NITI Aayog to push India's cyber defence system

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
24-April, 2018 15:28 IST
Dr Jitendra Singh pays visit to offices of DoPT, Pensions and Space located in LokNayakBhawan

Minister interacts with employees and understands various functional aspects

The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, DrJitendra Singh paid a visit to the offices located in LokNayakBhawan, here today. The officers of Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), Department of Pensions & Pensioners’ Welfare and Department of Space, for which DrJitendra Singh is Minister of State, are located here and it houses around 300 employees. This was a surprise visit paid by him to personally understand various functional aspects of these departments.

During his visit, DrJitendra Singh met the officials working in the departments and interacted with them regarding their working conditions and understand any difficulties faced by them during their functioning. He conducted an inspection of the office and also supervised the swachhta/cleanliness status of these departments. While going from seat to seat, he interacted with the entire staff of all the three departments. These visits help in keeping the morale of employees high and also motivate them, he said.

Thereafter, the Minister conducted a joint meeting of all the officers in which welfare activities of employees, cadre management activities of 19,000 officers of CSS, SSCS and CSSS as well as welfare activities pertaining to Central Government Pensioners were discussed. The Minister also visited the DoPPW NIC centre which manages the Pensioners’ portal and all the online activities of the Pensions Department such as CPENGRAMS, Sankalp, Anubhav, Bhavishya and Mobile App. The Minister appreciated the online processing of Pension settlement on Bhavishya. The Minister also appreciated the Department’s initiative of Pension Adalats considering the fact that the number of Pensioners now exceed the number of working staff.

While briefing him, Joint Secretary, Pensions informed the Minister that there was an abandoned store-house on the ground floor outside the building which had been lying in a dilapidated state from several years. The same is being renovated and shortly would be used as a facilitation centre for Pensioners as well as a convention centre for small activities of the Department of Pensions.

The Minister while briefing the officers of DoPT mentioned that it might be a good idea to have some institutionalized service from the department’s side for certain outdoor work of officers and staff so that they can give their maximum time to the department’s activities.

After the visit, DrJitendra Singh said that the purpose of his visit was to understand the ground working conditions of the employees working in various departments located here. He said that DoPT is an important department of Government of India and performs various important functions including cadre management and meeting training requirements. Speaking about Department of Pensions, he said that the department has taken various initiatives including organizing Pensions Adalats, SCOVA meetings and others including Pensions Portal, Anubhav scheme, Sankalp and Bhavishya. The Convention Centre being built by the Department of Pensions will help in meeting their regular requirements, he added. He also talked about e-office initiatives being implemented by departments.

The Minister also visited the Department of Space Branch Secretariat located in LokNayakBhawan. It also has a liaison unit for ISRO which represents the DoS ISRO Headquarters at Bangalore.

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Commerce & Industry
25-April, 2018 17:05 IST
Suresh Prabhu chairs first meeting of think tank on framework for National Policy on E-commerce

Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu speaking at the first meeting of think tank for national policy on e-commerce

Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu, chaired the first meeting of the think tank on the Framework for National Policy on E-commerce held on 24 April 2018. The meeting saw participation by senior officers of various ministries/ departments of the Government of India involved in different aspects of e-commerce, including by Secretaries’ of the Department of Commerce, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology;Chairperson of two regulatory bodies - Competition Commission of India and the TRAI; high level representatives from the industry bodies, e-commerce companies, telecommunication companies and IT companies; and independent experts.

The Think Tank on the Framework for National Policy on E-commerce has been established recently by the Department of Commerce.It will provide a credible forum for an inclusive and fact-based dialogue leading to informed policy making, so that the country is adequately prepared to take advantage of the opportunities, and meet the challenges, that would arise from the next wave of advancements in the digital economy.

The Think Tank collectively deliberated on the challenges confronting India in the arena of the digital economy and e-commerce, with a view to developing a comprehensive and overarching national policy on e-commerce.Some of the issues that were discussed by the think tank included aspects of e-commerce and the digital economy like physical and digital infrastructure, the regulatory regime, taxation policy, data flows, server localisation, FDI, technology flows, skill development and trade-related aspects. Global developments on e-commerce and evolving appropriate national positions on the underlying issues, was another important dimension of the discussions of the think tank.

One of the key outcomes of the first meeting of the think tank was the decision to constitute a task force for preparing recommendations for India's national policy on e-commerce. The task force will be divided into various sub-groups, comprising representation from the Government of India, e-commerce industry and experts with domain knowledge.

The task force willfinalise its recommendations within six months.

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Labour & Employment
25-April, 2018 15:27 IST
New Initiatives by EPFO to provide services and timely information to all stake holders

EPFO has taken a number of e-initiatives to provide services and timely information to all its stakeholders in tune with the government’s motto of minimum government and maximum governance. It has now been decided to publish the age-band wise estimate of all new subscribers as declared by their employers. The new employees have been categorised in six age bands like less than 18; 18-21; 22-25; 26-28; 29-35 and more than 35years of age. The information can be accessed at https://epfindia.gov.in/site_docs/exmpted_est/Payroll_Data_EPFO.pdf?id=sm5_index. This data can be helpful in policy making, planning and research work as the planners may have an idea as to what is the estimate of employees in different age band.

EPFO has so far been intimating its members by way of SMS on credit of their respective monthly contribution into their accounts. Now, credit information is available through e-passbook online and UMANG mobile App as well as through missed call service for all members. EPFO members whose monthly contribution is regularly received may view their contribution details using any of these options.

However, the members whose contributions are not deposited in time remain uninformed. It has now been decided that an intimation by way of SMS/email shall be sent to members who have registered their Mobile Number / email ID against respective Universal Account Number.

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NITI Aayog
25-April, 2018 11:32 IST
NITI Aayog to Open Applications for Atal New India Challenge

Grants of upto Rs One Crore, mentorship to be given to the winning ideas

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under the NITI Aayog shall be launching the Atal New India Challenge on Thursday, 26th April 2018. The event will see presence of Shri Rajiv Kumar, Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog, Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri SS Ahluwalia, Minister of State, Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Shri Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog and Shri Ramanathan Ramanan, Mission Director, AIM.

