Several individuals were awarded for their outstanding contributions in various categories.
Pankhti Pandey received the 'Green Champion' award, Keerthika Govindasamy was recognised as the 'Best Storyteller', Maithili Thakur was named the 'Cultural Ambassador of the Year', Gaurav Chaudhary received the award for the 'Best Creator in Tech Category', and Kamiya Jani was honoured as the 'Favourite Travel Creator'.
Addressing the first National Creators Award function at the Bharat Mandapam in the national capital, PM Modi told the award-winners that they had creative power that could serve as a catalysing agent to accelerate the progress of the country by increasing awareness about the 'New India' that people want to know about.
The Prime Minister said India was now making rapid strides to cover lost ground in setting up semiconductor (chip) manufacturing facilities.
PM Modi mentioned the Rs 10,300 crore allocation for the IndiaAI Mission, that was approved by his Cabinet on Thursday, as an important step towards bolstering India's AI ecosystem.
"I am confident of the success of these ventures, because I have great faith in the talent of the youth of the country, my role is only to clear the hurdles to pave the way for you to go ahead," he remarked.
The Prime Minister urged the content creators to become the brand ambassadors of India and promote the 'vocal for local' campaign.
He exhorted them to use AI to translate their content into other languages such as German and Japanese to make the world aware of the innovations that were taking place in India and highlight the various brands and tourism hotspots that were of interest to people around the globe.
He said that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was discovering various ancient artefacts that were hundreds of years old. Content creators can use their talent to bring these findings to life spread greater awareness about them.
On the occasion of the International Women's Day, PM Modi also urged the content creators to spread the message of empowering women in the country.
He pointed out that boys and girls were not being treated equally in homes. For example, girls are questioned and scolded by their parents if they come home late whereas boys are not. There was a need to spread awareness on this subject to end this discrimination, he added.
The Prime Minister also said that there was a need to highlight the important role that woman were playing in the rural economy which stretched across agriculture, cattle rearing and weaving.
He pointed out that western experts were of the view that there are not enough women in the Indian workforce, but this view was incorrect.
PM Modi also exhorted the award winners to focus on spreading a positive message to school children so that they do not get stressed, especially during exam time.
Content that will make their studies more interesting and enable them to enjoy their experience will go a long way in achieving this, he added.
The National Creators Award that were presented by the Prime Minister is an effort to recognise excellence and impact across domains, including storytelling, social change advocacy, environmental sustainability, education, gaming, among others. The award is envisioned as a launchpad for using creativity to drive positive change.
Over 1.5 lakh nominations were received across 20 categories. About 10 lakh votes were cast for digital creators across various award categories, with 23 winners, including three international creators, being selected.
Modi tried to strike a chord with the people of the state by starting his address in Odia. It was Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s second visit in the last two months. Earlier last month, he visited Odisha to inaugurate the permanent campus of Sambalpur IIM.
“Today is the birth anniversary of Biju Patnaik and the country is remembering him. It is a coincidence that I have had the opportunity to salute him from Odisha soil. I thank people for coming here in large numbers and they are filled with a lot of enthusiasm. It shows the mood of the East and the resolve of Odisha. ‘Ab Ki Baar 400 Paar Sankalp’ will make India the world’s third-largest economy and ensure a strong government,” said Modi.
Modi further said that the '400 Paar Sankalp' is for farmers and to bring a change for the women in the country. The East and Odisha will have to play a crucial role in this Sankalp, he added.
“The centre is investing a lot in Odisha so that it becomes the gateway of Viksit Bharat. Gas-based industries and other industries are being set up in Odisha. The gas pipelines will extend to other eastern States. Odisha is going to be a big hub for polyester and raw materials. In the petrochemicals sector, there have been investments of over Rs 2 lakh crore. More investment means it creates more employment for people,” said Modi in his address.
While addressing the massive gathering, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a direct attack on the Congress. Before 2014, Congress and other allies only tried to fill their coffers. The Congress government looted minerals like coal and how it could have thought for the development and feeding the poor? How the Congress, which did corruption in fertilisers, could have provided urea to farmers? After Independence, Congress brought such systems in which the poor, youths, and tribals were filled with mistrust and were asked to bring some guarantee whenever they went to Congress for some work. Be it banks or jobs, Congress used to tell them to bring guarantee,” said Modi.
But after 2014, a ‘Gareeb’s son’ came to the Centre and became Prime Minister. Now Modi is the biggest guarantee for the poor in the country. Be it Jandhan accounts, or providing loans without any guarantee under the Mudra scheme or the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, the Centre has brought several schemes which have filled the poor with a sense of pride and they got relief that the government is with them.
“There are several tribes in Odisha which are most backward and they were neglected. For the first time, the Modi government provided Rs 24,000 crore and launched the PM Janman Yojana for them. Be it gas or piped-water supply, it was a distant dream for many people in the country. When such developmental works happen, people say that Modi Guarantee works when nobody comes to their rescue,” said Modi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi got a massive response in Odisha’s Jajpur and he was moved by the energy and enthusiasm displayed by the youths at the public meeting.
According to the Prime Minister, it is the love of people and enthusiasm of youths that gives him strength to work.
“Odisha is the land of Lord Surya Dev and we have given another guarantee of free electricity. Under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, solar panels will be installed on rooftops and 300 units of electricity will be provided free to each family and people can sell surplus power to the government. Farmers will also be made Urja Data. They can also install solar panels on their vacant land,” said Modi.
“It is only due to Lord Jagannath’s blessings that I can get massive love and response in Odisha. Free ration is being provided to the poor people in the state. The scheme has been extended for the next 5 years. We plan to speed up piped drinking water supply to every household,” said Modi.
During his Odisha visit on Tuesday, the Prime Minister not only targeted the Congress but also targeted the INDIA alliance.
In his address, Modi said that that they (INDIA alliance) do not like our (BJP) work and policies as they have nothing to say. Hence, the INDIA alliance has intensified attacks.
“They (INDIA alliance) are now saying that Modi doesn’t have a family and he should be removed. INDIA alliance members say that it is the fight of ideology, but I want to respond that their ideology is family first. But Modi’s ideology is nation first,” said PM Modi.
INDIA alliance lives for their own families, but Modi works for every poor family in the country. Modi is working to secure the future of every Indian, he said.
INDIA alliance target is only one and that is to remove Modi. But Modi’s target is to make India the third largest economy and a Viksit Bharat. “Modi has made pucca houses for the children of the poor. Those who are in the INDIA alliance removed their own poverty when they were in power. But during Modi's rule, 25 crore families have come out of poverty. Mera Bharat, Mera Parviar. I see that every poor, farmer and youth is saying that they are Modi’s family,” said Modi.
Earlier, speaking on the occasion, BJP National Vice-President, Baijayant Panda said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the most popular leader in the world. There is no place, where India’s help is not sought. It is evident that Narendra Modi will become Prime Minister for the third time. For Odisha’s development, there is a need for a double-engine government to ensure that those schemes which have not been implemented are extended here for the benefit of the people.”
Usendi informed that the PM will visit the state on March 5. The PM's visit holds significance ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly elections.
As per sources, the PM is likely to address a public meeting in Jajpur's Chandikhol and lay the foundation stone of several developmental projects. However, the progrmame schedule is yet to be finalised.
