higher
fees. Whereas universities earlier used to educate fresh scholars, they now have the
added responsibility of training and re-training workers throughout their careers. An
Oxford University Study predicts automation of 47 percent occupations in the next
few decades. As innovation eliminates certain job types, changes others and creates
new ones, the workforce will have to engage in life-long learning to up-grade and
refine their skills and capabilities. The twin compulsions of increasing expenditure
and dynamic demand can be addressed through extensive use of e-enabled
learning. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), which first began in 2008, allow
students to hear lectures and read course material on-line, and earn a degree at a
fraction of the cost of a brick and mortar education. Both SWAYAM (Study Web of
Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) and MOOCs could pave the way for speed,
scale and efficiency for teaching in the higher education system. The Ministry of
HRD and institutes of higher learning should develop eco-systems for deriving
maximum benefits from applying technology to learning. On-line instruction
supplemented by periodic classroom interaction or blended MOOCs, could provide a
solution for retaining the essential elements of traditional pedagogy.
The President said particular emphasis has to be provided by our higher learning
institutions on the inculcation of core values in our students. Our civilization has
championed patriotism, pluralism, tolerance, honesty and discipline. Our democracy
has thrived on these values. The next generation must learn to recognize our
diversity, inclusiveness and assimilative capacities as inherent sources of strength.
The President said a society takes the form of a creative enterprise when educated
masses, with their interlinked rivers of thoughts and ideas, give rise to a sea of
innovations. Teachers must encourage the taught to satiate their curiosity, question
established knowledge, accept a proposition only after investigation, and pursue
ingenuity. A scientific temper, which takes ones imagination beyond the realm of
grades and classroom, is essential in our students. In particular, the habit of reading
and learning through books must be inculcated to sharpen their energetic and
inquisitive minds. Books also break societal and cultural barriers.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani, Union
Minister for Human Resource Development.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare04-February, 2015 17:55 IST


Shri Shripad Naik calls upon scientists and researchers to evaluate AYUSH
The Minister of State for AYUSH, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik called upon the scientists
and researchers to indulge in systematic evaluation of AYUSH remedies and
practices in cancer care. He stated that the traditional systems of medicine are
based on strong fundamental principles, time-tested experiences and holistic
concepts of application, and not only advise the treatment of patients with drugs,
but also have the concept of modulating the life-style, dietary regimen, seasonal
regimen and behavior to prevent and cure the diseases. He stated that a scientific
eye and mind is required to explore the value from the vast knowledge base of
AYUSH for healthcare of cancer patients. The Minister was speaking at the
symposium organized to mark the World Cancer Day with the theme- AYUSH for
Cancer Care, here today.
The Minister stated that we must emphasize highlighting the solutions that do exist
or can be developed from AYUSH systems to help controlling the menace of cancer
and which are within our reach and resources. Pointing out that AYUSH systems
emphasize more on the preventive aspect of health having a strong hold in lifestyle
management, he stated that they may thus contribute in reducing the incidence of
cancer. He added that integration of AYUSH with conventional healthcare system is
another important area to be explored to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy,
radiotherapy and to prevent the recurrence and metastasis and improve the quality
of life of cancer patients. Shri Naik stated that looking at the global scenario of
cancer management, it must be understood that stand alone modern medicine may
not be sufficient to meet health needs of the society ailing with this dreaded
disease.

Ministry of Urban Development04-February, 2015 19:37 IST


Smart cities to promote harmonious living with nature, says Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu
Expressing serious concern over rising air pollution and deteriorating sanitation in
urban areas adversely impacting quality of urban life, Minister of Urban
Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu has asserted that the objective of smart cities
initiative is to promote living in harmony with nature. In his address at the
Convocation of The Energy Research Institute here today, Shri Naidu called for
reorientation of urban designing and planning approaches that promote such a
harmony.
Elaborating on this, Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu has said that climate change concerns
need to be factored in urban development strategies and action plans. He
expressed concern over designing of residential, commercial and office buildings
blocking natural light and air and in turn depending on electricity for the same.

Referring to a TERI Report, Shri Naidu said that 42,000 MW of electricity could be
saved by 2021 by adopting energy efficient building practices.
Referring to the adverse consequences on the quality of urban life of poor urban
transport infrastructure with reliance on growing motorized individual transport,
unscientific municipal solid waste and sewage management, outdated Building Byelaws etc., Shri Naidu said that his ministry is seeking to address these concerns in
collaboration with states and urban local bodies under new initiatives like smart
cities, infrastructure development in 500 cities, Swachh Bharat Mission etc. He
stressed on the need for increased adoption of new and renewable energy sources
like solar and wind power and green building construction practices.
Shri Naidu has stressed on the need for sustainable development harmonizing
environmental, ecological and social aspects with emphasis on efficient resource
use.
Referring to new initiatives in urban sector, Shri Venkaiah Naidu said that there is a
pressing need for capacity building at various levels and the Government will soon
come out with a comprehensive capacity development scheme.

President's Secretariat05-February, 2015 19:06 IST


CU VCs must guide scholars and students achieve highest standards of academic
brilliance, says President
A two-day Conference of Vice Chancellors (VCs) of Central Universities (CUs)
concluded on February 5, 2015 at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The VCs adopted a detailed set of recommendations on the five agenda items of the
conference, namely (1) steps to create an eco-system for research and innovation;
(2) capacity development of faculty, alumni participation and use of technology; (3)
deepening engagement of Central Universities with community; (4) creating
international and national networks for quality education and (5) adoption of Choice
Based Credit System. The recommendation included:
1. Choice Based Credit System must be implemented from the academic year 201516 in all CUs.
2. Each CU will set up a Community Development Cell which will identify at least 5
villages in its vicinity for adoption as model villages by the university.
3. A blended Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) strategy must be adopted.
4. CUs must recommend amendment of statutes, to enable induction of alumni in
governing bodies, to the Ministry of HRD within next 60 days.

5. Selection of teaching staff must be completed within six months of appointment


of Visitors nominees. Ministry of HRD must take immediate action to fill up
vacancies of Vice Chancellors.
6. All activities towards NAAC accreditation must be completed within 6 months.
7. Database of alumni must be established by CUs within the next 3 months.
8. Each CU must nominate a nodal officer to feed the universitys needs and
activities and share good practices and experiences on to the CU VCs Discussion
Page on the University of Hyderabad website.
9. Nodal officers for international rankings must be appointed within next 30 days in
each CU.
10. Proposals to UGC for creation of centres of excellence must be sent within next
60 days.
11. CUs who are yet to establish Innovation clubs must do so within 60 days.
12. CUs who are yet to set up Inspired Teachers Network, must do so within next 30
days.
13. Industry-interface cells in CUs must be completed within next 3 months.
Addressing the concluding session, the President told Vice Chancellors that they
must act as gurus and guide scholars and students to achieve the highest
standards of academic brilliance. They should feel empowered and use the
administrative and moral authority vested in them to make these universities
islands radiating excellence in their spheres of influence.
The President invited one Inspired Teacher from each Central University to
experience and be part of the Rashtrapati Bhavan community for a week under a
new programme on the model of the Artists In-Residence and Innovation Scholars
In-Residence programme. He also requested Central Universities to send
representatives to participate in the one week long Festival of Innovation (FOIN)
proposed to be held in Rashtrapati Bhavan in March, 2015.
The President called on MHRD, UGC and the VCs to implement the
recommendations of the conference in a time bound manner and said the Minister
of HRD will take a meeting in June, 2015 to review achievement of deliverables

Ministry of Road Transport & Highways05-February, 2015 17:23 IST


Road Transport and Safety Bill not to Encroach Upon States Rights, Assures Nitin

Gadkari
Union Minister of Road Transport, Highways and Shipping, Shri Nitin Gadkari assured
that the Road Transport and Safety Bill 2014/15 does not intend to encroach upon
the rights of the states. He was speaking at the meeting of the Consultative
Committee of the Members of Parliament attached to his Ministry here today. The
Minister said the vision of the Bill is to provide a framework for safer, faster, costeffective and inclusive movement of passengers and freight in the country. The
Minister said the Bill aims to ensure effective, timely and sustainable prevention of
those road practices which are detrimental to public health and road safety. As road
crashes cause a loss of 3 percent to GDP annually, the issue demanded an
immediate solution and the Bill is a firm step towards this, the Minister further
added.
Underscoring the salient features of the Road Transport & Safety Bill 2014/15, Shri
Nitin Gadkari said it makes significant departures from the 1988 Motor Vehicle Act
as the new Bill includes safety in construction, design, maintenance and use of
motor vehicles and roads as a major component. The Bill provides for more
stringent penalties to offenders. A graded penalty point system would now act as a
deterrent and improve traffic condition whereas electronic detection and centralized
information of offences would facilitate to identify repeat-offenders, the Minister
added.
He said the draft proposes to introduce an independent agency called the National
Road Safety Authority of India, which will be an independent, legally empowered
and accountable expert lead agency. It shall be accountable to the Parliament and
Central Government. The new Bill also provides for the establishment of State
Safety Authorities which shall act in accordance with the directions issued by the
National Authority. Shri Gadkari informed that the Bill seeks to establish a unified
driver licensing system in India which is transparent. Such a system shall facilitate
any time anywhere licence application mechanism in the country and mitigate
duplication of licences from various regional transport offices.
The Minister said that there will be a unified vehicle registration system to enable
electronic and online submission of applications for registration at any registering
authority leading to real time interchange of data relating to such an activity.On the
safety issues, Shri Gadkari said the Bill envisages for enforcement of modern safety
technologies. It also contains the provision for creation of a motor vehicle accident
fund for immediate relief to the accident victim. It gives special emphasis on safety
of school children and security of women.
The Members of the Parliament, present in the meeting, welcomed the Bill in its
spirit while making suggestions to make it more effective. Some of the measures
the members of the Committee suggested included retrofitting of cameras in public
transport vehicles by the manufacturers, establishment of single level portal for

seamless payment across the states, construction of sufficient number of


underpasses, arrangement for proper electrification around accident prone areas,
setting up trauma centres at designated places and taking height and not the age of
a child into consideration for the front seat limitation.

