Indian Team comprising 280 members, including 198 athletes, head to Berlin for Special Olympics - Summer Games

 The Indian team comprising of 280 members including 198 athletes, on June 12th left for Berlin, Germany to compete at the Special Olympics World Games.

Ahead of their travel, the team also got the opportunity to meet the  Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) Shri Anurag Singh Thakur at the send-off ceremony on June 8th.

MYAS has sanctioned an amount of Rs. 7.7 Cr towards the participation of the Indian contingent at the Special Olympics, which is the highest amount sanctioned for the event to date.

The team also had a preparatory coaching camp at Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi to prepare for the world event which will see participation from over 7000 athletes from 190 countries.

The mega event, which will be held from 17th to 25th  June, will see the Indian Athletes fight for medals in 16 different sports disciplines.

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Chandrayaan 3 scheduled to be launched in July

 India’s coveted Moon Mission Chandrayaan 3 is scheduled to be launched in July, most likely in the second half of the month.

This was disclosed here today by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh in response to a question asked by media persons on the sidelines of a massive public rally addressed by him here today.

The Union Minister said, if things go as planned, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), will launch its ambitious Chandrayaan-3 Mission which is aimed at demonstrating critical technology to land the Spacecraft on the South Pole of the Moon. Earlier this year, he said, Chandrayaan-3 Spacecraft successfully completed the essential tests that validated its capability to withstand the harsh environment that the Spacecraft would be facing during its launch and the subsequent journey, he said.

 

 

Dr Jitendra Singh said, India's earlier lunar mission, Chandrayan -1 had earned India a place of pride and supremacy in the world arena by identifying for the first time ever, the presence of water on the surface of moon. This input was noted with great significance even by the world's premier Space agencies like the USA's NASA, he said.

Pertinent to mention that Chandrayaan-3 is a follow up mission to Chandrayaan-2. Living upto the theme of “Science of the Moon” , the scientific instruments on the lander and the rover in the Chandrayaan would be capable of studying the various aspects of Moon including the Lunar environment and thermo-physio properties. But at the same time, another experimental instrument incorporated in Chandrayaan-3 Mission could be capable of studying different aspects of the Earth as well, thus prompting the simultaneous theme of “Science from the Moon”.

Earlier, addressing a mammoth public really here, Dr Jitendra Singh said, various public-centric schemes brought by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the last 9 years are not only meant for transforming the lot of those sections of society who did not receive their due attention in the earlier regimes, but in the long run these are going to create socio-economic transformation as well as change our social culture and behaviour.

 

 

Dr Jitendra Singh said, many of the public-centric initiatives undertaken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi like for example Rozgar Mela, StartUp India, Mudra Yojna, etc., have been conceived with great degree of sensitivity and compassion, and are designed to reassure the youth that they are being provided a level-playing field with equal chance to be rewarded for their capability and hard work.

In the case of women, Dr Jitendra Singh said, schemes like Ujjawala and Swachhta (toilets) are meant to accord the Indian women convenience and safety with reverence and dignity.

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SNC/PK

monitor the prices of Tur and Urad

 Smt. Nidhi Khare, Additional Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs chaired a meeting with State Food and Civil Supplies Departments, Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) and State Warehousing Corporations (SWCs) on 14th June, 2023 to review stock disclosure of Tur and Urad and the implementation of stock limits by the state governments. The Department of Consumer Affairs had, on 2nd June, 2023 imposed stock limits on Tur and Urad by invoking the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 in order to prevent hoarding and unscrupulous speculation and also to improve affordability to the consumers.

The retail prices, quantities of stocks disclosed by various stock-holding entities and stocks in CWC and SWC warehouses in respect of Tur and Urad were reviewed in the meeting. The action taken by states to verify the mismatches between quantities pledged by market players with banks and quantities declared on the stock disclosure portal and the enforcement of stock limits were also discussed with the states. Further, CWC and SWCs were asked to furnish details of Tur and Urad stocks in their respective warehouses, on a regular basis. In the meeting, the state governments were asked to continuously monitor the prices and verify the stock positions of stock-holding entities and take strict action on those who violated the stock limits order. 