Last time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Odisha on February 3. The PM inaugurated, dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone of multiple infrastructure projects worth more than Rs 68,000 crore during a public programme in Sambalpur.
During the visit, the PM had inaugurated the permanent IIM Sambalpur campus in the presence of Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, Ashwini Vaishnaw and other BJP leaders.
He also flagged off Puri-Sonepur-Puri Weekly Express, improving connectivity for the rail passengers in the region.
Modi also met the four astronaut-designates of India's Gaganyaan Mission. Before meeting the four astronauts, the Prime Minister dedicated to the nation the three important space infrastructure projects at VSSC which include the PSLV Integration Facility (PIF) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. This will help boost the frequency of PSLV launches from 6 to 15 per year.
At Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, PM Modi said, "By 2035, India will have its own space station in space that will help us study the unknown expanses of space. In this period of Amrit Kaal, Indian astronaut will land on the surface of the moon on our own rocket."
According to PM Modi, he was very happy to know that most of the equipment used in Gaganyaan is 'Made in India'. “What a great coincidence it is that when India is taking off to become the top 3 economy of the world, at the same time India's Gaganyaan is also going to take our space sector to a new height,” said the PM.
ISRO Chairman S Somanath briefed the Prime Minister about the various items on display depicting India’s ongoing space programme.
After a brief video show, the four test pilots of India's Gaganyaan Mission were introduced to the Prime Minister and were presented ‘astronaut wings’ by him.
The four-member team of astronauts is led by the Indian Air Force’s Sukhoi fighter pilot Group Captain Prashanth B. Nair who belongs to the state and Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla.
"I am happy that today I got the opportunity to meet these astronauts and present them in front of the country. I want to congratulate them on behalf of the entire country...You are the pride of today's India," the Prime Minister stated.
On Gaganyaan mission, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh tweeted, "With the absolute support and patronage provided by PM Modi, it is today possible that India is taking lead in the Space sector, as the whole world looks up to Bharat while Gaganyaan prepares to carry Indian astronauts into the Space."
(With IANS Inputs)
Earlier the world used to be surprised to see India has done something but it is no longer so and it has become a new normal for the world, Modi said at a global summit organised here by the TV9 News Network.
"Growing trust in India has become the biggest recognition for India," he said.
Modi also hit out at previous governments, saying those in power till 10 years ago did not have any faith in India's capabilities. It is very difficult to get victory with a mind that has accepted defeat, he added.
"They were the people who called Indians lazy. If there is hopelessness in those in power, how can they inspire hope among the people," Modi said.
"We have brought the country out of that era of hopelessness," the prime minister said.
Now, decisions are taken fast and those decisions are also implemented at a fast speed, he said.
Today, it has become a new normal for the world to acknowledge that India delivers and delivers well on time, Modi said.
In the past 10 years, India has become one of the five biggest economies.
Now, policies are made at a fast speed and decisions are also taken fast. A change in mindset has made a significant change.
India of the 21st century has stopped thinking small. "Whatever we do today is the best and the biggest. The entire world is amazed today looking at India's achievements. The world today realises the benefits it can have in walking along with India," he said.
Referring to the theme of the TV9 Global Summit, 'India poised for the next big leap', Modi said it is a very interesting theme when one thinks about what has changed in the last 10 years.
The couple- Jayanti Mahapatra and her husband Biren Sahu were working as management professionals in Bengaluru. However, they later decided to take a break and come to Salebhata village in Kalahandi district.
In his Mann Ki Baat address, Modi said 'when we talk about animal husbandry, we often stop at cows and buffaloes only'. But goat is also an important animal, which is not discussed much. Many people in different areas of the country are also associated with goat rearing, said the PM.
"In Kalahandi, Odisha, goat rearing is becoming a major means of improving the livelihood of the village people as well as their standard of living. Behind this effort is a major decision of Jayanti Mahapatra and her husband Biren Sahu. Both of them were management professionals in Bengaluru," said Modi in his Mann Ki Baat address.
According to PM Modi, the couple established Manikastu Agro and started working with the farmers.
"Jayanti Ji and Biren Ji have also opened an interesting Manikastu Goat Bank here. They are promoting goat rearing at the community level. There are about dozens of goats at their goat farm," said PM Modi.
He said, “This is a wonderful moment of cultural Renaissance where we have witnessed the grand opening of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, another temple in Abu Dhabi, renovation of the Kashi Vishwanath temple and the transformation of Kashi.
“Centres of pilgrimage are being built and alongside medical colleges are also being constructed,” he said.
He added that this was a moment of India’s cultural awakening and also its development.
“January 22 when the Ram temple opened, is the beginning of a new era, new cycle. The Kalki temple is a preparation for the future. It is a temple for Kalki avatar and will have a sanctum sanctorum for all the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu,” he said.
The Prime Minister said that the country was now leading and not following.
“We are now the fifth-largest economy in the world. We have Vande Bharat and soon we will have a bullet train along with hi-tech expressways. This is a land of immense possibilities that draws its energy from collectivity,” he said.
Modi said that the Kalki Dham was yet another stream of devotion and spirituality that is eager to flow from the land of Ram and Krishna.
“Some people left a few good deeds for me to accomplish and I am confident that there are many that will be accomplished in future too,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister congratulated Acharya Pramod Krishnam for taking the concept of Kalki Dham forward.
He said that Pramod Krishnam had to fight a long battle with the previous governments for the Kalki temple and even had to make rounds of the courts. “His fight has ended in our government,” he added.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while addressing the gathering, said that after the opening of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, the construction of a Hindu temple in a Muslim country was a dream come true!
“A similar moment is being witnessed in Sambhal today. The world has hope from a New India,” he said.
A brainstorming session involving the party’s office-bearers' is being held in Bhubaneswar on Monday. The saffron party's Odisha election in-charge Vijaypal Singh Tomar and co-in-charge Lata Usendi are holding talks with senior party leaders of the state unit to finalise the strategy and implement the mantras shared by the top leadership for proper execution.
As per available information, BJP National President JP Nadda is scheduled to visit Odisha by February end. Prior to JP Nadda’s visit, senior leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will be visiting the state tomorrow. Chouhan will review the preparations for the Cuttack and Jagatsinghpur Parliamentary segments, party sources said.
Apart from Chouhan, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari will also be visiting Odisha on February 15. He is scheduled to visit Puri Jagannath temple for darshan and review the preparations of the party in the same Parliamentary constituency.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is also scheduled to visit Odisha on February 22 and attend several programmes here.
It is pertinent to mention here that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had already held a massive programme of the party in Sambalpur recently. It seems that the saffron party is aiming to come to power in Odisha by reaching out to the voters with ‘Modi Ki Gurantee’.
Senior journalist Prasanna Mohanty said, “BJP is making big plans and focus is on Odisha and a blueprint is also ready. And the visit of top leadership to Odisha is an indication. The Prime Minister’s last visit was not so notable as there was no such indication towards upcoming elections. However, Modi’s popularity cannot be ruled out given the recent Ram temple event. It remains to be seen what would be the stand of the top leaders and whether a clear message regarding the fight against BJD is sent or not.”
