Education is the most powerful weapon which can be use to change the world

     New Delhi. The Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that education is the most powerful weapon which can be used to change the world. 

 He was speaking at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Maitreyi College, University off Delhi, here today.

   The Vice President said that schools and colleges play a transformational role in shaping young minds, molding the character and imparting the right value-based education. 

   He further said that the future of the country is dependent on the strong foundations laid by literacy and education. Apart from making students imbibe strong ethical and moral values, education should help to broaden the vision, sharpen the intellect, inculcate analytical skills, improve creativity, think innovatively and develop an inclusive outlook, he added. 

    The Vice President said that with women constituting almost half of the country’s population, their empowerment is critical for accelerating development of the country. As had often been said: ‘If you educate a man, you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman, you educate an entire family’, he added.

    The Vice President said that even 70 years after Independence, the country is facing many problems like illiteracy, gender discrimination, corruption, casteism and urban-rural divide. The need of the hour is to provide quality education to overcome these challenges, he added.The Vice President opined that Indian women when given an opportunity have broken the glass ceiling in many fields and proved that they are no less than their male counterparts. The most recent example was that of Avani Chaturvedi, who became the first Indian woman to fly a fighter jet solo, making the entire nation applaud her feat, he added.

    The Vice President advised the students to not forget their parents, mother tongue, motherland, native place of birth and the Guru, who is instrumental in shaping your character and career. Remember Google can provide you information but cannot replace your Guru, who provides you with enlightenment, he added.

    The Vice President said "At the outset, I would like to thank Maitreyi family for inviting me to inaugurate the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of this institution, a constituent College of the University of Delhi, founded in 1967 by Delhi Administration.The Vice President said Over the past several years, I have regularly interacted with students from various institutions in different parts of the country, and to be honest there is no greater pleasure for me than to speak to ebullient young minds, sparkling with new ideas and enthusiasm and share my thoughts with them.

   The Vice President said Schools and colleges play a transformational role in shaping young minds, molding the character and imparting the right value-based education. Undoubtedly, the future of the country is dependent on the strong foundations laid by literacy and education. The Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi had quite rightly observed :“An education which does not teach us to discriminate between good and bad, to assimilate the one and eschew the other, is a misnomer”.

   The Vice President said Apart from making students imbibe strong ethical and moral values, education should help to broaden the vision, sharpen the intellect, inculcate analytical skills, improve creativity, think innovatively and develop an inclusive outlook. Education, said Nelson Mandela, is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

    The Vice President said India is in a uniquely advantageous position because of its predominantly young population. Education is the single most important instrument to convert the vast and talented human resources into a productive workforce and script India’s growth story.

   The Vice President said With women constituting almost half of the country’s population, their empowerment is critical for accelerating development of the country. Education is the best way to empower women. As had often been said: ‘If you educate a man, you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman, you educate an entire family’.

   The Vice President said Empowering women through education will have a multiplier effect. An educated woman will tend to have healthier children and provide them with better education. An educated and employed woman will not only be contributing to her household income but to the national economy as well.

    The Vice President said I am glad that institutions like Maitreyi are playing a vital role in empowering women through education. Even 70 years after Independence, the country is facing many problems like illiteracy, gender discrimination, corruption, casteism and urban-rural divide. The need of the hour is to provide quality education to overcome these challenges.

   The Vice President said In this era of digital age, we should ensure that nobody lags behind. We should make special efforts to increase the literacy levels, especially among women as one-third of them can’t read and write. Another concern that needs to be addressed is to reduce the gender-gap in the higher education institutions. For India to become a developed nation, we need to provide diversified educational opportunities and increase employment avenues in an equitable and inclusive manner.

     The Vice President said I am glad that Indian women when given an opportunity have broken the glass ceiling in many fields and proved that they are no less than their male counterparts. The most recent example was that of Avani Chaturvedi, who became the first Indian woman to fly a fighter jet solo, making the entire nation applaud her feat. From sports to sending satellites into space, Indian women have time and again proved their mettle and brought glory to the country.

    The Vice President said Our civilization and culture always respected women and held them in high esteem. However, there are some aberrations in the society. Sadly, uncivilized and barbaric acts of violence against women are occurring time and again across the country and the perpetrators of all such heinous acts have to be dealt with stringently and brought to book.

     The Vice President said India has a glorious tradition of education from ancient times. In fact, India was once the global knowledge-giver and called as ‘Viswaguru’. People seeking knowledge used to come from different parts of the world and study in ancient universities like Nalanda, Takshashila and Vikramshila, which were true temples of learning. Unfortunately, the situation changed following Mughal invasions and the British colonization. But the time has now come for India to once again emerge as the global knowledge hub. With the advent of globalization and IT revolution, the opportunities are plenty and youth of the country should seize them.

   The Vice President said Globalization and localization must go hand-in-hand. Be rooted to our glorious culture, traditions and ethos while acquiring latest knowledge, skills and best practices from across the globe. Here, I would recall what Gandhiji had said: “I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But, I refuse to be blown off my feet by any”… 

    The Vice President said Finally, I would advise you to not forget your parents, mother tongue, motherland, native place of birth and the Guru, who is instrumental in shaping your character and career. Remember Google can provide you information but cannot replace your Guru, who provides you with enlightenment.

  The Vice President said I congratulate and commend Maitreyi College management and faculty for their unwavering and persistent dedication in educating and empowering women. The fine balance the college maintains between the academic environment and our fundamental cultural ethos needs appreciation.

  The Vice President said The journey of the college that I happened to witness through the Documentary and the Photo Exhibition speaks volumes about the inherent capacity of the college in achieving excellence.

     The Vice President said Mahatma Gandhi had said,: “ Be the change you wish to see in the world”.  All of you should believe in your inherent capacities to excel and scale dizzying heights as you explore unchartered territories. As former President, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam always used to say “Aim high and dream big”. Nothing is insurmountable if you display discipline, dedication, perseverance, hard work and sincerity.

     The Vice President said I would like to once again compliment Maitreyi College for successfully completing a significant milestone and for the many achievements of its students and faculty.

Doordarshan should leverage the reach created by DD Free Dish

     New Delhi. Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Textiles, Smt Smriti Zubin Irani has said that Doordarshan should leverage the reach created by DD Free Dish to create quality content and improve the revenue generation through Advertisement and ease the burden on the taxpayers. 