Under the order, stock limits have been prescribed for Tur and Urad until 31st October 2023 for all states and UTs. Stock limits applicable to each of the pulse individually are 200 MT for wholesalers; 5 MT for retailers; 5 MT at each retail outlet and 200 MT at depot for big chain retailers; last 3 months of production or 25% of annual installed capacity, whichever is higher, for the millers. The order has also made it mandatory for these entities to declare the stock position on the portal (https://fcainfoweb.nic.in/psp) of the Department.

The stock limit order was the culmination of various steps taken by the Department of Consumer Affairs to ensure affordability of Tur dal and Urad dal to the consumers, starting with the stock declaration advisory.

In March, 2023, the Department constituted  a Committee under the chairmanship of Additional Secretary, Smt. Nidhi Khare to monitor the stock of Tur held by entities such as importers, millers, stockists, traders etc. in close coordination with the state governments. Series of meetings were held with the state governments, importers, millers and organized retail chains to cooperate towards ensuring affordability of the pulses for the consumers. The Department had also deputed 12 senior officers to visit various places in the States of Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu to take stock of ground reality.

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Indian Council of Agricultural Research signs a MOU with Amazon Kisan

 Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi signed a MoU with Amazon Kisan to combine strengths and create synergy between the two organizations for guiding the farmers on scientific cultivation of different crops for optimum yield and income. ICAR will provide technological backstopping to the farmers through Amazon’s network. It will improve farmers’ livelihood and boost crop yield. This MoU in farmer’s partnership with Amazon Kisan program will help ensuring access to high quality fresh produce for consumers across India, including through Amazon Fresh.

Dr Himanshu Pathak, Secretary DARE & Director General ICAR, on this occasion, emphasized upon secondary agriculture for better remuneration for the farmers. He further highlighted the importance and role of critical inputs in agriculture and season-based crop plans. He mentioned that ICAR will collaborate with Amazon for technologies, capacity building and transfer of new knowledge.

On the behalf of ICAR, Dr US Gautam, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension) and Mr. Sidhrtha Tata, Senior Product Leader from Amazon Fresh Supply Chain & Kisan signed the MoU.

The outcomes from a pilot project at Pune between ICAR-KVK and Amazon has motivated to further expand the collaboration to extend the precise agriculture practices developed through extensive research. Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s will strengthen a wider group of farmers by leveraging technological base through transfer of technology and capacity building programmes. ICAR and Amazon will work together on other farmer engagement programs at Krishi Vigyan Kendras, conducting demonstrations, trials, and capacity building initiatives to enhance farming practices and farm profitability. Furthermore, Amazon will provide training support and assist farmers in marketing their produce through its online platform, facilitating direct connections with consumers.

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INDIAN COMMUNITY IN SURINAME

 On the concluding day of her visit to Suriname, the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu addressed the members of Indian Community at a Reception hosted by the Ambassador of India to Suriname, Dr Shankar Balachandran in Paramaribo yesterday evening (June 6, 2023). Before the commencement of the Reception a two-minute silence was observed to condole the loss of lives in the rail accident at Balasore, Odisha.

Addressing the gathering, the President said that India and Suriname may be separated by geography, but the two countries are united by their shared history and heritage. Suriname and the Surinamese people hold a very special place in the hearts of Indians.  

The President was happy to note that the Indian diaspora in Suriname has been and is playing a crucial role in the economic, political and social development of the country. She said that they have excelled in almost all areas. India is very proud of the achievements of the Indo-Surinamese and their role in the development of Suriname.

The President said that the Indian community acts as a bridge of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. She expressed confidence that they would continue to work hard in their respective fields and further strengthen the unique relationship between India and Suriname.

The President said that today, India is on a transformational path. India is creating new infrastructure to keep pace with fast paced growth. We are making efforts to take the global lead on the digital economy, new technologies, climate change action; and emerging as a knowledge society. India's remarkable economic resilience has garnered international recognition. She said that India stands ready to share its experiences and support Suriname in its quest for progress and development.

Earlier in the day, the President visited Lalla Rookh Museum, Arya Dewaker Mandir and Vishnu Mandir.  She also paid floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and paid respects at the monument of ‘Gevallen Helden 1902’ in Paramaribo.

Later in the evening, the President left for Belgrade - the final leg of her State Visit to Suriname and Serbia.