The senior Congress leader is now under attack from the BJP for the comments he made during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Odisha recently against the Prime Minister. Rahul Gandhi had stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is not OBC by birth, rather belongs to the general caste. Moreover, he (Modi) will not allow the conduct of the caste-based census in the country, Rahul Gandhi had said during his Yatra in Odisha.
Also Read: BJP rebuts Rahul Gandhi's ‘PM not OBC’ claim, shares govt document
The BJP OBC Morcha activists led by president, Surath Biswal staged a demonstration against Rahul Gandhi in front of the Ram Mandir in Bhubaneswar. The leader also demanded an apology from the senior Congress leader over his remarks.
“We (BJP) have never asked Rahul Gandhi about his caste or the caste of his mother and other family members. But he (Rahul) is asking about the caste of PM Modi who has given rights and recognition to the OBCs in the country. Rahul Gandhi’s statements clearly show his immaturity,” said Biswal.
Meanwhile, no comments were received from the Congress over the BJP OBC Morcha leader’s statements.
“The Prime Minister says in Parliament that he is an OBC. Narendra Modi was not born OBC. People are being misled. Rather he (Modi) was born in Teli caste in Gujarat,” alleged Gandhi.
The senior Congress leader further said that the community was given the tag of OBC in the year 2000 by the BJP. But PM Narendra Modi was not born OBC rather he was born in the general caste.
“I do not need any birth certificate. I can say that he (Modi) never hugs any OBC or touches the hand of farmers or labourers. PM Narendra Modi will not conduct a caste-based census in the country as he has lied to people of the country that he was born OBC, rather he was born in general caste. The Congress party will do the caste-based census,” said Rahul Gandhi.
Responding to the allegations of Rahul Gandhi, BJP leader Surath Biswal said, “The statement clearly shows the immaturity of Rahul Gandhi. PM Narendra Modi belongs to OBC. As Congress has to answer why their past leaders of the Gandhi family put the recommendations of Kaka Kelelkar and Mandal Commission in cold storage, Rahul Gandhi is making such comments.”
According to Biswal, PM Narendra Modi has given place to 27 ministers and accorded constitutional recognition to the Commission and created a new identity for the OBCs in the country.
While speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said, “Modi Ki Guarantee works for those who do not have anything. In Odisha, there is a huge tribal population. But for years together, tribal communities were neglected and used as vote bank. I worked with tribals for years together and today the BJP government is giving prominence to tribal development, and the budget has been increased in the last 10 years towards the same.”
Also Read: PM Modi inaugurates IIM Sambalpur’s permanent campus
PM Modi further said that it is the BJP who recognised and made the representative of tribal community Droupadi Murmu President of India. The entire world was listening carefully when she addressed the Parliament three days back. But it was the Congress and its allies who tried their best against her and even insulted her.
“It was not just an insult to Droupadi Murmu Ji, rather it was an insult to the entire tribal community and also the people of Odisha. Today, the BJP government is bringing the achievements of tribals and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) to the fore in the nation’s development. For the first time, PM Janman Yojana worth thousands of crores has been made and nearly lakhs of people of 1700 communities will benefit in Odisha with development in the form of employment and basic amenities including houses, water, road and employment,” said Modi.
According to the PM, projects worth Rs 70,000 crore have been inaugurated or foundation stone laid in Odisha. The Centre is not leaving any stone unturned for the development of Odisha.
“Two days back, interim budget was presented and it aims to empower the poor, women, youths and others. This budget guarantees everybody’s development. It is Modi’s guarantee that each poor in the country will have pucca house,” said Modi.
Over 4 crore poor families have been provided their own pucca houses in the country. Around 25 lakh beneficiaries of pucca houses are in Odisha. The Centre is working for the beneficiaries who have been left out. The Centre has announced to construct 2 crore more houses in the budget, he said.
“My aim is to ensure that no one stays in temporary shelters. PM Kisan Saman Nidhi farmers have got direct benefits. Around 40 lakh farmers from Odisha have also benefited from the scheme. The BJP government has sent Rs 30,000 to each farmer’s account and ensured hike in MSP. The Centre is procuring more paddy from the farmers. Before 2014, paddy procurement worth Rs 36,000 crore was done by those in power. In 10 years of our government, Odisha paddy farmers have got Rs 1.10 lakh crore towards MSP. In this budget also, several schemes have been launched for the farmers through which their income will increase,” said PM Modi.
According to Modi, BJP government is working to make lives of people easier and increase in income of every individual. In the last 10 years, electricity has been provided to the areas which were still in dark. Electricity has also reached 25 lakh families in Odisha. The BJP also brought LED revolution and now the party’s efforts are on to ensure that the electricity bill of poor becomes zero. Hence, rooftop solar power scheme has been announced for 1 crore families, said the PM.
"In a place where there is Konark Sun temple, the sun will bring new hopes to the people who live here. There will be new employment opportunities under the scheme as well," he said.
“Today, women are getting benefits from 6500 Arogya Ayush Mandirs in Odisha. The BJP government has provided drinking water facilities through pipelines to over 60 lakh families in Odisha. Around 55 lakh women have been provided free gas connection under the Ujjawala scheme. There was a time before 2014 when the youths of the country were depressed. But now things have changed as there is a strong BJP government behind them. Those who did not have anything to give banks as guarantee, now they have Modi Ki Guarantee,” said the PM.
Sambalpur is one of the important centres for Make In India and Atma Nirbhar Bharat. Due to the Centre’s efforts, 1000s of new micro industries have been set up in Odisha. Be it raw materials or any other help, Centre has extended help to entrepreneurs which has benefited labourers and other workers, he stated.
The BJP is providing free ration and 3.5 crore people in Odisha do not have to think about food for the next five years. A lot of people from Odisha are migrating and working in large numbers in Gujarat and contributing to the state’s development, he said adding, “We have understood the problems of the migrant workers. Earlier, they were deprived of having ration card of a particular state. We have now brought One Nation, One Ration Card policy and the people of the state will also benefit from this.”
Earlier addressing the ‘Guarantee Samavesh’, BJP National Vice-President Baijayant Panda said, “There is no such problem in the world where India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s help is not sought. There is massive development in states having double-engine governments. In Odisha, some people are trying to take credit for the schemes of the Centre. Modi government is providing rice, pucca houses to people across the country.”
“No matter what people say, it is PM Modi who is providing such schemes in Odisha as well. In Ayodhya, the grand Ram Temple has been constructed and people across the country are elated. The new India vision has been possible due to PM Narendra Modi. In Odisha, the popularity of the BJP has also grown. We will get an opportunity to elect PM Narendra Modi for the third time. An opportunity will also come to form government in Odisha as well,” the BJP VP added.
Odisha BJP President Manmohan Samal also said, “Be it road, railway or any other project, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always extended help and support to Odisha. There is a need to ensure a double-engine government in Odisha. I thank PM Modi for inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 68,000 crore.”
On the other hand, Congress’ Odisha in-charge Ajoy Kumar trained guns at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not attacking the BJD government and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. “I had earlier asserted that the PM would not utter a word against the Odisha Chief Minister. It is confirmed that the BJP has wed the BJD. This is why the BJP cannot speak against the BJD. All the BJD leaders have become BJP.”
He added that both the parties are in a coalition and Pandian has struck a deal with Home Minister Amit Shah.