AYUSH06-February, 2015 18:44 IST


AYUSH Ministry organises AROGYA health fair at Raipur
The Union Ministry of AYUSH in collaboration with Directorate of AYUSH,
Government of Chhattisgarh and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce &
Industry has organized the AROGYA RAIPUR, a four days comprehensive health fair
on Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy from the 6th
9th February, 2015 at Raipur, Chhattisgarh.
AROGYA Fairs showcase the advancements in clinical practices, research and
documentation, manufacturing and the processes involved in these systems of
medicine and also the medicinal plants sector. The Health Mela attracts
international researchers, manufacturers and processors and people from all walks
of life who evince a great interest in the traditional knowledge systems of Ayurveda,
Siddha and Unani Medicine and the therapeutic effects of Yoga which is globally
known as a drugless therapy system.
The Ministry of AYUSH in collaboration with the State Government of Chhattisgarh
and organizational support from FICCI has selected Raipur as the venue for this
prestigious event looking at its importance as a major centre for growth of AYUSH
raw material. At the AROGYA Raipur, several companies of Ayurveda, Homeopathy,
Siddha and Unani are participating from six States including Chhattisgarh. Regular
lectures by eminent AYUSH Practitioners from the State of Chhattisgarh will also be
held over next four days.
Other highlights of the Fair include free clinics and consultations for the public by
eminent doctors of AYUSH systems and free distribution of medicines. In addition,
national level experts on Yoga, Naturopathy, Ayurveda, Homoeopathy and Unani are
delivering lectures on management of various diseases through AYUSH therapies.

Ministry of Agriculture06-February, 2015 17:26 IST


India Invites Entrepreneurs From Lebanon to Invest in Mega Food Parks and Cold Chain
A Lebanese delegation under the leadership of Agriculture Minister of Lebanon, Mr.
Akram Chehayeb met Union Agriculture Minister Shri Radha Mohan Singh in New
Delhi today. Shri Radha Mohan Singh urged Lebanons delegation to avail
investment opportunities in India in the setting up of Mega Food Parks and Cold
Chain for ensuring better supply chain. Shri Singh asked Lebanon to participate in
international food fairs to promote exchange of information on processing
techniques including modern technologies of fruits and vegetables and new
packaging techniques for food products. Institutional cooperation for exchange of

information on research and development and transfer of technology and know-how


can also be entered into, he added.
Mentioning Agricultural trade between the two countries, he emphasised the need
for encouraging potential trade opportunities and cooperation in agriculture sector
to enhance bilateral relations. He said that during the period 2013-14, Indias total
export of agricultural commodities to Lebanon was US$ 69.41 million and during the
same period agricultural import from Lebanon was US$ 0.47 million. Shri Singh said
that Lebanon imports from other countries of the world agricultural items such as
fresh potatoes and tomatoes, durum wheat and sugar in which India has potential to
export to Lebanon Shri Singh requested to explore possibilities for importing of
these and other items from India to enhance bilateral trade between the two
countries.
Responding to Indias request to facilitate bilateral trade, Lebanon Agriculture
Minister Mr. Akram Chehayeb said that Lebanon is keen to enhance bilateral
relations to newer heights. In this regard, he requested to simplify visa procedures
which will eventually help to strengthen bilateral trade.

Ministry of Road Transport & Highways06-February, 2015 14:05 IST


Four SAARC Countries Move to Finalize Motor Vehicles Agreement
Senior officials from India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal met on 2-3 February at
Raichak near Kolkata to finalize a Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA) for a seamless
transit of passenger and cargo vehicles between their countries and draw up plans
for its speedy implementation. The agreement will allow passenger, personal and
cargo vehicles to travel along designated key routes in the four SAARC countries
without the need for trans-shipment of goods and passengers at the border
crossings. It is expected to be signed at a meeting of Transport Ministers of the four
countries to be held soon this year.
The arrangements for implementing the agreement will be spelt out through
protocols that the four neighboring countries will negotiate separately under the
framework of this agreement. They agreed to set up individual national committees
and a sub-regional joint committee for overall facilitation of land transport and to
coordinate and monitor the agreements implementation. It was noted that the subregional agreement would be a parallel initiative to the proposed SAARC transport
agreement for which ongoing efforts to find early resolution would continue. Further,
the membership of this sub-regional agreement would be open to all other
neighbouring countries, should they so desire.
Upon implementation, the agreement will reduce costly and time-consuming
unloading and loading of people and goods at the border crossing points making
cross-border trade more efficient. It would help transform transport corridors linking

the four countries into economic corridors and enhance people to people contact.
Building on the progress made in negotiating and finalizing the SAARC Motor
Vehicles Agreement, this agreement would facilitate the transit of all types of
vehicles between the contracting parties as is prevalent in other common markets
like the European Union.
The delegates of the four-country meeting, which was chaired by Indias Road
Transport and Highways Secretary Shri Vijay Chhibber, recognized the urgent need
to ease the movement of passenger and goods across their borders to stimulate
trade and commerce. Md. Faruque Jalil, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Road
Transport and Bridges of Bangladesh, Shri Kinley Dorji, Secretary of the Ministry of
Information and Communications of Bhutan, Shri Sanjay Bandyopadhyay, Joint
Secretary of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of India and Shri
Devendra Karki, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and
Transport of Nepal headed the delegation of their countries.

Ministry of Urban Development06-February, 2015 17:27 IST


Address of Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu, Minister of Urban Development, HUPA and
Parliamentary Affairs at Mumbai-Next? Conference in Mumbai on February 6, 2015

Friends !
-Iamindeeddelightedtobewithsuchadistinguishedgatheringassembledforbrainstorming
overthefundamentalissueofMumbaiNext?
-For this basic question, my simple answer is Basics First. Let us see what does this mean as
we go along.
-This thematic question is another variation of India-What Next?. These two questions are so
intelinked that they almost become synonymous. If solutions can be found for the current
problems of Mumbai, our country would instantaneously find solutions for the issues and
challenges in the urban sector.
-This is the story unraveling in urban India with attendant issues and challenges. That is why I
have said, Mumbai s problems and solutions are that of India.
-The present century belongs to cities, more particularly, in the context of our country.
-Urban areas are the growth engines of economy, the world over. At present, about 65% of our
GDP comes from urban areas that account only for about one third of our total population. Soon,
this ratio is going to be 75%.
-For our country to emerge as the economic power house of the world, as we all dream to be in
the near future, the key lies in the way we manage our urban expansion.
-It comes with challenges. But opportunities also come knocking along with these challenges.
So, the main question is, are Mumbai and India ready to seize these opportunities?
-The criticality of urban areas for economic development is best captured in respect of Mumbai
city.
-Mumbai, the financial and commercial capital of our country accounts for 6.16% of countrys
GDP, 10% of total factory employment, 25% of industrial output, 40% of foreign trade, 33% of
total Income Tax collection, 60% of customs revenue and 20% of total central excise tax
collection.
-Does one need any more evidence of importance of Mumbai and of urban areas for the
economic development of our country?
-It is in this context that this important event is being organized and I compliment Mumbai
First for this initiative.
-Mumbai has several firsts to its credit. The first bus service introduced by BEST more than a

hundred years ago, the first train got off the rails from here more than 150 years ago, the first
railway station at Chatrapati Shivaji terminal, countrys first skywalks etc.
-But where does Mumbai stand today? Why is it lagging behind in putting required
infrastructure in place for its teaming population? Why is living here becoming a daily
challenge?
-With a Per capita Income in Mumbai three times that of national average which is estimated to
reach an impressive level of US $ 23,000 per capita GDP by 2020-21, why is Mumbai crying for
relief?
-Mumbai is the land of opportunities and so thousands migrate to this city every day. This is an
inescapable reality and this is challenge is required to be met in all seriousness.
-While the urban rail transport system of Mumbai is being stretched to its limit and is being
challenged every day, why is that this city has only about 11 kms. of modern metro service that
too commissioned only last year between Versova and Ghatkopar as Mumbai Metro Line-1?
Delhi, on the other hand has about 120 kms of Metro Rail and going to add another 150 kms. in
the near future?
-Obviously, basics went wrong some where. So, the need of the hour is to get the Basics First.
What are these basics? Required transport infrastructure with multi-modality is the most
fundamental of these basics. Housing and sanitation are the next imperatives.
-The general deficiencies and challenges of urban planning and execution are most evident in the
case of Mumbai.
- Several infrastructure projects have been conceived and are being executed in Mumbai for
making city life better. But where we are missing out on is the time taken for their execution for
various reasons. These reasons, however real and genuine, can not be excuses for time and cost
overruns.
-The cases of missed timelines in respect of Navi Mumbai Airport, Mumbai Trans Harbour Link
are some cases in point.
-Resource constraint is the general excuse offered in our context. I am happy to read an
interview of the Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadanavis in a newspaper yesterday. He asserted
rightly that funds are not an issue with several looking for investment opportunities.
-What is needed are smart leadership and smart people to make any city worthy of living.
-A smart leadership should put in place an enabling mechanism in place for quick project
approvals and co-opt people in decision making and execution. People should be smart enough
to realize their share of responsibilities in managing a city like Mumbai and be willing partners