Under the Atal New India Challenge, which shall be run in collaboration with five ministries, AIM will invite prospective innovators/MSMEs/start-ups to design market-ready products, using cutting edge technologies or prototypes across 17 identified focus areas such as Climate Smart Agriculture, Smart Mobility, Predictive Maintenance of Rolling Stock, Waste Management etc.

Applicants showing capability, intent and potential to productize technologies will be awarded grants up to Rs. One crore. This grant will be further supplemented by mentoring, handholding, incubating and other support as needed at various stages of commercialisation, while generating wider deployment for the product.



***

The Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Himachal Pradesh, Shri Rajiv Saizal calling on the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, in New Delhi on April 25, 2018.

The Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Himachal Pradesh, Shri Rajiv Saizal calling on the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, in New Delhi on April 25, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
26-April, 2018 16:00 IST
Chairman CAT Shri Justice Dinesh Gupta calls on MoS Dr Jitendra Singh

The Chairman, Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) Shri Justice Dinesh Gupta called on the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space Dr Jitendra Singh here today.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that CAT is an important Tribunal of Government of India and it has been established to adjudicate the disputes related to service matters of the Government servants. It not only reduces the burden of various Courts, but also provides speedy relief to the Government servants, he added. The Minister said, with Shri Justice Dinesh Gupta taking over as its Chairman, the Tribunal will benefit from his experience in the field of judiciary.

Shri Justice Dinesh Gupta, who took over as Chairman, CAT recently said that his priority is to address the backlog of cases pending with CAT.

The CAT was established in the year 1985, for adjudication of disputes and complaints with respect to recruitment and conditions of service of persons appointed to public services and posts in connection with the affairs of the Union or other authorities under the control of the Government.

******

NITI Aayog
26-April, 2018 19:23 IST
Monthly Payroll Data released for the first time

Numbers indicate the efforts made by the Government on job creation and formalization of the economy.

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) and the Pension fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) have released payroll data.

India has, for the first time, introduced monthly payroll reporting for the formal sector to facilitate analysis of new and continuing employment.

The payroll data, categorized age-wise, for the months September, 2017 to February, 2018 has been released on 25th April, 2018.

The numbers from these three organisations are an eye opener and put an end to all speculations and conjectures regarding job creation in the economy. They also strengthen the efforts made by the Government on job creation and formalization of the economy.

There are other organisations also, such as ICAI, Bar Council, Medical Council and other professional bodies which could have such monthly data for payroll reporting for their professionals.

Data released by EPFO shows that during September, 2017 to February, 2018, 31.10 lakh new additions across all age groups were made in the payroll. Given that the data for recent months is provisional due to continuous updation of employee records, this could be called a conservative estimate. The actual figures may well be more than this.

From the PFRDA, the New Pension Scheme (NPS) data indicates generation of 4.2 lakh new payroll during the given period, that too only from Tier-I account. NPS currently manages the corpus of around 50 lakh employees in State and Central government. For this study the Central and State autonomous bodies have been shown under Central and State governments respectively, while non-government refers to the corporate sector employees.

From the above two organisations itself, 35.3 lakh new payrolls were generated during this six month period.

In addition, the ESIC data also mirrors the payroll growth shown in the other two sets of data from EPFO and PFRDA. Since ESIC data is not Aadhar seeded there is further scope of some modifications.

The payroll data from these three organisations would now be released every month. Given that till now there was no such system in place, this data would provide a more firm basis for various analysis and studies of the economy, job creation, as also aid in policy making. We may as well as bid goodbye to the days of analyses based on random sample surveys. Hopefully this would also end the debateregarding and criticisms about jobless growth in the economy.

A more constructive phase of focusing on deriving the most out of this data for furthering development should now begin.

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NITI Aayog announces the launch of Atal New India Challenges

Grants of up to Rs One Crore; winning ideas to be incubated under the aegis of Atal Innovation Mission

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of the NITI Aayog today announced to launch the Atal New India Challenges, which came into being following Prime Minister’s clarion call to bring innovations and technologies relevant to the people.

The launch event saw the presence of Dr Rajiv Kumar, Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog, Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri SS Ahluwalia, Minister of State, Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Shri Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog and Shri Ramanathan Ramanan, Mission Director, AIM.

Applicants showing capability, intent, and potential to productize technologies will be awarded grants up to Rs. One crore. This grant support will be supplemented by mentoring, handholding,incubatingand other support as neededat various stages of commercialisation. while generatingwider deployment.

Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, Dr Rajiv Kumar highlighted the need to ensure inclusive and innovative solutions. He said, “India has accelerated its growth potential by leveraging technology in various spheres. This initiative will focus our efforts towards solving problems in core areas, which would have a direct impact on improving lives of our citizens and will also generate employment. The topics placed in different phases are aligned with India’s needs and through the support of innovation, we are ready to make a giant leap towards a New India.”

Partnering with the Ministries of Road Transport and Highways, Housing and Urban Affairs, Agriculture and Family Welfare, Drinking Water & Sanitation and the Railway Board, AIM will attempt to harness the potential of India’s innovators.

Union Minister, Shri Nitin Gadkari spoke of the need approach policy and economic activity with a scientific outlook. He added that innovative policies will help fulfil the Prime Minister’s dream of a New India.

Union Minister of State, Shri SS Ahluwalia, stressed on the need to identify affordable solutions to problems of groundwater recharge and ensuring every citizen has access to safe drinking water.

CEO, NITI Aayog, Shri Amitabh Kant emphasised the need to identify unique technological solutions to problems unique to India. He said, “Bringing more innovations to the service of Indian citizens will require more individuals and entities to innovate for Indian needs, and take innovative products to market through several mechanisms, such as startups, government schemes, or other deployment mechanisms.”

He also highlighted the fact that the challenges are being issued after rigorous consultations and discussions with the partner ministries.

Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission, Shri Ramanathan Ramanan, said, “ these innovations will be deployed to make lives of all Indian citizens better. This programme will bring a technological revolution in the lives of the common man, solving India’s technological challenges locally.”