A thick blanket of security cover was made for the Prime Minister’s visit. Around 70 platoons of police force were deployed for PM Modi’s event here.
The Prime Minister inaugurated the permanent IIM Sambalpur campus in the presence of Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, Ashwini Vaishnaw and other BJP leaders.
After the inauguration, Modi took stock of the facilities available at the IIM Sambalpur for the students and others.
While speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Today is an important day for Odisha’s development. I congratulated the people of Odisha for around Rs 70,000 crore worth of projects including developmental initiatives in education, rail, road, electricity, and others. The benefits of these projects will reach the poor, students, farmers, and people of sectors. These projects will create new employment opportunities for the youths of Odisha.”
Modi further said that today the Government of India has decided to confer Bharat Ratna on LK Advani for his immense contribution to the country. It shows that the country never forgets those who have contributed to the nation, he said.
“We have been trying to make Odisha a hub for education and skill development. In the last decade, whatever facilities Odisha has got have changed the future of youths here. A lot of centres have been established in the state. Now IIM Sambalpur will strengthen Odisha’s role. During the Covid period, I had laid the foundation stone for the campus. Despite all hurdles, the campus is ready,” said Modi.
The Prime Minister further said the target of Vikshit Bharat can be achieved when every state of the country is developed. Hence, we have supported Odisha in every sector. With the Centre’s help, Odisha is scaling new heights in the petroleum and petrochemicals sector.
“In the last 10 years, there has been considerable investment in the petroleum and petrochemicals sector in Odisha and 12 times more budget allocation for the railway sector here. Around 50,000 kms of roads have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana. Moreover, 4000 kms of new national highways and three major highway projects have been inaugurated. The inter-state connectivity with Jharkhand will improve. Through this new connectivity, it will create new employment and new development prospects,” said Modi.
“Every family in Odisha should get cheap electricity. The ultra-supercritical thermal projects which have been inaugurated also aim at this. The Centre’s policies in the last 10 years have benefited Odisha. Odisha is the biggest beneficiary due to reforms in the mining sector. Odisha’s income has registered growth of 10 times. BJP government constituted the district mineral fund which is utilised in the same area. Odisha has benefited by around Rs 25,000 crore from this. The money is used for the people in the mining areas. I assure the people of Odisha that the Centre will continue to work for the development of the state,” said Modi.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, “I congratulate the students and teachers for the new infrastructure at IIM Sambalpur. I also thank PM Modi for taking time to come here and grace the inauguration of the new campus. I hope learning here will be enlightened and enriching experience for the students. IIM Sambalpur has made its mark by creating some of the best graduates, best placements and other facilities.”
Patnaik further urged students to think how they can contribute to their state and contribute by sharing their knowledge and vast experience.
“PM Modi has set a new direction for India and we are on the path to become to become an economic power house. This is golden time for start ups in Odisha and the state is a top performer for promotion of start-ups,” said Patnaik.
While speaking on the occasion, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said, “I thank the Prime Minister for granting Rs 18 lakh crore for Odisha’s development. Out of the Rs 68,000 crore projects, Rs 57,000 crore projects are only for energy sector. 7 new IITs, 15 new AIIMS, 16 IIITs, 8 IIMS, 390 new universities have been set up in the country under PM Narendra Modi’s government.”
Pradhan said that PM Modi’s vision is women-led development and 51% of students in IIM Sambalpur are women. This year, PM Modi has sanctioned 1.21 lakh crore for the education sector in the interim budget which is a 50% hike from 2014.
“We were excited for last one week as India’s image has grown leaps and bounds under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Modi had laid the foundation stone for the campus in 2021 and it is ready within two years,” said IIM Sambalpur Director, M Jaiswal.
Modi is scheduled to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of projects worth more than Rs 68,000 crore during his Odisha visit today.
Among the key projects, the foundation stone for redevelopment of Sambalpur Railway Station was laid today.
The Prime Minister inaugurated ‘Dhamra – Angul Pipeline Section (412 Km) of ‘Jagdishpur-Haldia & Bokaro-Dhamra Pipeline Project (JHBDPL)’. The project has been built at a cost of more than Rs 2450 crore under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga’. This project will connect Odisha with the National Gas Grid.
Modi also laid the foundation stone of ‘Nagpur Jharsuguda Natural Gas Pipeline Section (692 Km) of Mumbai-Nagpur-Jharsuguda Pipeline. The project, which will be developed at a cost of more than Rs 2660 crore, will improve the natural gas availability to states like Odisha, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh.
The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone of multiple power projects worth about Rs 28,980 crore. The projects to be dedicated to nation include NTPC Darlipali Super Thermal Power Station (2x800 MW) and NSPCL Rourkela PP-II Expansion Project (1x250 MW) in Sundargarh district of Odisha.
Modi also laid the foundation stone of NTPC Talcher Thermal Power Project, Stage-III (2x660 MW) in Angul district of Odisha. These power projects will supply low-cost power to Odisha as well as several other states.
The foundation stone for the Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) Talabira Thermal power project worth more than 27000 crore was also laid. The state-of-the-art project will provide reliable, affordable and round-the-clock power contributing significantly to the nation’s energy security and playing a vital role in the country’s economic growth and prosperity.
The Prime Minister inaugurated coal infrastructure projects of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited including First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects - Bhubaneswari Phase-I in Talcher Coalfields in Angul district and Lajkura Rapid Loading System (RLS). Built at a cost of about Rs. 2145 crore, these projects will boost the quality and supply of dry fuel from Odisha.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated Ib Valley Washery, built at a cost of over Rs. 550 crore in Jharsuguda district of Odisha. It will mark a paradigm shift in coal processing for quality, signifying innovation and sustainability. The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation a 50 km long second track of Jharsuguda-Barpali-Sardega rail line Phase-1 built by Mahanadi Coalfields Limited, with an investment of Rs 878 crore.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated three National Highways road sector projects, developed at a cumulative cost of about Rs 2110 crore. The projects include four laning of Rimuli-Koida Section of NH 215 (New NH No. 520), four laning of Biramitrapur-Brahmani Bypass end section of NH 23 (New NH No. 143) and four laning of Brahmani Bypass End-Rajamunda Section of NH 23 (New NH No. 143). These projects will enhance connectivity and also contribute towards the economic development of the region.
The Prime Minister dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone of railway projects worth about Rs. 2146 crore. He laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of Sambalpur Railway Station, whose architecture is inspired by the Sailashree Palace.
He also dedicated the Sambalpur- Talcher Doubling Railway Line (168 Kms) and Jhartarbha to Sonepur New Railway line (21.7 Kms), enhancing the rail network capacity in the region.
The Prime Minister also flagged off Puri-Sonepur-Puri Weekly Express, improving connectivity for the rail passengers in the region.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated the permanent campus of IIM Sambalpur. Further, he dedicated the Jharsuguda Head Post Office Heritage Building to the nation.
(With PIB Inputs)
Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Modi wrote, “I am very happy to share that Shri LK Advani Ji will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. I also spoke to him and congratulated him on being conferred this honour.”
In his post, Modi further wrote that LK Advani is one of the most respected statesmen of our times and his contribution to the development of India is monumental.
"Advani’s life that started from working at the grassroots to serving the nation as our Deputy Prime Minister. He distinguished himself as our Home Minister and I&B Minister as well. His Parliamentary interventions have always been exemplary, full of rich insights," tweeted Modi.