to enhance its capacities to rise to the challenges and convert them into opportunities.
-After the last few months of being in office, I am convinced that given the nature of
urbanization challenges, city development has got to be a peoples movement. It cant be just the
responsibility of the executive.
-Mumbai is known for the vibrancy of its citizens. People who can brave such adversities of
living in Mumbai on a daily basis have the energies and abilities to take the city to a new level
provided they are made partners in this task.
-Only a couple of days back, we have organized stakeholder consultations on reducing the time
taken for approving construction projects in urban areas.
-I was told thereafter that in Mumbai, 27 clearences and no-objection certificates are required to
be taken before starting any construction project. And on an average, it takes about six months to
do so and in individual cases, the time taken is in the range of two years. Can we afford this as
we dream of becoming an economic super power?
- It follows that the ease of doing business in urban areas like Mumbai needs to be substantially
improved so that we can build houses for slum dwellers by enabling investment flows that are
critical to do so.
-I am happy to know of the initiatives being undertaken by Mumbai Municipal Corporation to
break into the top 30 cities in terms of ease of doing construction business.
-We have asked Mumbai Corporation to come out with a model online integrated process for
according approvals in 30 days which can be replicated by others in due course.
-Shri Fadanvis has rightly referred in his interview to the need for clean projects that have all the
approvals to attract investments. If we make such clean project proposals with appropriate
financial models, investments will certainly flow and we can address the problems of Mumbai
and other cities.
-I understand that Mckensey has estimated an investment need of about US $ 9 billion per year
over the next 10-15 years to meet infrastructure needs of Mumbai. This can be possible if only
we have right investment climate in place.
Friends !
-A decent house is a basic parameter of dignified living which is a matter of right for every
citizen. I loose sleep when I think of Mumbais slums and the living conditions there. Cant we
fix this problem? We can provided there is will and can find a way forward.
-The vested interests that thrive and exploit the misery of slum people need to be demolished
with an iron hand and then evolve investible projects for redevelopment of slums in-situ or by

relocation.
-Our Prime Minister has asked all of us to collectively ensure housing for all by 2022 and we
shall do it.
-Sanitation in urban areas including in Mumbai is a matter of serious concern. Living by the side
of filth all around, garbage piles, unkempt drains, leaking sewerage etc., amounts to negation of
basic right to health.
-PM has again launched another initiative of Swachh Bharat Mission to make Mumbai and all
4,041 statutory towns clean in the next five years. All of us collectively need to rise to the task.
-Urban infrastructure including roads, efficient public transport, clean drinking water, solid
waste management, digital connectivity, smart water and power grids, intelligent transport
systems, responsive administration through e-governance, citizen participation in decision
making, decent housing etc., are the fundamental requirements to make living in Mumbai and all
urban areas worthy of it.
-Inclusive urban development is our governments motto.
-Building smart cities and other initiatives of our government seek to address the challenges of
urbanization as we seek to convert urban areas worthy of decent living and there by harness their
potential of driving economic growth.
-We have a smart leader in Delhi and one in Maharashtra. These are exciting times for the
country. We have to reach out to newer horizons. We shall do so.
Friends !
-A shower cant bring life in Mumbai to a stand still. This is no way to make Mumbai fully
emege as the global city and a global financial hub.
-We have to get our basics right. We need to fix the basic problems of Mumbai in quick time.
-What lies in store for Mumbai next also applies to the country.
-All stakeholders including the people of this great city, corporators, MLAs, corporate the
selected and elected executive need to rise to the occasion.
-We can get the basics right if only we reorient our basic attitudes and mindset.
-Mumbai can be made smart only through smart thinking and smart actions.
-On this occasion and in the presence of the Deputy Finance Minister Shri Jayant Sinha, I would
like to assure all of you that central government will not be found wanting in changing the

contours of Mumbai.
-In the end, Mumbai-Next? A new beginning to fix the problems by getting the basics in all
aspects right.

Ministry of Urban Development06-February, 2015 17:01 IST


States Sensitization Workshop on new Urban Initiatives in Mumbai on February 7
Shri Venkaiah Naidu to reach out to Senior Officials and 120 Municipal Commissioners
from 5 States
Maharashtra CM Shri Devendra Fadnavis also to Attend the Workshop
Urban Governance Reforms, Implementation of New Schemes, PPP Models to be discussed

Top brass of the Ministries of Urban Development and Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation
including the two ministers, secretaries and other senior officials will hold a day long
consultations with senior officials and about 120 Municipal Commissioners from the states of
Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh in Mumbai on February 7, 2015 on
various issues relating to implementation of new urban sector initiatives.
Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu will set off the deliberations at the day
long Consultative Workshop on Urban Governance sharing with the states his concerns about
managing growing urbanization, state of urban governance, experiences of implementation of
JNNURM and new initiatives required in the context of new initiatives of the central
government like Smart Cities, National Urban Development Mission for 500 Cities, Swachh
Bharat Mission, Housing for All and Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana. Issues like Cyber Security
and Public Private Participation Models for resource mobilization will also be discussed.
Maharasthra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister of State for UD and HUPA
Shri Babul Supriyo and the Maharashtra Minister of State for Urban Development Dr.Ranjit
Vitthalrao
Patil
will
attend
the
workshop.
Senior officials of the Ministries of Urban Development and HUPA will make detailed
presentations on various schemes bringing out issues for consideration and action by the states
and urban local bodies. Responses of states will be taken on each of implementation issues.
Mumbai Workshop is the third in the series being organized by the Ministry of Urban
Development to take states and urban local bodies on board for effective implementation of new
urban sector initiatives. Two Workshops were earlier held for southern and northern states in
Hyderabad and New Delhi respectively

PM to Heads of Indian Missions (PMO Office)

Use the current global environment to position India in leading role


"You are vibrant representatives of a glorious heritage"
India has a great responsibility to help the world counter new threats to global peace
India must lead the fight against climate change; love for nature is part of Indian culture
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today said that the present global environment
represents a rare opportunity, when the world is keen to embrace India, and India is moving
forward with confidence. Addressing Heads of Indian Missions from across the world, the Prime
Minister urged them to use this unique opportunity to help India position itself in a leading role,
rather than just a balancing force, globally. Urging them to shed old mindsets, the Prime
Minister said they should be quick to adapt to changing global situations.
Emphasizing the role of "Heads of Missions" in projecting India to the world, the Prime
Minister described them as "shining vibrant representatives" (tejasvi, jeevant anshpunj) of
India`s glorious heritage. He urged them to work ceaselessly and with a clear mind, on India`s
development
priorities,
and
to
advance
India`s
interests
abroad.
Speaking of conflicts in the twenty-first century, the Prime Minister said there were new
"actors" and new "threats" to global peace and prosperity, and added that India, which always
stood for "Vishva-Bandhutva" and peace the brotherhood of the world had a great
responsibility in helping the world counter these challenges to peace.
On the challenge of climate change, the Prime Minister said protecting the environment is part
of India`s cultural heritage, and therefore, India must take the lead in countering this challenge,
and also work towards a change in global attitudes towards the challenges of climate change. He
said Indian culture was replete with illustrations which indicated "prakriti-prem" "love for
nature."
The Prime Minister credited the Indian diplomatic community for their success in the
International Day of Yoga being adopted by the United Nations in record time, with a record
number of co-sponsors. He said Yoga should be projected as a possible solution to common
everyday problems of people across the world, including stress management.
The Prime Minister said the NITI Aayog has recognized the Indian diaspora as a great strength
of our nation, and Heads of Missions must come up with innovative ways, in which to positively
build
upon
this
strength.
The Prime Minister called for preparing a compendium of best practices of Missions across the
world, and spreading them horizontally. He called upon Missions to contribute towards
developing a culture for "Swachhta" cleanliness, and to remain ahead of the curve on digital
diplomacy. He urged Missions to maintain digital libraries showcasing the best of Indian culture,
and maintaining regular contact with prominent individuals from countries abroad, who visited
or planned to visit India. He said relationships have been important for all mankind throughout
history, even as humanity has struggled to deal with challenges.
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare07-February, 2015 19:48 IST