It should be noted that these grants will not be mutually exclusive - multiple grants may be given in a focus area, based on the Selection Committee’s perception of potential. Furthermore, the winning grantees will be supported with mentoring, go-to-market strategies by leading incubators, accelerators and experts, technical support, and other means.

The programme is currently accepting applications at http://aim.gov.in/atal-new-india-challenge.php and the last date for applications is June 10, 2018.

Under the Atal New India Challenge, which shall be run in collaboration with five ministries, AIM will invite prospective innovators/MSMEs/start-ups to design market-ready products, using cutting edge technologies or prototypes across 17 identified focus areas, namely,

1. Climate-smart agriculture

2. Fog vision system for road and rail

3. Prevention of Rail failure using emerging technologies

4. Predictive maintenance of Rolling Stock

5. Alternate fuel based transportation

6. Smart Mobility

7. Electric Mobility

8. Safe transport

9. Instant Portable Water Quality Testing

10. Affordable Desalination / Recycling Technology

11. Waste management recycling / reuse

12. Garbage composition devices

13. Quality of compost

14. Decentralized composting

15. Mixing blades for composting

16. Waste in public spaces

17. Dissuading public littering

The programme is open to Indian companies registered under the Companies Act 1956/2013, primarily a Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) as defined in the MSMED Act, 2006. It is also open to Start-Ups, as defined by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Government or private R&D organizations (other than a Railway R&D organization), academic institutions, academicians, or even individual innovators are encouraged to apply, provided they partner with entities with appropriate manufacturing capabilities.

Grants shall be awarded in up to 3 tranches within 12 – 18 months, contingent on achieving milestones and up to a total of 50 grants in fiscal year 2018 – 19 may be given out. The grants will not be mutually exclusive - several grants may be given in a focus area.

***

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari announcing the launch of the Atal New India Challenge, at NITI Aayog, in New Delhi on April 26, 2018. The Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, Dr. Rajiv Kumar, the Minister of State for Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, Dr. Rajiv Kumar announcing the launch of the Atal New India Challenge, at NITI Aayog, in New Delhi on April 26, 2018. The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of State for Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Minister of State for Tourism (I/C) and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Alphons Kannanthanam in a meeting with the Director, Public Policy and Government Affair’s Google India, Shri Chetan Krishnaswamy and other Google officials, in New Delhi on April 26, 2018.

The Minister of State for Tourism (I/C) and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Alphons Kannanthanam with the Director, Public Policy and Government Affair’s Google India, Shri Chetan Krishnaswamy and other Google officials, in New Delhi on April 26, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, Shri Ramdas Athawale addressing the press conference, in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh on April 26, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Labour & Employment
27-April, 2018 18:15 IST
ECR Validation tool for Employers

Electronic-Challan-cum-Return (ECR) is a monthly return filed by the employer every month through employer e-sewa portal. The return has member wise details of the wages and contributions including basic details for the new and existing members (members who have joined or have left service in the wage month for which the return is uploaded). The approval of uploaded ECR results in generation of challan using which the employer has to remit the EPF & allied dues.

In order to assist the employer to create the correct ECR file every month, EPFO has provided an offline tool for employers for validating ECR before uploading at Unified Portal. This tool will facilitate the employers to pre-validate the ECR and also carry out amendments in the ECR file before uploading on Unified Portal. It is available for download at www.epfindia.gov.in.in>>OurServices>>For Employers>>ECR Validation Tool.

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Ministry of Labour & Employment
27-April, 2018 15:00 IST
Santosh Gangwar gives away NSCI Safety Awards – 2017

Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Minister of State (Independent charge) Ministry of Labour & Employment said that his Ministry is committed towards job security, wage security, social security and safety and health of each and every worker. Moreover the Ministry has taken steps for simplification, amalgamation and rationalization of Central Labour Laws. Shri Gangwar said that the Government of India is following the approach of ‘Reform to Transform’ through far-reaching structural reforms. The Minister was speaking at the function to give away the National Safety Council’s (NSCI) Safety Awards’ for the year 2017 at New Delhi today. Shri Satish Reddy, Chairman, National Safety Council & Chairman, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. presided the function.

The NSCI Safety Awards are much coveted national level Awards in the field of occupational safety, health and environment and are given in recognition for effective Safety Management System and excellent safety & health performance by the organizations in Manufacturing, Construction and MSME Sectors during the relevant assessment periods.

Indian Farmers Fertilizer Co-operative Ltd., Bareilly (UP); NPCIL, Kaiga Generating Station 3 & 4, (Karnataka); Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (Automotive Sector), Haridwar, Uttarakhand and Vardhman Acrylics Ltd., Bharuch, Gujarat won top level Sarva Shreshtha Suraksha Puraskar under Group A, Group B, Group C, Group D and Group E respectively in Manufacturing Sector. Sojitz - L & T Consortium, Jaipur, Rajasthan was awarded Sarva Shreshtha Suraksha Puraskar in Construction Sector and Parijat Industries (India) Pvt. Ltd., Ambala, Haryana in MSME Sector have won the top level award. Altogether 70 organizations have been pronounced as winners of the awards in four awards categories – Sarva Shreshtha Suraksha Puraskar, Shreshtha Suraksha Puraskar, Suraksha Puraskar and Prashansa Patra. Besides, 12 client organizations from Construction Sector were also awarded.

These Awards are adjudged and declared every year by the National Safety Council, an autonomous society set up by the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India.

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Ministry of Labour & Employment
27-April, 2018 13:21 IST
May Day Celebration by Ministry of Labour and Employment

International Labour Day is also known as the May Day and is celebrated at the international level to promote and encourage the healthy dialogue among social partners. International Workers’ Day is a big celebration at the world level and it is celebrated to commemorate the 4th of May of 1886, the Haymarket affair (Haymarket Massacre) in the Chicago.



Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Minister of State(Independent Charge) for Labour & Employment conveys Best Wishes to all the workers on MAY DAY and said, “Your hard work and your dedication have built the Nation”.