    The Minister stated this, today, at the inaugural ceremony of the 24th International Conference & Exhibition on Terrestrial and Satellite Broadcasting with the theme ‘Non Linear Broadcasting Technologies & Business Models’ - (Broadcast Engineers Society) BES EXPO 2018. 

    Speaking on the occasion, Smt Smriti Zubin Irani said that India is set to have 530 million Smartphone users by end of this year, second only to China and more than 40% of content consumption happens online. She also said that the total advertising spend is expected to grow from 9.6% last year to 12.5% this year. 

   The Minister also requested BES to conduct outreach programme with students and faculty of Broadcast Engineering Institutes. Strength of Broadcasting sector in India should be seen not by the number of channels available but by the quality of content provided by it. She also requested BES to train all of the Broadcast Engineering staff of Prasar Bharati. 

    The Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Smt Smriti Zubin Irani along with the other dignitaries felicitated the winners of the awards constituted by Broadcast Engineering Society in various categories such as broadcasting, engineering, training and innovation. BES EXPO 2018 is organised by Broadcast Engineering Society (India). 

     The expo is rated as the biggest broadcast technology show in India. Nearly 300 companies from 25 countries will display their products in BES EXPO 2018 directly or through their dealers and distributors in India. 

   Exhibiting companies included those from Australia, Austria, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, U.K. and U.S.A.

    NK Sinha, Secretary Information & Broadcasting, Shashi Shekhar Vempati, CEO Prasar Bharati and David Gomez Barquero, Senior Researcher in the field of Broadcast Technologies were also present on the occasion.

MBBS graduates must serve in Rural areas for at least two years

    Chennai. The Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu appealed all State Governments to make mother tongue a mandatory subject at least up to high school level. Delivers 11th Convocation address at Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, in Chennai today. 

    The Vice President said that a child can grasp and understand better in his or her own mother tongue than any other language. He further said that a child will be able to communicate and articulate her thoughts effectively in her native language. 

   We can usually express our thoughts much better in our mother language, he added.The Vice President said that we live in a multicultural and multilingual world. He further said since language and culture are intertwined, there is an absolute need to strengthen our indigenous languages including the many languages spoken by many tribal groups in our country. Language is the lifeline of a culture and in a way defines the larger social milieu in which a society lives, he added. 

    The Vice President said that lifes of the great people must be a part of History carriculum for all students including medical students and a country which forgets its history and culture will never prosper. He further said that one must remember the past and plan for the future and move accordingly. We have to revert back to our roots, we have to know our culture, he added. 

    The Vice President said that the private sector must play a bigger role in developing health infra. He further said that the society has given a lot to the medical students and they must give back to the society by way of serving the rural population by working at least for two years in rural areas. There is an acute shortage of doctors as also healthcare facilities in the rural area and drastic changes must be made to make healthcare accessible to everyone, he added.The Vice President said Today is a red letter for all the students, who are receiving their degrees. You are witnessing a major milestone in your career and I would like to congratulate all those who are graduating, their parents and the faculty on this occasion.

      The Vice President said Dear students, a world of opportunities and challenges awaits you all as you bid adieu to this campus to start a new innings. No doubt, you will be missing your friends and the faculty, but the happy times you have spent here will always remain etched in your memory.The Vice President said I would like to compliment Dr. N.M. Veeraiyan, the Founder Chancellor of Saveetha University for having contributed to the cause of this university which is providing quality education through a multitude of academic programmes. I am told that students are drawn from all over India and abroad, representing different sections. It makes Saveetha Institute one of the India’s most ethnically diverse learning centres.

   The Vice President said I am told that the university also has touched many lives through community service, particularly in health care. I am also informed that the university has adopted numerous innovations that created a unique platform of learner-centric education. I am glad to know that the campus is part of the National Knowledge Network that provides this university with a greater bandwidth for use.

    The Vice President said with the advent of the globally competitive educational environment, I strongly feel that every student should have adequate opportunities to gain knowledge, technical skills, self-reliance, and also a sense of responsibility as a fellow citizen. This can be better accomplished by providing quality academic programmes and exposing students to real life situations.

   The Vice President said In today’s environment, students have to actively participate in the learning process with the teachers acting more as facilitators rather than textbook-type instructors. The instruction must be so designed as to make the students learn life-skills and knowledge. In fact, it has be to a continuous learning process in the medical field as the doctors need to keep themselves constantly updated with the latest knowledge and techniques.

   The Vice President said I have observed that when students are empowered, they take ownership, develop passion and display dedication and commitment to pursue their academic goals. This is the reason why the Government of India has taken radical initiatives, including promotion of ‘Value-Based Education’.

    The Vice President said In its pursuit of this vision, the government has initiated some highly innovative programmes, including Digital India, Skill India and Clean India, which are expected to spur the national growth.

  The Vice President said Though, we have a long way to go to realise the fullest potential of our educational initiatives, India has remarkably transformed its higher education landscape for the last two decades. As a result, India has not only bettered its figures on enrolment but has dramatically enhanced its learning outcomes. India has 70 million student population; a force to reckon with. Among them are potential thought leaders, researchers, academicians, entrepreneurs and executives.

   The Vice President said India’s post-secondary education system is increasingly recognized as one of the best in the world. India has emerged as a regional hub of education and attracts global learners from all over the world. Students, faculty and employers now flock to India to learn, teach and recruit as India dons the mantle of a higher education leader and emerges as the role model for delivering high-quality education to vast numbers at affordable cost. 

  The Vice President said India is one of the largest providers of global talent, with one in four who graduate in the world being a product of the Indian system. Tamil Nadu has performed remarkably well in the area of education and has emerged as the leader in the country in terms of Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education.

     The Vice President said Dear students, now I would like to flag an issue that is close to my heart. As you all are aware, there is an acute shortage of doctors as also healthcare facilities in the rural areas. India has less than one doctor for every 1,000 population, which is less than the WHO standard. This situation needs to be remedied. I feel that it should be made mandatory for MBBS graduates to work for at least two years in rural areas.

Adoption of Modern Technologies for affordable housing needs

    New Delhi. Mr. Hardeep Puri, Minister of State (I/C) for Housing & Urban Affairs has informed that the Government has proposed large public agencies like Housing Boards, Railways, Defence and public sector undertakings to adopt new technologies for their housing projectsto provide a further boost to the housing sector.

   Inaugurating the National Seminar on Emerging Building Materials and Construction Technologies organized by Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council, here today, the Minister stated that BMTPC is promoting new and emerging technologies which suit Indian conditions.  