Need for innovation in systems for effective healthcare delivery: Shri J P Nadda
There is a need for innovation in the systems and practices in delivery of healthcare to enhance
their effectiveness. There is an equal need for sharing of best practices between the various
stakeholders in the health sector in order to benefit from the prevalent knowledge and experience
in different quarters. Union Health Minister Shri J P Nadda stated this at the Third Biennial
International Conference and Advanced Live Laparoscopic Workshop- ENDOLAP 2014,
organised by the Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, here today.
Stating that laparoscopy is a skilled surgery which requires advanced training, the Health
Minister highlighted the gap between the demand and supply in the human resources in the
health sector including doctors, specialists and para-medical professionals. With more
opportunities for advanced training for such specialization, not only will the demand- supply gap
be reduced but the patients will also benefit with better healthcare, the Minister pointed out. The
Government is working on plans for holistic healthcare which include creating infrastructure at
the primary, secondary and tertiary levels in addition to providing better healthcare services in
the
rural
areas,
the
Minister
mentioned.
The Health Minister said that workshops such as these with participation of eminent national and
international faculty provide an opportunity to the students and faculty to deepen their
knowledge and sharpen their skills. The Minister invited suggestions from the doctors and other
stakeholders for enhancing the effectiveness of healthcare delivery in the country.
Ministry of Water Resources07-February, 2015 19:47 IST
'Water' Conference-2015 Inaugurated
Uma Bharti Announced the Decision to Restructure and Reshape the Brahmaputra Board

The three day, 3rd Assam "Water" Conference - 2015 was formally inaugurated today at
Guwahati by Union Water Resources Minister Uma Bharti and Union DoNER Minister & MoS
PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh
along
with
Chief
Minister
of
Assam
Tarun
Gogoi.
Spread over different academic and technical sessions, the Conference will deliberate upon
various issues with a focal theme Management of Water Related Disorders - Urban and Rural.
An exhibition sporting the theme and showcasing the latest technologies in the field of water
management
is
also
being
held
simultaneously.
An exclusive gallery called Brahmaputra gallery depicting different facets of River
Brahmaputra and its picturesque richness was also formally dedicated to the nation here today
with the cutting of ribbon and unveiling of plaque by the three dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, Uma Bharti announced the decision to restructure and reshape the
Brahmaputra Board and to bring about upgradation of water resources infrastructure in the
region. She also announced the plan to declare Majuli near Jorhat as Water Heritage Island.
Reiterating that all the schemes of Water Resources Ministry will be North-East oriented, Uma
Bharti emphasized the importance of anti-erosion and flood management along the course of
Brahmaputra.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, in his address, lamented that nearly 33% of water resources in North-East are
going waste. This is an appalling situation, he said, considering the fact that a gigantic river like
Brahmaputra and an enormous source of water in the region is, instead of being put to
constructive use, ending up as a source of destruction, erosion and elimination of water bodies.
Dr. Singh said, it is an irony that on the one hand there is so much of excess water and frequent
floods, on the other hand, regular uninterrupted tap water supply is available to an extent of
hardly 50% and people still continue to crave for clean water and sanitation. To overcome this
paradox, he suggested innovative and proactive planning for perspective use.
While welcoming the two Union Ministers, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi expressed satisfaction
that the very presence of two members of the Union Council on the occasion pointed to the
importance of water resource problem that is faced by Assam. He warned that while the damage
caused by floods is only temporary, the erosion caused by floods leads to permanent and lasting
damage.
Shri Gogoi made an alarming observation that over nearly 4000 hectares of land had already
eroded in the area and that river Brahmaputra requires proper channelization and reclamation for
which he appealed to the Central Government to provide a liberal and free assistance.
President's Secretariat09-February, 2015 18:56 IST
President of India to preside over two-day Conference of Governors on February 11 & 12

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee will preside over a two day Conference of
Governors on February 11 and 12, 2015 at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This is the 46th such Conference
to be held in Rashtrapati Bhavan and the third Conference to be presided over by Shri Pranab
Mukherjee.
The

Conference

will

deliberate

on

the

following

agenda

items:

1. Security- internal and external with special focus on border security in States sharing
international
frontiers;
2.Financialinclusion;
3. Employment generation and employability- making skill development programmes effective;
4. Sanitation achieving the goal of Swachh Bharat by 2019 on Mahatma Gandhis 150th birth
anniversary;
and
5. Issues relating to Fifth and Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India and development
related issues of North Eastern Areas.
Ministry of Finance09-February, 2015 17:30 IST
FM: Global Situation is Favourable to the Country as more and more Investors are
Showing Curiosity and Interest in India;
The Union Finance Minister, Shri Arun Jaitley said that overall economic situation in
the country is looking better and basic parameters of Indian economy are moving in
the right direction. Shri Jaitley said that current account deficit will be under control
and will try to keep fiscal deficit also within the prescribed limit. The Finance
Minister said that the growth rate would be better than the last year as per the old
system. The Finance Minster was making the Opening Remarks at the First Meeting
of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee attached to his Ministry held here
today
to
discuss
Suggestions
for
the
Budget.
The Union Finance Minister Shri Jaitley further said that the global situation is
favourable to the country as more and more investors are showing curiosity and
interest in India. The Finance Minister said that our major challenges will be to boost
investment especially in infrastructure sector and give further boost to both
manufacturing and agriculture sector among others. Regarding bringing back the
black money stashed abroad, the Finance Minister said that India will soon become
part of international consortium where the focus would be on automatic transfer of
information which would in turn help the Government in getting easy access to such
foreign
accounts
of
Indian
residents.
Most of the members of the Consultative Committee congratulated the Government
for the gradual turn-around of the Indian Economy taking place and also welcomed
the increased inflows of FDIs and FIIs during the current year. Various suggestions
were given with regard to the forthcoming Union Budget by the participating
members which include significant increase in allocation for judicial sector for
setting- up fast track courts in order to clear the heavy back log of pending court
cases in various courts; abolition of differential import tax levied on end use basis

Ministry of Communications & Information Technology12-February, 2015 20:44 IST


India offers Cutting Edge it Technologies at Frugal cost- Says it Secretary
Secretary, Department of IT & Electronics, Government of India Shri RS Sharma said
that India offered a wide variety of sophisticated IT technologies at frugal cost to the
technology acquirers and solution providers. He was Addressing the inaugural of the
15th edition of Indiasoft (India IT Show) which began in Delhi today. The
international IT event and conferences are attended by over 400 delegates from
abroad. Billed as the one of the largest IT shows focused on small and medium
enterprises and organized by Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion
Council (ESC), the show was participated by 150 exhibitors form India.
Sketching the dramatic transformations taking place in the digital eco-system of
India, Shri Sharma said that digital India program would be a game changer in
India`s march towards development. All social welfare and governance programs
would be working on digital platform. For instance the unique identification program
launched by the Government has so far enlisted 750 million people and it would be
covering the entire population. The cost of enlisting an individual in the scheme
might work out to be cheapest in the world. While similar ID card program in the UK
cost Pound 150 per individual, in India it entailed only Rs 100 only. It could even
work out to be cheaper, when the project gets completed. Shri Sharma invited the
foreign delegates to adapt the Indian technologies, which combine innovation with
frugality, speed and scale. That suited the need and affordability of countries, which
are passing through various stages of development. Also, a variety of newer
technologies are developed such as digital lockers, digital certificates etc. which
would enable a person to store digitally all records and forward them as and when
they are required by relevant organizations . Enhanced digitization would also help
eliminate the last mile leakages in some of the social welfare programs like
employment guarantee, subsidy transfer programs etc. Referring to the financial
inclusion programs being launched by the government, Mr. Sharma mentioned that
the high mobile phone penetration would be used to reach out the target group.
India has over 950 million mobile phones. Since the PC and broadband penetration
are not very high, mobile texting would be used for reaching out the target group to
inform them about their bank balances and other facilities like direct subsidy
transfer etc,. At the same time, every effort will be taken to increase the quality
broadband penetration. India would have 250,000 touch points connected with
optical fiber , wherein every person would have access to the net.
Shri Nalin Kohli, Chairman, Organizing Committee, Indiasoft Referred to the steady
growth in India`s software and services exports, which is estimated to touch US 86
billion this year. Shri J K Jadoo, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of
Commerce and Industry, Government of India said that the IT sector would emerge
as a one trillion dollar worth segment by 2025 and India would be home to over
1000 cutting edge technologies. Shri D K Sareen, Executive Director, ESC referred to
the innovative approaches of ESC to enhance the presence of Indian IT companies

across the global digital eco-system. Later addressing a press conference along with
a high-powered delegation from Russia on the potential of the Indo-Russian
cooperation in IT, he said that areas like R&D, development of complex products
and solutions should merit the attention of both countries not only for each others
requirements but for third country exports. Importantly, ESC has signed a number of
MOUs with important business organizations from various parts of the world and its
statistical year book was released.