Ministry of Labour & Employment will organise programme on the 1st May, 2018 at 10.00 AM at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation will be the Chief Guest. The Event will be attended by the Secretaries of various Ministries of Government of India, Senior Officers of Ministry of Labour & Employment, Members of various Boards/Advisory Bodies of the Ministry, Academicians, and senior representatives of Workers’ & Employers’ Organisations and representatives of ILO.



On this occasion, while sharing key initiatives and achievements of the last 4 years, Ministry will also be launching a series of new Online Services through Shram Suvidha Portal as well as new initiatives by EPFO. Further, V.V. Giri National Labour Institute (V.V.G.N.L.I) will be releasing a new Publication on the challenges of Social security to the working class.

Ministry of Labour and Employment for the first time will be awarding the Model Employers as recognized by ESIC & EPFO and Central Labour Service Officers who have excelled in their service. The benefits to Building and Other Constructions Workers will also be distributed. It would be followed by a panel discussion of labour experts on the “Strategy for providing Social Security to Unorganised Workers”.

Minister once again Greets every worker in the country and appeals to “MAKE INDIA GREAT LAND ON EARTH WITH OUR HARD WORK AND DETERMINATION…”



*****

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
27-April, 2018 17:48 IST
Dr Jitendra Singh awards certificates to ministries for meritorious performance in handling Public Grievances on PG Portal

The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Affairs and Sports, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh awarded the Certificates of Appreciation to the Ministries/Departments based on their performance in the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), here today.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Jitendra Singh said that the number of grievances lodged has crossed 16 lakh per year. He said that grievances received by the Government has increased manifold due to the prompt response given by the Department and faith of public reposed in the Government. Dr Jitendra Singh said that timelines have been framed for timely disposal for grievances, but many grievances are lodged due to lack of awareness. He said that the people need to be educated about the process and be made aware about the information already available in the public domain.

Shri KV Eapen, Secretary, Ms. Vasudha Mishra, Addl. Secretary, and Senior Officers of DARPG were present on the occasion.

Following Departments have been conferred with the awards for the quarters from July to September, 2017 and October to December, 2017:-



Group

A

(Ministries/Deptts. receiving up to 300 grievances during the quarter)



Quarter(July-September, 2017)
Ministry of New & Renewable Energy

Quarter(October-December, 2017)
Department of Land Resources

B
(Ministries/Deptts. receiving upto 301-2000 grievances during the quarter)
Quarter(July-September, 2017)
Ministry of Panchayati Raj

Quarter(October-December, 2017)
Department of Justice

C
(Ministries/Deptts. receiving upto above 2000 grievances during the quarter)

Quarter(July-September, 2017)
Department of Financial Services (Insurance Division)

Quarter(October-December, 2017)
Central Board of Direct Taxes


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The Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Punjab, Shri Sadhu Singh meeting the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, in New Delhi on April 27, 2018.

The Minister of State for Labour and Employment (I/C), Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar giving away the awards, at the National Safety Council (NSCI) Awards - 2017 function, in New Delhi on April 27, 2018.

The Minister of State for Labour and Employment (I/C), Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar addressing at the National Safety Council (NSCI) Awards - 2017 function, in New Delhi on April 27, 2018.

The Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh giving away the Certificates of Appreciation to the Ministries/Departments based on their performance in the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), in New Delhi on April 27, 2018. The Secretary, DARPG, Shri K.V. Eapen is also seen.

The Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh in a group photograph with the awardees of Certificates of Appreciation to the Ministries/Departments based on their performance in the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), in New Delhi on April 27, 2018. The Secretary, DARPG, Shri K.V. Eapen, the Addl. Secretary, Ms. Vasudha Mishra and Senior Officers of DARPG are also seen.

The Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.N. Tripathi gives away the prizes to the winners of various Swachhta activities undertaken by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs in connections with Swachhta Pakhwada observed during 16th-30th April, 2018, in New Delhi on April 27, 2018.

The Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.N. Tripathi gives away the prizes to the winners of various Swachhta activities undertaken by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs in connections with Swachhta Pakhwada observed during 16th-30th April, 2018, in New Delhi on April 27, 2018.

The Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.N. Tripathi addressing the media persons, on the occasion of the Swachhta Pakhwada, observed by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, during 16th-30th April, 2018, in New Delhi on April 27, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Labour & Employment
02-May, 2018 16:15 IST
EPFO says no data leakage from their data centre

EPFO has taken advance action by closing the server and host service through Common Service Centres pending vulnerability checks as part of the data security and protection. EPFO has been taking all necessary precautions and measures to ensure that no data leakage takes place.

With regard to the news item being circulated in the social media platform that there has been vulnerabilities in the EPFO data, based on which a letter has been written to the Chief Executive Officer, Common Service Centre (CSC) to plug such vulnerabilities.

In this regard, it is informed that warnings regarding vulnerabilities in data or software is a routine administrative process based on which the services which were rendered through Common Service Centres have been discontinued w.e.f. 22nd March 2018. The news is relating to the services through common service centres and not about EPFO Software or data centre. No confirmed data leakage has been established or observed so far.

As such, there is nothing to be concerned about the news item. EPFOis continuously monitoring and will continue to be vigilant about it in future.

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JN/SKP/SJ

Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation
02-May, 2018 18:31 IST
Payroll Reporting in India – A Formal Employment Perspective

The Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has released the report on Employment Outlook of the country covering the period September, 2017 to February, 2018. It is based on the administrative records available with selected government agencies to assess the progress in certain dimensions.

This is the first in this series of employment statistics. This release is an outcome of the recommendations of the of the Task Force on Improving Employment data constituted under the Chairpersonship of Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog which submitted its report in August, 2017. One of the recommendations related to exploring the use of administrative statistics for preparing high frequency employment statistics. In the first report, the administrative records from EPFO, ESIC and NPS have been used for compiling the statistics in the formal sector and relates to the period September 2017 to February, 2018.

Please click here to access the detailed note related to Employment Outlook.