   Mr. Rajiv Ranjan Mishra, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Abhai Sinha, DG, CPWD, Dr.Ravi Kant, CMD, HUDCO, Dr.Shailesh Aggarwal, ED, BMTPC, senior officials of the Ministry of HUA and various experts in building materials and construction sector were also present on the occasion.

   Mr. Puri in his inaugural speech said that considering the present housing shortage in urban areas, more than 1.2 crore houses in urban areas with necessary infrastructure are required to be constructed. To achieve this, appropriate actions are required at all fronts. This necessarily includes, among other measures, identification and selection of appropriate building materials and technologies to bring not only economy but also quality, durability, speed with due care for safety and environment concern of the country. 

   On this occasion a publication titled “Building Materials and Housing Technologies for Sustainable Development” and a Mobile App on “Bamboo Housing & Construction” was released by the Housing Minister. The Publication contains 38 papers covering various subjects with the theme of the National Seminar.  To coincide with the National Seminar, an Exhibition on Emerging Building Materials and Construction Technologies showcasing various building products and construction technologies was also organized. 24 firms/companies displayed their products, technologies and systems. 

    With the development of building science and changing requirements for bringing environment friendliness, speed, quality, mechanization etc. in construction of buildings; there has been continuous improvement through R&D efforts of various institutions and industries–both public and private in the area of building materials and construction practices. 

   There have been innovations in production and use of basic materials like bricks cement, aggregates, concrete and steel, gainful utilization of industrial and construction waste and introduction of advanced construction practices including green and smart materials and system by various stake holders.

   The need to review the development in this area is more pronounced now with the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, AMRUT and Smart Cities programme by the government, which aim for massive construction activities in coming years.

Prince Karim Aga Khan calls on President Kovind

    New Delhi. His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan called on the President of India Ram Nath Kovind, at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (February 22, 2018). 

   Welcoming Prince Aga Khan to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President congratulated him on the diamond jubilee of his leadership of the Ismaili community. 

  He said that the Prince has lead with great humility and has been a shining example of goodness for humanity. 

  The President said that India deeply appreciates the development initiatives Prince Aga Khan is supporting in India and other parts of the world.  

  He stated that the programmes of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and India’s flagship initiatives complement each other, be it Swacch Bharat, Skill India, heritage conservation, women empowerment or income generation in rural areas. 

   The President was happy to note that AKDN has partnered India not only in social sector projects but also in restoration of historic monuments and urban renewal. Pointing to the inauguration of the restored Sunder Nursery in Delhi yesterday, the President said that India appreciates AKDN for helping in several restoration projects.

Reduce wastage in the agriculture sector

   Lucknow. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today delivered the inaugural address at the Uttar Pradesh Investors’ Summit – 2018.

   He said that when change happens, it becomes apparent for all to see. He added that the organization of such a big investors’ summit in Uttar Pradesh, with the participation of so many investors, is itself indicative of change. 

   He congratulated the State for establishing itself on the path of development and prosperity in such a short timeframe. He said the State is blessed with an abundance of resources and capabilities. He noted its strengths in agriculture. 

   He complimented the Government of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, for changing the negative atmosphere in the State, to one of positivity and hope. He said the State is making appropriate policies for various sectors. He said the State Government is serious about fulfilling the promises made to farmers, women and youth. 

  He said the State is working on a “One District, One Product” scheme. He said the Union Government’s schemes such as Skill India Mission, Stand Up India, Start Up India and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, will prove useful in implementing the “One District, One Product” scheme. He said the Union Government’s Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Scheme would help reduce wastage in the agriculture sector. 

    He said the State had immense potential in ethanol production, due to large sugarcane cultivation.The Prime Minister said a defence industrial corridor would be established in Uttar Pradesh, and would help in development of the Bundelkhand region.The Prime Minister said that the Kumbh Mela to be organized next year at Prayag, would be the largest such event of its kind in the world.

Cabinet approves creation of National Urban Housing Fund

    New Delhi. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given approval for creation of National Urban Housing Fund (NUHF) for Rs.60,000 crores. 

   This fund will be situated in Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council (BMTPC), an autonomous body registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. 

   The Ministry has so far sanctioned 39.4 lakh houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban). 

   There is a very good response from the States / UTs and nearly 2 - 3 lakh houses are being sanctioned every month. More than 17 lakh houses have been grounded and about 5 lakh houses have been completed. 

   Under Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS), wherein housing for EWS / LIG / MIG beneficiaries is being sanctioned by the Banks / HFCs to the eligible beneficiaries under the PMAY(Urban), the responses have grown significantly. Nearly 87,000 Housing Loans have been sanctioned in last 8 months under the Scheme and over 40,000 applications are under consideration for approval. 

   The target is to cater to the demand of housing shortage of nearly 1.2 crore and make available housing to all by 2022, when the Country celebrates its 75th Anniversary of Independence. NUHF will facilitate raising requisite funds in next four years so that flow of Central Assistance under different verticals i.e. Beneficiary Linked Construction (BLC), Affordable Housing in Parternership (AHP), In-Situ Slum Redevelopment (ISSR) and Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) is sustained and construction of houses to address the gap in Urban Sector progresses smoothly.

Creche facility to come up at Parliament House

   New Delhi. The Parliament House will soon be setting an example of an inclusive and supportive work environment for its women employees by establishing crèche facility on its premises. 

   Under the direct supervision of Speaker, creche development work is in progress and a senior official has also been deputed to oversee the work. In a letter dated 29th March, 2017, Smt. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development, apprised Smt. Sumitra Mahajan Speaker of Lok Sabha, about the absence of a crèche facility at the Parliament House. 

  In her letter, Smt. Gandhi pointed out that since over one-third of the total number of officials working in the Parliament were women, provision of creche facility was crucial. Swiftly responding to the letter, the office of the Speaker notified that a crèche facility will soon be functional within the premises of Parliament House. The Ministry of Women and Child Development thanked the Speaker on twitter. 

   The provisions under the'Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017' state that a healthy workplace diversity is to be maintained and direct establishments to provide crèche facility.A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) as per the laid guidelines will be followed while accepting the employees' request for Creche registrations. 

    The 1500 sq-foot centre will be guarded by professionals, ensuring all-round development of children and will also have a separate feeding room to aid mothers.This significant development by Government will bring in a visible impact by pushing other private establishments, central and state owned organizations to set up a crèche facility, to aid mothers.