Please click here to see the President's Speech - 

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INDIAN ARMY COMMEMORATES WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

 Indian Army on Monday commemorated World Environment Day by organising an ‘Environment Seminar' and a 'Display cum Exhibition’ at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt. This central function marked the culmination of a series of environment awareness campaigns and cleanliness drives conducted from third week of May 2023 across all military stations of the Indian Army.

The function was presided over by Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, Vice Chief of Army Staff, and was attended by Lieutenant General Rajinder Dewan, Quarter Master General of Indian Army, Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, Chief of Material of Indian Navy, Air Marshal RK Anand, Air Officer in charge of Administration and other senior officers of three Services and Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff.

A seminar titled 'Olive Green-Defending Green' was organised in which eminent environmentalists delivered talks on critical environmental issues like Waste Management, Lifestyle for Environment and Net Zero Homes & Offices. Mr Syed Asad Ali Warsi, the “force” behind emulatory Indore's Solid Waste Management Model shared his expertise and experiences on 'Integrated Approach to Solid Waste Management to Achieve Circular Economy'. Dr OP Agarwal, a veteran IAS officer lucidly explained the requirements of ushering in behavioural & cultural changes in tune with Lifestyle for Environment. Major General SS Patil, who conceptualised, planned & executed a ‘Zero Waste to Landfills' waste management model at Udhampur Military Station shared his success story with the house. Mrs Radhika Anand, an eminent environmentalist gave practicable & simple solutions towards achieving 'Net Zero Homes & Offices'.

Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar in his closing remarks urged all to lead a compatible lifestyle for the environment and segregate waste at source. He also re-affirmed Indian Army's continued impetus towards de-carbonisation & sustainable development.

In a thematic 'Display cum Exhibition', 'Green Magic in Urban Lifestyle' - a concept of creating green spaces within urban confines by volunteer Urban Gardeners of NCR was showcased. Green Hydrogen and renewable energy technologies were displayed by NTPC. Indian Army's Eco-Territorial Army battalion's efforts on Namami Gange project and ecological restoration of Himalaya also featured in the Exhibition.

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES AT WESTERN NAVAL COMMAND

 The Western Naval Command has been at the forefront in promoting environmental conservation activities at all stations spread across the west coast. It has been a constant endeavour to motivate personnel to imbibe the habit of protecting mother nature as part of their grooming. Over a period of time, multi-dimensional approach has been adopted towards conservation of the environment and implementation of energy conservation methods.

Naval personnel at WNC have been actively involved in rejuvenation of various mangroves along the coast at Mumbai and other stations. Community clean-ups in the neighbourhood, workshops and seminars, awareness campaigns, coastal cleanship and tree plantation drives have been undertaken by the command throughout the year. Besides this, implementation of sustainable policies, green initiatives like promoting recycling, reducing plastic consumption, adoption of renewable energy, in-house handling and recycling of bio and non-biodegradable waste, adoption of energy efficient and water saving practices have been implemented. A Miyawaki forest has been established at NAD Trombay and has been widely appreciated.

As part of #GreenIndia initiative of the Gol, various naval stations of WNC have planted local flora saplings over the year. Under #PuneetSagarAbhiyan, mass coastal clean ship drives have been undertaken along the coast of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka on numerous occasions. Awareness campaigns and clean up drives in coordination with local municipal bodies and NGOs have resulted in disposal of large quantity of plastic waste since Mar 2022.

Continuing with the Green environment initiatives, 'Beat Plastic Pollution' has been adopted as the theme by ND (Mbi). With the active involvement of WNC Parivaar, mass cleanship has been undertaken at all residential areas. Various plantation drives, lectures / seminars and painting competition are being conducted. A Pledge taking ceremony towards a greener, sustainable and healthier environment have been conducted in all Naval stations.

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G20 Health Working Group Meeting

 The 3rd Health Working Group meeting under G20 India Presidency is currently underway in in Hyderabad, Telangana. Dr Bharati Praveen Pawar inaugurated the three-day meeting, in presence of Shri G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Tourism, Prof SP Singh Baghel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare and Dr V K Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog were also present on the occasion. Participants include members of G20 country, guest countries and invited International Organizations.