***

The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. Vidyasagar Rao calling on the Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, in New Delhi on May 02, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Labour & Employment
03-May, 2018 12:48 IST
EPFO Introduces ‘View Pension Passbook’ Service for the pensioners through Umang App

Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), which is providing a host of e-services for its stakeholders, has now introduced a new service through ‘UMANG app’. On clicking ‘View Passbook’ option, it requires PPO Number and Date of Birth information to be entered by the pensioner. After successful validation of the information fed, an OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number of the pensioner. On entering OTP, ‘Pensioner Passbook’ will display the details of the pensioner like Name, DOB along with last pension credited information. The facility to download the financial year wise complete pass book details is also available.

Other e-services of EPFO already available through UMANG aap includes Employee Centric services (View EPF Passbook, Raise claim, Track Claim), Employer Centric Services (Get remittance details by establishment ID, Get TRRN Status), General Services (Search Establishment, Search EPFO Office, Know Your claim Status, Account details on SMS, Account details on Missed Calls), Pensioner Services (Update Jeevan Praman), eKYC services (Aadhaar Seeding).

*****

 

[Hindustani78]

The Minister of State for Tourism (I/C) and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Alphons Kannanthanam lighting the lamp at the inaugural ceremony of Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, at Venganoor Panchayat, in Thiruvananthapuram on May 05, 2018.

The Minister of State for Tourism (I/C) and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Alphons Kannanthanam addressing the gathering at the inaugural ceremony of Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, at Venganoor Panchayat, in Thiruvananthapuram on May 05, 2018.

The Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan lighting the lamp to inaugurate the State Level Program - “Ajeevika and Kaushal Vikash Mela” (Livelihood and Skill Development Fair), organised by the National Skill Development Corporation, in Khurda, Odisha on May 05, 2018.

The Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan distributing the certificates to the Apprentice Students, at the inauguration of the State Level Program - “Ajeevika and Kaushal Vikash Mela” (Livelihood and Skill Development Fair), organised by the National Skill Development Corporation, in Khurda, Odisha on May 05, 2018.

The Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan addressing at the inauguration of the State Level Program - “Ajeevika and Kaushal Vikash Mela” (Livelihood and Skill Development Fair), organised by the National Skill Development Corporation, in Khurda, Odisha on May 05, 2018.

The Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan with the Apprentice Students, at the inauguration of the State Level Program - “Ajeevika and Kaushal Vikash Mela” (Livelihood and Skill Development Fair), organised by the National Skill Development Corporation, in Khurda, Odisha on May 05, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
06-May, 2018 13:17 IST
Skill India organizes an Ajeevika and Kaushal Vikas Mela in Bhubaneswar Array of opportunities for youth to connect to New India vision of the country

Celebrating the spirit of New India, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), together joined hands to amplify the “Gram Swaraj Abhiyaan” of the current incumbent government which is promoting social harmony and awareness around the pro-poor initiatives of the government.

Addressing the gathering Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, said "Today, our government has been able to complete 4 successful years of governance, with all the due support from the people of this country. Our vision of “SabkaSaath, Sabka Vikas” is now gradually seeing its impact, and we have started this campaign to bring back the focus on our “Graam,” our villages. This New India of our dreams can only be a reality if we strengthen our villages and our panchayats, the roots of our democracy. And as the Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, it is our endeavor to provide access to quality skill training at the local levels, thorugh both short term courses and long term training as well."

"I urge all our youth, their parents and individuals of our society, to take advantage of the immense resources and schemes extended by our government. I urge them to explore opportunities in traditional skills and new age technologies, both relevant to today’s market, and both equally capable of generating sustainable livelihoods" added Shri Pradhan.

In this regards MSDE organized a Kaushal and Rojgar Mela at New Women’s College in Khordha, Bhubaneswar where more than 5000 people from different walks of life participated. Nearly 3000 candidates registered for the Rojgar Mela (Placement Drive), which saw 1000+ candidates shortlisted by 41 leading corporates such as Eureka Forbes, Flipkart, Ola, Reliance Digital, VLCC, V Mart, Shahi Exports, Talwalkars, Lakme among others.

More than 29 state of art multi-skill ‘Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras’ were also launched digitally across the country by the Minister. The Minister also handed over Mudra loan acceptance letters to the youth participating at the event. He further gave certificates to 10 successful candidates trained under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) at the event.

The Kaushal Mela organized on the sidelines of the event, saw an exhibition being put multiple stakeholders including Sector Skill Councils, Bankers, Training Partners, Industries, ITIs etc., which provided counselling for the candidates and their parents, and helped them understand various opportunities available in the skill development ecosystem.



***

PP

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
07-May, 2018 15:11 IST
‘1st Sensitization Meeting of Stakeholders to make Delhi a Model Accessible City’ Held

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is having the commitment to uphold the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and to ensure the accessible and inclusive assets are created in the country. Chairing the ‘1st Sensitization Meeting of Stakeholders to make Delhi a Model Accessible City’ here today, Smt. Shakuntala D. Gamlin, Secretary, DEPwD said that the Department has taken up the initiative to coordinate the meeting of all key stakeholders, sensitize them about the legal mandates and would hold supervisory role in this entire journey.

Secretary, DEPwD said that Delhi being the capital city of the country is proposed to be selected for this drive. The rationale for selecting Delhi is that it is assuming increasing eminence among the great cities of the world. Growing at an unprecedented pace, the city needs to be able to integrate its elegant past as well as the modern developments into an organic whole, which demands a purposeful transformation of the socio-economic, natural and built environment. Due to daily influx of visitors and representatives from different parts of the country, a capital city which is also a prime example of “Barrier free environment” and “Inclusivity”, would enhance visibility of the campaign and would also serve as a replicable model for others to follow.Apart from critical issues such as land, physical infrastructure, transport, ecology and environment, housing, socio-cultural and other institutional facilities, the cornerstone for making Delhi an Accessible city is the planning process itself and related aspects of governance and management. This needs a co-ordinated and integrated approach amongst several stakeholders and participatory planning involved with providing services such as Health, Education, Banking, Recreation, Sports etc.The process will commence with: Identification of important built-spaces, public transport infrastructure, services, recreational areas, tourism sites etc. in Delhi; Categorization of the infrastructure and spaces; and Selection of the key executing bodies.

