DEFENCE SERVICES STAFF COLLEGE, WELLINGTON

 The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu addressed the student officers and faculty of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Tamil Nadu today (November 28, 2024).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Defence Services Staff College has made commendable contribution to training and educating the potential leaders of armed forces of India and friendly foreign countries and selected civilian officers. Over the past seven decades, it has played a major role in professionally grooming the middle level officers. It has the unique distinction of having a composite multi-service and multi-national group of student officers and a professionally enriched faculty.

The President said that Indian armed forces are respected by one and all. They are in the forefront of guarding our nation’s boundaries and territorial integrity. The nation is proud of our defence forces for constantly securing our national interests. Our defence personnel who always serve with the spirit of Nation First deserve high praise.

The President was happy to note that women officers are now commanding various units in all the three services. She said that the increasing strength and role of women in all spheres is encouraging and inspiring for all, especially young girls. She expressed hope for witnessing more and more women joining armed forces, where they can demonstrate exceptional capabilities and break new ground in uncharted territories.

The President said that India is rising and the world is acknowledging our growth in various sectors including defence. India is moving towards indigenization and self-reliance to keep the Armed Forces ready to meet the future challenges. Our country is being developed as a major defence manufacturing hub, and is moving towards becoming a reliable defence partner and big defence exporter.

The President said that in the fast-changing geopolitical environment, we need to be well-prepared to tackle any situation. We not only have to secure our national interests but also prepare for new national security challenges like cyber warfare and terrorism. The issue of climate change is acquiring new dimensions which need to be understood and managed. Updated knowledge and cutting-edge technologies based on intensive research are required to be applied. She expressed confidence that this Course will prepare student officers all for higher responsibilities and as strategists who can deal with complex situations in an effective manner.

Please click here to see the President's Speech - 

 

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‘The Rooster:’ A Unique Cinematic Experience showcased at 55th International Film Festival of India

 The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) continues to celebrate global cinema with the screening of the Australian film The Rooster. The Rooster was showcased as part of the special focus on Australian cinema at this year’s festival. The film’s creative team, including Director and Writer Mark Leonard Winter, Lead Actor Hugo Weaving, and Producers Geraldine Hakewil and MahVeen Shahraki, shared their experiences in creating the film and their insights into its storytelling.

Director Mark Leonard Winter, making his feature film debut, expressed his excitement about presenting the film to the Indian audience. He mentioned, “it was a very personal project, made in our garage with a small, tight-knit team. To now present it at such a prestigious festival in India is a true honor.”

The Rooster tells the story of Dan, a young police officer who retreats to the woods following the death of his best friend, Steve. In the woods, he meets a reclusive hermit who may hold the answers to Steve's mysterious death. The film delves into themes of grief, loss, and the struggle for meaning, exploring the emotional depths of its characters through minimalistic yet powerful storytelling.

Hugo Weaving, the film’s lead actor, reflected on his experience of working on the film. Having previously collaborated with Winter, Weaving described the process as both enjoyable and deeply meaningful. “Playing the role was a challenging but rewarding experience.

The producers, Geraldine Hakewil and MahVeen Shahraki, also shared their thoughts on the film’s production process. Hakewil expressed pride in Winter’s evolution from actor to director, noting, “Mark exceeded our expectations with his work on the script and direction. It was a privilege to be part of this journey.”

The film’s sound design was another highlight discussed at the press conference. Director Winter explained the innovative use of voice as the primary element in the film’s score. “We wanted the score to be deeply connected to the human experience, using only the voice to evoke emotions, from primal sounds to divine music. The human voice has a unique power, and it was essential for us to capture that raw energy,” Winter explained.

The press conference concluded with discussions on the future of Australian cinema, the challenges faced by independent filmmakers, and the growing role of digital platforms in film distribution. The creative team emphasized the importance of maintaining the essence of storytelling, regardless of the changing technological landscape.

As the 55th IFFI continues to celebrate diverse cinematic expressions, The Rooster stands as a testament to the power of independent filmmaking and the universal themes that connect audiences worldwide.

For Full Press Conference:

 

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PIB IFFI CAST AND CREW | Rajith/Supriya/Ashwani/Darshana | IFFI 55 - 81

ENVOYS OF FIVE NATIONS PRESENT CREDENTIALS TO THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA

 The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu accepted credentials from the Ambassadors of Ethiopia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Romania and the High Commissioner of Grenada at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (November 25, 2024). Those who presented their credentials were:

1.   H.E. Mr Fesseha Shawel Gebre, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

2.   H.E. Mr Ono Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan

3.   H.E. Mr Lee Seong Ho, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea

4.   H.E. Ms Sena Latif, Ambassador of Romania  

5.   H.E. Mr Pasupuleti Gita Kishore Kumar, High Commissioner of Grenada

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INDIAN ARMY SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDES MULTI AGENCY DISASTER RELIEF EXERCISE 'SANYUKT VIMOCHAN 2024'

 The Indian Army successfully conducted the Multilateral Annual Joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, 'Sanyukt Vimochan 2024' at Ahmedabad and Porbandar on 18-19 November 2024. General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff attended this significant event which showcased India's disaster response readiness.