Ministry of Communications & Information Technology12-February, 2015 16:06 IST


Make in India Telecom Conclave
Shri Rakesh Garg, Secretary, Department of Telecom today emphasized on the need
for frequent exchange of views among manufacturers, service providers, operators,
industry and the R&D institutes to find out the shortcomings and ways to address
the problems faced. Speaking at the Make in India-Telecom conclave here today
he said, there is no dearth of talent in India but still we are hugely dependent on
imports, especially in electronics and telecom. He said research is being done in
India, but IPRs are with other countries. Then we are buying the very same products
at higher costs from those countries. He said that there is a great need to make a
mechanism to interact with the industry before developing technology or a solution
rather than post development. He appreciated C-DOTs role in connecting Gram
Panchayts with broadband under the NOFN.
Revisiting the history of Indian telecom sector, Smt. Rita Teotia, Special Secretary,
DoT, said that India was keeping pace till the eighties, but slipped once the wireless
era began. This necessitated in massive imports and decline in manufacturing. And,
now in the changed scenario, telecom is no longer a luxury. Telecom services have
become a lifeline. Therefore security is a key factor. To address this issue,
indigenous manufacturing is an important tool. She said the Conclave is very timely
and opportune because in the building blocks for Make in India R&D is the first
block. Referring to the Prime Ministers slogan Zero Defect, Zero Effect given
during his Independence Day speech, Smt. Teotia said that we should develop and
manufacture setting high standards with zero defect` so that they are not rejected
and without adversely affecting the environment making it `zero effect`.
Shri A. K. Bhargav, Member- Technology, DoT said that this conclave would prove
beneficial in bringing to the fore all the requirements, expectations and
impediments of the telecom sector. While appreciating the C-DOT R&D in the recent
past, he emphasized the need of aggressive marketing of its products.
Shri Vipin Tyagi, Executive Director, C-DOT said that Make in India is of special
relevance for organizations like C-DOT who are dedicatedly involved in indigenous
R&D. He said that Digital India and Make in India are inseparable and cannot survive
without one-another. He explained the objectives of the conclave and presented CDOT product profile.The panel discussion focused mainly on the need to revive the

telecom manufacturing in the country in line with the needs of operators and other
users of telecom solutions. The future research roadmap of C-DOT was also
discussed with the industry to assure that it would continue to bring indigenous
telecom products as per the requirements of the nation.
As the forex outflow on the account of Electronic imports is increasing day by day, it
is of paramount importance to further indigenous technologies and take them to
manufacturers. This will not only save huge forex for the country, but would also
develop an eco space of manufacturers, vendors, application developers in the
country. Recent initiatives by the Government like Preferential Market Access have
reinvigorated Indian telecom fraternity and it is expected that deliberations in
Make in India Telecom conclave would pave the way for close co-operation
among indigenous technology developers, manufacturers, academia, and policy
makers of the country.
Generation Network (NGN) solution addresses the needs of the changing telecom
scenario and enables a smooth transition from Plain Old Telephone System (POTS)
to NGN based Voice-over-IP (VoIP). GyanSetu is an internet based real-time ICT
system designed by C-DOT, primarily to provide various e-services to the under
privileged rural population of India.
Centre for development of Telematics (C-DOT), the telecom research and
development wing of the Govt. Of India organized Make in India Telecom
conclave at its campus in Mehrauli, New Delhi today. Shri Rakesh Garg, Secretary
Department of Telecommunications, Government of India inaugurated the event.
Special Secretary, DoT Smt Rita Teotia and Member- Technology Shri A K Bhargav
were the guests of honour. Telecom industry luminaries comprising of policy makers,
operators, manufacturers, academia, etc. participated in the conclave to share their
understanding of present telecom landscape, future telecom trends and approach
for furthering telecom manufacturing in India. C-DOT presented its offerings for
various consumer segments e.g. TSPs, ISPs, Building networks, Campus Networks,
Public Wi-Fi Hotspots, and Rural BPO etc.

Ministry of Finance12-February, 2015 19:27 IST


Text of the Joint Statement Issued After Fifth India-U.S. Economic and Financial
Fartnership Dialogue
The Finance Minister of India Shri Arun Jaitley and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Mr
Jacob J. Lew met here today for the Fifth Annual India-U.S. Economic and Financial
Partnership. Reserve Bank of India Governor Shri Raghuram Rajan and U.S. Federal
Reserve Board Vice Chairman Mr. Stanley Fischer and other senior officials from both
the countries participated in the day long meeting.
The following is the text of the Joint Statement released by the Finance Minister of
India Shri Jaitley and US Treasury Secretary Mr Jacob Lew after Fifth India-U.S.

Economic And Financial Partnership Dialogue:


The Indian Ministry of Finance and U.S. Department of the Treasury commit to build
on the new dynamism of a renewed India-U.S. partnership for the 21st century
through Shared Effort, Progress for All shaped under the leadership of President
Obama and Prime Minister Modi.
We appreciate the significant efforts undertaken by both sides in recent months to
re-energize the bilateral and strategic partnership that has elevated the Partnership
to an unprecedented level and scale.
Our shared interest in promoting policies that foster higher and more sustainable
economic growth, job creation, and financial stability has enabled us to coordinate
on a wide range of issues including investment promotion, financial sector
regulation, infrastructure development, tax policy, and combating money
laundering and the financing of terrorism. We agreed that we would continue to
grow our diversified Partnership through enhanced consultations and economic
cooperation.
We discussed recent economic and financial developments in our two economies,
and in the global economy at large. We noted the challenges that both of our
economies face and agreed that sound macroeconomic policies, structural reforms,
and strong prudential frameworks will help to boost economic growth and increase
resilience to financial market volatility.
We reviewed the growing trade and investment flows between our two countries.
We are confident that continued collaboration to increase bilateral trade and
investment flows would enhance opportunities for Indian and U.S. citizens through
greater economic growth and job creation, providing mutual benefits to both of our
countries.
We appreciate the progress made under the new India-U.S. Investment Initiative,
which was launched in Washington, D.C. in January 2015 between the Indian
Ministry of Finance and the U.S. Department of the Treasury, following Prime
Minister Modi and President Obamas joint pledge to establish the initiative in
September 2014. We are confident that under this Initiative our two nations will
continue to coordinate on facilitating capital market development conducive to
financing greater investment into India, including in infrastructure, will collaborate
on measures that help foster an environment for greater investment into various
sectors in India, and will work together to overcome any obstacles to such
investment.
We emphasized the importance of strengthening international financial institutions,
including the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. Secretary Lew affirmed

President Obamas commitment to the shareholder review at the World Bank and to
working to leverage the resources of the multilateral development banks to
enhance our impact on economic development, including through the financing of
infrastructure development.
We noted the need for an early conclusion of reciprocal arrangement on the Foreign
Account Tax Compliance Act and look forward to working for an early adoption of
the new global standards on automatic exchange of information on a fully reciprocal
basis for getting information about unaccounted money hoarded in offshore
jurisdictions and tax havens. We are committed to share our experiences in tackling
offshore tax evasion and avoidance. We affirmed our shared commitment to
fostering an enabling tax environment and expressed our satisfaction at the
progress made in resolving tax disputes.
Secretary Lew commended the Jan Dhan scheme to provide universal access to
banking services for stronger and equitable growth in India. We agreed to
collaborate through technical assistance for furthering financial inclusion to Indias
poor.
We agreed that deeper and more liquid capital markets in India will facilitate greater
foreign investment across sectors, including infrastructure. Streamlining procedures
for directly accessing Indias onshore financial markets and allowing foreign
investors to invest in a way that more directly benefits the India end-user, instead of
the use of parallel off-shore markets with a chain of intermediaries, would lead to
greater efficiencies and more funds available to finance investment.
Minister Jaitley underscored the need to build a broader set of financing
opportunities for entrepreneurs and firms, including a more vibrant corporate bond
market. Both leaders decided to further the India-U.S. alliance for developing stable
and robust government and corporate bond markets, removing regulatory
impediments to the deepening of capital markets, and strengthening financial
regulation.
We also committed to collaborate on technical assistance in the area of public debt
management.
Minister Jaitley expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the U.S. Treasury in
cooperating with the Ministry of Finance on the Task Force on Resolution Corporation
set up in pursuance of the recommendations of the Financial Sector Legislative
Reforms Commission.
We welcomed the agreements made for information sharing between the two
countries regulatory agencies. We welcomed the prospect of an increasingly robust
dialogue and meaningful cooperation on anti-money laundering and combating the

financing of terrorism with the signing of the India-U.S. Memorandum of


Understanding in January 2015. We reiterated our commitment to target the
financial networks and fundraising activities of terrorist organizations such as
Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jammat-ud-Dawa (JuD). Jaishe-e-Mohammad, the Haqqani
Network, D Company, Al Qaida, ISIL, and individual terrorists associated with these
organizations. We all agreed to enhance cooperation between our agencies in
fighting illicit finance in all forms.
We encouraged officials on both sides to continue to evolve ambitious plans to
further the Partnership. Secretary Lew thanked Minister Jaitley for hosting the first
cabinet level meeting under the Economic and Financial Partnership in New Delhi
and suggested to convene the sixth meeting of the Partnership in Washington, D.C.
in 2016.