"Advani Ji’s decades-long service in public life has been marked by an unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, setting an exemplary standard in political ethics," the PM wrote.
“He has made unparalleled efforts towards furthering national unity and cultural resurgence. The conferring of the Bharat Ratna on him is a very emotional moment for me. I will always consider it my privilege that I got countless opportunities to interact with him and learn from him,” he added.
The nation witnessed a collective power on the day of 'Pran Pratishtha, which also forms the basis of our pledge of developed Bharat. In his address Modi said, the governance of Lord Ram was also a source of inspiration for constitution makers. This year marks 75 years of the Indian Constitution, as well as the Supreme Court.
As the Constitution of India was made after such intense brainstorming, it is called a 'Living Document', he said.
While speaking on Padma Awards, Narendra Modi said that the contribution of the Padma Awadees is certainly an inspiration for the country. He said, a large number of people receiving honours are those who are bringing glory to the country in the world of classical dance, classical music, folk dance, theatre and bhajans.
“I am very happy that the system of Padma Awards has completely changed in the last decade. Now it has become the People's Padma,”said Modi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also lauded the parade held on the occasion of Republic Day.
“The parade on 26th January was amazing. But women's power in the parade is most talked about when the women contingents of Central Security Forces and Delhi Police started marching on the Kartavya path, everyone experienced a sense of pride,” said Modi.
During his visit to the state, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the new campus of the IIM, Sambalpur and lay the foundation stone of other projects. Speaking about the party's plan, Samal said that Western Odisha has always been a focus and will continue to remain so for the BJP. He added that the process of ‘Ram Rajya’ has started in Odisha.
“Poor people are getting rice and only Narendra Modi is resolving the issues concerning them. Hence, the people of Odisha already made up their minds about an alternative government here. Only election results will speak what is Modi’s impact and whom people are supporting,” said Samal.
Samal further attributed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's success to his hard work for the country.
Meanwhile, the BJD could not be contacted over the state BJP chief’s statements
Mishra, who is also a member of the Ram Janmabhoomi Theertha Kshetra Trust, is super elated ahead of the inauguration ceremony.
He had never in his wildest dream thought that the Ram Temple would be built in his lifetime. But with Ram Lalla’s consecration ceremony a few hours to go, he cannot believe that all his dreams have turned into reality and the temple town is all set to regain its lost grandeur.
“I never thought I would witness Lord Ram’s ‘pran pratishtha’ in my lifetime,” TOI quoted Mishra.
“Ayodhya udaseen thi, iski shree chali gait hi (Ayodhya had turned dull, all its glory had faded away). It is said that after questions were raised on her integrity after her return from Lanka, Mata Sita had cursed Ayodhya that no one would remain happy in the temple town. She again went into exile. It seems that the curse has been removed now,” Mishra added.
With the inauguration of the Ram Temple, Ayodhya is becoming one of the greatest places in the world. All aircraft landing at Maharishi Valmiki International Ayodhya Airport (MVIAA) have full occupancy. It is believed, that at least over one lakh pilgrims would visit Ayodhya every day after the ‘pran pratishtha’.
Pariksha Pe Charcha is one such initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi where students, teachers, and parents share their examination-related concerns. This year, the 7th edition of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Interaction Programme with school students will be held on January 29 in a town-hall format at Bharat Mandapam, ITPO, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
Over 1 crore registrations have been done on the MyGov portal to date which shows the enthusiasm among students nationwide who are eagerly waiting to participate in this distinctive event and interact with the Prime Minister.
Nearly 4000 participants will be interacting with the Prime Minister in the programme. Two students and a teacher from each of the States and UTs and winners of the Kala Utsav and the Veer Gatha competition may be invited as special guests for the main event, as per the PIB report.
The online MCQ competition is also live on the MyGov portal till January 12, 2024, for students of classes 6 to 12, Teachers, and Parents to participate in the contest. As of January 5, over 90 lakh students, more than 8 lakh teachers, and around 2 Lakh parents have registered so far.
His remarks came on a post on X by the Union Education Ministry on Wednesday informing students, teachers and parents that 'Pariksha Pe Charcha', their "go-to stress-relief event" during exams, is back.
It urged people to take part in 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' activities and win a chance to interact with Prime Minister Modi.
"Pariksha Pe Charcha aims to transform stress into success, enabling Exam Warriors to ace exams with a smile. Who knows, the next big study tip might come straight from our interactive session," Modi said.
'Pariksha Pe Charcha' is an annual event where Modi interacts with students appearing for the forthcoming board examinations. During the event, he also answers students' queries related to exam stress and other issues.
Responding to another post celebrating two years of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Modi said, "Kashi continues to prosper, scaling new heights of progress across diverse sectors including infrastructure, culture, tourism, commerce, innovation and more." Reacting to another post which talked about taking ahead the PM's vision of India as a reading nation and residents of Pune setting the Guinness World Record for the largest reading activity on December 14 at SP College, Pune, Modi said, "Commendable effort to spread the joys of reading. Compliments to those involved." In another post on X, Modi said there is immense enthusiasm as Kashi once again prepares to welcome people for Kashi Tamil Sangamam, a celebration of rich cultures.
This forum is a testament to the unity and diversity of India, strengthening the spirit of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat', he said.
BJP National Vice-President Baijayant 'Jay' Panda today credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for the superb performance of the saffron party in the Hindi heartland states of Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
“The results of various states show that people have tremendous faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. The BJP is winning with huge margin in three states and the party’s performance has improved considerably in terms of seats in another state,” said Panda.
While sharing his experience, Panda said, “I was in Chhattisgarh for nearly two months and know the ground reality. The people admitted that the country has seen development under PM Modi’s leadership and its benefit has reached every household.”
The results of the assembly elections will certainly have an impact on the Lok Sabha elections next year and BJP will win with huge margin as well, said the BJP National Vice-President.
According to Panda, the Chhattisgarh election results will also have an impact on the Odisha elections.
“Few months back, it was being said that Chhattisgarh was one state where BJP cannot win. But in Chhattisgarh, BJP has registered a landslide victory. There are a lot of people from Odisha here and lot of leaders including me had worked hard in Chhattisgarh. The results' outcome will certainly have an impact in Odisha,”said Panda.
As per Akhtar, it was a great gesture by Modi.
“PM Modi conveyed the message that they are with the players. It was a big gesture. This was a message that as a nation India is standing right beside the Indian team. That is very simple as that,” said Akhtar during an interview.
“This is like really really emotional time. He took the players as his children, as the kids and he lifted their morale to tell them that they played well. This was a great gesture by the PM,” he added.
Notably, to uplift the spirit of Team India, PM Modi who was present at the world’s largest cricket stadium, paid a visit to all the players and cheered them up. The special visitor rebuilt the confidence of the players and uplifted their spirit for the upcoming games.
Modi showed the green flag to the 'Namo Bharat' train connecting Sahibabad and Duhai Depot stations, marking launch of the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) in India. The train can run at a speed of 180 km per hour, The prime minister was also seen interacting with the passengers and the crew of the train.
The inauguration ceremony took place at Sahibabad station of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor, which once fully completed, will reduce travel time between Delhi and Meerut to a little less than an hour.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri were present at the ceremony.