Cabinet approves India-Morocco Cooperation Agreement in  Railway

  New Delhi. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its ex-post facto approval to the Cooperation Agreement betweenIndia and the Moroccan National Railways Office (ONCF) to develop long-term cooperation and partnership in different areas of railway sector.

   The Cooperation Agreement was signedon 14th December, 2017. The Cooperation Agreement will enable technical cooperation in the following areas. Training and staff development; Expert missions, exchange of experience and personnel; and Mutual technical assistance, including exchanging of experts.

  Background : Ministry of Railways have signed MOUs for technical cooperation in the Rail sector with various foreign Governments and National Railways. 

   The identified areas of cooperation include high-speed corridors, speed raising of existing routes, development of world class stations, heavy haul operations and modernization of rail infrastructure, etc.

     The cooperation is achieved through exchange of information on developments in areas of railways technology & operations, knowledge sharing, technical visits, training & seminars and workshops in areas of mutual interest.

    The MoUs provide a platform for Indian Railways to interact and share the latest developments and knowledge in the railway sector. The MoUs facilitate exchange  of technical   experts,  reports  and technical   documents,  training  and seminars/workshops focusing on specific technology areas and other interactions for knowledge sharing.

Opening of Online Customer Survey by India Post

     New Delhi. Since inception in 1854, India Post has been serving its citizens by catering to their basic requirements of communications. 

  Over the years, it has evolved by providing varied services to Indian Citizenry in terms of Mail Services (both domestic and international), Money remittances (both domestic and international), Small Savings, Philately, Securing lives, Retail Services and Bill Payments etc. 

    As plethora of services are being provided by the India Post, it is imperative to know the nerve of the customer, how (s)he feels regarding the services provided, where the services need improvement and to change the customer orientation from customer satisfaction to customer delight. In this connection, an Online Customer Feedback Survey is conceived wherein a customer can give his feedback or opinion on the services rendered by India Post. 

     This Customer Feedback Survey will be for three months from 16.02.2018 to 15.05.2018 and available to public through India Post Website (www.indiapost.gov.in). Any citizen of the country can give feedback on the quality of service provided by India Post. 

   The customer can also provide his comments/suggestions, if he so desires. On the basis of the feedbacks received from the survey, suitable inferences will be drawn upon areas to be improved not only for a particular service but will also help in identifying the lagging post office.

Dara Shukoh’s writings can come as a refreshing source for infusing peace and harmony

    New Delhi. The Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that Prince Dara Shukoh’s writings can come as a refreshing source for infusing peace and harmony, whenever we are confronted by the narrow walls that tend to divide humanity and conflicts that result in needless violence. 

  He was addressing the gathering after visiting the exhibition that showcases the forgotten Prince of yester years Dara Shukoh organized by Mr. Francois Gautier, at Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, in New Delhi today. 

   The Vice President called the exhibition most timely and might help us better understand humanity’s eternal quest for peace, harmony and love. He further said that Prince Dara Shukoh, one of the sons of Emperor Shah Jehan grew up under the unmistakable influence of the teachings of the Sufi Saint, Shaik Muin-uddin Chisti. His message is relevant for all times, he added. 

   The vice President said that principles of Sufism are highly relevant to break down narrow prejudices and bring people together, especially in today’s world of materialism, consumerism and growing religious fundamentalism. He further said that all religions seek to unite people and the common strand in each of them, including Sufism, is spiritualism, tolerance and respect for others. There is a greater need today to put into practice some of the meaningful teachings of Sufi saints to bring harmony between all groups of society and break down divisive walls between communities, he added.

    The Vice President said  “I am happy to be visiting this exhibition which showcases the forgotten prince of yester years Dara Shukoh, the Prince who exemplified an extraordinarily broad vision of cultural synthesis.The Vice President said I think this is most timely and might help us better understand humanity’s eternal quest for peace, harmony and love. As we look at the long history of human existence, we see a relentless quest. We in different parts of the planet, in different cultures and societies, have asked questions about our life and its deeper purpose and significance.The Vice President said Each society has come up with different answers and explanations. Religions, belief systems and world views took shape.

   The Vice President said Over a period of time, these have become institutionalized. The edicts, the scriptures, sculptures, art, architecture, music and performing arts gave expression to these belief systems. They provided a sheet anchor to humanity, a bonding force to face the uncertainties and life’s twists and turns. It increased cohesion and group solidarity. Underlying all religions is the need for self-actualization, the social need to connect with fellow human beings and the spiritual need to connect with some higher force. This quest for the spirit of oneness has ironically both unified as well as divided humanity because of the difference in the external forms, rituals, texts, names and symbols.

     The Vice President said The human history has many lessons for us. We have periods of long bitter wars fought in the name of religion. We have peaks of peaceful co-existence and depths of strident intolerance. Every era has examples of this ceaseless battle between various religious groups and also of the refreshing soothing voices of, balanced, path breaking visionaries.

   The Vice President said This is a constant struggle of letting the voices of harmony, mutual respect and understanding rise up. Today’s symposium is a step in that direction. We are examining the relevance of Sufism today and also recalling a forgotten prince of yesteryears. One is a philosophical strand that has through the ages has been one of the unifying influences binding people throughout its long and rich history. The second is Dara Shukoh, the Prince who exemplified an extraordinarily broad vision of cultural synthesis.

   The Vice President said In today’s world of materialism, consumerism and growing religious fundamentalism, the principles of Sufism are highly relevant to break down narrow prejudices and bring people together. Basically, all religions seek to unite people and the common strand in each of them, including Sufism, is spiritualism, tolerance and respect for others. As the famous poet Iqbal had said “Majhab Nahi Sikhaata Aapas me Bair Rakhna”. No religion teaches us to fight among ourselves.

  The Vice President said In fact, in the present times when religious bigotry and narrow sectarian ideologies are gaining ground, and when attempts are being made to use religion as a force to divide people, tenets of Sufism like true belief in Divine Oneness, acting in accordance with the Divine Will, practicing altruism, giving preference to well being of others and purity of intention, among others can act as a cementing force.

     The Vice President said Like many religions of the world that have found in India a hospitable home, Sufism has also been a part of India’s cultural landscape since medieval times. The Indian ethos and the cultural, philosophic tradition has always recognized and celebrated diversity and plurality. Ours is a country that recognized thousands of years ago that - “Ekam sat vipra bahudha vadanti” (Truth is one, sages call it by various names).