The first day of the meeting hosted various sessions for deliberations on the G20 India Heath priorities. The inaugural session focused on discussions on the health priorities of the G20 India Health Track. Highlighting the need for continuous strengthening of healthcare systems she stated “The threat of pandemics is far from over. The need is to integrate and strengthen One Health-based surveillance systems.” Adding further, she noted the alignment of G7 and G20 priorities, including the launch of MCM Delivery Partnership during Japan’s G7 Presidency which aligns with G20’s proposal of an end-to-end MCM ecosystem, she urged the G20 fraternity to facilitate on-going efforts, citing “Pandemics may not wait for the finalization of the Pandemic Treaty and hence, the time to act is now.” Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar also informed the delegates of India’s proposal a Global initiative on Digital Health, a WHO-managed network that intends to converge ongoing initiatives in use of technology in the global health arena for the purpose of bridging the digital divide.

Prof S P Singh Baghel lauded the initiative to include prioritizing the issue of financing health systems and societies in the face of an emergency, besides preparedness financing by G20 Joint Finance and Health Task Force and the G7. Emphasizing on the traditional knowledge in healthcare, Shri G Kishan Reddy, stated that “Indian traditional knowledge system propagated preventive and holistic wellbeing for all.”

During the first session on “Health Emergencies Prevention, Preparedness and Response”, the key speakers were Lt Gen Madhuri Kanitkar (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Ms. Priya Basu, Executive Head, Pandemic Fund Secretariat, World Bank, Dr. Michael Ryan, Executive Director, Health Emergencies Programme, WHO and Chair, TAP, Pandemic Fund, Mr. Keiichi Hara, Deputy Director General for Global Issues, Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Co-Chair of G7 Health Working Group, Japan, Mr. Tokio Ozawa, Deputy Assistant Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan.

Lt Gen Madhuri Kanitkar (Retd.) elaborated that the notion of One Health has been integrated with Indian philosophy many centuries ago. She added that anti-microbial resistance (AMR) features as a key priority in India, hence absolutely remedial measures such as optimizing microbial agents in health and animal, strengthening the knowledge of evidence-based surveillance and improving the awareness and understanding of AMR have been part of the action plans in India. She further added that now the concept of One Health has found resonance in many countries and recommended that improving of AMR is important and increased surveillance and research need to be promoted. She added that ‘India is now ready to act local, but think global’. She emphasized that the pandemic led to the development of digital assets, and data sharing platform with all stakeholders, strong surveillance system and equitable distribution of resources, fostering engagement with key development partners, financial backing are all integral components for future preparedness. Mr. Michael Ryan emphasized on the continuity of dialogue amongst the stakeholders and underscored the need for developing key partnerships and network at regional, national and international levels.

Prof. Balram Bhargava, Former DG-ICMR and Secretary DHR, Chief of Cardiothoracic Centre, AIIMS, Dr. Michael Ryan, Executive Director, Health Emergencies Programme, WHO and Chair, TAP, Pandemic Fund, Dr. Richard J. Hatchett, Chief Executive Office, CEPI, Mr. Keiichi Hara, Deputy Director-General for Global Issues, Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Co-Chair of G7 Health Working Group, Japan featured as the key speakers for the second session on “Strengthening Cooperation in Pharmaceutical Sector with Focus on Access and Availability to Safe, Effective, Quality and Affordable Medical Countermeasures”.

Discussions in this session revolved around vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics (VTD) as well as building research and development manufacturing networks, facilitating upstream and downstream in delivery of (VTD)s across the globe. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Balram Bhargava stated that “If Global North and South must collaborate then Medical Counter Measures should be renamed as Minimum Common Mechanism”. Elaborating further, he lauded the innovative digital platforms that were incepted during the pandemic and emphasized that preparedness must encompass human and animal health. He further added that G20 can play an integral role in driving public engagement. He added that India’s Covid-19 trajectory illustrates rapid development of VTDs, manufacturing infrastructure, and world-class research with speed and scale, drone delivery of vaccines, development of digital infrastructure such as Co-WIN that the world can learn from in building networks for scaling and delivering VTDs across the globe. He further added “affordability, scale and inclusivity are key strengths of India that should be leveraged for larger benefit of the world. He concluded stating that “when India is prepared, the world is prepared.”