Ministry of Mines 12-February, 2015 13:36 IST


Union Mines & Steel Minister Invites Foreign Companies to Invest in Exploration and
Mining in India at Mining Indaba-2015
Indian Mining Sector is open for business, mentioned Shri Narendra Singh Tomar,
Union Minister of Steel & Mines, while addressing the India Day session at the
Mining Indaba, South Africa on11.2.15. He highlighted the changes in the new
legislation brought in by Indian government, where all mining concessions are now
to be granted through the auction route, making it a transparent and fair process
eliminating the chances of discretion or bias, while reducing delays. He also invited
companies to invest in the mining sector of the country which is on course of taking
off on a higher growth path. The session elicited considerable interest amongst
participants who enthusiastically participated in the interactive session, which
followed a short film and a presentation, outlining the overview of the Indian mining
sector.
Shri Tomar emphasised in his address that in this age of globalization, mining is
being done not only to satisfy the domestic requirements, but also to meet growing
international demands. In the coming years, Mining is expected to be a key
industry, attracting huge investments (both domestic and foreign) thereby
generating additional employment. Today, growth in isolation is not possible.
Neither it is desirable. We need to understand one anothers strengths and explore
areas for cooperation. We see such a potential for partnership between India and
African region.
He stated that India is rich in mineral resources, but large part of this remains
unexplored. He invited the captains of mining industry to invest in exploration in the
country and underlined the commitment of the government to provide all possible
support. Shri Tomar mentioned that by enhancing the lease life to 50 years and
introduction of transferability of mineral concessions, India has become a very
friendly investment destination.

Shri Tomar highlighted that the new government, under leadership of Shri Narendra
modi, has launched Make in India campaign, with focus on manufacturing sector
leading to increased demand for different minerals. Indian Corporates and PSUs are
on the lookout for good investment opportunities in mining sector abroad for
ensuring regular availability of minerals to the domestic industry in which India is
deficient.

Ministry of Agriculture13-February, 2015 13:18 IST


Substantial Increase in Productivity is the Answer to Achieve Food Security in an Efficient
and Sustainable Manner, says Radha Mohan Singh
Union Agriculture Minister Sh. Radha Mohan Singh emphasised that increase in
farmers incomes and quality food supply to consumers at affordable prices are
closely linked to supply of quality seeds with all the required traits for substantial
increase in productivity. Bt cotton in Gujarat and other states like Maharashtra,
Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu has clearly demonstrated what these
new technologies can do to enhance farmer incomes with consequential effects on
their well-being. Besides, newer technologies like herbicide tolerance, drought
tolerance, nitrogen use efficiency, healthy oils and feed, and nutrition enhancement,
can, when introduced commercially in India, substantially increase productivity
leading to greater farmer incomes and farmer well-being, he said.
Sh. Radha Mohan Singh was speaking on the occasion of inauguration of India Seed
Congress-2015 held at Agra (UP) today. Sh.Singh said that apart from increased
productivity to produce more from less input including water and land, the losses
that occur due to droughts, floods, salinity, biotic and other abiotic stresses also
need to be eliminated decisively through the adoption of appropriate technologies.
In this context, genetic engineering holds great promise, he said.
Sh.Singh mentioned that international institutional collaborations both in public and
private sector are essential to introduce innovations and technologies to the
farmers. However such arrangements should benefit all the stakeholders and faster
technology diffusion and adoption can happen only if there is a rational regime for
technology pricing and licensing which enables a level playing field and also fosters
healthy competition, he said.
Sh.Singh emphasised that the superior genetics encapsulated in seed combined
with improved agronomies shall be the key strategy to break the yield barriers. He
said that in this direction the private organized seed industry has significantly
contributed and successfully complemented with the public sector. Government
shall therefore support PPP initiatives for overall development of the sector, he said.

Sh. Singh said that a substantial increase in productivity is the answer to achieve

food security in an efficient and sustainable manner,he said.


Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Radha Mohan Singh said that while agriculture feeds
the nation, seeds feed agriculture. Seeds are a critical determinant of productivity in
agriculture. By embedding various types of values, like health enhancing benefits,
crop protection and water and soil nutrients to resist adverse climatic conditions, a
seed is eminently suited to increase productivity. Thus, appropriate policy support
for seed improvements through conventional and biotech methods, in combination
with improved agronomic practices, would greatly help in ensuring food and
nutritional security of the country, he said.

Ministry of Communications & Information Technology13-February, 2015 18:44 IST


India Committed to Promoting Manufacturing and Export of Telecom- Ravi Shankar
The Union Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Shri Ravi
Shankar Prasad said today that India had proven its capabilities in ICT Sector as a
preferred destination for services and outsourced R&D. Inaugurating the Buyer
Seller Meet , he said that in the backdrop of large domestic demand for telecom
equipments in India, Indian companies are now using innovation and R&D to create
world class products for India as well as for other emerging markets having similar
needs. The Digital India, Make in India and Skill India programs provide an ideal
platform for Indian companies to build a foundation for domestic success which can
be used for exports. Success in Indian market requires best technology, highest
quality and affordable costs. The fact that buyers from Peru to Philippines and from
Mexico to Malaysia participated in this event gives confidence that Indian products
are gaining acceptance in the global markets. He assured that the Government is
fully committed to promoting manufacturing and exports of telecom as a focus area.

Shri Rajiv Kher, Commerce Secretary said that the emerging markets of Africa, Latin
America, SE Asia and CIS countries were the natural destination for Indian exports,
since they would have the highest growth potential in the coming years. Telecom
equipment is increasingly being differentiated by design and software in which India
has very strong and proven capabilities.
Shri Rakesh Garg, Telecom Secretary underscored Indias ability in frugal innovation
to develop world-class telecom equipments that was helping operators to offer
services at very low costs. He expressed satisfaction that Indian companies were
increasing the exports of telecom equipments and services. He stressed the need to
build long-term partnerships between overseas buyers and Indian companies,
keeping in view the continuous technological changes happening in telecom sector.
Shri Sanjay Nayak, Vice Chairman TEPC and MD Tejas Networks, on behalf of the
industry, described this as a very high impact event which was directly facilitating
the domestic industry to generate business in overseas markets by bringing

together a large number of buyers and manufacturers under one umbrella.


Shri Rajiv Mehrotra, Chairman VNL, assured that Indian industry is geared for
innovation and global competition and can act as long-term technology partners for
emerging market countries.
TEPC has created this platform to bring potential buyers from across the globe to
meet the quality telecom equipment and services suppliers of India to develop long
term business relations. The main objective of the event is to provide opportunities
to Indian telecom exporters to meet qualified overseas buyers. This event provides
one to one meeting opportunities between buyers from different countries and
Indian exporters who can enlighten them about their products and technology
solutions. This year for the TEPC is also conducted an exhibitions on the side line of
the event where more than 25 telecom exporters showcase their products and
capabilities.
TEPC organized the 6th Reverse Buyer Seller Meet today at India Habitat Centre, in
which 49 buyers from 19 countries came to India for sourcing telecom equipments
and services. These buyers represent Telecom Service Providers and System
Integrators largely from South-East Asia, Latin America as well as from Africa.

Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution13-February, 2015 16:34 IST
BIS to Develop Standards for Solid Waste Management and Potable Drinking Water
Under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan BIS is developing standards for solid waste
management and promoting the use of available Indian Standards on street food
and public supply of potable drinking water. These standards will be made
mandatory in phased manner. The Ministry Of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public
Distribution Ministry has also drawn up nine points action to further strengthen
Public distribution System. This was stated by the Union Consumer Affairs, Food and
Public Distribution Minister, Sri Ram Vilas Paswan after the Second meeting of the
Parliamentary Consultative Committee attached to his Ministry in Guwahati today.
Shri Paswan said that keeping in mind the new governments priority to give special
focus on the North Eastern Region. Meeting on both the days were chaired by the
Union Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Minister, Sri Ram Vilas Paswan
and attended by Members of Parliament, members of the committee and senior
officials of the Ministry, Beaura of Indian Standers (BIS) and Food Corporation of
India (FCI).
North Eastern Region has been accorded high priority by the Government. In the
two days meetings amendments to the BIS Act, strengthening and improving
Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), Ministrys role in Make in India
programme and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was discussed.