     The Vice President said Early mystics of Sufism like Rabia and Mansoor remain symbols of divine love. The 10th century Sufi mystic Rabia represents the ideal of selfless love preached by Sufi mystics.

22,000 Rural Haats and 585 APMC markets will be developed

     New Delhi. The government is working towards increasing farmers’ income and that’s the reason that the budget for Agriculture has been increased from Rs.51,576 crore in 2017-18 to Rs.58,080 crore for the year 2018-19 while ensuring sufficient funds for each component of the Seven-Point' Strategy devised for doubling farmers’ income. 

   This was stated by Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Radha Mohan Singh while addressing the National Conference Agriculture 2022 - Doubling Farmers’ Income. 

   The inaugural session of the summit was attended by the Governor of Himachal Pradesh Acharya Devvrat; NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar; Union Minister of State for Agriculture, Farmers' Welfare & Panchayati Raj Parshottam Rupala; Minister of State Gajendra Singh Shekhawat; Minister of State Smt. Krishna Raj; and S.K. Pattanayak, Secretary, Department of Agriculture. Organized at the NASC Complex at Pusa in New Delhi, the summit is being attended by senior officials from the Central and State Governments, scientists, economists, trade industry, professional associations, representatives of corporate and private sector companies & farmers, NGOs and academics. 

  Radha Mohan Singh said the apart from keeping the food and agricultural products warehouses well-stocked, the Government is keen to see farmers prosper and is working diligently to achieve the same. He further said that in this budget, an announcement of Rs. 2000 crore for Agri Market Development Fund has been made, which shows the importance of the retail market in agriculture marketing. These markets have been called as GRAM (Gramin Retail Agriculture Market). Through these markets infrastructure of 22,000 Rural Haats and 585 APMC markets will be developed. 

   The Minister said that as promised by the Prime Minister, Government had started forming a committee in April 2016 to implement a comprehensive plan to double the income of farmers. The Committee included senior economists, Joint Secretaries of food processing, crop, Animal Husbandry and Dairy and Policy Departments; Agricultural Advisor to NITI Aayog and many other non-official members. 

   The Government is keen to make agriculture policies and programs 'income centric' instead of 'production-oriented'. To achieve this ambitious objective, as suggested by Prime Minister, the emphasis is on adopting a multi-dimensional seven-point' strategy, which includes: Emphasis on irrigation along with end to end solution on creation of resources for ‘More crop per drop' 'Provision of quality seeds and nutrients according to the soil quality of each farm. 

    Large investments in warehouses and cold chains to prevent Post-harvest losses. Promotion of value addition through food processing. Implementation of National Agricultural Markets and e-platforms (e-NAM) to eliminate shortcomings of all the 585 centers. To mitigate the risk, introduction of crop insurance scheme at a lower cost. Promotion of allied activities such as Dairy-Animal husbandry, Poultry, Bee-keeping, Horticulture, and Fisheries.

   The Agriculture Minister stated that in a huge country like India with wide economic disparities, it is a challenge to ensure the physical and economic access to the basic good to far-flung remote areas. But during 2014-15, the government's favorable policies, effective plans, and implementations have yielded satisfactory results.

   He further said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has started developing 'Climate Smart Agriculture' through a national-level project under which farmers are being made aware and capable of adopting climate-friendly farming techniques.

Education must mould a strong character moral values among students

   Mumbai. The Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that education must mould a strong character and inculcate ethical and moral values among students. He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of R.A. Podar College of Commerce and Economics, in Mumbai today.

  The Minister for Housing Department, Maharashtra, Prakash Mehta and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.The Vice President called on parents, teachers, schools and colleges to ensure that the environment at home as well as in schools is de-stressed.

     He further said that it is  unfortunate that many a time the parents fail to recognize the warning signs or fail to understand the mental stress their wards are coping with. This important subject was close to the heart of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has even penned a book titled  ‘Exam Warriors’ on how to overcome the anxiety and stress caused by exams, he added.

    The Vice President said that converting country's vast pool of human resources into a “demographic dividend” is a big challenge before everyone. He further said that we must use it as an advantage to propel India’s growth trajectory to be among the top three economies in the world in the coming years. Education must develop the overall personality of an individual in a truly holistic manner by enabling them to make informed choices on their careers and at every stage in their later part of the lives, he added.

  The Vice President said that education must empower and enlighten the youth, improve their analytical skills and make them to explore new vistas, discover and innovate. He further said that merely adding more and more buildings without providing quality as well as inclusive education will not enable the creation of the ‘New India’.  Education must not only be accessible but affordable too and it must empower and Enlighten people apart from providing employment, he added.

  The Vice President said "I am extremely pleased to inaugurate the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of this prestigious college, which has catered since its inception to the educational needs of different sections of this vibrant city and produced eminent personalities in different fields.The Vice President said I am told that former Chief Justice of India, R.C. Lahoti, cricketers Farokh Engineer and Ravi Shastri, film actor, Shilpa Shetty, carnatic vocalist and composer, Bombay Jayashree and President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, Nilesh Vikamsey  are some of the well-known  alumni of this college.

   The Vice President said Dear students! India is one of the fastest growing large economies with a predominantly young population. A big challenge for the country is to convert this vast pool of human resources into a “demographic dividend” and propel India’s growth trajectory to be among the top three economies in the world in the coming years. As you all are aware, millions of graduates in various disciplines come out of the portals of our higher education institutions every year. But the big question we all need to ask ourselves is—Are we producing holistic students with sound knowledge in their disciplines and the life skills needed to face the present-day competitive world or are we merely producing millions of degree-holders who are unemployable? 

  The Vice President said Education is not meant only for degrees and employment. Education must develop the overall personality of an individual in a truly holistic manner by enabling them to make informed choices on their careers and at every stage in their later part of the lives. At the same time, education must mould a strong character and inculcate ethical and moral values among students.

    The Vice President said It must transform them into mature individuals with empathy and a humanistic worldview and not just modern-day computer geeks. Education must empower and enlighten the youth, improve their analytical skills and make them to explore new vistas, discover and innovate.

  The Vice President said In fact, the education system needs a total overhaul from the primary education to higher levels so that learning becomes a joyful experience and students are not subjected to exam stress and needless tension. Over the years, we have been witnessing the disturbing trend of students committing suicide due to their inability to cope with the stress and pressure of exams. Parents, teachers, schools and colleges have a huge responsibility in ensuring that the environment at home as well as in schools and schools is de-stressed.