The exercise conducted by the Konark Corps of Southern Command of Indian Army, was conducted over two days from 18 to 19th November 2024 at Ahmedabad and Porbandar, Gujarat.  The inaugural event of the exercise at Ahmedabad on 18th November 2024 featured a Table Top Exercise, focusing on the theme of 'Cyclone in Coastal Region of Gujarat'. Representatives from National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA), Meteorological Department and FICCI attended the event along with Indian Armed Forces officials. The second day witnessed Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration held at Chowpatty Beach at Porbandar on 19 November 24.

The Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration featured various agencies practicing coordinated logistics, rapid response and effective disaster management strategies in a simulated cyclone scenario. This event highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Airforce, Indian Coast Guard, National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force & other Central & State Agencies in addressing natural disasters.

The demonstration started with Requisition for the Armed Forces from civil administration. Multi Agency recce and surveillance was carried out of the affected area, post which personnel were inserted for carrying out rescue operations. Casualty evacuation was demonstrated with assistance from the assets fielded during the exercise. The demonstration culminated with ‘Resuscitation and Rehabilitation’ of affected citizens.

In alignment with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, an Industrial Display was also organized alongside the demonstration, providing a platform for Indian defence industries to showcase their innovations and manufacturing capabilities in disaster response technology. This event underscored India's commitment to self-reliance and technological advancement in disaster management.

Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff lauded all participants for their efforts and dedication for organising this professionally conducted exercise and executing it with excellence and finesse. The COAS reinforced India’s commitment to Global Humanitarian Efforts wherein it has consistently emerged as a beacon of hope and assistance to many across the world in times of their crisis, in extending vital assistance to Nations as well as peoples in distress. “The Indian Armed Forces”, he said, “has in recent years, played a pivotal role in disaster relief operations, including search and rescue missions, provision of humanitarian aid and medical support”. The COAS also commended participants from Indian Industries, who had showcased indigenous HADR equipment, in line with the Government’s vision of a developed, self-reliant India. He extended his sincere gratitude to the State Government of Gujarat and Industrial Partners, including the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) for their support to the Indian military as well as for their active involvement in this exercise. The COAS also appreciated the participation of Foreign Delegates, which expounded the Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” - the “World as One Family’’, consistently championed by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.

The opening event of the exercise on 18 November 2024 included a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) centered on the theme 'Cyclone in the Coastal Region of Gujarat.' The exercise simulated a disaster scenario affecting the cyclone-prone Okha-Porbandar coastline, where all participating agencies brainstormed disaster relief strategies and establishing effective joint mechanisms for implementation of those strategies. It aimed at addressing gaps in interagency integration and cooperation, ensuring a swift and coordinated response to natural disasters. The TTX was attended by members of NDMA led by Lt Gen Ata Hasnain (Retd) and other senior functionaries of Armed Forces, State Disaster Management Authority, other Central and State Governmental agencies and industry, besides representatives from nine Friendly Foreign Countries.

15 Senior officials and representatives from Nine Friendly Foreign Countries from the Gulf Cooperation Council, Indian Ocean Region and South East Asia attended this significant event on both days. Their participation underscored the importance of international collaboration, allowing for the exchange of best practices, domain knowledge, and experience in disaster management. Exercise 'Sanyukt Vimochan 2024' represented a significant step towards strengthening India's preparedness and response capabilities, solidifying its leadership in disaster management at the global stage.

The Annual Joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, 'Sanyukt Vimochan 2024' has not only enhanced our national disaster response capabilities but also added valuable contributions to the global dialogue on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.

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11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus in Lao PDR

 Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will pay an official visit to Vientiane, Lao PDR from November 20-22, 2024 to attend the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus). He will address the forum on Regional and International Security Issues during the meeting.  

On the sidelines of 11th ADMM-Plus meeting, Raksha Mantri is expected to hold bilateral meetings with participating counterparts from Australia, China, Japan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Republic of Korea and USA. These meetings are aimed at further enhancing bilateral defence cooperation with these countries. 