Chairing the meeting, the Minister said BIS Act is being amended comprehensively
for the first ever after it being enacted in the year 1986. These amendments will
empower the government to bring more products under mandatory certification.
While simplifying the procedure for grant of new licences, the amendments provide
for harsher penalties. Misuse of ISI mark is being made a cognizable offence. For the
first time, provision is being made to make distributor and retailer liable for
conformity to quality standards. Product liability and power to recall products and
provision of compensation to consumers is also proposed.
BIS is actively engaged in the Make in India campaign by formulating/updating
standards in the identified sectors. In consultation with the Department of Industrial
Policy & Promotion (DIPP), 46 products have already been identified for this
purpose.
BIS is also preparing for an aggressive media plan for promotion of its brand. It will
facilitate the consumers for not only getting quality products but also save them
from cheating and fraud.
Initiatives for North East
The Minister directed to strengthen BIS in the North-East. He stressed for time
bound upgradation and augmentation of BIS testing lab in Guwahati. Direction was
also given for exploring the possibility of utilising the existing facilities available
with the NTH, IIT, Guwahati, University of Tezpur, Regional Research Lab Jorhat and
Tea Research Institute, Jorhat. The Minister said that the testing facilities available in
forest Research Institute to test ISI marked ply board should also be utilized.
The Minister asserted that more and more youth in the NE Region should be given
training for testing of various products.
To ensure better compliance of standards, the Minister directed BIS to set up new
laboratories in a phased manner. Apart from augmenting infrastructure in the
testing labs at Guwahati and Patna, five new labs would be set up by March, 2016.
Based on the requirements, 4 new labs may be set up every year afterwards, he
said.
Strengthening of TPDS
The Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution also discussed
issues related to strengthening of Targeted Public Distribution System(TPDS). He
apprised the Members of Parliament about steps being taken for making the TPDS
more effective so that benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. He also apprised
them of nine points action plan drawn by the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs,
Food and Public Distribution which inter alia includes door-step delivery of

foodgrains to Fair Price Shop (FPS), elimination of bogus ration cards, end to end
computerization of supply chain and involvement of local bodies, self-help groups
and cooperatives etc in running of fair price shops and distribution of foodgrains.
The Minister said that the States have been requested to set up vigilance
committees at district, block and FPS level with due representation of SCs/STs,
women and local bodies to ensure transparency and proper functioning of TPDS.
States have also being asked to host a toll free common number for grievance
registration and a web portal for PDS.
Regarding implementation of National Food Security Act (NFSA), the Minister said
eleven states have implemented the Act. Remaining States have conveyed that
identification of beneficiaries and other preparatory work is being completed for the
implementation.
The Minister said that the strengthening the TPDS in North East is a priority for the
government. Allocation of foodgrains to Assam is being continued under TPDS as
NFSA is yet to be implemented by the state. He clarified that no cut in states
allocation has been made. He also expressed the hope that workers in Tea Estates
will continue to get the subsidized foodgrains as the Assam Government has
reportedly included them in the list of beneficiaries under NFSA.
Participating in the discussion Honble Members of Parliament gave a number of
suggestions for improving the functioning of BIS and TPDS. They suggested that
grievance redressal under TPDS should be strengthened and Panchayats and other
local bodies should be given important role in it. They also stressed on the need for
proper storage facilities to avoid any damage to foodgrains. The discussions were
attended by Honble MPs Shri Ramesh Chandra Kaushik, Shri Balbhadra Majhi, Shri
Ram Prasad Sharma, Shri Bhupendra Singh.
Apart from the above, a review of the ongoing broad gauge conversion on LumdingBadarpur section of Railways was done with senior officials of Railways and State
Government. This project is very important for ensuring smooth supply of
foodgrains to North Eastern States.

Ministry of Information & Broadcasting13-February, 2015 15:00 IST


Shri ArunJaitley Chairs Consultative Committee Meeting of the Ministry of Information
& Broadcasting

Shri ArunJaitley, Union Minister of Finance, Corporate Affairs, Ministry of Information &
Broadcasting, today chaired the meeting of Consultative Committee of the I&B Ministry to
discuss the issue of India as a soft power As a Filming Destination. Col. Rajyavardhan Singh
Rathore, Minister of State for I&B was also present in the meeting.
Welcoming the members, Shri Jaitley said the topic for discussion was extremely important in
view of the efforts being made to project Indias ability and standing as a soft power and a
Filming Destination. The conceptwould not only facilitate the contours of growth of the Film
Industry, it would also promote the diversity of India to the world through the medium of Films
and Cinema. This initiative and proactive stance would boost the inflow of tourism in India from
other countries. The Minister later mentioned that in order to promote India as a soft power, all
efforts need to be taken to give the concept a strong Brand Push. The branding could be
undertaken by creating and promoting a capsule that incorporated the key features of Indias
professional ability i.e. skills, human resources, diverse locales, filming support from
institutional structures and core strengths of Indias Film industry. This capsule needed to be
showcased at all major international film festivals. As part of the efforts to promote the filming
destination concept, Shri Jaitely also emphasized that there was a need to simplify procedures
and
rules
in
order
to
promote
the
idea
in
letter
and
spirit.
A presentation was made on behalf of the Ministry giving an overview of the steps and
initiatives undertaken so far to promote India as a soft power. The presentation provided an
overview of the processes involved to promote filming in India with reference to the multi
pronged strategy adopted by the Ministry. In the presentation specific references were made to
promotion to film festivals and film bazaars, co-production units, the proposed legislative
framework and policy initiatives to promote skill development in the film industry.
Members of the committee while appreciating the measures taken by the Ministry for this
important initiatives also gave suggestions to ensure that the concerns of the stakeholders were
addressed and the idea was implemented in totality. It was emphasized that skill development
was a critical area and necessary measures needed to be taken by the Government and the
industry together. It was also suggested that rules and guidelines for promoting the destination
concept required a relook. Laws and rules needed to be in sync with contemporary technological
tools. It was also mentioned that the concept required collaboration and partnership between the
ministry and the state governments and other stakeholders.
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy 13-February, 2015 16:00 IST
PM To Inaugurate First Renewable Energy Global Investors Meet On Sunday; Over 2500
Delegates and Exhibitors from 45 Countries To Participate In The Three Day Event;
ThePrimeMinisterShriNarendraModi,willinauguratethefirstRenewableEnergy
GlobalInvestorsMeet&Expo,Reinvest2015onthe15thFebruary(Sunday)at10.30amin
VigyanBhawan,NewDelhi.TheMinisterofState(I/C)forPower,Coal&RenewableEnergy,
Shri.PiyushGoyalandtheMinisterofState(I/C)forCommerce&IndustryMs.Nirmala
Sitharamanwillalsogracetheoccasion.Thevenueofthethreedayglobalmeet,organizedby
MinistryofNewandRenewableEnergy(MNRE)willbeHotelAshok,NewDelhi.

ElaboratingthedetailsofReinvest2015atanewsconferencehere,theMinisterofState
(I/C)forPower,Coal&RenewableEnergy,Shri.PiyushGoyalsaidtheaimoftheeventisto
evolveinnovativefinancialmodelsforfundingandtoensurethepartnershipofstatesandthe
Centreinharnessingrenewableenergy.ItwillalsoshowcasetheGovernmentofIndia`s
commitmenttothedevelopmentandscalingupofrenewableenergytomeetthenationalenergy
requirementinasocially,economicallyandecologicallysustainablemanner.
ShriPiyushGoyalsaidthegovernmentislookingatembeddingrooftoppower,offgrid
powerinnewbuildingsandembeddinggreenenergyfeaturesinBuildingCode.Hesaidthe
renewableenergyindustrywouldbeabletostandonitsfeetinnextthreeyearsandwouldnot
needanysubsidy.TheMinistersaidReInvestwillbeaplatformtoengagevarious
stakeholdersandtohaveaclearunderstandingofthedifficultiesfacedbythem.
Reinvest2015willincludeseveralsessionsheadedbyseniorrepresentativesfromthe
renewableenergyindustry,equipmentmanufacturers,globalfinancialinstitutions,PublicSector
Enterprises,regulatoryauthorities,Centralandstategovernments,researchinstitutionsand
academia.Aftertheinauguration,therewillbeasessiontodeliberateandevolvesuccess
strategiesforfinancingRenewableenergy,whichwillbechairedby
ChiefEconomicAdviserShriArvindSubramanianandwillincludeprominentenvironmentalist
andscientistDr.RKPachauri,andCMDs&CEOsofmajorbankingandfinancialinstitutions
fromIndiaandabroad.Theafternoonsessionsofthedaywillbeonthekeypolicyinterventions
andsupportmechanismstoincentivizedomesticproduction&alsoRenewableEnergy
manufacturingforexports,RenewableEnergyRoadmap2030andInvestmentopportunitiesin
BioEnergyinIndia.SecretariesfromGovernmentofIndiaandHeadsofInternationalAgencies
likeInternationalEnergyAgency,InternationalNew&RenewableEnergyAgencyandalsoof
MNCswillbeparticipatinginthesesessions.
TheseconddaywillstartwithasessiononIndiaasaNewInvestmentDestinationfor
RenewableEnergywhichwillbechairedbyUnionMinisterforRenewableEnergyShri.Piyush
Goyal,andwillhaveparticipationofdignitariesfromWorldBank,UnitedNations,andmany
foreignGovernmentsaswellasNonGovernmentalAgencies.AnothersessionchairedbyShri.
SureshPrabhu,UnionMinisterofRailways,willbetoshowcasethepolicyincentivesbystates.
TheafternoonsessionswillbechairedbyDr.HarshVardhan,UnionMinisterofScienceand
TechnologyandEarthSciencesandalsobySecretariestoGovernmentofIndia.Itwillbe
attendedbyrepresentativesofinternationalfinancialinstitutions,foreignMinistersandCEOsof
severalMultiNationalCompanies.SessionsonDifferentcountryexperiences,Equity
perspectiveonfinancingrenewablesandSustainablerenewableenergystoragearescheduled.
TheAsianDevelopmentBank,UnitedStatesAgencyforInternationalDevelopment,British
HighCommission,BridgetoIndiaandseveralBankswillalsobeparticipating.
ThefinaldaywillstartwithsimultaneoussessionsonInnovativeFinancingModels;Grid
connectedWindPower,ApproachestotacklehighcostsofcapitalinREFinancingchairedby
SecretariestotheGovt.ofIndia,andheadsofInternationalOrganisations.Onthesameday,a
CEOsRoundtablechairedbyUnionMinisterShriPiyushGoyalwillbeconducted.Union

MinisterofUrbanDevelopment,ShriVenkaiahNaiduwillchairaconferenceonshowcaseof
policyincentivesbystates.
InthevaledictorysessiontherewillbeapaneldiscussionchairedbytheUnionFinance
MinisterShri.ArunJaitleyandthepanelwillincludeUnionMinistersShri.PiyushGoyal,Shri.
SureshPrabhu,Shri.PrakashJavadekar,ChiefEconomicAdvisorShri.ArvindSubramanian
andNITIAayogViceChairmanShriArvindPanagariya.
REINVEST2015willbethefirstmajorplatformforinvestmentpromotioninthis
sectortoconnecttheglobalinvestmentcommunitywiththerenewableenergystakeholdersin
India.Over2500delegatesincludingexhibitorsfrom45countrieswillbeattendingthisevent.
Government Initiatives in Renewable Energy Sector:The government plans to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy to more than 160 GW
by 2022 including 100 GW solar energy and 60 GW wind energy. Increased focus is being given
on small hydro, bio energy, new and emerging technologies. The government also aims setting
up RE manufacturing bases in the country and establishment of RE University and creating
multiple job opportunities.