   The Vice President said It is unfortunate that many a time the parents fail to recognize the warning signs or fail to understand the mental stress their wards are coping with.  I am glad that this important subject is close to the heart of Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, who has even penned a book titled ‘Exam Warriors’ on how to overcome the anxiety and stress caused by exams.

   The Vice President said Another aspect I would like to flag is the need to provide quality education rather than focusing on numbers. No doubt, expansion of educational infrastructure is important. But merely adding more and more buildings without providing quality as well as inclusive education will not enable the creation of the ‘New India’.  Education must not only be accessible but affordable too.

    The Vice President said We have to collectively strive to eradicate poverty, agrarian problems, illiteracy, caste divisions, religious fundamentalism and gender discrimination, among others, to usher in the ‘New India’ as envisaged by our freedom fighters. Also, the rural areas cannot be allowed to lag behind the urban areas and all the amenities found in urban areas must be created in small towns and villages.

   The Vice President said This is needed absolutely to create equal opportunities for people living in rural areas and prevent migration so that cities are not turned into inhabitable concrete jungles.The Vice President said Dear students, we have a rich culture which recognizes the value of knowledge and learning. In our culture, the Guru, who is the knowledge-giver is venerated. India was once known as ‘Vishwaguru’ and our ancient universities like Takshashila and Nalanda were famous centres of learning which attracted learners from across the globe.

   The Vice President said Today, India once again has the chance to emerge as a knowledge hub in the world. But to achieve that, we need to overcome many formidable challenges by fully empowering the vulnerable sections, youth and women through education, knowledge and skills. Literacy plays a vital role in overcoming various challenges, empowering people and transforming communities.

   The Vice President said I was truly impressed with vision and mission statements of your college. The Vision ‘'Samaani va aakooti samaanaa hridayaani vaham' (one in mind and one in heart) highlights the meaning of the verse that God has created us all equal, while Mission states “Nahi gnyaanen sadrasham pavitramiha vidyate'(there is nothing in this universe as pure as knowledge) and that it needs to be shared and exchanged freely, without any inhibition.

   The Vice President said These thoughts must permeate every action of us in creating the New India of equal opportunities for all.

HM meets J-K youth under Youth Exchange Programme Watan ko Jano

    New Delhi. The Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh met the youth of Jammu and Kashmir under the Youth Exchange Programme “Watan Ko Jano” 2017-18, here today. 

   The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has been organising programme “Watan Ko Jano” to give exposure to the youth and children of Jammu and Kashmir about the cultural and socio-economic development taking place in other parts of the country. 

     Youth and children hit by militancy and from weaker sections of the society have been identified for the purpose. Around 200 youth from the state are on a visit to different places of the country as part of the programme from 11th Feb-20th Feb, 2018. 

  Addressing the youth Rajnath Singh expressed happiness that these youth have visited various parts of the country and witnessed the rich cultural and historical heritage of the country. The children have visited Ajmer, Jaipur and Agra and will now visit the historical places in Delhi. 

    The Home Minister said that these youth are an inseparable part of the country. He also expressed happiness over the fact that one more group of 500 students will also visit various parts of country after this group. He said that unity in diversity is the unique value of the country and these children are also a reflection of it. We have to take it forward, he asked youth present there. With this tour, the youth will be able to see the development of modern India, he added. 

    He added that these youth will also see the role of unity in the process of development. Rajnath Singh said that the children might have read about and seen these places in their text books, now they have the opportunity to see these places. The Union Home Minister said that they have certain responsibilities towards nation when they grow up. 

   The youth should take interest in education, respect elders and do something that will make their parents and country proud. He said that every citizen has equal opportunities of development irrespective of caste, language and religion. India sets an example in world that needs to be followed, he further said. He urged the youth to share their experiences with their friends and relatives when they are back and they should spread the message of unity. The Home Minister wished the youth a prosperous future. 

    The MoS (PP) Dr Jitendra Singh and MoS (Home) Kiren Rijiju also interacted with the children. They conveyed that the state of Jammu and Kashmir is facing problem due to militancy, they urged the youth to take the message of peace and spread goodwill when they return to the state. Senior officers of the MHA were also present on the occasion.

21st century is the age of the Knowledge Economy

   New Delhi. The President of India Ram Nath Kovind, graced and addressed the diamond jubilee celebrations of PGDAV College, University of Delhi, today in New Delhi. 

   Speaking on the occasion, the President said the DAV family of educational institutions has imparted education based on modern scientific perspectives, as well as inspired by Indian traditions, to successive generations in our country. 

  Sustainable development of human society is possible through the confluence of Indian values ​​and modern science and technology. Indeed, the philosophy of the DAV institutions, which were first founded in the 19th century, can stand us in good stead in the 21st century as well. 

   The President said the 21st century is the age of the Knowledge Economy. In today’s era, the power of new ideas, new thinking and innovation is greater than money. He pointed to the success of youth and their start-ups in online commerce, transport and tourism as examples. More than capital investment, it is human talent and ingenuity that is behind such success. 

    The President said the definition of employment is changing. Employment is no longer just a conventional job. Creating self-employment opportunities for yourself and for others has become more feasible. In order to encourage self-employment, the Government is providing assistance through various schemes. He urged students to use these opportunities for their career development as well as to create opportunities for others.

India is the prime producer of milk and holding the number one position globally

    Motihari. The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Radha Mohan Singh today laid the foundation stone for the first dairy plant in Motihari of East Champaran District. 

    Addressing the gathering, Shri Singh said that India has reached such a stage that it is providing opportunities galore for the entrepreneurs at the international level. 

  Agriculture Minister said that the growth in the dairy sector is a result of the initiatives taken by the Government by implementing various schemes to increase productivity of milch animals. Shri Singh said that India is the prime producer of milk and has been holding the number one position globally over the past two decades. Milk production, which was around 17 - 22 million tonnes in the 1960s, has increased to 165.4 million tonnes in 2016-17. 

   During the year 2016-17 milk production increased by 20.12% as compared to 2013-14. Shri Singh further said that the Per Capita availability of milk grew by 15.6% during the year 2016-17 taking it to 355 grams from 307 grams in 2013-14. Likewise, the income of the dairy farmers grew by 23.77% during 2014-17 as compared to 2011-14. In the last three years, milk production in India grew by 6.3% every year thus surpassing the annual global growth rate of 2.1%. Agriculture Minister also said that dairy farming has become a source of livelihood and food security at the rural level, especially for landless and marginal farmers. 