The first day hosted bilateral meetings as well amongst the G20 fraternity.

Shri Rajesh Bhushan, Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Dept of Health Research and DG, ICMR; Shri Abhay Thakur, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs and Sous Sherpa of India’s G20 Presidency, Shri Lav Agarwal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Hekali Zhimomi, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, government officials, representatives from the G20 member countries, special invitee countries, international organizations, forums and partners like WHO, World Bank, WEF etc., and senior officers of the Union Government were present.

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Meeting of Consultative Committee for Ministry of Railways held

 Meeting of Consultative Committee of Members of Parliament for the Ministry of Railways was held in New Delhi today. The agenda of the Meeting covered 2 topics namely, Catering Services on Indian Railways, and Station Development on Indian Railways- Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

The meeting was chaired by Minister of Railways Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw and attended by several Members of Parliament.

On the issue of catering services on Indian Railways, the members were informed that approximately 1.8 Crores passengers travel daily on Indian Railways and all efforts are being made to ensure provision and availability of adequate catering facilities in trains and stations for the travelling passengers. In the last few years, Railways has not only undertaken an in-depth analysis of catering services but also initiated structural reforms to bring in paradigm shift in catering business.

Catering services are provided to the travelling passengers either through Static units or Mobile units. There are 473 pairs of trains with pantry cars /mini pantry and 706 pairs of trains have train side vending facility. There are 9342 minor and 582 Major Static units of Indian Railways which include Jan Aahaars outlets, Food Plazas and Refreshment Rooms. Indian Railways has catering policy, with the objective of providing quality food to rail passengers by unbundling catering services of trains and creating a primary distinction between food preparation and food distribution. The Ministry has given IRCTC flexibility to customize and decide the menu of catering services in trains so as to include all items of regional cuisine, seasonal delicacies, and food items as per the preferences of different groups of passengers. E-catering scheme has also been introduced on Indian railways. Cashless transaction facilities is provided on both Mobile and Static catering units. Third Party Audit of catering services is also undertaken to ensure quality and service standards. Regular and surprise inspection are conducted to monitor and supervise the catering services.

 On the station development subject, it was informed that upgradation/modernization of the station of Indian Railways is a continuous ongoing process. Three stations viz: Rani Kamlapati in the State of Madhya Pradesh, Gandhinagar in the State of Gujarat and Sir M. Visvesvaraya Railway Station in the State of Karnataka have been redeveloped/modernized so far.

Based on the experience gained from these three stations, the Amrit Bharat Station scheme has been launched for development of stations on Indian Railways. This scheme envisages development of stations on a continuous basis with a long-term approach. It involves preparation of Master Plans and their implementation in phases to improve the amenities at the stations like improvement of station access, circulating areas, waiting halls, toils, lift/escalators necessary, cleanliness, free Wi-Fi, Kiosks for local products through schemes like ‘One Station One Product’, better passenger information systems, Executive Lounges, nominated spaces for business meetings, landscaping etc. keeping in view the necessity at each such station.

The scheme also envisages improvement of building, integrating the station with both sides of the city, multimodal integration, amenities for Divyangjans, sustainable and environment friendly solutions, provision of ballastless tracks, ‘Roof Plazas’ as per necessity, phasing and feasibility and creation of city centres at the station in the long term. Presently, the scheme envisages to take-up 1275 stations for upgradation/modernization over Indian Railways.

 Hon’ble Members of Parliament gave certain valuable suggestion on both the subjects. The meeting ended with the Minister of Railways thanking all the members for their valuable inputs.

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AIR OFFICER-IN- CHARGE ADMINISTRATION (AOA)

 Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar Anand, Vishisht Seva Medal took over as Air    Officer-in-Charge Administration (AOA) on 01 Jun 2023. An alumnus of National Defence Academy, the Air Marshal was commissioned in Administrative Branch of the Indian Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller on 13 Jun 1987.  He has undergone the Higher Air Command Course from College of Air Warfare and Area Control Course from the Singapore Aviation Academy.

In a career spanning over 36 years, the Air Marshal has held various field and staff appointments.  Prior to his present appointment, he was Director General (Administration) at Air Headquarters, New Delhi.