It is a well-established fact that, disability is caused by the way society is organised, and not the person’s limitations and impairments. The physical, social, structural and attitudinal barriers prevent People with Disabilities (PwDs) from participating equally in the socio-cultural and economic activities. A barrier-free environment facilitates equal participation in all the activities and promotes an independent and dignified way of life. India ratified United Nations Conventions on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) 2007. This convention required that India make a number of changes to its laws, policies, regulations, notifications, programs, and schemes. As a part of the process of bringing the legal instruments of India into compliance with the UNCRPD, the process of enacting a new legislation in place of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995 (PWD Act, 1995) began in 2010. Meanwhile, Accessible India Campaign (AIC) was launched on December 3, 2015 and subsequently the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 was enactedreplacing the PwD Act 1995. The AIC has the vision to build an inclusive society in which equal opportunities are provided for the growth and development of PwDs so that they can lead productive, safe and dignified lives. As a nation-wide flagship campaign for creating universal accessibility for PwDs in Built Environment, Transport system, and Information & Communication Technology (ICT) eco-system, objectives were set up to enhance the proportion of accessible government buildings, accessible public transport and accessible websites.

Further, RPwD Act 2016 mandates that all the Establishments/institutions should ensure barrier free spaces and services for rightful inclusion of PwDs in the society. The Act lays stress on non-discrimination, full and effective participation and inclusion in society, respect for difference and acceptance of disabilities as part of human diversity and humanity, equality of opportunity, accessibility and equality. Section 40- 46 of RPwD Act 2016, lays down clear mandates, timelines and punitive actions to foresee the vision of creation of accessible environment and services for all.

Key Stakeholders:

1. Delhi Government and related agencies

1. Department of Social Welfare, Delhi
2. Directorate of Health (Hospitals, Health Centres)
3. Directorate of Education (Schools)
4. Directorate of Higher Education (Higher education Instt.)
5. Art, Culture and Language Department (Theatres, drama schools etc.)
6. Delhi Transport Corporation (Bus fleets and Depots)
7. Municipal Corporation of Delhi
8. New Delhi Municipal Council
9. Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board
10. Delhi Metro Rail Corporation
11. PWD, Delhi
12. Home Department (Police Stations/ Judiciary)
13. Tourism Department
14. Delhi Transport Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (Bus stops, Interstate terminals etc)
15. Urban Development Department
16. Delhi Police(police stations)

2. Central Government

1. Reserve Bank of India
2. Ministry of Finance (Banks/ATMs)
3. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
4. Ministry of Home Affairs (Police stations)
5. Ministry of Culture (ASI)
6. Ministry of Tourism
7. Ministry of Communications (India Post)
8. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
9. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
10. Ministry of Human Resource Development
11. Delhi Cantonment
12. Delhi Development Authority

3. Others

a. Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, New Delhi

b. State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Delhi

*****

NITI Aayog
07-May, 2018 17:24 IST
NITI Aayog and Google sign SoI to help grow AI ecosystem in India

To focus on training, hackathons, mentoring startups, and providing research grants

Aiming to foster growth for India’s nascent artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) ecosystem, NITI Aayog and Google have come together to work on a range of initiatives to help build the AI ecosystem across the country.

A Statement of Intent (SoI) was signed to this effect by Ms. Anna Roy, Advisor, NITI Aayog and Shri Rajan Anandan, Vice President, India and South East Asia, Google in the presence of the Shri Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog.

The NITI Aayog has been entrusted to setup a national programme to conduct research and development in frontier technologies such as AI. In furtherance of this mandate, NITI Aayog has been developing India’s national strategy on AI along with the National Data and Analytics Portal to enable the wide deployment and use of AI.


Highlighting the importance of this partnership, Shri Amitabh Kant said, "Artificial Intelligence is going to disrupt the way business is done and India, in particular, is uniquely poised in utilising AI to innovate for social and inclusive good. India is embracing future technologies such as machine learning and AI to augment its capacity in healthcare, improve outcomes in education, develop innovative governance systems for our citizens and improve overall economic productivity of the nation. NITI's partnership with Google will unlock massive training initiatives, support startups and encourage AI research through PhD scholarships, all of which contributes to the larger idea of a technologically-empowered New India."

Under the aegis of this program, Google will train and incubate Indian AI startups in an accelerator program. These startups will be mentored and coached by Google and its affiliates to enable them to better leverage AI in their respective business models.

To help bolster the research ecosystem, one of the initiatives includes funding Indian researchers, scholars and university faculty for conducting AI-based research. Further, Google will also bring its online training courses on AI to students, graduates and engineers to numerous cities across India, in the form of study groups and developer-run courses.

NITI Aayog and Google will organize a AI/ML hackathon that will be focused on solving key challenges within agriculture, education, healthcare, financial inclusion, transportation/mobility and more. This hackathon may use Kaggle, a global platform, to help facilitate international participation into these planned hackathon challenges.

Google through the NITI Aayog, will conduct hands-on training programs that aim to sensitise policymakers and technical experts in governments about relevant AI tools, and how they can be used to streamline governance.


Google and NITI Aayog will work on the following initiatives:

• Organise trainings for relevant government functionaries to introduce them to open source AI tools with the goal of enabling more effective governance.
• Awarding grants and scholarships to researchers, scholars and university faculty conducting cutting edge research in the field of AI/ML in India.
• Organising AI/ML study jams for students and developers based on Google’s Machine Learning Crash Course (MLCC) on the fundamentals of machine learning
• Incubating Indian AI/ML startups in a program where they will be mentored by Google to better leverage AI in their respective business models.
• Organise a Hackathon focused on using AI/ML and open data sets to solve key challenges within agriculture, education, healthcare, etc. in India

***

The Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan addressing the inaugural session of Odisha Skill Conclave, at Jatni near Bhubaneswar, Odisha on May 07, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
09-May, 2018 14:41 IST
Officer Trainees of Class-I Accounts and Finance Service Call on The President

Forty-one officer trainees of Class-I Accounts and Finance Service attending 25th Professional Training Course at the National Institute of Financial Management, Faridabad, called on the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, today (May 9, 2018) at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Addressing the officers trainees, the President said their work and responsibilities sit at the defining edge of “good governance” in the country. Therefore, they have to maintain the highest standard of ethics, accountability and transparency at all times in their respective fields. They have equally critical role to play in implementation of government schemes and projects.