   About 80 million farmers are connected with the dairy business and they rear 80% of the total milch cattle. The Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries has initiated a number of schemes with the objective of doubling the dairy farmers’ income in line with Hon’ble Prime Minister’s mission to double farmers’ income by the 75th anniversary of India’s independence (the year 2022).  In this direction, dairy farmers’ income could be raised in two ways – first, by increasing milk production by improving their productivity and second, through raising the price of raw milk per kilogram. 

  Shri Singh said that for the first time in the country Rashtriya Gokul Mission was launched in December 2014 for the conservation and promotion of the indigenous breeds. Under the scheme, so far Rs.1350 crore have been approved for the proposals from 28 states and Rs.503 crore have already been released for the same. 

    The Agriculture Minister said establishing Gokul Grams is one of the components of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. Gokul Grams will act as a centre for the development of the indigenous species and it will also supply animals to the farmers for breeding. Currently, 18 Gokul Grams in 12 different states are being established. Apart from this, the Government is undertaking the establishment of two National Kamdhenu Breeding Centres for the conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds in Chintaladevi, Nellore in the Southern region and in Itarsi, Hoshangabad, in the Northern region. Out of the two, Chintaladevi Centre in Andhra Pradesh is complete. Under this scheme, 41 bovine breeds and 13 buffaloes will be preserved. 

    The Minister said that in November 2016 we have also started National Mission on Bovine Productivity Scheme under Rashtriya Gokul Mission with an allocation of Rs.825 crores. The aim is to accelerate milk production and productivity and to also make the milk production more profitable. Meanwhile, Pashu Sanjivn component is identifying 9 crore milch animals through UID, and the government has already sanctioned funds for this scheme. 

    The scheme also includes the provision of providing 'Nakul Swasthya Patra' to all these animals.

President hosts LPG Panchayat at Rashtrapati Bhavan

   New Delhi. The President of India Ram Nath Kovind, hosted an‘LPG Panchayat’ today at Rashtrapati Bhavan. 

  The LPG Panchayat was organised by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas with an aim to provide a platform for LPG consumers to interact with each other, promote mutual learning and share experiences. 

  Each LPG Panchayat has about 100 LPG customers coming together, near their living areas,to discuss safe and sustainable usage of LPG, its benefits and the link between clean fuel for cooking and women’s empowerment. 

   The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas intends to conduct 1 lakh such Panchayats across India before March 31, 2019. Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the UjjawalaYojana is strengthening women’s empowerment. He congratulated the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas for efforts to advance social justice through the health, welfare and empowerment of women. 

   He was confident that the taking place of LPG Panchayatsas part of theUjjwalaYojanaprocess,will prove very useful.

Discipline, training and skilling are crucial for every profession

  Hyderabad. The Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that discipline, training and skilling are crucial for every profession. 

   He was addressing the gathering after felicitating the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and former Governor of Tamil Nadu K. Rosaiah, in Hyderabad today. The Deputy Chief Minister of Telangana Mohammad Mahmood Ali and other dignitaries were present at the occasion. Talking about Rosaiah, 

     The Vice President said that his commitment and dedication are inspiration of budding politicians. People in Public life must behave responsibly and act as role models for others, he added. 

   The Vice President expressed concern over the frequent disruptions in Parliament and state legislatures. He further said that such a trend will only weaken the system and is not good for democracy. A wider debate is needed on the way Parliament and state legislatures are functioning, he added. 

   The Vice President said that illiteracy, hunger and discrimination are a major concern. It is the responsibility of the leadership of the day to find solutions to these problems, he added.

India Among Top Ten Nations in the World in Terms of Forest Area

   New Delhi. Strongly emphasising the increasingly green credentials of the country, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan has said that India has shown an increasing trend in the forest and tree cover, in comparison to the global trend of decreasing forest cover during the last decade. Releasing the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2017 here today, 

  Dr. Harsh Vardhan pointed out that India ranks among the top ten countries of the world in terms of forest area, despite the fact that none of the other 9 countries has a population density of more than 150 persons per sq km, compared to India, which has a population density of 382 persons per sq km. “India is ranked 10th in the world, with 24.4% of land area under forest and tree cover, even though it accounts for 2.4 % of the world surface area and sustains the needs of 17 % of human and 18 % livestock population”, the Minister said. 

     He averred that despite such tremendous population and pressures of livestock on our forests, India has been able to preserve and expand its forest wealth. Dr. Harsh Vardhan added that as per the latest FAO report, India is placed 8th in the list of Top Ten nations reporting the greatest annual net gain in forest area. Quoting figures from the India State of Forest Report 2017, Dr. Harsh Vardhan stated that the latest assessment shows that there is an increase of 8, 021 sq km (about 80.20 million hectare) in the total forest and tree cover of the country, compared to the previous assessment in 2015. 

    He added that the increase in the forest cover has been observed as 6,778 sq km and that of tree cover as 1, 243 sq km. “The total forest and tree cover is 24.39 per cent of the geographical area of the country”, the Minister pointed out. He also underlined the encouraging sign that much of the increase in the forest cover has been observed in Very Dense Forest (VDF), as VDF absorbs maximum carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. “The increase in forest cover in VDF is followed by increase in open forest”, the Minister said. 

   He also pointed out that the ISFR 2017 has been prepared with the help of scientific tools.Giving the State-wise break-up, Dr. Harsh Vardhan said that three states - Andhra Pradesh (2141 sq km), followed by Karnataka (1101 sq km) and Kerala (1043 sq km) have shown the maximum increase in forest cover. “Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest cover of 77,414 sq km in the country in terms of area, followed by Arunachal Pradesh with 66,964 sq km and Chhattisgarh (55,547 sq km). In terms of percentage of forest cover with respect to the total geographical area, Lakshadweep with (90.33 per cent) has the highest forest cover, followed by Mizoram (86.27 per cent) and Andaman & Nicobar Island (81.73 per cent)”, the Minister stated. 

  Referring to the enormity of the task of preparing the State of Forest Report, the Minister said, “Work has already started for preparing ISFR 2019”.Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State in MoEF&CC, Dr. Mahesh Sharma said that 18, 000 points have been physically surveyed in a scientific manner in the preparation of the report. He appealed to the society and media to help in the huge task of conserving and protecting the forests.

India is capital for spirituality in the entire world

     Karnataka. The Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that India is capital for spirituality in the entire world and we should feel proud of our cultural heritage. 