For his distinguished service, he was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal in January 2022 by the President of India.

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NAVAL ARMAMENT

 Shri P Upadhyay, INAS has taken over as Director General of Naval Armament (DGONA) at IHQ MoD (Navy) from Shri KSC lyer, who superannuated on 31 May 23. Shri P Upadhyay, belongs to 1987 batch of Indian Naval Armament Service. He joined Naval Armament Organization of Indian Navy on 12 Jul 1989. An Electrical Engineering Graduate from SGSITS Indore, he earned his Post Graduate degrees from Devi Ahilya University in Electrical Engineering with specialization in 'Digital Techniques and Instrumentation' in 1988 and in Mechanical Engineering from University of Pune with specialisation in 'Guided Missiles', in 1995. In a span of 34 years, he has held various important assignments at NAD (Visakhapatnam), NAD (Karanja), NAD (Trombay), NAD (Alwaye) and IHQ, MoD(N). He is an alumnus of Naval Defence College of NDC-53.

The officer specialises in Missile and Torpedo Maintenance besides having vast knowledge on disposal of ammunition.

He assumes the charge of Director General of Naval Armament on 01 Jun 2023.

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CHANGE OF COMMAND OF AIR FORCE STATION HINDAN

 Air Commodore Sanjay Chopra took over command of Air Force Station Hindan from Air Commodore Vinay Pratap Singh on 01 Jun 23. An impressive parade was held on this occasion.

Air Commodore Sanjay Chopra was commissioned as Helicopter Pilot in the Indian Air Force in December 1995. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor, has flown more than 4700 hours and is an alumnus of College of Air Warfare, Secunderabad. The Air Officer has commanded a Helicopter Unit, a Flying Station and has held various operational appointments. He is a recipient of the Vayu Sena Medal.

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Wheat procurement crosses 260 LMT mark in RMS 2023-24

 Wheat procurement during the ongoing Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2023-24 has progressed smoothly. The progressive procurement of wheat in the current season till 30.05.2023 is 262 Lakh Metric Ton (LMT) which has already surpassed last year’s total procurement of 188 LMT by 74 LMT. About 21.27 Lakh farmers have already been benefitted from the ongoing wheat procurement operations with Minimum Support Price (MSP) outflow of about Rs. 47,000 crores. Major contribution in the procurement has come from three procuring states of Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana with procurement of 121.27 LMT, 70.98 LMT and 63.17 LMT respectively.

The major contributing factors in healthy procurement this year has been the grant of relaxation by the Government of India in quality specifications of wheat affected due to untimely rains; opening of procurement centres at village/ panchayat level; carrying out procurement through Co-operative Societies/ Gram Panchayats/ Arhatias etc. in addition to designated procurement centres for better outreach and permission to engage FPOs for procurement operations.

The rice procurement is also progressing smoothly. A quantity of 385 LMT of rice has been procured till 30.05.2023 during the Kharif crop of Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2022-23 with another 110 LMT yet to be procured. Further, a quantity of 106 LMT rice has been estimated to be procured during the Rabi crop of KMS 2022-23.

The combined stock position of wheat and rice in the Central Pool is over 579 LMT (Wheat 312 LMT and Rice 267 LMT) which has placed the country in a comfortable position to meet its requirements of food grains.

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PRIME MINISTER OF NEPAL CALLS ON THE PRESIDENT

 H.E. Mr. Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, the Prime Minister of Nepal called on  the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (June 1, 2023).

The President welcomed Prime Minister Prachanda and congratulated him on his appointment as Prime Minister of Nepal.  She said that in view of his old association with India and his experience, India looks forward to a positive agenda in India-Nepal bilateral relations to take the age-old partnership to new heights. She expressed confidence that this visit would further strengthen the strong bond between the two countries.

The President noted that India-Nepal bilateral cooperation has gone from strength to strength in recent years. Trade between the two countries was maintained even during the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The President said that the open border between India and Nepal has encouraged tourism from both sides. She emphasised on the need of reviving the spiritual tourist circuit to promote people to people contact and tourism. She said that Sister City Agreements and improvement in financial connectivity can also boost tourism between our two countries.

The President said that Nepal is a priority for India. She added that India looks forward to furthering our development-partnership, including early completion of important projects.

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