The President said that the mantra of our Government is “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance”. At the same time, there is rising expectation among our citizens for greater efficiency in public service delivery today. The task at hand for civil servants is demanding. But with greater integration of technology in their work, be it new IT platforms, payment gateways or the endless possibilities of cyberspace, they can achieve the desired results. Reforming our accounting, budget and audit systems and constantly updating them in line with global best practices must also be high on their agenda.

***

Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution
09-May, 2018 18:48 IST
Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad delivers Key note address at CxO Forum on "Standardizing the Digital Space" organized by BIS

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) the National Standards body of India organized a CxO Forum on "Standardizing the Digital Space" on 8 May, 2018 in New Delhi to deliberate on the key issues and challenges in the Digital space. The forum explored the opportunities, growth and challenges in standardising the digital space, in the presence of Union Minister of Law & Justice, Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad and Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Shri C.R Chaudhary and CEOs/CxOs of various top IT companies. The one-of-its kind platform also had presence of dignitaries, luminaries and experts from over 35 different countries to discuss a number of key issues pertaining to the future of the IT sector in India.

The key note address was delivered by Union Minister of Law & Justice, Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad. In his address, Shri Prasad highlighted rapid growth in e- Transactions, IT exports and revenue of Indian IT companies; which in turn is strengthening the digital profile of India. He stressed upon the importance of standards in the digital space and congratulated BIS for taking up the leadership role of “ISO/IEC JTC1/SC7” which is responsible for developing foundational standards of software and systems engineering.

Shri Prasad further added that Standards should be formulated in a manner that it lays down the compliance criteria, facilitates smooth and cost effective operation thereby enabling of digital inclusion.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution Shri C. R. Chaudhary applauded BIS for its marked presence in the International standardisation through its active participation in the Standardisation work undertaken by ISO & IEC.

Shri Amitabh Kant, CEO of the NITI Aayog opined that digital standardization needs constant evolution and ensures they do not stagnate.

Earlier, Ms. Surina Rajan, Director General, BIS in her welcome speech highlighted the standardization efforts being made by BIS in the emerging technological areas like AI, IoT, Big data, Blockchain etc. Ms. Rajan mentioned that "Standardizing the Digital Space" is an initiative by BIS to bring the technocrats and tech-entrepreneurs in the country and global experts on the same platform to discuss and deliberate on the key issues and challenges that need to be overcome in the journey of Digital transformation and also to discuss the role of standards and regulations in "Scripting the future of IT".

The event was organised to highlight the role of standardisation and invite participation in Standards Formulation for IT Sector. This event is in line with the 33rd plenary and working group meetings of JTC 1/SC 7 being hosted by BIS from 6th to 11th May 2018 where experts from more than 35 different countries are participating.

APS/AK

 

[khanmubashir]

Don't try to be an Englishman, be an Indian first: Rajnath | Zee News
Last Updated: Saturday, July 4, 2015 - 17:25
Noida: Don't try to be an Englishman, speak English when there is a need, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday advised students of a private institute here.

Addressing the students, Singh said many people had the misconception that he was against English.

"One should speak English when there is a need. But don't try to be an Englishman. 'English bolne se gyan nahi hota' (One does not acquire knowledge by speaking English only)," the minister said during his more than half-an-hour long speech delivered in Hindi.

He said no one should hate English but every Indian must have a sense of pride towards his or her own language.

"I am not talking about only Hindi but all Indian languages. Khali Angrez nahi bano. Pehle Bharatiya bano. (Don't become just an Englishman. Be an Indian first)," he said.

Singh also expressed dismay over many children of the present generation not wishing their parents "properly" and just communicating with a "hi" or "bye".

"Mata pita key pair choona aur unka ashirwad lena bhi zaroori hota hain. (It is necessary to touch the feet of parents and take their blessings). If a child is blessed by parents, no one can stop him from reaching the greatest heights in life," he said.

The Home Minister asked the students to always pursue positivity in life as negativity is harmful to the society.

"All terrorists are not illiterate. There are many terrorists who are highly educated. But their knowledge is used for negative thinking and negative works. When knowledge is used for negativity, it is bound to be destructive," he said as he addressed students at Jaypee Institute of Information Technology's convocation.

The Home Minister asked the students to take pride in India's rich cultural heritage.

"India today is recognised globally for its contribution to Information Technology. Our government is committed to provide digital governance.

"Digital India programme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not only attract investments but also give jobs to nearly 18 lakh Indians," he said.

Singh said India's software engineers have made the country proud with their talent and sheer hard work.

"We need to tap India's full potential in IT sector," he said.

PTI

India does not have an adequate database to determine whether diseases like avian flu, swine flu were instances of bio attacks", he said.
Is that guy a strategy planner or conspiracy theory blogger

 

[Hindustani78]

India does not have an adequate database to determine whether diseases like avian flu, swine flu were instances of bio attacks", he said.
Is that guy a strategy planner or conspiracy theory blogger

Republic of India do have special units of CISF to check and control bio attacks .

Published on 7 Jul 2015
A Turkish Airlines flight flying from Bangkok to Istanbul made emergency landing at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on Tuesday afternoon following a bomb threat mid-air.

http://nidm.gov.in/pdf/guidelines/new/biological_disasters.pdf

The postal dissemination of anthrax spores (after 9/11)caused 22 cases, including 5 deaths, and ‘ushered
in the transition from table top bioterrorism exercises to real world investigation and response’.
The crucial role of well trained, alert health care providers like Larry Bush, the infectious diseases physician from Florida, USA, who diagnosed the first case promptly, is underlined by this outbreak.