 He was addressing the gathering after performing the 88th Mahamasthakabhisheka Mahotsava to Bahubali Gommateshwara, at Shravanabelagola in Karnataka, today. 

   The Head of Shravanabelagola Mutt, Swasti Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji, the Governor of Karnataka, Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala, the Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Ananth Kumar, the Minister for Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Karnataka, A. Manju and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. 

  The Vice President said that the Mahamasthakabhisheka Mahotsava is considered as the most auspicious occasion that commences once in every 12 years. He further said that Munis travel across the country to spread the light of Gyan and it is our culture to respect, follow and take inspiration from our gurus. This celebration will inspire all of us to create a peaceful, harmonious and blissful world, he added.

      The Vice President said that visits by senior functionaries like the President and the Vice President to such events will encourage others to follow.  He further said that we should never feel shy of dharma, and said 'Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitaha' - Dharma protects those who uphold or protect Dharma. Everyone must do something to the society, he added.

   The Vice President lauded the efforts and contribution of Jain Gurus and other members to the society. He further said that Jain community has been showing way for us to do good to society. The path shown by Jain saints can lead to the harmonious, peaceful and prosperous India we all wish to build, he added.

    The Vice President said that attending to basic human needs and avoiding wastage as well as recognising and respecting diversity and pluralism is a part of our national psyche. He questioned what else can be more important for the mankind to co-exist peacefully on the earth than this preaching? If one can adopt this principle, we can also accelerate development and that development can be ‘inclusive and sustainable’, he added.

   The Vice President said that the message of the 24 Tirthankaras is one of the theoretical foundations of our independence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and non-violence was the central principle of that epic struggle. He complimented Swasti Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of Shravanabelagola Mutt for conducting the Mahamasthakabhisheka Mahotsava for the fourth time in a row. 

   The Vice President released 108 Books published by Bharatiya Jnanpith belonging to the time of King Bahubali who is the son of First Jain Tirthankara Rishabhadeva.

The challenge is to maintain quality

    Sonepat. The President of India Ram Nath Kovind, graced and addressed the 1st convocation of the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) today at Sonepat, Haryana.

  Speaking on the occasion, the President said that India has been an agrarian economy ever since our ancestors planted grains in the Indus Valley. Many varieties of nutritious grains and a wide range of pulses mark the Indian experience. So do food habits and recipes that change from state to state, if not district to district.

   They symbolise the breadth and diversity of India – which is our great strength. At the root of this strength are our farmers. Millions of them, both men and women, toil relentlessly and with great effort to grow food for us. They contribute to not just food security but actually national security. The farmers who perform such a selfless task often do so for limited returns, and face the uncertainty of the monsoon and the market. 

   The President said that as a society and as a people we are obligated to make life better for our farmers and to free them from the fickleness of nature and of weather patterns – and, to the degree possible, of the unpredictability of demand and supply. This is the resolve of the government, and it has instituted policies and programmes to further this. Use of science and technology along the food chain is essential to these programmes. And this is where institutions such as NIFTEM and those who graduate from here will play a vital role. 

   The President said that as social habits change and as nuclear families emerge in larger numbers, more so in our cities, demand for packaged and ready-to-eat food products is rising in India. The challenge is to maintain quality, safety and labelling standards for food and ingredients that are up to global bench-marks. It is to make certain that packaged foods promote both convenience and health. And that they keep alive the nutritious grains and traditional food items that can be found in every state of India. It is for the food industry to innovate and find easy-to-use solutions to the epidemic of lifestyle diseases in our country. 

   And we have to do all this while being conscious of building our own brands, especially for traditional and nutritive food items that have been the pride of India for centuries and can reach far greater consumers at home and abroad. 

  The President said that NIFTEM has emerged in such a social context. Those who graduate from this institute will serve as focal points, linking the farmer to science and technology, to entrepreneurship and to the food processing industry. It is for them to build partnerships among multiple stakeholders – industry, regulators, policymakers, consumers, financial and credit institutions and of course farmers.

Biggest challenge before all of us is environment

    New Delhi. The Vice President of India M. Venkiaha Naidu has said that the biggest challenge before all of us is environment and that vehicular pollution is a major concern. 

  He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the 10th Auto Summit being organized by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association, here today.

    The Vice President said that time has come to promote e-mobility through electric vehicles as an important alternative mode of transport and make necessary changes in auto sector to make it environment friendly. 

  He further said that transformation in every sense is required and manufacturers, suppliers or dealers must follow ethical standards. It is the time that automobile industry, its dealers, environmentalists, scientists and the common man to join hands and adopt drastic measures to reduce vehicular pollution, he added.

     The Vice President said that India is keen to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and the thrust being given to e-vehicles is expected to lower vehicular emissions. He further said that there is a huge potential for use of environmental-friendly electric vehicles, including hybrid technologies in the country. Usage of e-vehicles reduces operating costs, gives greater efficiency than gasoline engines and reduction in the dependency on fossil energy by using locally produced renewable energy, he added.

    The Vice President said that major thrust needs to be given for vehicle-charging infrastructure and the creation of the right eco-system for promotion of e-vehicles. He further said that the demand for EV batteries manufacturing domestically will also create several jobs within the country and create consumer acceptance of the new technologies by providing the required information.

    The Indian automotive industry and organizations like FADA must gear up to meet the future requirements by adopting newer, cleaner technologies that are innovative and environmentally sustainable, he added.

Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy

   New Delhi. The President of India Ram Nath Kovind, graced and addressed the 56th convocation of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) today (February 9, 2018). 

   Speaking on the occasion, the President said that IARI played a critical role in the Green Revolution that changed the course of food production in the country. 

    He was happy to note that students from 14 countries are being educated in this institution. And that IARI is helping in the development of agricultural capacities and research in neighbouring countries. 

    The President said that Mahatma Gandhi had observed that agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy. This is relevant even today. Enhancement of income of farmers and overall development in rural areas is the priority of the entire country. In this endeavour, students of IARI could contribute through innovations. He stated that there is a relative shortage of land and water resources, in proportion to our country's population. Therefore, there is a need to continuously innovate to increase productivity. 

    The President said that IARI should start 'Innovation Centres' or 'Incubation Centres' to help students to launch start-up ventures in the agricultural sector. There are several schemes of the Central and State Governments that offer special incentives to enterprises engaged in the agriculture sector.

     There are also many venture capital funds that can come forward to invest in agriculture-based enterprises. Students should use these opportunities, set up their ventures and become job creators.