India's first semi-high-speed regional rail service, whose trains are equipped with hi-tech features and a number of passenger amenities, will be opened for passengers from October 21.
The services will begin at 6 am and run till 11 pm, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) officials earlier said.
The priority section between Sahibabad and Duhai Depot has five stations -- Sahibabad, Ghaziabad, Guldhar, Duhai and Duhai Depot. The segment from Duhai to Duhai Depot is a spur from the main corridor.
The under-construction RRTS Corridor, being built for the semi-high-speed regional rail service by the NCRTC, is a joint venture company of the Centre with the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
The NCRTC has been tasked to oversee the construction of India's first RRTS, between Delhi and Meerut.
The entire 82.15 km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS is targeted to be operational by June 2025.
"Heartiest congratulations to Prime Minister-elect @chrisluxonmp for his party's win in the General Elections.
"Look forward to working together to further strengthen India-New Zealand ties," PM Modi posted on X.
Current New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins conceded defeat after his Labour Party lost to Luxon's National Party and its coalition partner ACT, which are projected to get a majority.
He also said the Centre has made a 20-fold increase in the budgetary allocations for railway projects in Chhattisgarh in the last nine years as compared to what was given before 2014.
PM Modi was speaking at an event at Jagdalpur in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, where he dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stones of different projects worth Rs 26,000 crore, including the NMDC's steel plant.
"The dream of a developed Bharat will be realised only when states, districts and villages in the country develop," he said.
Speaking about the NMDC Steel Ltd steel plant at Nagarnar in Bastar district of the state, the prime minister said it would provide employment opportunities to 50,000 youths of Bastar and adjoining areas.
On the occasion, PM Modi virtually flags off Tadoki (Kanker district)-Raipur DEMU train service.
Speaking during the Odisha Literary Festival (OLF) 2023, CM Naveen said he would rate PM Modi 8 out of 10 because of 'what he has done for foreign policy and also in various other matters, and also there has been less corruption in this (BJP) government'.
"He (PM Modi) helped in rooting out corruption and also trying his very best to serve the people of our country," said the Chief Minister.
On the Women's Reservation Bill, Patnaik said, "I think it's a very important step. My party has always been there for the development of women. My father began it by reserving 33 per cent of the seats in the local elections and we have increased that to 50 per cent..."
Extending his support to 'One Nation, One Election', the Odisha CM said, "We have always welcomed it, we are prepared for elections for both bodies at any time."
On his government's relationship with the Centre, Patnaik said, "We have a cordial relationship with the Centre. Naturally, we want the development of our state and it's important to have the centre's partnership in the development."
Sharing his views on politics, CM Naveen said that politics need not be dirty as it can be a great platform for serving the people. He further said that his government has been dedicatedly working towards eradication of poverty and all-round development of the state.
The state government made a media splash with full-page advertisements to highlight the different initiatives in the PM’s name and his age (73) over the coming months.
The schemes comprise: Women – 73-lakh women to benefit under the ‘NaMo’ Women Empowerment campaign, 73,000 construction workers to get safety kits through ‘NaMo Kamgar Kalyan’ initiative, 73,000 farms to be developed vide ‘NaMo Shetali’ schemes.
73 villages to be made self-reliant through ‘NaMo self-sufficient and solar energy village campaign, 73 Gram Panchayat offices to be established in each district through the ‘NaMo Gram Sachivalaya’ initiative, 73 cities to come under ‘NaMo City Beautification’ scheme, and 73 religious and historical places shall be upgraded vide ‘NaMo Pilgrimage Places Protection’ programme.
The other initiatives shall be comprehensive development through the ‘NaMo Garib and Backward Class Dignity’ drive, SmartSchools to be built under the ‘NaMo Adivasi Smart Schools’, rehab centres for the disabled vide the ‘NaMo Divyang Shakti’ mission, and building well-equipped sports facilities and parks through ‘NaMo Sports grounds and udyan’ initiative in the state.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde along with Deputy CM Ajit Pawar made the mega-announcements on ‘NaMo’ schemes on Sunday in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar to mark the PM’s 73rd birthday celebrations.
The survey, released ahead of the G20 Summit, also noted that public opinion of India was generally positive across the world with a median of 46 per cent reporting favourable views of India as compared to 34 per cent unfavourable views. Sixteen per cent did not share an opinion at all.
Views of India are most positive in Israel, where 71 per cent say they have a favourable view of the country, the report said.
Pew said the survey was conducted from February 20 to May 22, among 30,861 adults in 24 countries, including 2,611 from India, to examine global views of Prime Minister Modi, the scope of India's global power and Indians’ views of other countries.
About eight in 10 Indians report "favourable" views of Modi, including a majority (55 per cent) with a "very favourable" view, according to the survey result released on Tuesday. This is Modi's second term as Prime Minister and he is also seeking a third term in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Only a fifth of Indians expressed an unfavourable opinion of Modi in 2023, the Pew survey found.
Responding to the results of the Pew survey, the BJP said the popularity of Prime Minister Modi remained intact.
"The popularity of Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi certainly remains intact! Majority of people in India and across the world believe that India's global influence is getting stronger!" the official handle of BJP said in a post on platform X, formerly Twitter.
It added that the Pew survey "stands as a testament to the above statements." "Indian adults are more likely to believe India's power is on the rise. Around seven in ten Indians believe their country has recently become more influential. This stands in comparison with a 2022 survey conducted across 19 countries, where a median of only 28 per cent said the same,” Pew said.
According to the report, about half of Indians (49 per cent) say that the influence of the US is getting stronger in recent years, and 41 per cent say the same about Russia. Meanwhile, Indians’ views on China’s influence are somewhat more mixed, it said.
The G20 will be held in New Delhi on September 9-10.
The Ministry of Home Affairs is recruiting personnel in various central armed police forces (CAPFs) such as the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Shashtra Seema Bal (SSB), Assam Rifles, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Narcotics control Bureau (NCB) as well as Delhi Police under the Rozgar Mela.
Speaking on the occasion, PM Modi congratulated the new appointees for their selection as ‘Amrit Rakshak’ during the Amrit Kaal. Modi called them ‘Amrit Rakshak’ as the new appointees will not only serve the country but also protect the country and the countrymen.
“You are ‘Amrit Rakshak’ of this ‘Amrit Kaal’, said Modi.
Modi said there have been several major changes in the recruitment process of paramilitary forces in the last few years. “The process of recruitment got speeded up from application to final selection, examinations are being conducted in 13 local languages in places of English or Hindi as was the case earlier. Recruitment of hundreds of tribal youth in Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh was done by relaxing norms,” said Modi.
He will also address the appointees on the occasion, the PMO said in a communique.
The Rozgar Mela will be held at 45 locations across the country. Through this event, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is recruiting personnel in various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) including, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
"The new recruits, selected from across the country, will be joining the various positions such as Constable (General Duty), Sub-Inspector (General Duty) and Non–General Duty Cadre Posts in various organisations under the MHA," the PMO said.
The Rozgar Mela is a step towards fulfillment of the commitment of the Prime Minister to accord highest priority to employment generation, the statement said.
It said that this is expected to act as a catalyst in further employment generation and provide meaningful opportunities to the youth for their empowerment and participation in national development.