Giving a fillip to the countrys renewable energy programme, the government has taken a slew of
decisions in the last few months to boost Clean Energy in the country. In order to facilitate the
speedy growth of Renewable energy Power generation in the country, the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy (MNRE) is preparing a Renewable Energy Bill. There are several schemes
in pipeline which include providing support of Rs 1000 crore to Central Public Sector units to set
up over 1,000 MW grid connected solar photovoltaic power projects, setting up of over 300 MW
of Grid-Connected Solar PV Power Projects by Defence, Ultra Mega Solar Power projects in
Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Ladakh, 25 solar energy projects with 20,000 MW capacity
to be developed by 2019 and setting up of over 300 MW of solar power projects by Defence and
Para military establishments. The Government has also approved the Scheme for setting up of
1000 MW of Grid-Connected Solar PV Power Projects with VGF (Viability Gap Fund) support
of Rs.1000 crore, in three years period from 2015-16 to 2017-18.
The Union Government had restored Accelerated Depreciation benefit in the Union Budget
2014 to give the much-needed relief to wind power developers and to ensure ramp-up of
production The Government approved continuation of: (i) National Biogas and Manure
Management Programme (NBMMP), (ii) Scheme to Support Promotion of Grid-Interactive
Biomass Power and Bagasse Co-generation in Sugar Mills, (iii) Programme for the Development
of Small Hydro Power, and (iv)Off-grid and Decentralized Solar Applications under JNNSM,
during the 12th Plan period.TheGovernmentamicablyresolvedtheantidumpingduty
dispute.AwholehostofmeasureshavebeenundertakentomakeIndiaaSolar
manufacturinghubwithpriorityfordomesticplayersinlinewithMakeinIndia
programme.

Election Commission15-February, 2015 13:28 IST


Eci to Launch Mission of Electoral Roll Authentication From 1st March

Chief Election Commissioner Mr. H.S. Brahma has announced that ECI will be
launching Mission of Electoral Roll authentication and Purification drive from March 1st, 2015.
Inaugurating a workshop on Linking of Aadhaar with Electoral Roll Database and
Launching of Electoral Roll Authentication and Purification Drive, at Dr. MCR HRD
Institute, Hyderabad yesterday, he advised all officers to come up with suitable action plan to
expedite so that the mission could be completed by August 15th, 2015. The Chief Election
Commissioner appreciated the efforts put in by District Election officers in taking a step forward
and carrying out the proof of concept so effectively to generate advantages and challenges
clearly.
Speaking on the occasion, Election Commissioner Dr. Nasim Zaidi appreciated C-DAC for
creating search and other facility at a National Level for NVSP. He insisted that electoral rolls
are to be purified with the help of technology for which all concerned officials need to work hard
and put in collective efforts nationwide.
The DG and Mission Director of UIDAI, Dr. Vijay S. Madan assured all necessary support from
UIDAI.
The workshop was organised by CEO Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. It was inaugurated by
Shri. H.S.Brahma, Chief Election Commissioner in the presence of Dr. Nasim Zaidi, Election
Commissioner and Dr. Vijay S. Madan, DG and Mission Director UIDAI. It was attended by
officials of ECI, CEOs of States, DEOs of the districts.
Four District Election Officers were given away Best Electoral Practices awards for South Zone.
During the workshop all participants deliberated on issues and advantages of various
actions those could be taken for purifying the roll, in which feeding and seeding of Aadhaar is
one of the way.
The workshop was aimed at analysing the experiment carried out by Nizamabad district
and Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation area in feeding and seeding of Aadhaar number
in EPIC data base to use for purification of Electoral Roll and to discuss various other methods
those could be undertaken in a mission mode project for purifying and authenticating the
electoral Roll. ECI decided to mark year 2015 as the year of Easy Registration and Easy
Correction. Within this mission ECI has already launched National Voter Service Portal

(NVSP) on 25th January 2015 on the occasion of National Voters Day.


1. Search the name in Electoral List.
2. Apply on line in English/ Hindi Language for new registration.
3. Apply online for corrections, if any.
4. User can view details of his Polling booth, Assembly
Constituency and Parliamentary constituency.
5. User can get the contact details of Booth Level officer, Electoral
Registration Officer and other Election officer.
6. Users can feed Aadhaar Number for attaching it with Election
Photo Identity Card (EPIC) data .
7. Users can get link to CEO offices websites
8. Users can view audio visual short films to get educated about
election processes.
9. Audio Visual scripts are also available for getting to know about
the polling processes.
10.Users can watch a short educational film on Electronic Voting
Machine(EVM)
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy 15-February, 2015 17:56 IST
New Renewable Energy Policy to have Provisions for Renewable Generation Obligation :
Shri Piyush Goyal
PPAs in States Should be made Bankable : Shri Arvind Subramanian

Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of State ( IC) for Coal, Power and New & Renewable
Energy, said here today that non-compliance of RPO (Renewable Purchase Obligation) shall
soon draw penalties. He said this at session titled Financing Renewable Energy: Success
Strategies at the 1st Renewable Energy Global Investors Meet & Expo (RE-INVEST) summit.
The Minister said that the new RE policy, that will be enacted soon, shall also have provision for
Renewable Generation Obligation (RGO). He said that the cost of renewable, except small
hydro, has come down drastically over the last decade. There is a need to socialise the cost of
Renewable Energy (RE) through participation of all states, because currently only the states
pushing
for
RE
are
bearing
the
burden,
said
he.
Shri Arvind Subramanian, Indias Chief Economic Advisor, said that the role of public sector
financing will assume paramount importance if India is to expand its renewable energy footprint
in power generation over the next decade. He also pointed out that while focusing on renewable
energy is desirable, it could not be done without simultaneously greening coal, which will
remain
the
primary
source
of
energy
for
the
near
future.
For the foreseeable future, India is going to be reliant on coal. Its a fact of life and we should
understand that. In that case, if we are to make progress on climate change and health, unless
coal is made cleaner and greener, the arithmetic just wont add up. We should not lose sight in
the middle of this discussion on renewable energy on the major investments that need to be
made in greening coal, said Shri Subramanian, who was Chairing the session. He also stressed
on the need to look at the possibility of making PPAs (Power Purchase Agreements) in states
bankable.
While pointing at the persisting problems in financing the RE projects, Ms Arundhati
Bhattacharya Chairperson, State Bank of India, pointed at the need of persistent policies, need to
address issues in land acquisition, off-taking issues and management of the developers.
Ms Naina Lal Kidwai, Chief Executive Officer & Country Head, HSBC India, highlighted the
role capital markets could play in helping the renewable energy sector . Particularly, we need to
create a domestic green bond market which did trading worldwide worth $34 billion last year.
India needs to participate and I also believe that priority sector lending should include
renewables
and
better
credit
enhancement
techniques,
she
said.
Ms Patricia Loui, Member, Board of Directors, US EXIM Bank, spoke about her experiences in
working with the Indian renewable energy sector and other developing nations. The US EXIM
Banks total exposure amounts to $7.2 billion dollars and India ranks second in total exposures
after Mexico. Our portfolio in India has been growing due to a convergence of interests. The US
Government has given us a mandate to lend which allowed us early leadership in financing
projects in Gujarat and Rajasthan, which became a catalyst for other digital investments, she
said. She also emphasised on the need for a basic template for PPA that would be applicable to
all
states.
Ms Loui also highlighted the US EXIM Banks competitive source of financing with the
provision for an 18-year fixed interest rate at 3.13% that allowed financing to become feasible
and cost-effective for a developing countrys institutions. The drivers of success in India have

been your clear national goals on the renewable energy front which is crucial since the clarity
sends out the message to investors that India is ready to do business, she added.
Other speakers included Mr Praveen Kadle (Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Tata
Capital Ltd), Mr Ravneet Gill (Chief Executive Officer, Deutsche Bank), Mr Vivek Pathak
(Regional Director, Asia Pacific International Finance Corporation) and Mr.T.M. Bhasin
(Chairman, Indian Banks Association).

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