The dispersal experiments showed that an attack on the New York subway system would kill at least 10,000 people. WHO studies show that a 50 kg dispersal on a population of 500,000 would result in up to 95,000 fatalities and over 125,000 people being incapacitated.


Relevant provisions under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) can be invoked to detain and question persons thereto. It provides for an institutional and operational framework at all levels for disaster
prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response,recovery, and rehabilitation. This includes setting up of NDMA, SDMA, DDMA, National Executive Committee (NEC), NDRF, and National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM).

Many states have established SDMAs. Gujarat,Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, etc., have prepared DM plans. Other states are in the process of establishing SDMAs and preparing their DM plans which will be in accordance with the DM Act, 2005.
State health management plans will form an important component of state DM plans. States such as Gujarat have developed epidemic control programmes as well

DDMA will be the focal point of planning for disasters in the respective districts. The District Health Officer (DHO)/CMO of the district is a member of the DDMA. Under the CMO/DHO, there are programme officers for immunisation, TB and malaria. Under the IDSP, a surveillance/IDSP officer at the district level is envisaged. The peripheral units that provide preventive and promotive health care are the PHCs and sub-centres spread across
the districts, established on the norms of one PHC for 30,000 population and one sub-centre for 5,000
population (3,000 in hilly areas). These are the basic units from where public health information is generated and public health service is delivered.


Republic Day parade will be protected from chemical attack | delhi | Hindustan Times

NITI Aayog
09-May, 2018 14:22 IST
Showcasing Top 30 Innovations of the Atal Tinkering Marathon


On the eve of the National Technology Day, ATL Marathon’s Top 30 Innovations to be supported through industry partnerships

In an effort to identify India’s best student innovators, Atal Tinkering Labs of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of NITI Aayog, organized an Atal Tinkering Marathon, a six month long nationwide challenge across six different thematic areas, namely, clean energy, water resources, waste management, healthcare, smart mobility and agri-tech.

From over 650 innovations received, Top 100 were shortlisted based on novelty and prototype functionality. There 100 teams were then given a month to further refine their prototypes and rework their presentations. Following this, their innovations were judged by an esteemed panel of judges including industry and academia experts to select the Top 30 innovations. These top 30 innovations have been identified from 20 different States and Union territories from across India.

These Top 30 innovations and their prizes will be announced by Shri Rajiv Kumar, Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog.

Atal Tinkering Labs under the Atal Innovation Mission of NITI Aayog, is based on the philosophy that incentives and prize awards are a great beginning to create an exponential wave of innovation and entrepreneurship amongst school children. The ATL Student Innovator Program is an effort to institutionalize a mechanism, where high school students can work with university incubators to pursue their innovative and entrepreneurial ideas along with their education. Our goal is to drive extensive forward and backward linkages within the stakeholders in India, to create a paradigm shift in the student mindset and prepare them to become young innovators and entrepreneurs.

***
The Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog, Shri Rajiv Kumar addressing a press conference on the Showcasing Top 30 Innovations of the Atal Tinkering Marathon, in New Delhi on May 10, 2018.

The Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog, Shri Rajiv Kumar addressing a press conference on the Showcasing Top 30 Innovations of the Atal Tinkering Marathon, in New Delhi on May 10, 2018.

The Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog, Shri Rajiv Kumar releasing a booklet, at a press conference on the Showcasing Top 30 Innovations of the Atal Tinkering Marathon, in New Delhi on May 10, 2018.

The Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog, Shri Rajiv Kumar in a group photograph after releasing a booklet, at a press conference on the Showcasing Top 30 Innovations of the Atal Tinkering Marathon, in New Delhi on May 10, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

NITI Aayog
10-May, 2018 17:30 IST
Top 30 Innovations of the Atal Tinkering Marathon Showcased

On the eve of the National Technology Day, ATL Marathon’s Top 30 Innovations to be supported through industry partnerships

In an effort to identify India’s best student innovators, Atal Tinkering Labs of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of NITI Aayog, organized an Atal Tinkering Marathon, a six month long nationwide challenge across six different thematic areas, namely, clean energy, water resources, waste management, healthcare, smart mobility and agri-tech.

On the eve of the National Technology Day, ATL Marathon’s Top 30 Innovations were showcased through a booklet compiling the work done by the children, the mentors, teachers and schools. The booklet was released by the Dr Rajiv Kumar, Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, with Shri Ramanan Ramanathan, Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission.

"This booklet is dedicated to Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who took oath for the first time as Prime Minister of India on May 16. He believed that the future of this country lies in the hands of its children and the Atal Innovation Mission, named after his legacy, translates his dreams into reality", said Dr Kumar. "A very new era is coming where we will become an innovative society rather than an imitative society."

The Top 30 teams are being awarded with several prizes including a three month-long ATL Student Innovator Program (ATL SIP) in partnership with industry and start-up incubator. The goal of the Student innovator program is to test the innovations in the community. Students will be trained on business and entrepreneurship skills, including intellectual property, effective communication, making an elevator pitch and so on. Additionally, ATL schools will be offered a participation voucher to World Robotics Olympiad (WRO), which is a global innovation challenge.

From over 650 innovations received, Top 100 were shortlisted based on novelty and prototype functionality. There 100 teams were then given a month to further refine their prototypes and rework their presentations. Following this, their innovations were judged by an esteemed panel of judges including industry and academia experts to select the Top 30 innovations. These top 30 innovations have been identified from 20 different States and Union territories from across India, full details of which are available on the AIM website.

Atal Tinkering Labs under the Atal Innovation Mission of NITI Aayog, is based on the philosophy that incentives and prize awards are a great beginning to create an exponential wave of innovation and entrepreneurship amongst school children. The ATL Student Innovator Program is an effort to institutionalize a mechanism, where high school students can work with university incubators to pursue their innovative and entrepreneurial ideas along with their education. Our goal is to drive extensive forward and backward linkages within the stakeholders in India, to create a paradigm shift in the student mindset and prepare them to become young innovators and entrepreneurs.



***

AKT/RKC/AK



Link attached here

1. Top 30 Innovations
2. Booklet about ATL