"The newly inducted appointees are also getting an opportunity to train themselves through Karmayogi Prarambh, an online module on iGOT Karmayogi portal, where more than 673 e-learning courses have been made available for ‘anywhere any device’ learning format," the PMO said.
As per the findings of the poll, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi came a distant second as the preferred candidate for the post.
The poll’s results have put out an interesting finding with Lok Sabha elections just eight months away.
The opinion poll, which was conducted between July 18 and August 19 in Chhattisgarh among 7,679 respondents, has found that 62 per cent respondents preferred Modi as the prime ministerial candidate, while 19.8 per cent of them preferred Rahul Gandhi for the post.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his Uttar Pradesh counterpart Yogi Adityanath with 2.8 per cent votes and 2.7 per cent votes respectively are at a distant third and fourth positions as per the opinion poll.
In fact when asked as to who would they directly elect as Prime Minister of the country, a whopping 71 per cent respondents from the Congress-ruled Chhattisgarh voted for Modi, while 23.5 per cent respondents voted for Rahul Gandhi.
Also 64.2 per cent of the respondents said that they were very much satisfied with Prime Minster Modi’s performance, while 15.7 per cent of them said that they were satisfied with his performance to some extent. An almost equal percentage of respondents, i.e. 15.1 per cent said that they were dissatisfied with Modi’s performance as Prime Minister.
Interestingly, though when asked whether they were satisfied with the Central government’s work, 47 per cent respondents said that they were very satisfied with its performance, while 36.1 per cent of them said that they satisfied to some extent.
As many as 15.6 per cent respondents said that they were not at all satisfied with the Central government’s performance.
Modi had announced the scheme while addressing the nation on the occasion of Independence Day on Tuesday. It is being claimed as a masterstroke ahead of the crucial 2024 elections as it aims at the welfare of the traditional craftsmen who are from the backward classes.
In Odisha, the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) too had recently included unorganised workers under 50 categories in its social security ambit.
The PM Vishwakarma scheme aims to strengthen and nurture the Guru-Shishya parampara or family-based practice of traditional skills by artisans and craftspeople working with their hands and tools. Eighteen traditional trades will be covered in the first instance under PM Vishwakarma including Carpenter (Suthar), Boat maker, armourer, blacksmith (Lohar), and others.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that under PM Vishwakarma scheme, the artisans and craftspeople will be provided recognition through PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card, Credit Support up to Rs.1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs.2 lakh (second tranche) with a concessional interest rate of 5%.
“There will be a stipend of Rs 500 per day during training. For modern tools, one will get assistance of Rs 15,000,” said Vaishnaw.
The Scheme will further provide Skill Upgradation, Toolkit Incentives, Incentives for Digital Transactions, and Marketing Support. Under such circumstances, it remains to be seen how the ruling BJD in Odisha counters this masterstroke of the Modi government at the centre ahead of the 2024 polls.
Only time will tell whether the BJD pulls something more out of its Pandora’s box after announcing assistance for the unorganised sector.
“We have taken a unique step and broadened the basket for providing assistance. Now Prime Minister has announced a new scheme as well. Anything good is taken and accepted by all,” said BJD leader, Debi Prasad Mishra. Odisha BJP vice president, Biranchi Tripathy said,
“ PM Narendra Modi has announced the new scheme from the ramparts of Red Fort. Nobody can say about one scheme of Odisha government which has been implemented so far.”
He made the revelation after officially opening the SemiconIndia 2023 here.
The conference, under the theme 'Catalysing India’s Semiconductor Ecosystem', will showcase India’s ambitious strategy and policy in becoming a global nucleus for semiconductor design, manufacturing, and technology development.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi drew parallels between Moore's Law, which predicts the exponential growth of technology, and India’s digital and electronic manufacturing sectors.
He informed the audience that India's share in global electronic manufacturing has surged dramatically.
"In 2014, India’s electronic manufacturing was less than $30 billion, which has now exceeded $100 billion," Modi revealed.
He also shared that the export of electronics and mobile devices had doubled in the last two years, while stressing the importance of gatherings like SemiconIndia as platforms where industry leaders and experts converge to exchange insights and updates.
"It is crucial for the synchronisation of our relationship," Modi explained.
He expressed delight at the exhibition's innovative displays and the sector's vibrant energy, urging all attendees, particularly the youth, to explore the exhibition and understand the potential of new technology.
Reflecting on last year's Semicon event, the Prime Minister remarked on the shift in the investment climate within a single year, from 'Why invest in India' to 'Why not invest in India'.
“This directional change is the result of the industry leaders’ efforts,” Modi praised, as he commended their belief in India's potential.
He lauded the industry leaders for aligning India's aspirations and capabilities with their own future goals and dreams.
“India does not disappoint,” he declared.
Prime Minister Modi emphasised the extensive opportunities in 21st century India, highlighting the nation's democracy, demography, and dividend as strong indicators for business expansion.
Providing further insight into India's technological progress since 2014, the Prime Minister reported a notable increase in the number of mobile manufacturing units, broadband users, and internet connections.
He maintained that these statistics signify not only India's progress but also burgeoning business opportunities.
“The world is witnessing the Industry 4.0 revolution today,” Modi noted, asserting that Indian aspirations are the driving force behind the country's development.
He stressed the rapid decline in poverty rates, the emergence of a new middle class, and the growing adoption of technology among Indian consumers as key factors fostering the consumption of digital products.
“The growing neo-middle class of India has become the powerhouse of Indian aspirations,” the Prime Minister affirmed.
Developed with Google Cloud and NCUI, the app helps cooperatives expand and sell products across regions, revolutionising the movement.
The new e-commerce app for Indian cooperatives is a significant milestone.
Developed in collaboration with Google Cloud, it provides a robust platform to address cooperative challenges.
By eliminating intermediaries, the cooperatives can sell products directly to customers nationwide, benefiting from increased control and reach.
The e-commerce app goes beyond transactions, offering training and capacity-building support to cooperatives.
It provides resources for packaging, branding, and government schemes. This support enhances competitiveness and market presence.
Additionally, the app boosts visibility and growth by showcasing cooperatives' products and services to a wider customer base.
“I am certain that our collaboration with Google Cloud will be instrumental in driving our digital transformation as we aim to empower Cooperatives. The launch of the E-commerce application, powered by robust and scalable technology, will grant Cooperatives and their members eseamless access to a wide range of buyers across the country. With this significant advancement, Cooperatives can effortlessly buy and sell their products, revolutionising their economic prospects," said Dr. Sudhir Mahajan, the chief executive of NCUI.
The National Sickle Cell Anemia Eradication Mission (NSCAEM), which aims to address the pressing health challenges posed by sickle cell disease, particularly among the tribal population, was announced in the Union Budget 2023.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has listed sickle cell disease as one of the 10 problems in India's tribal health with Madhya Pradesh having the highest prevalence. An estimated 9,61,492 people are reported to be Sickle Cell careers, while 67,861 have Sickle Cell Anemia disease in Madhya Pradesh.
As per the ICMR report, there is high incidence of Sickle Cell Anemia in six tribes spread across 15 districts of Madhya Pradesh. The tribes - Pradhan, Panika, Barela, Bhilala, Jharia and Mehra — are mostly affected with Sickle Cell Anemia.