ADMM is the highest defence consultative and cooperative mechanism in ASEAN. ADMM-Plus is a platform for ASEAN member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and its eight Dialogue Partners (India, US, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand) to strengthen security and defence cooperation. 

India became the dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1992 and the inaugural ADMM-Plus was convened in Hanoi, Vietnam on October 12, 2010. Since 2017, ADMM-Plus Ministers have been meeting annually to bolster the cooperation amongst ASEAN and the Plus countries. Lao PDR is the chair and host of 11th ADMM-Plus.

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Organization of Pensioner Samman Mahotsav (पेंशनरसम्मानमहोत्सव) at Sanchar Lekha Bhawan, Prasad Nagar, New Delhi

 The Office of the Principal Controller of Communication Accounts, Delhi, under the Department of Telecommunication, has announced organization of the Pensioner Samman Mahotsav at Sanchar Lekha Bhawan, Prasad Nagar, New Delhi, starting from November 20, 2024 onwards. This special event aims to enhance the welfare and well-being of telecom pensioners, with a range of informative and engaging activities suited to their needs.

The Pensioner Samman Mahotsav is a unique initiative that reflects the commitment of the Department of Telecommunication to its retirees and pensioners. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the activities and camps to be organized during the Mahotsav were selected directly by pensioners themselves through a digital mass survey.

The office will be organizing activities as detailed below during the Mohatsav:

Pensioners Samman Mohotsav

20-11-2024

Sanchar Lekha Bhawan, Prasad Nagar, New Delhi-110005

 

How to remain healthy during old age	Informatory session on diet and health management by Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital
Banking mela	Camps to promote digital financial literacy and investment awareness by authorized pension disbursing banks
Ek ped maa ke naam	To promote tree plantation in honor of contribution of Mothers
KYP Pakhwada	To bridge the pensioner information divide and promote digital accessibility of pension information
Digital Life Certificate Verification camp	To promote and educate digital life certificate verification and usage of Jeevan Pramaan amongst pensioners

 

(Target audience: Telecommunication (DOT/MTNL/BSNL) Pensioners of Delhi region

Entry fee: Free)

The Department encourages all eligible pensioners and their families to attend the Pensioner Samman Mahotsav and make the most of the informative sessions and support camps available.This event offers a valuable opportunity for them to engage in programmes that promote health, digital literacy, financial security, and social well-being.

The Department of Telecommunication is committed to providing all support and services to its employees, retirees, and pensioners. The Pensioner Samman Mahotsav is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to ensure that pensioners receive the care, attention, and resources they deserve, in recognition of their contributions to the Department.

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GeM conducting registration and onboarding drive of participating Indian sellers & service providers at India International Trade Fair

 GeM is set to onboard participating pan-Indian sellers & service providers by conducting an extensive registration drive at its pavilion (Hall No 4, Stall No 4F-6A, 1st Floor) during the 43rd India International Trade Fair (IITF), in harmony with this year’s theme of “Viksit Bharat@2047”. Government EMarketplace (GeM) is participating in the IITF, being held from 14th – 27th November, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam Complex, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Emphasising on the portal’s role in accelerating inclusive economic growth, GeM is determined to provide end-to-end support to participating small-scale sellers, especially Artisans, Weavers, Craftsmen under “One District, One Product” (ODOP) scheme of the Government of India, to encourage their participation in public procurement landscape.  In furtherance to this objective, the GeM pavilion has been equipped with a professional photo shoot set up for instant catalogue uploading support, completely free of cost.

GeM representatives will also conduct stall-by-stall visits to widen outreach and encourage the adoption of the portal by highlighting its various advantages, including direct market linkages to more than ₹ 4 Lakh Crore of annual public procurement.

A vibrant showcase of India’s culture, trade and innovation, 43rd IITF is an exceptional forum for fostering collaborations and enhancing business opportunities for domestic sellers in the thriving public procurement marketplace on GeM.

About GeM:

Government e Marketplace is an online platform that facilitates end-to-end procurement of goods and services by various Central / State Ministries, Departments, Organisations, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), Panchayats, and Cooperatives. The Government’s concerted efforts to harness the power of digital platforms to achieve ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance’ led to the formation of GeM in 2016. The online portal was established with a clear objective to eliminate cumbersome and archaic manual public procurement processes that were riddled with inefficiencies and transparency-related issues.

GeM is a paperless, cashless and contactless ecosystem for all the three tiers of government buyers (Centre, State and Panchayati Raj Institutions) to enable procurement of a wide array of products and services from a pan-India base of Sellers and Service Providers, through a completely digitised online platform. GeM was envisioned to utilise the agility and speed that come along with a digital platform to reinvigorate public procurement systems and bring about a lasting change for all stakeholders. 

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