15 districts — Jhabua, Alirajpur, Dhar, Barwani, Khandwa, Khargone, Burhanpur, Betul, Chhindwara, Jabalpur, Mandla, Dindori, Katni, Umaria, Shahdol and Anuppur — are with high index of Sickle Cell Anemia, according to ICMR report.
At a function held at Shahdol in Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi, meanwhile, took a swipe at the Opposition and asked people to beware of "fake guarantees" being given by "family-centric" political parties including Congress. “Beware of those (parties) who are giving fake guarantees. Such people have brought schemes of guarantees despite they don't have their own (political) guarantee,” Modi said.
Instituted in 1915, the 'Order of the Nile' is conferred upon heads of states, crown princes, and vice presidents who offer Egypt or humanity invaluable services.
This is the 13th highest state honour conferred upon Prime Minister Modi.
The 'Order of the Nile' is a pure gold collar consisting of three-square gold units comprising Pharaonic symbols.
The first unit resembles the idea of protecting the state against the evils, the second one resembles prosperity and happiness brought by the Nile and the third one refers to wealth and endurance.
The three units are connected to one another by a circular gold flower decorated with turquoise and ruby.
Hanging from the collar is a hexagonal pendant decorated with flowers of the Pharaonic style, and turquoise and ruby gems.
In the middle of the pendant, there is a protruding symbol representing the Nile that brings together the North (represented by the Papyrus) and the South (represented by the Lotus).
Over the past nine years, the Prime Minister has been conferred the Companion of the Order of Logohu, the highest civilian award of Papua New Guinea; the Companion of the Order of Fiji; the Ebakl Award by the Republic of Palau; the Order of the Druk Gyalp, the highest civilian decoration by Bhutan.
Modi has also been conferred with the Legion of Merit by the US Government; the King Hamad Order of the Renaissance by Bahrain; the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin, the highest honour of the Maldives; the Order of St. Andrew award, the highest civilian honour of Russia.
Modi has also received the Order of Zayed Award, the highest civilian honour of the United Arab Emirates; the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine Award, the highest honour of Palestine; the State Order of Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan, the highest civilian honour of Afghanistan and the Order of Abdulaziz Al Saud, the highest honour of Saudi Arabia awarded to non-Muslim dignitaries.
Modi offered floral tributes and signed the visitor's book at the Cemetery that comprises the Heliopolis (Port Tewfik) Memorial and the Heliopolis (Aden) Memorial.
"Prime Minister paid homage to over 4,300 valiant Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Egypt and Aden during the 1st World War," the MEA said in a press release.
The Heliopolis (Port Tewfik) Memorial commemorates nearly 4,000 Indian soldiers who died fighting in Egypt and Palestine in the First World War.
The Heliopolis (Aden) Memorial pays tribute to more than 600 men of the Commonwealth forces who sacrificed their lives for Aden during the First World War.
The Cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. It also houses 1,700 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War as well as several war graves of other nationalities, according to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website.
Located at the south end of the Suez Canal, the original Port Tewfik memorial was unveiled in 1926.
Designed by Sir John Burnet, the original memorial sustained damages during the 1967-1973 Israeli-Egyptian conflict and was eventually demolished, according to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website.
In October 1980, a new memorial with panels bearing the names of the martyred Indian soldiers was unveiled by the Indian Ambassador to Egypt in the Heliopolis Commonwealth War Grave Cemetery.
Last October, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar paid tributes at Heliopolis Commonwealth War Grave Cemetery.
The Prime Minister is on a two-day state visit to Egypt at the invitation of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. This is the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 26 years.
The council, the apex body of NITI Aayog, includes all chief ministers, lieutenant governors of Union Territories, and several Union ministers.
"NITI Aayog will be organising its 8th Governing Council Meeting on the theme of 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Role of Team India' on May 27, 2023," the Aayog said in a statement.
The statement noted that as the world's fifth largest economy and the most populous nation, India is at a stage in its economic development trajectory where it can achieve accelerated growth over the next 25 years.
In this context, the statement said the 8th Governing Council Meeting provides an opportunity to create a roadmap for Viksit Bharat by 2047 in which Centre and states can work together as Team India.
"Eight prominent themes will be discussed, including Viksit Bharat@2047, thrust on MSMEs, infrastructure and investments, minimising compliances, women empowerment, health and nutrition, skill development, and Gati Shakti for area development and social infrastructure," the statement said.
According to the statement, as a prelude to the 8th Governing Council meeting, the 2nd Chief Secretaries Conference was held in January 2023 where these themes were extensively discussed.
Wide-ranging stakeholder consultations and brainstorming sessions with subject experts, academia and practitioners were held prior to the Conference in order to gain well-rounded grassroot-level perspectives, it added.
The statement pointed that this 8th Governing Council Meeting is also being held in the backdrop of India's G20 Presidency.
"India's G20 motto 'One Earth, One Family, One Future' conveys its civilisational values and its vision of the role of each country in creating the future of our planet," the statement said, adding that the emerging world has immense hopes on India's ability to provide values-based leadership and its capacity to deliver development at scale.
The statement noted that the Centre and states have played a significant role in achieving this distinctive development trajectory. It emphasised that India's growth is closely interlinked with the growth of states.
Generally, the full council meeting happens every year and last year, it was held under the chairmanship of Modi on August 7. The council meeting was not convened in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. The first meeting of the council took place on February 8, 2015.
Flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Odisha’s first Vande Bharat Express connecting Puri and Howrah will cover 500 km distance in around 6.5 hours.
The Vande Bharat Express will run six days a week except Thursdays. It will start from Howrah at 6.10 am and reach Puri at 12.35 pm. In the return direction, it will leave Puri at 1.50 pm and arrive at Howrah at 8.30 pm.
The train, with 16 coaches, will stop at Kharagpur, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur Keonjhar Road, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Khordha Road.
With the Vande Bharat Express hitting the track, Odisha has now got its fastest train on the route which will cover 500 km distance in around 6.5 hours.
Meanwhile, the excitement of passengers and school students, who got an opportunity to take part in the historic moment of railway services in Odisha, reached zenith during the luxurious travel on the Vande Bharat Express.
“As Vande Bharat Express is a semi-high speed train, it travels at a thrilling speed. The staff of this train are very friendly and they are taking all measure to provide a comfortable journey experience. I am very delighted to board the train on its inaugural day,” said a girl student.
Comparing other trains with Vande Bharat Express, another student said, “Unlike normal trains, this semi-high speed train is completely air-conditioned, has automatic doors and big windows. The train provides a very comfortable travel experience.”
“I have travelled in many trains, but the Vande Bharat Express is completely different. Equipped with comfortable seats, large window panes, spacious coaches, four exit doors, announcement systems, CCTV cameras for safety measures, the train gives a very good experience,” a passenger said.
“I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for providing Vande Bharat Express to Odisha,” said a lady passenger.
The Vande Bharat Express will run six days a week except Thursdays. It will depart Howrah at 6.10 am and reach Puri at 12.35 pm. In the return direction, it will leave Puri at 1.50 pm and arrive at Howrah at 8.30 pm.
The train, with 16 coaches, will stop at Kharagpur, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur Keonjhar Road, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar and Khurda Road.